What Is Application Development?

IT software is one of the most important elements of a modern-day organization. Software applications help organizations target a wider customer base, create better user experiences, and become ready for innovations.

For this reason, application development has become a vital requirement for businesses that want to add value and improve business outcomes.

What Is Application Development?

Application development is the process of developing a digital program that supports a set of business functions. Application development is also known as app development.

The application development process can be done by a single freelance developer or a large team. How the process is done largely depends on the size and requirements of the project, the size and experience levels of the development team, how much the client wants to change things, and the deadline of the project.

However, the overall application development process follows a standard methodology. The application developing methodology consists of tasks that relate to each of the seven stages of the application lifecycle. These stages include planning, analysis, design, construction, testing, implementation, and support.

Types of Application Development

Application development methodologies mostly fall under three categories: waterfall, rapid application development, and agile methodology.

Waterfall Development Methodology

The waterfall developing methodology mostly focuses on planning and sequence. When using this methodology, the application developer will map out the entire project in the planning and analysis stages.

First, the client will give the developer an explicit list of features and functionality for the application. The developer will then map out the process amongst the development team.

The development team then works together to build exactly what is stated in the requirements. First, the architecture of the application is created, then the construction period begins. Once the application is built, tests are done to ensure that the application is working as required. The application is then presented to the client for implementation. 

The waterfall development methodology assumes that the client, development team, and project manager are on the same page about the requirements of the project. As the name waterfall suggests, the process happens in a downward sequence. Once one step is done with, there is no going back up.

The waterfall methodology is a very thorough method of creating applications. It is better suited for big projects where there is a need for everyone to have one vision in mind.

The waterfall method is also a great tool to use when training junior software developers on specific parts of software development without leaving the entire project in their hands.

However, the waterfall development methodology does not leave room for changes that are bound to occur along the way. For starters, the software development team is rarely able to build exactly what the customer had in mind. Also, technology, the market, and the client organization might change so much along the way that the application becomes useless.

What is more, it takes a long time to see a working product and a large development team is needed to accommodate all the requirements. Tensions are also bound to run high if the client doesn’t like the end result, and the development team has to redo the project from the ground up.

The waterfall application development methodology is suitable when:

·   The Client does not want to be involved much during the development process

·   No changes are anticipated during the development process

·   The development team has handled a similar project before

·   The client has a fixed budget for the development

Rapid Application Development (RAD)

The rapid application development methodology was created to address the problems that face the waterfall development methodology. Therefore, RAD is the opposite of the waterfall method.

In this app developing methodology, the development team works to develop a working version of the application as soon as possible and then continuously makes alterations to perfect the app's functionality and appearance. 

The prototype is usually very rough, but it paints a general picture of what the final version of the application can be. Iterations are then made to make the product more and more refined.

In RAD, the development team is usually small and only involves individuals with vast experience and skills in many disciplines. The client also works closely with the development team throughout the development process.

The RAD methodology is quick and highly flexible. The development team can make changes so the application can adapt to changes in the market, technology, and client organization. The RAD methodology also helps foster a close relationship between the client and the development team.

However, RAD is not without its imperfections. This methodology requires highly qualified programmers, who are likely to charge higher rates. The application development process is also likely to take longer than in the waterfall methodology, as there is no adherence to deadlines. The focus is placed on adding more features.

The RAD methodology also requires lots of input frOm the client in order to create the best interface for the users. Unfortunately, the client might not always be easy to reach and they might not have the experience or expertise to provide the necessary information. The client might also be unsure of what they want.

The rapid application development methodology is suitable when:

·   The application is needed urgently

·   There is a flexible delivery date

·   The client wants to be highly engaged in the development process

·   The team of developers is highly experienced

Agile Application Development

The agile application development methodology works similarly to RAD, but with a few changes to make it more suitable for large projects.

In agile, the application development process is iterative, but the process is focused on building one feature at a time. The development team creates one feature, and the client examines the feature and gives their approval so the team can move to the next feature.

When using the agile methodology, the development team creates sprints, within which a feature should be built, tested, and presented to the client for approval. Creating sprints helps the team work within the planned schedule and allows for frequent input from the client.

Unlike in RAD where the team is mostly made up of programmers, the agile development team will also consist of a tester, technical writers, UX designers, and other professionals. The work is usually team-based and does not focus on prototypes. Instead, the client only sees the finished versions of the features.

The agile development methodology is suitable when:

·   There is a reliable project leader

·   The project can be broken down into several sprints

·   There is a clear vision for the project

·   There are enough specialists who can work together as a team.

Application development best practices

Application development is not always an easy process. However, by following a few best practices, businesses can enhance their chances of success and ensure quick time to-market.

1. Use an experienced partner

An experienced application development partner is a crucial tool when you want to create quality applications. When choosing an application development partner, ensure that they are highly experienced, easy to communicate with, and they are ready to offer ongoing support.

Your partner of choice should also use up-to-date methodologies and app development software to ensure you get the best results.

2. Train your team

To ensure you get the best results, you must ensure that your internal team is well-versed in your applications. Focus on educating all members of your team on new and existing applications so they are better able to produce the desired results.

3. Document your strategy

Throughout the application development process, you will work with several individuals or a team. It’s important to ensure that everyone involved is on the same page about the application development. You can achieve this by documenting and distributing any information related to the project development process.

4. Test for UX

User experience is vital to a successful application. During the development process, don't just test to ensure that different features work properly, go a step ahead and test from an end-user perspective to find and work out any problems.

5. Stay compliant

During the application development process, it is important to keep in mind and uphold any policies, regulations, and practices required by law. This will help you remain compliant and avoid penalties.

6. Prioritize communication

Effective communication is one of the vital aspects of the application development process. Communication becomes even more important when external partners are involved. Ensure there is frequent communication with all involved parties so you can work together as seamlessly as possible.

7. Be adaptable and flexible

The applications you create should be compatible with your current organizational structure, finances, and market. However, you should leave room for flexibility in case any of these aspects change.

Final Word on Application Development

Software applications enable a business to automate numerous everyday processes, which in turn helps drive business value. Businesses can find ready-made solutions easily. However, such solutions are sometimes limiting, especially for large corporations. As such, the application development process is a crucial process that most businesses have to go through. We hope that this guide has helped you better understand the process and know what steps to take next.

If you need help with application development, just schedule a call by clicking “let’s talk” on our homepage.