How to develop an iOS app
Let's start with another quote by Marcus Aurelius.
"Even the smallest thing should be done with reference to an end."
As you may know, Marcus Aurelius was an emperor in Ancient Rome. He lived from 121 AD until 180 AD, and is remembered as a great emperor and insightful philosopher.
Here Marcus Aurelius is talking about the big picture idea - and how much the tiny details matter. All elements must work cohesively to create a positive outcome.
This is certainly true with app development. Details are everything. From initial concepts to interface design, back end development and marketing - a successful app must succeed across all these points and more.
Today, in answering the question: "How to develop an iOS App?", we will take you through our own in-house iOS App Development Process.
We will try to touch on all elements - from the smallest things to the largest challenges - with the goal of a brilliant app, beautifully realised.
Where "Even the smallest thing should be done with reference to an end" - we aim to keep even Marcus Aurelius happy!
And if you have any additional questions, please let us know in the comments below.
Firstly, Why Choose iOS Development?
You have an idea for an app - and the first question you must ask is:
Should it be iOS of Android? (or both, if budget permits)
Yes, it is true that Android is the more popular with a larger user base worldwide. But - iOS leads the way with regard to app monetisation.
Apple has 1.4 billion active devices worldwide (according to recent estimates)! That represents incredible opportunity.
If you wish to generate revenue from your app - either via in app purchases or paid downloads - you should consider a native iOS app.
How To Make It Happen
Every app begins with an idea - a concept - a vision - a dream.
We call this idea initial process: Discovery.
Discovery is the preliminary phase for open-ended exploration and research.
If you already have an app idea - take the time to refine your idea, research possibilities, explore opportunities, establish good groundwork and review consistently.
Aim to emerge from your discovery process with clear answers to the following:
What is your concept?
What are your goals?
Who is your audience?
What is the problem you wish to solve?
Who are your competitors?
What is your budget?
This is an exciting and dynamic stage - where all things are possible.
Have fun and do your homework!
Concept and Ideation
The concept phase is where your ideas start to come together.
It is often at this point, that a professional app development agency gets involved. They will help you refine your ideas and offer design and development ideas based on their experience.
Of course, for the purposes of this discussion, you have opted to develop an native iOS app.
During this phase, the app's features and technical requirements are formulated. A custom road map is put into place with specification and technical documents.
Questions such as: does your app need additional database support and integration, what are your specific coding requirements, is your app targeting local or international audiences, what is your preferred monetization pathway - the answer to these questions and more - are clearly defined in your specification and technical documents.
In short, provide an overview of the scope of your app development project.
Now we will take a closer look at the life cycle of a custom iOS app - through all development stages right through to launch on the Apple App Store.
Wireframing & Design
Welcome to the first stage - where you can see your app project coming together.
It is very exciting.
We also start with app's branding and logo. Well resolved brand colours, styling and visual appeal - are at the heart of every successful app. Don't overlook your app's brand - and associated icon. Remember, it is what people will see first on their iPhone.
Wireframes are next.
What are wireframes?
Put simply, wireframes are the visual layout of your iOS app's architecture.
Think of wireframes as a design plan or blueprint.
Every page of your app is designed in detail. Particular attention is given to the user experience and the user interface - always design for your user first and foremost. Your app must be easy to navigate, intuitive to use and engaging in design.
All app graphics, icons, animations are also developed at this point.
Watch as your ideas come to life - visually!
You end this stage with a fully detailed, visual mockup and prototype of your iOS app.
Your app is now ready for development.
Front End & Back End Development - Planning, Coding and Integration
The development process aims to 'future proof' your app as much as possible. This means building your app for scalability, taking market dynamics, api's and changing technologies into the mix.
Of course, 'front end development' refers to the development of your apps visual interface. 'Back end development' is the coding, software and databases behind the scenes. Think of the 'back end' as the foundation stone upon which your app is built.
It is here that your wireframes come to life with custom code.
A well implemented, seamless integration between the front end, the back end and any database support is the goal - with rigorous testing to ensure usability goals are met.
Testing Phase
The coding stage is characterised by constant testing.
When your app reaches a 'final completion stage' - it is ready to enter the final testing phase.
Your iOS app should be tested on a variety of iPhones: from older models to recent versions. Your potential users may represent a brand spectrum of iPhone users.
Test for performance, load times, handling, security, privacy, usability, gauge individual users feedback and more.
Test! Test! Test!
If required, your codebase is fine-tuned further.
Keep in mind, that an app is never really finished - there are always updates required, bug fixes and maintenance.
App Store Submission & Publishing
Releasing your app on the App Store will take 10-15 days.
Apple carefully reviews every app before agreeing to publish.
The app must adhere to usability and testing requirements.
It is a huge mile stone reached when the app is finally publicly available for download on the App Store.
But please keep in mind - this is not the end of your project. It is the beginning of the next phase: letting people know about your app, achieving download targets, getting the word out and gaining some revenue returns.
Start Marketing Now
Remember Marcus Aurelius:
"Even the smallest thing should be done with reference to an end."
With regard to your iOS app, the completion of the development stage in many ways is just the beginning of your journey as an app entrepreneur.
If your goal is app monetisation - don't expect that simply putting your app on the App Store will guarantee success. Remember, there are over 2.2 million apps on the App Store. To realise your revenue goals will take time, dedication and a well implemented marketing strategy.
As I always say, replace the word 'marketing' with the word 'education'.
Find ways to let people learn about you, your app and how it can help them.
Use channels such as youtube to feature video guides for using your app. Connect with other app developers. Showcase your app with a custom blog. There are many ways to successfully market your app without breaking the bank.
You've got a great iOS app - now get out there and show the world!
Good Luck!