What Are the Biggest Challenges in Building an App?

Introduction

Building a mobile app might sound like an exciting venture. It's like setting off on a journey with a map and compass expecting flat terrain, but soon realising there are mountains, rivers, and forests in your way that you must cross. I've faced these challenges head-on (as have many of our clients), and I'm here to share a few stories and insights that might help you steer your own expedition through to a successful launch. 

Every new project brings its unique set of challenges, each one a puzzle waiting to be solved.

From defining the app's purpose to ensuring it's user-friendly, and from managing development costs to safeguarding user data, these challenges can turn the simplest of plans into a complex problem! By the end of this guide, you will know what to look out for and what to avoid, saving you the pain that I (and some clients) have faced along the way. Let's dive in.

Understanding User Needs

One of the most eye-opening moments in my journey of building an app was when we decided to involve our end users from the very start. We all know what our app should do right!? If we love the idea then so will our target market. It's obvious. Except it's wrong. We learned that making assumptions about what users want and need could lead us down the wrong path, wasting both time, resources and money. So, we started by interviewing potential users, creating surveys, and even hosting focus groups. These interactions revealed insights that data alone couldn't provide. 

Think about trying to bake a cake without knowing the preferences of those who will eat it. You might end up making a chocolate cake when your guests would prefer a Victoria sponge (I'm partial to a sticky toffee sponge myself!). Similarly, understanding your users' needs ensures your app provides real value and is what they want, not what you want. We worked on a fitness app and discovered through user feedback that integrating social features was more important than advanced tracking metrics. Who would have thought it?! Social currency was more attractive to users than advanced data. This insight helped us prioritise the right features and improve the product no end. 

Market research plays a crucial role here. Not only do you need to understand what your users want, but also what the competition is offering. A well-conducted market analysis can highlight gaps your app could fill, making it more appealing. When we looked into the market for our app, we found a lack of apps focusing on the social aspects of fitness. This guided our development process significantly. 

Involving users doesn't end after the initial research phase. Continuous feedback is essential. After we launched our client's app, we kept an eye out for user suggestions, feedback and complaints. This ongoing dialogue helped us make timely updates and improvements, ensuring the app stayed relevant and useful.

Budgeting and Cost Management

Deciding to build a mobile app is like buying a new car. The thing looks nice and shiny but if you're not careful where you're spending your money (add-ons and up-sells are prolific here!), you may end up with empty pockets for little added benefit. Budget management is crucial. The first big challenge is calculating the development cost accurately. You need to consider factors such as the complexity of the app, the platforms you're targeting, and the costs of tools and software licenses. For instance, developing for both iOS and Android will add around 30% to your development expenses compared to launching on a single platform. 

Next, consider your development team. Will you build an in-house team, hire freelancers or hire an agency? An in-house team can be more expensive but offers better control and communication. On the other hand, freelancers may cost less but involve risks like varying quality and unpredictable schedules. Agencies usually offer unparalleled expertise but this comes with a cost. 

And don't forget the hidden costs either. After your app is built, there are launch expenses, such as marketing campaigns, app store fees and hosting costs. Post-launch, you'll also need to factor in maintenance and updates if you want your app to run optimally over the long term. A client of ours launched an app without budgeting for post-launch updates and found himself scrambling to find funds when he wanted to promote it.

Just like a ship needs regular maintenance checks, your app will need periodic updates to fix bugs, enhance features, and ensure compatibility with new operating system updates and phone launches. All these steps ensure your app continues to provide a smooth user experience, which is critical for keeping customers happy and engaged. 

Successful budgeting and cost management are about thinking ahead and planning for every phase of the app's lifecycle not just the initial outlay. This way, you won't be caught off guard by unexpected costs or find yourself compromising on quality due to budget constraints down the line.

Integrating with Current Systems

When I think back to the early days of mobile app development, I remember the headaches that came with integrating new apps with existing systems. It's a bit like trying to add an extension to a house—if the foundation isn't solid, the whole structure can suffer (and sometimes come crashing down!). With apps, the challenge is getting new technology to work seamlessly with whatever tech stack your business is already using. 

I once worked with a company that had a fantastic idea for an app but faced significant issues merging it with its legacy CRM system. It wasn't just about connecting the dots; it required a deep understanding of the available APIs and SDKs (and a degree of trial and error). Think of APIs as the communication channels between different software systems. If these channels aren't optimised, information can get lost, leading to inefficiencies and poor user experiences. 

One common pitfall is underestimating the complexity of third-party integrations. For instance, you might want your app to use a popular payment gateway. While it sounds straightforward, integrating that service can involve extensive coding, stringent testing, and even more patience. We recently worked on a project where an e-commerce app had to integrate multiple payment options—each with its own set of rules and security requirements. It was like piecing together a digital puzzle. Not impossible, but certainly not for the faint of heart! 

It's also vital to involve your end-users in this stage. Their input can be invaluable for identifying potential issues you might overlook. Engaging users early, through things like beta testing, gives you insight into user interaction patterns and any quirks that need fixing before the app goes live. We've had clients come to us who learned this the hard way after launching an app internally without adequate user involvement. The flood of feedback post-launch was overwhelming, and many of the issues could have been addressed earlier with better user input. 

Integrating with current systems isn't just a technical endeavour; it's a holistic process that demands careful planning, thorough testing, and ongoing adjustments. When done right, it can make your app an invaluable extension of your existing business operations, providing a seamless experience for users and stakeholders alike. A win-win.

Ensuring App Security

One of the biggest challenges in building an app is ensuring it stays secure. I've seen horror stories of large-scale government projects where they thought they had covered all their bases with security, but a minor lapse led to a significant breach. It was a painful lesson that taught them not to let their guard down, even for a moment. 

If you think of your app as a fortress, then the data it holds is the treasure inside. Just as fortresses have walls, gates, and guards, an app needs encryption, authentication mechanisms, and regular security audits to keep intruders at bay. Encrypting user data both while it is being transmitted and when it is stored is like having secret codes that only you and trusted parties can read. This ensures that even if hackers intercept the data, they can't make any sense of it. 

Similarly, strong authentication mechanisms are like checkpoints that verify the identity of everyone trying to get inside. Multi-factor authentication, for instance, requires users to provide two or more verification methods, making it much harder for unauthorised people to gain access. 

• Encryption ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be read without the correct decryption key.
• Periodic security audits help identify new vulnerabilities and verify the effectiveness of existing security measures.
• Authentication mechanisms, such as secure login protocols, help ensure only authorised users can access the app.
• Developers need to comply with privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA to protect user data and avoid legal issues.
• Penetration testing simulates real-world attacks to find and fix gaps in the app's security.
• Secure APIs are critical for safe data exchanges between the app and external services.
• Storage encryption protects sensitive data that is saved on the device or in the cloud from being accessed by unauthorised parties.

However, it's not just about setting up defences and forgetting about them. Just as a good fortress continually inspects and repairs its defences, developers need to carry out regular security audits and penetration tests. These are designed to identify and fix vulnerabilities before hackers can exploit them. In one of our past projects, we caught several potential entry points during a routine audit, which could have been disastrous if left unnoticed. 

Another crucial part is secure APIs. Think of APIs as doors that allow communication between your app and other services. If these doors are flimsy or left open, it provides easy access for hackers. Ensuring these APIs are secure adds another layer of protection to your data fortress. 

Compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR or CCPA is not just about avoiding legal issues, but also about building trust among your users. People are more likely to use an app they believe will protect their personal information. One of our apps received praise from users simply because we were transparent about how their data was handled and protected. Build trust and your users will love you for it.

Dealing with Technical Challenges

In my experience, device fragmentation is a real headache. Developing for Android, for instance, means dealing with numerous devices from different manufacturers, with various screen resolutions and hardware capabilities. An issue on one device could lead to a flood of negative reviews, impacting the app's reputation and user trust. 

Another common technical challenge is integrating third-party services. It's like trying to complete a jigsaw puzzle with a piece from a different one; it takes patience and precision. Whether it's payment gateways, social media logins, or simple sharing features, integrating APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) requires careful handling to ensure smooth functioning without bugs. 

Keeping up with constant updates can also be an uphill struggle. Operating systems update frequently, and each new version can bring unexpected issues. An app that worked flawlessly last month might suddenly start crashing, requiring immediate patches and updates. It’s a race against time to ensure your app remains compatible with the latest software. 

Lastly, maintaining code quality while adding new features is akin to building an intricate house of cards; one misstep and the entire structure could collapse. Regular code reviews, automated testing, and agile methodologies can help in ensuring that new updates don’t break existing functionalities, maintaining a stable and reliable app experience for users.

Navigating App Store Guidelines

Once, a client had a brilliant idea for an app that we all thought would change the way people deal with currency exchange. My team and I spent months developing it with the client, creating an intuitive interface, and ensuring it was an amazing experience for users. But when it came time to submit the app to the app store, we hit a wall. The app store guidelines were much stricter than we anticipated, with specific rules not just for functionality but also for the fundamental principles we were trying to achieve. It was a tough process. 

App store guidelines are like the rules of a game – if you don't follow them, you can't play. They cover everything from data encryption to the type of content allowed. For instance, Apple's App Store has stringent policies on user privacy and app security, while Google Play requires clear disclosures and user permissions. These guidelines are in place to protect users but often feel like navigating a legal labyrinth for developers. 

It's not about ideas. It's about making ideas happen.Scott Belsky

One of the trickiest parts was ensuring our app complied with accessibility standards. According to the WCAG, apps must be usable and understandable by people with disabilities. This meant adding features like voice-over support and text resizing. Balancing these requirements while keeping the app user-friendly for everyone else felt like walking a tightrope. 

Even after ticking all the boxes, another challenge was updates. App store guidelines evolve, and what was acceptable during the initial launch might not pass in the future. Regularly updating the app not only for new features but also for compliance is crucial. Think of it like maintaining a garden – you can't just plant the seeds and walk away; continuous effort is required to keep everything in shape and free of weeds. 

Maintaining App Performance

When I was part of a team building the Times iPad app, we quickly learned the importance of app performance. Initially, the app functioned smoothly during internal testing. But once it hit the real world, it became clear that it started lagging on as new editions of the paper were released. Imagine trying to start your morning reading the news, only to find your app freezing—frustrating, right? 

Performance issues can create problems and lose customers if not addressed. Feedback started pouring in about slow loading times. This taught us that continuous monitoring and optimisation were crucial. Performance is like a car's engine: if it doesn't run smoothly, no one wants to drive it. 

Another aspect to watch out for is battery consumption. Users don't appreciate apps that drain their batteries quickly. It's like buying a torch that doesn't last through a single camping night—disappointing and not worth the trouble. Ensuring that your app runs efficiently involves looking into ways to minimise energy use without sacrificing performance. 

Maintaining code quality while regularly updating your app is another significant challenge. Each new feature can introduce potential bugs or slow down performance. If not done correctly, you end up with structural issues. Regular code reviews and automated testing can help catch these issues early before they become bigger problems.

Adapting to Market Changes

When I started developing my first mobile app, I quickly realised how fast the market changes. One moment you're on top, and the next, a new trend can make your app feel outdated. It's like trying to hit a moving target. To stay relevant, constant market research is essential. When I launched, it was a hit; people loved it. But soon, competitors started integrating social features that allowed users to do similar things to my app. We had to pivot quickly, adding social sharing options to keep up. This meant more development work and a shift in my design strategy, but it was necessary to stay in the game. 

Regularly checking app reviews and industry news can provide early warnings about emerging trends. During that app project, I made it a habit to dedicate an hour every day to read up on the latest in social tech. This not only kept me informed but also inspired new features that I could integrate into the app. 

Don't worry about failure; you only have to be right once.Drew Houston

Adapting to market changes is not just about adding trending features, though. Sometimes, a shift in the market means changing your entire business strategy. For instance, when a subscription model became more popular than one-time purchases, we had to rethink one of our client's monetisation strategies. We transitioned to a subscription-based model, which not only provided a steady revenue stream but also encouraged us to continuously improve the app to keep users subscribed. 

In the end, adaptability is key. Being flexible and ready to pivot helps ensure that your app remains competitive and continues to meet user expectations. By keeping a close eye on market trends, being willing to make necessary changes, and staying technologically updated, you can navigate the fast-paced world of mobile app development.

Marketing and Promoting Your App

So you've launched. No what? Getting your app noticed is like shouting in a crowded room; you need to stand out among the noise. The first step is knowing who you’re shouting at – in other words, identifying your target audience. Is your app for teenagers who love gaming or busy professionals needing a productivity tool? This understanding shapes your entire marketing strategy. 

Once you know who you’re targeting, the next step is to figure out where they hang out. If your audience spends a lot of time on social media, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok should be part of your strategy. On the other hand, if your app is for professionals, LinkedIn might be more suitable. 

One of the most effective ways to grab attention is through engaging ads. Think about a fishing lure; it’s designed to attract fish with bright colours and movement. Similarly, your ads need to be eye-catching and irresistible. Use compelling visuals and sharp copy to draw users in. If possible, including a short video or interactive demo can make a world of difference. 

Another tactic is to leverage the power of influencers. If you can get popular profiles to showcase your app; their followers are likely to become your customers. Partner with influencers in your niche who can promote your app to their audience. 

Don’t forget the importance of app store optimisation (ASO). Just like how SEO helps websites rank higher on search engines, ASO makes your app more visible in app stores. Use relevant keywords in your app title and description, and encourage satisfied users to leave positive reviews and high ratings. 

Lastly, patience is key. Marketing an app isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing journey. Keep tracking your results, learning from them, and adjusting your strategy as needed. Just like nurturing a plant, consistent care and attention will help your app grow and thrive.

Handling User Feedback

Handling user feedback can feel like being the England manager. You call the shots, but every fan in the stadium has an opinion on how to improve the game. Some suggestions are spot on, while others may not be as useful. It's crucial to sort through all this feedback to find actionable insights that can genuinely enhance the app. 

We worked on an app a few years ago. We had just launched a new feature, and within hours, feedback poured in. Some loved it, but many users had issues. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, we saw this as an opportunity. We set up a team to categorise the feedback: bugs, usability issues, and new feature requests. 

We prioritised fixing the bugs first. This quick response showed our users we were listening and acted on their feedback, building trust. For example, addressing a bug causing app crashes improved user experience and reduced negative reviews almost immediately. Next, we tackled usability issues, making small adjustments that made the app more intuitive. Finally, we considered the new feature requests for future updates. Not all requests were feasible, but engaging with users about what we could or could not implement kept lines of communication open and users interested. 

Responding to user feedback isn’t just about fixing things; it's about showing your users that they are valued. It's like being in a relationship where both sides communicate openly and work together to make things better. Ultimately, how you handle feedback can turn casual users into loyal ones who feel a sense of ownership and connection with your app.

Conclusion

Building a mobile app is no small task, but understanding the biggest challenges can help you navigate the process more effectively. From aligning the app with user needs and managing your budget to integrating existing systems and ensuring robust security, each step is crucial for success. Tackling technical hurdles, adhering to app store guidelines, and maintaining performance while adapting to market changes can make or break your app's journey. Remember, marketing and handling user feedback are vital for keeping your app relevant and user-friendly. 

If you’re looking for support in bringing your mobile app idea to life, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and success.