Expert Guide Series

Should I Build My Mobile App In-House?

  
Welcome

Introduction

When people reach out to us to discuss their mobile app project, the obvious alternative is for them to build it in-house. In some cases they decide to go with us, in others they decide to do it themselves. In this guide, we'll look at the things to consider when building an app in-house so that you can make sure that it's the best option for you if you do decide to go that route. Making the right decision is crucial for your project’s success so this guide will give you the key things to focus on in an internal project. Whether you are building your app in-house or outsourcing it in some way, there will always be unique advantages and challenges that could significantly impact your budget, timeline, and final product. 

When making this decision, you need to consider: 

  • The cost and time implications
  • The skills required in-house
  • The learning curve for your internal team
  • The expertise of an external freelancer or agency

Ultimately, the choice between in-house development and outsourcing hinges on your business's specific needs, budget and resources. As you weigh your options, keep in mind that both paths can succeed or fail if not done correctly.

  
The Basics

Key Considerations for Your Mobile App Project

should-i-build-mobile-app-in-house

When contemplating whether to build your mobile app in-house or outsource the development, several crucial factors are essential to consider to ensure that you make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals and the specific requirements of your project. 

Project Scope and Complexity 

The scope and complexity of your mobile app project can significantly influence your choice. If your app demands specialised features, advanced functionalities, or integration with custom APIs, having an in-house team with the requisite skills may prove beneficial. 

Budget Constraints 

Your budget is another key consideration. Developing an app in-house typically involves higher initial costs due to salaries, benefits, and recruitment expenses. However, it may offer long-term savings if you have ongoing app development projects or maintenance. Equally, if you already have a team in place then up-skilling them can be a good option, reducing the overall costs of hiring a new team. 

Time-to-Market 

Time is often of the essence in mobile app development; the number of times we've heard "Yesterday." as the answer to "When do you need this by?" is significant. Building an app in-house might stretch your timeline, especially if your team lacks experience or if you need to hire new developers or re-train existing ones. 

Control and Flexibility 

Maintaining control over the development process is vital for most businesses. An in-house team allows for real-time communication, potentially better alignment with company objectives, and easier project management. Remember though that even an in-house project can go off the rails if not managed properly so make sure you have the right team in place to manage the entire process.

Post-Launch Support and Maintenance 

The work doesn't end once the app is launched. Continuous updates, bug fixes, and feature enhancements are essential to keep your app relevant. An in-house team can provide dedicated support, ensuring swift responses to issues. Ensure your internal team can manage the existing apps as well as the new projects they are working on simultaneously; an app is rarely 'done' just because it's launched. 

By carefully weighing these considerations, you can better decide whether in-house development aligns more closely with your mobile app project’s unique requirements and your overall business strategy.

  
Financial

Understanding the Costs of Building Your App In-House

When budgeting for an in-house app development project, you'll need to account for various costs beyond just salaries. The initial overhead can include recruiting expenses, purchasing software licences, investing in hardware, and perhaps even office space if you're scaling up your team significantly. Remember, competitive salaries often come with added benefits, like health insurance, pension contributions, and other perks that can quickly add up. 

Moreover, training and ongoing professional development are crucial to keep your team's skills updated. This is especially important in the tech world, where new tools and programming languages frequently emerge. Ignoring this can lead to technical debt, where your technology falls behind current standards, making it harder and costlier to maintain in the future. 

Quality is more important than quantity. One home run is much better than two doubles.Steve Jobs

Another consideration is the potential for inefficiencies. Building an app in-house might initially seem like a cost-effective approach, but if your team isn't well-versed in mobile app development, you could face longer development times and higher expenses. There's a learning curve involved, and your team may require time to get up to speed, which translates to longer timelines and higher costs. 

It's also worth considering the hidden costs of management. An internal team will need supervision, regular assessments, and project management. These activities can demand significant time and effort from your management team, potentially diverting attention from other critical business areas. 

It's clear that building your app in-house provides greater control and flexibility however it's essential to have a clear understanding of the full scope of potential costs to avoid budget overruns and ensure your project remains feasible.

  
Timing

Time Implications of In-House Development

should-i-build-mobile-app-in-house-time

One of the most critical factors to consider in app development is time. When aiming to build an app in-house, the process can be surprisingly time-consuming. You must account for several phases, including research, planning, design, development, testing, deployment and support. 

Initial Setup and Recruitment: Before you even start coding, there's a considerable lead time involved in setting up the development environment. Recruiting a team of skilled developers, designers, and quality assurance testers can take months. This personnel selection stage is crucial as the project's success will heavily rely on the expertise and collaboration of your internal team. 

Development Cycle: The development cycle itself is another time-intensive element. In-house projects may run longer due to possible interruptions like company meetings, unforeseen internal tasks, or simply the team's familiarity with your internal workflow. Deadlines might stretch, leading to extended timelines and potentially delayed product launches. 

Learning Curve and Knowledge Acquisition: Your in-house team might need to acquire new knowledge or skills relevant to the project's technological requirements. Investing time in training and professional development can elongate the timeline but is vital for passing the learning curve effectively. 

Iterative Testing and Feedback Loops: Rigorous testing is paramount to ensure the app’s reliability and performance. Internal teams might adopt iterative testing phases intertwined with ongoing development, which can prolong the project timeline. Frequent feedback loops are essential but add extra time to make necessary adjustments and enhancements. 

Given these factors, the time implications of in-house development require meticulous planning and realistic expectations. While you gain control and potentially tighter integration with your organisational goals, be prepared for a considerable time investment to bring your app from concept to market.

    
Skills

Assessing Your Team's Skills for Mobile App Development

Assessing your team's skills is a critical step in deciding whether to build your mobile app in-house. This involves evaluating the existing technical abilities within your team and identifying any skill gaps. You need to determine whether your developers have experience in mobile-specific technologies such as Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android. Additionally, consider their familiarity with UI/UX design principles, backend integration, and performance optimisation, which are all essential for creating a polished and functional app. 

For example, if your team has mainly been working on web applications, transitioning to mobile app development might entail a significant learning curve. Mobile development often requires a different mindset and skill set, particularly around touch interfaces and device-specific constraints. Additionally, you'll need to ensure your quality assurance team is equipped to handle mobile testing, which can vary significantly from web application testing

Beyond technical prowess, it's also worth considering the team's project management skills. Are they comfortable working in agile frameworks, which are commonly used in mobile app development for their flexibility and iterative approach? Strong leadership and the ability to manage timelines, budgets, and scope are equally important to ensure the project stays on track. 

Lastly, it's crucial to assess the team's capacity for innovation and problem-solving. Mobile app development often comes with unexpected challenges, from dealing with various device compatibilities to integrating new technologies like augmented reality or artificial intelligence. A team that can adapt quickly and think creatively about solutions will be invaluable in navigating these hurdles.

    
Upskilling

What Skills Do My Team Need to Build a Mobile App?

should-i-build-mobile-app-in-house-skillset

Building a mobile app from scratch demands a diverse set of skills within your team. This typically includes: 

  • Front-End Development: A proficient front-end developer is crucial for creating an intuitive and visually appealing user interface. Expertise in languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, along with proficiency in mobile-specific technologies like Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android, is essential.
  • Back-End Development: A robust back-end is necessary for handling data, business logic, and integration with third-party services. This requires knowledge of server-side languages such as Java, Python, Ruby, or Node.js, and experience with databases like Postgres, MongoDB, or Firebase.
  • UI/UX Design: To ensure your app provides a seamless user experience, a skilled UI/UX designer should collaborate with developers. They need expertise in wireframing, prototyping, and using design tools like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD.
  • Project Management: Effective coordination and timely delivery of the app requires a competent project manager. This role demands excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills, along with familiarity with agile methodologies.
  • Quality Assurance: Rigorous testing ensures that your app is free from bugs and provides a smooth user experience. A QA specialist with experience in both manual and automated testing is invaluable for maintaining high quality.
  • DevOps: Efficient deployment and maintenance of the app require DevOps expertise. This includes knowledge of continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, cloud services, and containerisation technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.
  • Marketing and Analytics: Post-launch, promoting your app and understanding user behaviour is critical. Skills in digital marketing, app store optimisation (ASO), and analytics are necessary to drive downloads and improve features based on user feedback.

Each role is fundamental to the development process. The absence or underestimation of any of these skills can jeopardise the success of your app. Consequently, it is essential to assess these capabilities within your existing team or consider professional development to bridge any gaps.

      
Education

The Learning Curve: Training an Internal Team

One significant factor to consider when opting for in-house mobile app development is the learning curve associated with training your internal team. This involves equipping your team with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively create and maintain the app. While your team may already have a foundational understanding of software development, mobile app development often requires specialised skills such as proficiency in platform-specific languages like Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android, as well as familiarity with mobile user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design principles. 

The training process can be resource-intensive, requiring a substantial investment of time and money. Online courses, workshops, and hands-on practice are essential to bring your team up to speed with the latest tools and technologies. Additionally, staying updated with ongoing advancements in mobile app development can be a continuous challenge, necessitating regular training and development sessions. 

  • Online courses can range from free resources to expensive certification programmes.
  • Workshops often require live attendance, which can disrupt regular workflows.
  • New tools and frameworks are released frequently, demanding regular learning and adaptation.
  • Hands-on practice is crucial but can take team members away from their primary responsibilities.
  • The cost of continuous training can add up over time, impacting the overall budget.
  • Staying current with advancements ensures your app remains competitive in the fast-evolving market.

Up-skilling your team has its benefits, however. It helps foster a sense of ownership and deepens your team’s understanding of the project, aligning more closely with your business goals and vision. This approach can also promote a culture of continuous learning and development within your organisation. 

Nonetheless, it's important to weigh these benefits against the potential drawbacks. The time spent on training could delay the project timeline, impacting your time-to-market. Moreover, there is a risk that despite the training, your team might not reach the level of expertise required, leading to an app that is not as polished or functional as one developed by seasoned professionals. Careful consideration should be given to the balance between investing in your team's growth and the immediate needs of your mobile app project. 

      
Communication

The Role of Communication in In-House App Development Projects

should-i-build-mobile-app-in-house-communication

One of the major advantages of in-house app development is the streamlined communication. When your team members are seated in the same office or connected through established internal channels, it significantly reduces the chances of miscommunication. You can hold daily stand-up meetings, brainstorming sessions, and one-on-one discussions with ease. This close proximity and direct access allow for quick decision-making and immediate feedback, which are crucial elements in the agile development process. 

Moreover, having your development team in-house cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation. Team members frequently interact not just about the app but also about overall company objectives, fostering a deeper understanding of the project’s goals. This naturally aligns the team’s efforts towards the company's vision, allowing the development process to reflect the unique needs and values of your organisation. 

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.African Proverb

Effective communication within an in-house team also facilitates swift problem-solving. Issues that arise can be addressed promptly, without the delays that often occur when dealing with external agencies or freelancers. This agility can make a substantial difference in maintaining project timelines and ensuring that any bugs or hurdles are dealt with efficiently. 

However, it’s important to note that excellent communication in an in-house team doesn’t occur automatically; it requires deliberate effort and robust processes. Implementing project management tools, fostering an open-door policy, and promoting a healthy work environment are all strategies that can enhance communication. By doing so, you not only keep your project on track but also empower your team to deliver their best work.

      
The Good

Pros of Building an App In-House

Enhanced Customisation 

One of the significant benefits is the ability to customise the app extensively to meet your specific business needs. An in-house team, already familiar with your operational nuances, can tailor the app's functionality and design to perfectly align with your business processes and user expectations. 

Immediate Feedback and Faster Iteration 

With an in-house team, providing feedback and making changes can happen in real time. This streamlined communication allows for rapid iteration and more frequent updates, ensuring that your app remains current and continuously improved based on user feedback and emerging trends. 

Integrated Team Collaboration

Your internal team can work more cohesively with other departments such as marketing, customer support, and sales. This promotes a unified approach to design and development, allowing you to align the app’s features and functions closely with organisational goals and user needs

Strategic Alignment and Priority Management 

An internal team embedded within your organisation has a deeper understanding of business priorities and strategic goals. This facilitates better management of development priorities, enabling the team to pivot quickly if business needs change. 

Direct Accountability 

Finally, having an in-house team means you can establish accountability directly within your organisation. Team members are more likely to be invested in the project's success and maintain a high level of quality control, directly supporting your business's objectives.

        
The Bad

Cons of Building an App In-House

should-i-build-mobile-app-in-house-cons

Higher Costs

Higher costs are a notable disadvantage of in-house app development. The overhead associated with maintaining a full-time team—including salaries, benefits, office space, equipment, and ongoing training—can be substantial. These ongoing expenses can significantly impact your project's budget and overall financial health. 

Resource Limitations

Secondly, resource limitations often pose significant challenges. Building a skilled and experienced in-house team requires time and effort, and talent acquisition can be particularly difficult in competitive job markets. Even once the team is in place, you may face skill gaps, which can limit the efficiency and quality of your app development process

Longer Delivery Timeline

Setting up an in-house team is a time-consuming process. From recruiting and onboarding to procuring necessary development tools and establishing workflows, the initial setup phase can cause project delays. This extended ramp-up period affects your time-to-market, potentially hindering your ability to capitalise on market opportunities. 

Limited Diversity

Another drawback is the limited global perspective an in-house team might offer. Unlike outsourcing partners that bring diverse backgrounds and experiences, an in-house team might lack varied perspectives, potentially stifling creativity and innovation. This limited worldview can affect how well your app addresses the needs of a broader audience. 

Extra Management Burden

The extra management efforts required for in-house development should not be underestimated. Managing an internal team demands substantial time and attention from your leadership and key staff, diverting them from core business activities. This management overhead can strain your resources and affect overall productivity. 

In summary, while building an app in-house allows for greater control and alignment with your company culture, the higher costs, resource limitations, time investments, limited diversity in perspectives, and extra management efforts present significant challenges that need careful consideration.

          
Other Options

Alternatives to Building Your App In-House

If you've determined that building your app in-house might not be the best option, outsourcing to a freelancer or an agency can be a viable alternative. Let’s explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of each option to help you make an informed decision. 

Outsourcing to Freelancers 

Freelancers can offer a more personalised touch. They often have lower overhead costs compared to agencies, making them more affordable. Additionally, they tend to be more flexible, facilitating quick adjustments to your project if necessary. However, managing freelancers requires hands-on oversight to ensure timelines and quality are adhered to. You also face the challenge of vetting their skills and reliability, as there's often less accountability compared to an established agency. 

Hiring an Expert App Development Agency 

An agency brings a team of experts to the table, encompassing various skills needed for comprehensive app development. They usually have tried-and-tested processes, reducing the risk of project delays and quality issues. While agencies might be more expensive, the investment can be justified by their efficiency and the quality of their deliverables. Agencies not only help in developing the app but also provide ongoing maintenance and support post-launch, offering a holistic package. 

Hybrid Approach 

An often-overlooked option is a hybrid approach, combining in-house and outsourced resources. By maintaining core development tasks in-house and outsourcing specific components, you leverage the strengths of both models. This strategy brings a blend of control, expertise, and flexibility, often leading to more balanced outcomes.

Ultimately, the choice between in-house development, freelancers, agencies, or a hybrid approach depends on your project's unique needs, budget, and timeline. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each to find the optimal solution for your mobile app project.

No-Code or Low-Code Platforms 

For simpler app requirements, no-code or low-code platforms like Adalo, Bubble, or Glide can be a viable alternative. These platforms allow you to create functional apps without extensive coding knowledge. They're cost-effective and can expedite the development process. However, their capabilities are often limited compared to custom-coded solutions, potentially restricting scalability and customisation. 

Each alternative has its own set of pros and cons, and the best choice often depends on your specific needs, budget, and long-term goals for the app.

            
Summing Up

Conclusion

In deciding whether to build your mobile app in-house or to outsource, it's crucial to weigh the pros and cons with your team, considering project scope, budget constraints, time-to-market, and the level of control and flexibility you require. An in-house team offers control and cohesion, though it may involve higher costs and a steeper learning curve. Alternatively, freelancers or agencies can provide expertise and quicker turnaround times, potentially at a lower cost but with less control over the process. 

Ultimately, the right decision will depend on your organisation's unique needs, resources, and long-term goals. Both approaches have their merits and demerits, and the best choice hinges on your specific circumstances.  If you need help deciding on the best approach for your mobile app project, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to support you in achieving your business goals whether in-house or not.

Related Articles

From Our Blog

Stay up to date with what is new in our industry, learn more about the upcoming products and events.

Your App Idea Already Exists (And Why That's Actually Great)

Your App Idea Already Exists (And Why That's Actually Great)

Dec 12, 2024 13 min read
Why London Businesses Prefer Boutique App Agencies Over Big Firms

Why London Businesses Prefer Boutique App Agencies Over Big Firms

Dec 10, 2024 12 min read
The Return to Simplicity: Why Less is Trending More

The Return to Simplicity: Why Less is Trending More

Dec 3, 2024 10 min read
chatsimple