What is app development?
App development is the process of planning, designing, developing, and testing software applications to address business needs and deliver better customer experiences.
App development overview
For years, businesses had two primary options for app development: they could purchase off-the-shelf software from external vendors, or they could build custom apps from the ground up using skilled developers and coders. But technology has evolved—and app development has evolved along with it.
Today, businesses have access to a wider range of app development methodologies, each tailored to different needs, platforms, and levels of complexity. These range from traditional coding practices (often referred to as “pro-code”) to more streamlined approaches like low-code app development. As a result, businesses have more options for building applications at a significantly lower cost.
Types of app development
When the average person hears the word “app,” they probably think of apps on mobile devices. That’s for good reason, because mobile apps are pretty much everywhere you look. In fact, the size of the global mobile app market was estimated to be a whopping US$228.98 billion in 2023—and projected to grow at a rate of 14.3% annually from 2024 to 2030.
But there’s more than one way to create an app. While many developers focus primarily on mobile app development for devices like smartphones and tablets, others specialize in building apps for web browsers or desktops. Each approach has its own benefits, and choosing the right one will depend on your audience, budget, strategy, and platform of choice.
Native mobile app development
Native apps are built specifically for one platform, like iOS or Android. They’re created using the platform’s preferred programming languages and tools, allowing them to take full advantage of built-in features. For iOS apps, the most common programming languages are Swift or Objective-C, while Android developers typically use Java or Kotlin.
Low-code app development
Gartner estimates that by 2025, 70% of new apps will be built with low-code technologies. “Low-code” refers to tools with user-friendly visual interfaces, drag-and-drop components, and pre-built templates to make app development faster, easier, and less expensive. Some of these solutions also use generative AI to automatically generate code—reducing the need for manual coding and minimizing the risk of human error. Experienced developers can use these tools to speed up or automate simpler coding tasks so they can focus their time and energy on more complex, strategic projects.
Web app development
Web apps aren’t installed on your device but are accessed through a web browser. They’re essentially websites that look and feel a little like mobile apps, but they’ll work on any device with internet access. Web apps are great for reach and compatibility, but they might not offer all the functionality of a native app.
Hybrid app development
Hybrid apps combine elements of both native and web apps. They’re built using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, but they’re wrapped in a native app shell. This means they can be installed on a device and have access to some of the device’s built-in features. Hybrid apps can be a good middle ground, offering a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.
Cross-platform app development
Cross-platform apps are designed to work on multiple platforms using a single codebase. Tools like React Native and Flutter allow developers to write code once and deploy it across platforms like iOS and Android. This approach can save time and resources while still delivering a native-like experience.
Enterprise app development
Enterprise apps are designed to meet the specific needs of businesses and organizations. These apps often integrate with existing systems, providing features like data management, customer relationship management (CRM), and enterprise resource planning (ERP). Enterprise apps are typically complex, requiring robust security, scalability, and extensibility, meaning it’s easy to add new features and adapt to evolving business needs without starting from scratch.
Enterprise app development typically happens in one of two ways—“side-by-side” or “on-stack.” Here’s what that means:
- Side-by-side app development involves building custom applications or extensions that run alongside the main platform, often through APIs (application programming interfaces). These custom apps operate independently, with their own infrastructure and technology stack.
- On-stack app development means building custom applications directly on top of an existing platform using native tools, languages, and infrastructure. The custom app becomes part of the main platform’s ecosystem, tightly integrated with its components.
App development stages
The app development lifecycle is a continuous process that goes beyond just the initial creation of the app. It includes planning, development, launch, and ongoing improvements. Here’s a closer look at each phase:
Planning
Every great app starts with a solid plan. This stage involves defining the app’s purpose, target audience, and core features. It’s also a good idea to outline the project’s scope, timeline, and budget.
Design
In the design stage, the focus is on creating a user-friendly interface and seamless user experience. Designers create wireframes and prototypes to visualize the app’s layout and functionality.
Development
This is where the app comes to life. Developers write the code, build the features, and smooth out the rough spots. This stage is often broken into front-end and back-end development, handling everything from the user interface (UI) to server-side logic. (You can read more about front-end and back-end development in the next section.)
Testing
Testing is the phase for catching and fixing bugs before the app launches. During this phase, quality assurance (QA) teams carefully test the app’s functionality, performance, and security.
Deployment
Deployment is the process of making apps, updates, and patches available to users on a system. This can either be done manually or with help from automation.
Maintenance and updates
After launch, ongoing maintenance is essential to keep the app running smoothly. This stage includes fixing any post-launch bugs, improving performance, and adding new features based on user feedback.
Front-end vs. back-end development
When developers build an app, they generally tackle it from two different angles—the front end and the back end. Here’s what that means in practical terms.
Front-end app development
The front end is what the user sees. Front-end developers use languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build the app’s layout, design, and interactive elements. Areas of focus include:
- Responsiveness: Front-end developers apply the principles of responsive design to create a consistent experience across platforms and devices.
- Interactivity: Interactive features make an app more engaging and satisfying. These might include hovering effects, drag-and-drop functionality, real-time notifications, and other elements that can delight users while capturing and keeping their attention.
- Performance: Nobody likes a slow app. Front-end developers are experts at minimizing load times for a faster, smoother experience.
Back-end app development
The back end is what users don’t see—the server side of the application. Back-end developers typically use programming languages like Python, Ruby, Java, and PHP to build a solid foundation for secure, reliable, cost-effective app performance. Areas of focus include:
- Database management: Back-end developers work with database systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB to store and retrieve information as efficiently as possible.
- Server logic: This is the code that handles business logic, user authentication, and data processing. Back-end developers make sure all requests are correctly and securely processed by the server.
- APIs: APIs enable the front end to communicate with the server. Back-end developers often create and deploy custom APIs that allow front-end developers to access server-side data in response to user interactions or requests.
- Security and scalability: Back-end developers carry much of the day-to-day responsibility for protecting user data and preventing unauthorized access. They’re also accountable for building and maintaining a scalable, extensible architecture that can handle unexpected fluctuations in user demand.
Main app development methodologies
The approach to developing an app can have a significant impact on its timeline, cost, and quality. The choice of methodology often depends on each project’s specific needs and constraints.
| Methodology | How it works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterfall | This is a linear and sequential approach in which distinct phases follow one another, with each phase needing to be complete before the next one begins |
|
|
| Agile | In this iterative and incremental approach, app development is often broken into small, manageable units called sprints |
|
|
| Kanban | This popular framework within the agile methodology uses something called a “kanban board,” a visualization tool to show the status of work in progress |
|
|
| Lean | Often integrated with the agile methodology, this approach minimizes waste by delivering only what is needed as efficiently as possible |
|
|
| DevOps | This combination of software development (dev) and IT operations (ops) aims to shorten app development timelines |
|
|
| Rapid app development (RAD) | This methodology emphasizes rapid prototyping and iterative delivery, with teams building prototypes to gather user feedback and refine requirements |
|
|
How is mobile app development different from software development?
The terms “mobile app development” and “software development” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same. Both involve creating software, but they focus on different types of applications, target devices, and user experiences.
| Mobile app development | Software development | |
|---|---|---|
| Target platforms and devices | Focuses primarily on app development for smartphones and tablets | Encompasses a broader range of applications, including desktop software, web applications, and server-based systems |
| User interface and experience | Emphasizes a user-friendly and intuitive interface for smaller screens and touch interactions | May involve more complex interfaces designed for larger screens and different input methods, such as keyboards and mice |
| Performance and resource constraints | Takes into account the limited processing power, memory, and battery life of mobile devices | Typically deals with fewer resource constraints, as desktop computers and servers generally offer more processing power and memory |
| Development tools and languages | Uses specific development environments and languages tailored to mobile app development | Relies on a wider range of programming languages and development environments, depending on the target platform and application type |
| Distribution and deployment | Often distributed through storefronts like the Apple App Store and Google Play Store | Uses more distribution methods, including direct downloads, physical media, or corporate deployment systems |
| Maintenance and updates | Frequently updated to keep up with operating system changes, security patches, and user feedback | Depends on the software type and user base—desktop software might be subject to less frequent updates compared to web applications |
| User interaction and connectivity | Often focuses on mobile connectivity features, such as push notifications, real-time updates, and integration with social media | Connectivity features vary, with some software requiring constant internet access and others operating entirely offline |
Common app development challenges—and how to overcome them
App development is an exciting journey, but it’s not without its bumps along the way. Whether you’re a startup launching your first product or an established company expanding your digital offerings, you’ll likely encounter some common challenges that can make or break your app’s success.
Security
- Challenge. Apps often handle sensitive information like financial records or proprietary business data. Without strong security measures, they’re vulnerable to cyberattacks, data breaches, and unauthorized access.
- Solution. When building an app, it’s essential to follow proven best practices from the outset. This includes using encryption, securing APIs, and conducting regular security assessments.
Compliance
- Challenge. Compliance with industry regulations is non-negotiable, especially in healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties, reputational damage, and loss of customer trust.
- Solution. App development teams should work closely with legal and compliance experts to understand the applicable regulations and design the app accordingly. Regular audits and updates can help maintain compliance as regulations evolve.
Scalability
- Challenge. As an app gains users and features, it needs to scale effectively so it can handle increased demand without compromising performance. Scalability issues can lead to slow load times, crashes, and a subpar user experience.
- Solution. Developers can make an app more scalable by using cloud-based services, microservices architecture, and load balancing to distribute traffic as efficiently as possible.
Interoperability
- Challenge. “Interoperability” means that an app can function across different platforms and systems without the need for extensive modifications. This is especially important for enterprise apps that need to work with existing software, databases, and third-party services.
- Solution. Developers should consider using standard protocols and APIs to make communication easier between the app and other systems. Conducting thorough testing with all integrated systems is crucial to identify and resolve any interoperability issues before deployment.
Future trends in app development
As we look ahead, emerging technologies promise to redefine how apps are developed and used. Here are a few key trends to keep on your radar:
AI and machine learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are getting more predictive, personalized, and autonomous. Going forward, developers will use these technologies to anticipate users’ needs, offer hyper-personalized experiences, and perform increasingly complex tasks without human intervention.
Extended reality
Extended reality (XR)—a combination of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR)—is quickly moving into the mainstream. Look for apps to incorporate XR for more immersive experiences in training, entertainment, shopping, and remote work.
Decentralized applications
Blockchain technology is driving the development of decentralized applications (dApps) that operate on peer-to-peer networks for better security, transparency, and user control.
Edge computing
Unlike traditional cloud computing, where data is sent to a central server for processing, edge computing processes data closer to its source—on local devices or nearby servers. This reduces latency and bandwidth, leading to faster response times and more efficient data handling. As the future unfolds, look for more apps to rely on edge computing for faster, more efficient service delivery.
Quantum computing
While still in its infancy, quantum computing could revolutionize app development by solving complex problems much faster than traditional computers. Future apps might harness quantum computing for tasks like cryptography and complex simulations.