How to know if you are not paying too much?

One common question that is asked to all app developers is “How much does it cost to build an app?”

Quite obviously, learning about the various factors that drive the cost of app development enables you to determine where best to invest your money. It avoids unpleasant surprises down the road and allows you to run your project within budget.

Read on to get a clear picture of the various costs involved in app development.

Complexity and Size of your app

To determine the complexity and size of your project, ask yourself the following queries.

• How many platforms will the app work on?
• How advanced are the functions and features of the app?
• How many user types interact with the app and the system?
• How much integration is required with device features, like GPS or cameras?
• How much integration is required with 3rd-party systems?
• How much animation or graphic design is required?
• Is the concept is brand new, or is it very similar to existing apps?

These factors have a direct impact on the cost of the project and must be duly reviewed to get started.

Your choice of the app development team

In some instances, the same single app idea may be quoted at different rates in the hands of different developers.

What causes this difference in cost?

The time allocated varies between developers based on the approach and attention to detail put into the project.

A professional app company with experienced designers and developers may have a higher rate, but knows what the best practices are and follows the latest design guidelines as recommended by Apple and Android.

Additionally, the location of the developer can often determine the rate of the developer. It is no secret that an offshore app developer with similar expertise and experience can cost significantly less than one in Australia. However, you need to be aware of all the challenges of offshore outsourcing and how to handle it.

On-going Costs

When you have reached the end of the road, there are some essential expenses yet to be fulfilled. These include,

• Server hosting costs: It is based on the number of users and amount of data handled.
• App Developer Accounts: This includes the 30% charged on any app sales and in-app purchases along with the yearly account costs and third party license costs.
• Marketing the app: Includes marketing and distribution costs, like branding, website, and online marketing based on your market goals.
• Maintenance costs: Includes on-going app maintenance costs, depending on how much you want to improve or change your app based on market feedback.

Got an idea? Are you app ready?

Download our “App Readiness Accelerator Kit”