Custom mobile app development

Ira Mataić

/ 22 Jan 2024

Rješenja

Introduction

Welcome to the world of custom mobile app development! In an age where our smartphones feel like an extension of ourselves, having the right app can make all the difference. Whether you're a business owner, a budding entrepreneur, or simply curious about what goes into creating those apps we can't live without, you're in the right place.

In this blog, we will explore the world of custom mobile app development. From unique advantages a custom app brings to a business to the app development process, we have you covered. We will also dive into the cost aspects through the lens of returns on investment, but we will also showcase examples of our work to spark your imagination.

By the end, you will understand the ins and outs of building an app that perfectly fits your business needs but we hope to inspire you to bring your own ideas to life.

How Important is a Mobile App to Your Business?

In a digital era where the majority of online activities happen on mobile devices, the importance of a mobile app for your business cannot be overstated. But why exactly is a mobile app a critical asset for businesses today? Let's explore.

There are 3.8 billion smartphone users in the world. Expected mobile revenue by the end of 2023 is $935 billion. 87% of smartphone users spend their time on mobile apps. (TechJury)

Enhanced Accessibility and Customer Reach

Having a mobile app puts your businesses in the pockets of your customers. With the rising smartphone usage, your goods and services become even more accessible, reaching a wider audience. This means your business is a tap away, anytime and anywhere.

Improved Customer Engagement

By offering features such as push notifications and in-app messages, you can boost customer engagement and the likelihood of your information being seen and acted upon.

Personalized User Experience

Apps allow for a level of personalization that websites can't match. Tailored content creates better user experience, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and retention.

Data Collection and Insights

By analyzing user behavior and preferences, you can make informed decisions about your products or services, and tailor your marketing strategies to be more effective.

Brand Presence and Recognition with a Competitive Edge

With one app you can build a stronger brand presence and recognition, while also giving your business a competitive edge in a competitive market.

Streamlined Sales and Services

Whether it's e-commerce transactions, appointment bookings, or customer service, an app can make these processes more efficient, improving the overall customer experience.

Global e-commerce sales are expected to reach $6.3 trillion in 2023, with mobile e-commerce expected to account for 42.9% of total online sales by 2024. (Insider Intelligence)

With more and more people relying on their phones, apps cater to the 'on-the-go' lifestyle, offering users the ability to interact with your business at their convenience. Keeping in mind that trends of app usage are only going up eachyear, perhaps the best decision for your business growth is expanding your digital portfolio with a dedicated application.

Custom vs Readymade Mobile App Development

After you have decided that an app is the way to go, one of the first decisions you'll face is choosing between custom development and opting for a readymade solution. Think of it as the difference between getting a suit tailored to your exact measurements or buying one off the rack. Both have their merits, but which one is right for your business?

Readymade mobile app development

Readymade apps are pre-built solutions that are ready to use immediately. They are like off-the-rack suits; they fit well enough and serve the basic purpose but lack the uniqueness of a tailored solution.

Generally, they are cost-effective and can be quickly deployed, making them a good fit for businesses with a limited budget or if they need a solution right away.

On the other hand, readymade solutions have certain downsides. Some white label apps offer a certain degree of customization, but even then, they are limited in scope. Also, if your plan is to integrate your application with existing systems or software, you may encounter compatibility issues that could be both costly and time-consuming to resolve.

Custom mobile app development

Custom app development is like having a suit tailored to your exact specifications. Here, every aspect of the app is built from the ground up to meet your specific business needs, objectives, and user requirements.

29% of users will immediately leave an app if it doesn’t satisfy their needs. (Google Research)

There are quite a few advantages of custom mobile app development. Custom apps provide a high level of personalization, creating a user experience that is crafted to align with your brand and business goals. They are also flexible and scalable, easily adapting to new requirements and business challenges. Also, a custom app easily integrates with existing systems while providing unique functionalities that can set you apart from the competition.

Custom Mobile Application Development Phases

When considering how to create a custom mobile app for your business, it is important to understand the basics of a development process. It all begins with the ideation stage, where a solid and innovative concept is created. Best practices in custom mobile application development emphasize the importance of a thorough plan, which then paves the way for the app's design and development phases. What follows is rigorous software testing that ensures the meets the highest quality standards. Once all these criteria are met, the application is deployed and becomes ready for use.

How Much Does a Custom Mobile App Cost?

One of the most burning questions when venturing into custom mobile app development is, understandably, the cost. How much does it really take to bring a custom mobile app from a mere idea to a fully functional product in the hands of users?

The cost varies and depends on a few factors:

1. Complexity and Features

Simply put, the more complex your app, the higher the cost. Make sure to pin down exactly what you need and consult the dev team about backend infrastructure.

2. Design Specifications

A more visually complex and user-friendly interface requires more design hours and highly skilled designers.

3. Development Platform
Do you need Android, iOS or both? Development of native apps can more than double the cost.

4. Maintenance and Updates
The cost doesn’t stop at deployment as various maintenance activities can increase the total cost of app ownership.

5. Time Frame
The shorter your timelines the more expensive the on-time deployment, make sure to plan accordingly.

When addressing the cost, it is important to keep in mind the previously mentioned potential advantages of custom mobile application development and integration with existing software. Understanding all the long-term advantages can help you make a well-informed decision while deciding on a budget.

Custom App Project Examples

To truly grasp the benefits of an app we will take a look at two real-world examples, one being a ready-made application, the other a custom solution. These case studies not only showcase the range of possibilities but also illustrate how mobile applications can effectively meet specific business needs.

First, we will take a look at BAM – the innovative Beach Amenities Management application. BAM allows concessionaire companies to track, manage, and rent various beach amenities such as deck chairs and parasols, while also allowing them to sell food and drinks.

Visit our showcase if you would like to learn more about our readymade application for concessionaires.

Now let us take a look at a custom mobile application – Moj Unikom. This app offers a modern and innovative approach to the everyday communality issues faced by citizens of Osijek. Combining practicality, ecology, and technical innovation in a single app allows users to easily use Unikom waste management services.

If you want to learn more about how our expertise in custom mobile development helped Unikom modernize their services, visit our showcase about the modern waste management application.

Conclusion

Interested in creating a mobile app that's as unique as your business? You're in the right place for the best custom mobile application development. Explore our diverse array of successful projects to see how we've transformed ideas into reality. If you're ready to turn your concept into a cutting-edge app, we're here to make it happen. Reach out to us with your project details, and let's embark on a journey of innovation and excellence together.