Developers and businesses need precise cost estimates before launching a development project. Businesses need clear-cut app development costs for budget allocation while developers require it to keep the development process smooth and fast. This blog will discuss the app development cost, factors affecting the cost, and relevant elements.

Custom Application Development Cost

Custom App Development cost assessment is a complex procedure as it includes several development stages, an estimated timeline, and an effective plan. You cannot precisely predict the app development cost as each app development project comes with specifications and unique features leading to a different cost. Grocery apps, HR portals, and transport-sharing app development vary as per their features, technology, and scalability.

Here is an estimated cost breakdown mentioned in each development phase:

Idea creation

Businesses do market research and select the niche. It also involves the app requirement analysis, future scope, market trends, and project ideas with nearly 10% budget allocation at this stage.

App Designing

Developers create unique UI/UX designs leading to pilot studies, mockups, and prototyping. It nearly costs 20% budget of the total project.

App development

App development proves the backbone of the customized app development framework. It includes coding, integration of technology, addition of UI features, backend infrastructure, and hardware support with a leading budget of 50-55% of the project.

App Testing

Testing determines the operational and security challenges with an approximate cost of 10-20%.

App Deployment/ Implementation

Finally, the app is deployed to a popular app store for the end-users. Deploying apps to the app store, maintenance, and update costs all contribute to 5-10% of the total budget. 

The above-mentioned cost percentages are estimated and may vary from one project to another. For instance, a web developing company may cost more than a freelancer developer which reduces the cost of the development process. Similarly, many businesses invest big capital for app deployment and successful implementation of the app to the end-users. 

Things to consider while estimating Custom Application Development Cost

Other than basic app development stages, some complimentary elements also add to the app development budget.

Compatibility to other devices

Will an app be designed for iOS users or Windows users? Some apps are developed for iPhones while others support Android handsets. On the other hand, some apps are designed to support a large array of hardware including Windows and Desktop versions.

Outsourcing content

The cost increases when developers upgrade integration with third-party apps. Third-party apps bring content and traffic to the developed app.

High-quality Visual elements

Intuitive UI designs enhance user experience and are highly flexible to customization. Besides color, space, and texture, developers also add customized banners, engaging screens, images, and interactive tools. 

Timeline

The shorter timeline means a lower cost of app development. Web developers offer an estimated delivery duration and the long development process is highly time and money-consuming.

Technology integration

What type of technology will be used while developing an app? Will developers add AI features, chatbots, or other communication tools? Custom app development involves AI, Machine learning (ML), augmented reality, and IoT leading to advanced technical features. Some apps are designed for mobile users while others are specifically developed for webpages or desktops. Apps that are integrated for both mobile and desktop cost higher. Developers may or may not make the app available for iOS and Android devices. It all depends upon the selection of the device and integrated technology.

Maintenance and upgradation Services

Apps face frequent security threats and operational challenges over time. Businesses have to decide whether they want maintenance and repair services or not. The longer the contract the higher the app development cost. With the help of tech-savvy employees, the cost of repairing and maintaining the app can be reduced. However, one cannot launch a new app feature without professional developers. Some add an upgrade clause in the contract while others hire new web professionals. Whatever the decision you make, the customized apps need frequent bug fixing, upgradation, and maintenance services.

Development source

Hiring a freelance developer proves cost-effective but this type of hiring is better for basic app development. Though in-house IT developers and web development companies are highly expensive, it yields seamless user Experience and streamline development process. Undoubtedly, hiring of the developers also affects the cost of the project.

Bottom line

The app’s complexity and features determine the overall Custom Application Development cost. Some common features include unique UI/UX, a backend server, built-in analytics, additional tabs, etc. Usually, developers charge a per-hour rate but web development companies often fix the rate for the whole project. 

SAABSOFT brings innovation in custom app development with the latest technological trends. Our customized apps use automation, AI, ML, and augmented reality to deliver the best product. With the fastest timeline and efficient performance, our professionals are the leaders in app development Dubai. Contact us to get an affordable app development rate.