I’ve been working on an app idea that will completely transform the way books are marketed worldwide. I just need to find a developer who can create the app (for iOS and Android devices) in return for a share of the profits. Does anyone have an idea where I can find a partner to help me build an app?
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There’s a non for profit entrepreneurial group – TIE International http://www.tie.org.
This organisation is run by investors and “angels” who are looking for businesses to invest in. Look for this organisation in your area. They do education and pitching workshops too along with networking.
Steve Bailey, Finance Director at Identity Methods Ltd
A few bullets
• An idea needs to be turned into something more concrete. Document it, identify the unique (s) and identify what can be protected as IP.
• Work closely with a creative coach or mentor – it’s likely that the application may be applicable to other markets or products.
• Bring in experience – which could be the coach. (They need to have skin in the game, possibly as a shareholder ) Their experience in aligning the technology and commercial relationships will be a vital part of success and allow you to be taken seriously.
• Structure your business so that you protect your ownership but allow equity involvement for key personnel and technical partners
• Recognise an APP will, if successful, probably be a high volume low value market. There may be other ways to market the idea – as an embedded technology and or a technology licence.
Building an APP is the beginning, not the end of the process. This is where the technology hamster wheel kicks in ……..the need to keep developing and creating new features and improvements
Ian Collard, Managing Director at Identity Methods Ltd,
• Choose a developer with a track record of successful deployment and more importantly support. The App will have longevity if it’s well supported with timely bug fixes and improvements.
• Choose a developer that can easily use a standards based development platform. It makes things easier if you fall out of love somewhere down the road.
• Make a decision with your development partner regarding onshore/offshore contracting. If your developer has strong project management and you have a good strategic vision for your App, offshoring development can be cheaper.
• Find a creative hub. Down here in Brighton, there is a vibrant media development hub. These exist elsewhere in the country. See who is pushing the boundaries right now.
• Make sure you have a minimum viable product before release in to App store or Google Play. If your App is well received you can keep improving. If the UX sucks and it bombs, then it’s back to the drawing board. Don’t let buggy code out of the door.
• Don’t forget the adverts! It’s a crowded market and good quality advertising can make the difference in the early stages for the free or “lite” version. Offer “in App” purchases and the ability to upgrade to an ad free version thus maximising revenue.