I try to remember that some of my readers are very techy. There is a full range of people that read my site, and some of them even dabble in programming. So, this post is for those that might be thinking about creating an iPhone app. Do you have an idea for a great iPhone app? I have thought of a few, but I don’t have the time or patience to follow through with building them. However, in my previous life I enjoyed programming, so it would not be completely out of character. I have heard before that it is quite a process to get an iPhone app published. If you have ever wondered how to go about getting started the below guest post will point you in the right direction.
The world of app building and designing can seem very daunting and foreign to most people, even those who grew up with computers, iPhones and social media. However, with the right resources and a lot of patience, anyone can develop an app these days. Below you’ll find a general outline for the iPhone app building process that will aide you in your quest for app success.
Step 1. Planning
You wouldn’t jump head first into a new business or venture without meticulous planning, would you? Treat your app in the same way; have an in-depth business plan that includes a marketing section, a monetization section and details of your app. For help with monetization strategies, consider enlisting the help of an online advertising company such as Brus Media or TradeDoubler. Next, spend a lot of time sketching and thinking about the design of your app; usability and attractiveness are two huge factors when it comes to user response.
Step 2. Register as an Apple Developer
Before you go any further, you will need to create an Apple Developer account and pay an annual fee of $99 USD.
Step 3. Use the iOS Developer Resources
Now you will have full access to the Developer Resources, including how-to tutorials, developer tools and forums. Spend a few days reading the materials and familiarizing yourself with basic concepts. Download the Xcode tool and iOS SDK (Software Development Kit) for free by visiting the App Store.
Step 4. Get to Know Xcode
Start by opening the Xcode tool. Choose Create a new Xcode project and you will then be directed to a number of templates. Click on Application and then Empty Application. From here, it is recommended that you follow the Start Developing iOS Apps Today tutorial provided by Apple. The tutorial runs through the app development process in great detail, covering concepts such as storyboarding, iOS Simulator and adding data.
Step 5. Identify Other Useful Tools
Now that you have an idea of how to build a basic app, make use of any other tools that are available. Examples include UlKit, Core Graphics, Game Kit and AV Foundation. It’s all about exploring and trialing the programs and tools that are out there, so be open-minded.
Step 6. Debug and Test Your App
The debugging process usually starts automatically once you run your app in Xcode. The debug navigator then allows you to supervise the process and see and analyze the results. Having a high-quality, bug-free app is vital for success in the marketplace, so keep running tests until your app is perfect.
By now you will hopefully have at least a general idea of the requirements for creating a new app. For newcomers who want to build their app from scratch on their own, the process is challenging and self-education is crucial. Remember to be patient with yourself and try tackling one new concept or action per day.
What do you think? Have you recently built an app? Which tools did you use and which issues did you come across? Share your tips or stories in the comment box below.
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