This is an anonymous post from an Elpha member.

Cost of developing a mobile app

Laurel40·May 10, 2021

Hi there,I've been doing some research for a while on the process of building and developing a mobile app. I have the idea and core features worked out, and also do have some experience with building websites. I have laid out some rough wireframes for the design as well using XD. It would be a fairly simple app, with its primary function being to track particular events in a calendar format. However, I would like the design to have a very specific UX/ UI (e.g. drop and drag, specific colors/layouts) so I'm thinking the design component may be more involved. I now want to build the core features of this app and launch it in the app store with real users. I'm hoping to spend very little on the development. From your experience (for anyone who has it), how much did you spend to design and build an app that was ready to launch in the app store, and what was your experience? Did you spend too much, too little? Would you do anything differently? Any other learnings or insights?Thank you all!

sophiehebdidge·May 11, 2021

Hey Laurel,Great to hear you've done all of this work to get it to this point.I'm a developer myself and have built and launch a few apps in my time so that's where my insight comes from.I think it all depends on the quality of the app you are looking to build, do you want to create an early MVP just for testing for example? This would be cheaper, than building it to a really high specification.My top tip would be to be super clear on what you want before you commit to working with any development agency. Costs usually escalate as soon as there is miscommunication between what you expected & what actually ended up happening.P.S I help women in your exact position get their ideas off the ground, so if you ever want to work together I'd love to support you on your journey, my DM's are open. (There's only so much you can get in a quick message!)https://techniclarity.co

anniestuddert·May 12, 2021

No experience with costs of developing an app, but I can help when you’re ready to scale :) Branch.io - Annie

JessicaDevine·May 12, 2021

Teach yourself Figma (it’s free) and build yourself a fully clickable prototype. Then use Figma mirror to have friends try it out. Iterate. When you’re only your fifth version of a fully clickable prototype, then begin investing in external design/UX support.