Earlier this year, Kevin Rose shared exciting news about developing a new meditation app. As a meditation enthusiast, I was thrilled to hear it, but more so, I was excited as an app creator!
Why? Because Kevin documented the entire development process in a Facebook group, offering us a unique behind-the-scenes look. He shared insights into his research, wireframes, design choices, name selection, and even cost breakdowns.
This resource would have saved me countless headaches in the past, but now you get to benefit from it! I’ve condensed everything into this letter for your convenience.
Note: This guide will focus on iOS since Oak is an iOS app. If you’re targeting Android, find equivalent services for that platform. Choose the platform based on where your users are; if in doubt, start with what you use. Either way, aim to build a native app for the best user experience.
Step 1: Research
Before diving into your app idea, review the competition.
Investigate existing apps within your niche (for example, Kevin explored various meditation apps). Download and use each of them.
This will help you determine:
- Is there an existing app that offers everything you envision? If so, reconsider your idea.
- Which features do you find appealing? You may want to incorporate some of those into your own app. Remember the Silicon Valley saying: “Good artists copy; great artists steal.”
Recommended: Create a spreadsheet to organize your findings. Focus on four main apps—these could be your favorites or the most popular ones. This overview should highlight their shared features, pricing models, and social functions.
Note: This research phase can be time-consuming—expect to invest weeks depending on your app concept.
Kevin’s research is available in the video linked here as well!
Step 2: Wireframes
Once your research is complete, it’s time to transform your ideas into wireframes.
Choose a design tool that suits you. Recently, Sketch has become a popular choice due to its simplicity and elegance. I suggest you download Sketch and watch some tutorials—it’s well worth it.
Create wireframes that define the structure of your app. Keep in mind that the initial version will likely be simpler; focus on excelling at one core feature rather than overwhelming users with options.
Wireframes will guide the project and allow you to gather feedback effectively. When presenting these, clarify the flow of information using annotations to avoid confusion.
Step 3: Mockups
Now that you have wireframes, it’s time to create appealing designs.
If you’re a designer, you’ll naturally know what to do next. For those who aren’t designers, don’t worry!
Establishing Visuals
Start by curating a Pinterest board filled with designs you love. Define the visual tone for your app based on words that resonate with your vision—whether that’s “friendly,” “professional,” or “calming.”
Finding a Designer
If you need help, seek a professional designer through platforms like Dribbble, Behance, or 99Designs. You may also reach out to my talented friend Alejandra, who excels in design.
Make sure to obtain a proper contract for freelance work. Some platforms handle this for you, but you can also consider legal services like Gunderson Dettmer.
Designing the Mockups
Engagement with your designer will involve multiple iterations, so establish an organized naming convention for your files to avoid confusion later. Tools like Abstract can help manage version control for design files.
After collaborating with your designer, your wireframes will evolve into visually appealing mockups. Use tools like InVision to interact with the designs on your device, allowing you to simulate the user experience.
Step 4: Build
It’s time to start building!
If you can code, you’re in a fantastic position. You can develop the first version yourself and bring in collaborators for specific areas as needed.
For those without coding skills, remember Kevin is also non-technical. You could find a technical partner to share the workload, but you’ll still handle many tasks outside software development.
Recommended Tools
- Backend: Use services like Firebase (Google) or CloudKit (Apple) to manage user data.
- Analytics: Choose between platforms like Facebook Analytics, Google Analytics, or Mixpanel based on what metrics are most important for your app.
- Video Hosting: Use JW Player if your app features videos.
- Beta Testing: Utilize TestFlight for beta testing before launching your app on the app store; you can invite up to 10,000 testers.
- Project Management: Coordinate your team using Basecamp.
- Recording Progress: Document your building process using screen recording tools like Camtasia to attract beta testers, just like Kevin did.
Step 5: Naming
Ah, the naming phase—often a frustratingly drawn-out process.
Naming your app can take time, so tackle it last to avoid being held back by indecision.
Kevin created a spreadsheet to track his naming process:
- Column 1: Top five name candidates
- Column 2: Names he considered but rejected
- Column 3: Relevant terms that sparked ideas
- Column 4: Variations for app store listings
You can utilize tools like OneLook Reverse Dictionary for additional inspiration. When finalizing a name, make sure it’s easy to share in a loud environment—this is known as passing the “bar test.”
Once you’ve secured a name, be sure to secure the domain!
Congratulations! You now know the fundamental steps to build an app.
In Summary
Today, we covered:
- How to effectively conduct app research.
- The process of creating wireframes.
- How to develop appealing mockups.
- The steps to build a beta version.
- Strategies for naming your app.
Let me know if you want any further assistance or adjustments!