Did you know that most people have around 35 apps installed on their phone? The popularity of apps has skyrocketed in the last few years. Billions of apps are downloaded every year now.
What do people use apps for? Just about everything, actually! Most people use apps for social media, but they also stream, game, and more.
In fact, apps are so popular; many small business owners are investing in them. Apps make everything from communication to shopping easier for their customers.
Are you thinking about building an app, but you’re not sure how to get started? This is the guide for you! You’ll learn how to build an app with zero experience.
The Basics of How to Build an App
You may want to start building apps for clients. You might even think about building an app from scratch for your own company.
So, how do you get started? Your first step should be to find an app builder. This is a tool that lets you build an app without coding.
There are plenty of options to help you build an app. Research and careful comparison are key. You’ll want to pick a builder that has an easy-to-use interface.
Once you know which platform you’ll use to build the app, you can start bringing it to life.
Designing Your App
The next step in how to build an app from scratch is design. Once you’ve picked your platform, you should be able to visualize your new app.
You might want to sit down and create a wireframe for the app. This walks you through what each screen looks like, as well as its functionality.
Before you start designing, it’s a good idea to decide what your app does. If it’s for communicating, you’ll want to think about how messages appear. How will the user navigate through their notifications and conversations?
Tips for Good App Design
There are plenty of things to consider when building an app, but the design is crucial. Good design makes your app both attractive and easy to use.
You’ll want to give navigation some serious thought. If users find your app confusing or frustrating, they won’t use it. Good design will move them through the app, helping them find exactly what they want.
Images, colors, and texture can help you draw users to what they need to click or tap to get around. A bright-colored button or a layered image draws the eye and tells them to click.
Good app design is also clean and uncluttered. It doesn’t overwhelm the user. Instead, it uses white space effectively to make the app feel spacious and inviting.
App design should also be accessible. It responds to different devices, resizing to fit different screens. It’s still clean and easy to read, even at different sizes.
Plan Your App Content
Next, you’ll plan the content of your app.
Content and design usually go hand in hand, so you may actually start with your content. If you know what you want to put on the app, it may be easier to design the layout.
You don’t need to have final image selections or anything like that right off the bat. You should know what features your app needs, as well as what you’ll put on it.
Content is enhanced by good design. The copy on your call-to-action button persuades your users, while the design draws the user’s eye to it.
The wireframe can also be useful here. It can show you where you need to put content, as well as what kind of content you may need or want.
Build the App and Publish
Your next steps are to go ahead and build the app using the building tool you picked. If you’ve created a design and good content, this should just be a matter of putting it all together.
Do test the app before you publish it, to make sure everything is functioning.
You may find you need to tweak some of the functions. You might also find you don’t need features you thought you did. There may be features you want to add that your customers will find useful.
Marketing Your App
Before you publish your app, you should have a good idea of what competition is out there. If you’re creating a social media app for sharing picture messages, you’ll have to compete with Snapchat and Instagram, among others.
There are plenty of other apps out there, so take some time to see what’s on the market. Does your app do anything unique?
With your market research in hand, you can create a marketing plan for your app. Maybe your app is better at security, or maybe it incorporates augmented reality in a whole new way.
Maybe it’s an app meant for your existing customers. They can download it to make shopping with you a better experience.
Your marketing plan will help you get the word out about your app. Very few people will download it just by stumbling across it in the app store.
Think about influencer marketing, app store optimization, and more. These tactics will help you get your app noticed.
Be Prepared to Make Changes
Once people start downloading your app, you may find you need to update the app. You may want to add new features or revise how something works.
The building platform you’re using make this simple. Be sure to consider the feedback you get from your app users. They’ll tell you how to improve your app.
With the right feedback, you’ll be able to make an even better app for your users.
Take Your Business to the Next Level
Now you have a good idea of how to build an app. You don’t need to be a coding genius to make a great app these days. All you need is a great idea and an eye for good design.
Are you looking for more tips on marketing, apps, or anything else tech-related that can improve your business? You’re in the right place. We have plenty of helpful how-tos and up-to-the-minute articles on trends, tips, and more.
