Why do you want to build a mobile app? Is it because you want to jump on the entrepreneurial bandwagon, or have you spotted a problem that you believe you can solve? Your answer to this question will play a big role in determining your app’s success. Here’s a handy guide to help you get started. It’s based on my experience of over three years working with entrepreneurs, supporting them in building and marketing their apps. It might not be a one-size-fits-all solution, but it should give you a solid foundation. Feel free to pick and choose what suits your strategy, or follow it step-by-step. The important thing is to get started!

Step 1: Come Up with an Idea or Identify a Problem

Already got an app idea? Great! Move on to step two. If not, don’t worry – you’re not alone. The truth is, what you need are problems to solve, and luckily, they’re all around us! Successful entrepreneurs identify problems and find solutions in ways we never imagined. Every product or service you use was created to address a problem. Need to get somewhere faster? Cars and planes were invented for that. Look around your daily life and note down the problems you encounter. Once you’ve got a comprehensive list, start brainstorming solutions and narrow down to the ones that make the most sense.

Step 2: Validate the Need

You’ve got an idea, but does anyone else want it? Validation will help you find out. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to see how many people are searching for something similar. You can also create a simple landing page outlining your app idea and encourage visitors to sign up for more information.

Step 3: Outline the Flow and Features

Related: Questions to Ask Your Developer Before Starting a Project If your app idea has passed the validation test, it’s time to get specific. Document your app’s flow and features. You can use a wireframing tool if you want to be more visual. The key is to be detailed – think about how users will navigate the app and list every feature you want to include. This will make it much easier for your developer to understand your vision.

Step 4: Trim Down Non-Essential Features

Look at your flow and features list and see what can be cut. Focus on the core value of your app. Features that are just “nice to have” can be added later in updates. This approach not only keeps initial development costs down but also helps you launch faster.

Step 5: Prioritise Design

I’ve heard many entrepreneurs say they want a basic design and to focus mainly on development. That’s a mistake! Design is more than just aesthetics – it’s about user experience. Vinod Khosla, from Khosla Ventures, puts it well: “Design is a way of making technology useful.” Find a developer who prioritises design, including both user experience and graphics. Related: My Eyesight is Hurting – Am I the Only One Suffering from App and Web Design?

Step 6: Hire the Right Designer/Developer

Related: How to Find, Hire, and Keep Great Developers Choose a development team with strong design skills and a reliable track record. While hiring a developer, check their portfolio and reputation online. If you love an app they’ve created, they might just be the right fit for your project. Related: How to Work Better with Developers

Step 7: Set Up Developer Accounts

You’ll need to register for developer accounts on the respective app stores to publish your app. Google’s Android requires a one-time fee of $25, while Apple charges $99 annually. You can register as an individual or a company if you’ve already set one up.

Step 8: Integrate Analytics

Analytics are essential for tracking downloads, user engagement, and retention. Tools like Flurry (free) and Localytics (free and paid versions) are great options. They’ll give you the data you need to refine and improve your app. Related: Website/App Design Strategy and Plan

Step 9: Gather Feedback and Make Improvements

Once your app is live, listen to your first users. Their feedback and behaviour will provide invaluable insights for refining your app. Enhancements and updates are a constant process, so stay tuned to what your users are saying.

Step 10: Add New Features

Now that you’ve launched with the core features, it’s time to evaluate what else you can add. Analytics and user feedback will help you decide if those initial “nice to have” features are still relevant. Related: Development Aftercare, Maintenance, and Support Remember, these steps aren’t set in stone but are a guideline based on my experience. Building the app is just the beginning; the real challenge is getting customers to use it. Good luck!