Expert Guide Series

Do I Need to Be Technical to Build a Mobile App?

  
Welcome

Introduction

We get it. The thought of diving into the world of mobile app development can be a bit daunting, especially if your tech knowledge is closer to knowing how to mute a Zoom call rather than understanding complex coding languages. So, you're probably wondering, "Do I really need to be a tech whizz to make an app for my business?" The short answer: not necessarily. 

Let's break it down. When you're planning to develop a mobile app, there are a few paths you could take: 

  • DIY Approach: Tackle the task yourself, using no-code or low-code platforms.
  • Hiring Freelancers or Developers: Bring in experts to handle the technical stuff, letting you focus on your business.
  • Partnering with an Agency: Work with professionals who can turn your vision into a reality, with minimal hassle.

Each of these options has its own set of pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and resources. Let's see how each can fit into your business plan, and make it all a bit less intimidating.

  
Understanding The Basics

Do You Need to Code?

building-an-app-technical-code

Let's cut to the chase: No, you don't need to be technical to build a mobile app—the tech world has grown in leaps and bounds, making it much more inclusive. You might feel anxious about venturing into something seemingly reserved for tech wizards but breathe easy, many have been in your shoes and succeeded without typing a single line of code. 

Take for instance Martha and Eleanor, two friends who set out to create an app without any tech background. They had a brilliant idea but zero coding skills. What they did have was a clear vision of what they wanted to achieve. By leveraging no-code and low-code platforms, they brought their idea to life, designing an intuitive and responsive app. Did they need to decode the mysteries of Swift? Absolutely not. 

Now, just because coding isn't a necessity doesn't mean you can ignore the foundational aspects. It's a bit like opening a café; you don't need to grow the coffee beans yourself, but understanding your product and the market can make all the difference. Knowing some basics about how mobile apps work, even if it's just learning the lingo, will place you in a better position to make informed decisions. And besides, it's always good to know your APIs from your SDKs, right?

  
Non-Technical Options

Exploring No-Code and Low-Code Platforms

No-code and low-code platforms are like the magic wand for non-tech folks. These platforms let you build stunning mobile apps using visual interfaces—think of it as assembling a puzzle where each piece fits perfectly without needing to know how to carve the pieces yourself. No coding required, just your vision, some creativity, and a bit of point-and-click. 

Let’s break it down a bit. No-code platforms, as the name suggests, require no coding at all. They’re the ultimate DIY tools for businesses wanting to dip their toes into app development without hiring a full tech team. Platforms like Bubble, Adalo, and Glide make it easy to drag and drop features, customise designs, and publish apps all on your own. 

Low-code platforms, on the other hand, do require some basic understanding of coding but nothing too daunting. They’re aimed at users who might know a bit about programming or those who don’t mind getting their hands slightly dirty. Tools like OutSystems and Mendix are popular in this space, offering you the best of both worlds—ease of use with a touch of customisation. 

Now, if you’re wondering whether these platforms are up to the mark, let’s put that to rest. Many businesses, from small startups to larger enterprises, have successfully launched fully-functional mobile apps without a traditional development team. Your role? Just to steer the ship, providing your business insights and strategic vision while the no-code or low-code platform takes care of the heavy lifting. 

So, if no-code and low-code are so good, why doesn't everyone take that approach? Well, there are a few reasons businesses might hesitate. First and foremost, while no-code and low-code platforms can be incredibly powerful, they're not always the perfect fit for every project. 

No-code tools might lack some of the customisation options and scalability needed for a more complex or unique app. Imagine trying to bake a cake with a one-size-fits-all recipe; it might work great for a birthday party, but less so if you're aiming for a multi-tiered wedding cake. Some projects simply need that extra attention to detail that only professional developers can provide. 

Also, while these platforms have made leaps and bounds, they often come with a learning curve. Yes, they empower you to build an app, but if you're not familiar with them, you might initially feel like a kid trying to swim for the first time. 

  
Working With a Team

How Hiring Professionals Can Make the Difference

Choosing to hire professionals for your mobile app development can be a game-changer. Imagine you have a winning idea, but that technical know-how is not your strongest suit. By engaging a reliable team of experts, not only do you plug the technical gap, but you also gain a valuable partner who can help your business shine. 

Think of it this way: you're like the captain of a ship. You chart the course, define the vision, and steer the ship in the right direction. But even the best captains need a skilled crew. Your developers are that crew, handling the intricacies of the engine room while you focus on the bigger picture—your strategy, growth, and customer satisfaction. 

Working with professionals brings several benefits: 

  • Experience and Expertise: They have been there and done that. A professional team has tackled various challenges and knows the ropes. They can anticipate potential pitfalls and navigate them smoothly.
  • Quality Assurance: Professionals ensure that the final product is polished and performs well, reducing the chances of bugs and glitches that can frustrate users and damage your reputation.
  • Time Efficiency: With seasoned experts at the helm, timelines are managed more efficiently. You won't have to worry about project delays due to technical mishaps.
  • Focus on Core Competencies: By offloading the technical work to professionals, you can concentrate on your core business activities—managing your team, marketing your product, and engaging with clients.

Remember, it’s not just about hiring any developer; it’s about finding the right team. Ensure they understand your vision, communicate well, and have a portfolio that aligns with your business goals. A trustworthy development team will always be your best asset in transforming your idea into a robust and user-friendly app. 

    
Strong Communication

How To Communicate Your Vision Without Tech Jargon

building-an-app-technical-communication

Articulating your vision for a mobile app without plunging into tech jargon can feel like you're speaking a different language. But don't worry, it’s entirely possible – and incredibly effective. So how do you do it? 

First off, focus on what the app needs to do rather than how it's done. Think of it like building a house. You don't need to know how to lay bricks, but you can certainly describe the number of rooms, their purpose, and perhaps even the colour of the walls. Your aim here is to communicate the desired user experience, features, and overall goals. 

For instance, if you own a retail business and want an app to boost your sales, you might say, "I want customers to browse products easily, see recommendations based on their preferences, and complete their purchases swiftly." By keeping it simple and user-centric, you’re more likely to get your point across clearly. 

The human spirit must prevail over technology.Albert Einstein

Visual aids can be your best friends. Wireframes, storyboards, or simple sketches can go a long way in showing your developers what you have in mind without saying a single techy word. Tools like Sketch, Figma, or even good old pen and paper can be incredibly helpful here. A picture really does paint a thousand words! 

Don’t forget to prioritise outcomes over outputs. Rather than saying, "I need real-time data processing," try, “I want users to see real-time updates on their order status.” This keeps the focus on the user experience, which is what makes or breaks an app. 

Lastly, keep the lines of communication open. Encourage developers to ask questions and provide feedback. After all, they are the ones turning your vision into reality. Think of them as your partners, not just the folks handling the coding. 

By following these tips, you’ll find it much easier to convey your ideas and desires without spiralling into the tech jargon abyss. And with a clear vision in place, bringing your app to life becomes a whole lot more straightforward.

                                        
Summing Up

Conclusion

So, do you need to be technical to build a mobile app? Not really. As Martha and Eleanor discovered, your vision is the cornerstone, and with the right team, anything is possible. From no-code platforms to professional developers, you have options that let you focus on what you do best—growing your business. 

Working with experts ensures that your app is both user-friendly and technically sound. But remember, effective communication is key. Share your ideas and goals clearly, and let the professionals handle the technical details. 

At Glance, we love helping visionaries like you bring their app ideas to life. Whether you're tech-savvy or not, we're here to make your journey as smooth as possible. After all, your dream app is just a team effort away. 

Ready to take the plunge? The world of mobile apps is right at your fingertips, and with the right support, the sky's the limit.

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