Introduction
Every company, entrepreneur or solopreneur is fully aware of the importance of developing a competitive mobile application. They have classic ideas to expand their digital footprints but few of them find ways to reduce app development cost while maintaining high quality.
There are a number of strategies or methods one can use to reduce the cost. In this blog we will provide tips for budget friendly app development along with some success stories.
Here Are Some Practical Tips to Reduce App Development Cost
Creating Product Requirement Document
The first thing you should do before planning the budget is to prepare a product requirement document (PRD). It will include all your application requirements from features, design & tech stack to functionalities.
This document will decide the ultimate budget of your app and help you to reduce mobile app development in dubai. Also having a document ensures that you have a clear vision of your product.
This PRD document will include-
- Application features & functionalities
- UI/UX design Preferences
- Development timelines
- Workflow structure
- Development Budget
Choose Features Wisely
How complex or simple features you want will decide the app development cost. The more complex the features, the higher the cost will be & vice versa.
To reduce app development cost, it is important to give priority to only important features. List down the core functionalities that your app absolutely needs.
- Give priority only to must-have features that address the primary problem.
- Avoid the temptation to include every feature at the start.Â
- Plan to add nice-to-have features in later updates.
Building Cross Platform Applications
Deciding whether to develop for iOS, Android or both can greatly impact your budget. Instead of developing a native app for each platform from the start, consider developing on a single platform first. Choose the platform that best aligns with your target audience.Â
For example, if your primary users are in a region where Android is more popular, go with Android & once your application gains traction, you can develop it for other platforms as well.
Using Low Code Development Platform to Reduce App Development Cost
Low code development platforms can be a game-changer for budget-friendly app development. These platforms have pre-built modules, drag & drop interfaces that can reduce the amount of custom coding. This simplified development process will reduce the overall app development cost.
Remember, this is particularly useful for creating prototypes or MVPs (Minimum Viable Products).
Agile Development Methodology
This step is skipped by most of the companies during the application development process. Agile development can reduce app development cost by breaking the project into small, manageable parts known as sprints. Each sprint focuses on building a few features which is then followed by a review.Â
In this you can regularly check priorities & make adjustments accordingly. Agile development has clear communication & teamwork among the developers, keeping the project on track and within budget.
Open Source Tools Will Reduce App Development Cost
Using open source tools & frameworks can drastically reduce app development cost. Open source tools are typically free to use & has a large community of developers who contribute to its improvement.Â
By using open source frameworks, you can save cost on licensing fee & can benefit from the collective expertise. Just make sure to choose reliable & well-supported tools to ensure security in your app.
Outsourcing Your App Development to Reduce App Development Cost
Outsourcing will be a cost-effective app development strategy, especially if you find skilled developers in your regions with low charges. Look for top mobile app developers with a strong track record in application development.
Their app development team will also assist you in ideation, market research & other suggestions that are important for your app’s success.
Here are some critical factors you should consider while hiring a app development team-
- Company’s portfolio
- Team technical knowledge and expertise
- Development approach
- Pricing
- Communication Channels
Practical Example of Reducing App Development Cost While Maintaining Quality
In our experience, we have frequently dealt with clients who want quality mobile applications within a budget. Many clients come to us with a list of premium features for their applications.
One notable example is ThriveLive- an e-commerce application.
Clients Requirements
Our client approached us to develop an e-commerce mobile app for the Singapore region. This rapidly growing sector leverages social networks & digital media to promote transactions between businesses & customers.Â
The goal was to create a mobile app for both iOS & Android that can improve the online shopping experience through live stream technology.
ThriveLive Core Features
Sign Up/Login
Allows new users to create accounts using OTP or social media platforms. Registered users can log in with valid credentials.
Shopper/Seller
Users can register as either shoppers or sellers on the mobile app.
Inventory Management
Sellers can add a wide range of products with detailed descriptions and high-quality images. Includes product categories, filters, and search options for easy navigation to display during live streaming.
Live Streaming Integration
Enables live streaming of product showcases, demonstrations, and interactive sessions, allowing real-time viewing of broadcasts.
Live Chat and Interaction
Features live chat, enabling users to ask questions and interact with hosts during live streams, with options for liking, commenting, pinning, and sharing.
Order History and Tracking
Provides a history of past orders and real-time tracking information for current orders.
Interactive Chat and Q&A
Facilitates live chat discussions and instant responses to queries, enhancing real-time engagement.
Payment
Supports online payments via Stripe & also have COD options, with tracking of past payments.
Push Notifications
Sends notifications about upcoming live streams, promotions or discounts.
Customer Support
Offers support through chat, email, or phone for any user inquiries or issues.
How We Approached the Project to Reduce App Development Cost
We not only met their requirements but also guided them through the entire development process. We successfully developed their application within their budget with our years of industry experience.Â
We know the process of cost-effective app development by implementing strategies learned through years of practice, ensuring our clients receive quality applications without exceeding their budgets.
Conclusion
Remember, app development is neither a cake walk nor a one time investment. That is why it is important that you do not mess up in a hurry.
Our expert team recommends that you should take time & understand market & cost factors of your application. You should also document your requirements, budget & vision with the application.
This is where Infin mobile solution’s experts can help you in the technical aspect of your application. We have highly skilled app developers who will assist you to turn your app vision into a viable product.
Prioritize essential features, leverage low code platforms, optimize platform allocation, adopt Agile methodology, use open source tools, and consider outsourcing to keep your app development process efficient and cost-effective.
FAQs
What’s the cheapest way to cost-effective app development ?
The cheapest way is to use free or low-cost app developing tools or hire a professional app development company who have expertise in building top level applications within budget.
How is Infin mobile solution different from other app development companies ?
At Infin Mobile Solutions, we have years of experience in the industry. We know how to reduce the app development cost without compromising on quality. Our expertise helps us create high-quality apps at a lower cost compared to others.
What is the average budget for app development?
On average, making an app can cost between ₹2,00,000 to ₹40,00,000 depending on the complexity of the application.
How much time will it take to build an app?
It depends on the type of app. For example, an e-commerce app will take more time to build than a simple notes app. The more complex the app, the longer it will take. Simple apps can be done in a few weeks, while more complex ones might take several months.