What Is the Best Mobile App Development Tool
by Lilly Thuma | Last Updated: Aug 30, 2020
- Do You Have to Code? When looking at an app development tool, the first thing you should look at is how much coding experience you will need. There are tools that range from full on coding experience needed to no experience needed, and many that fall in between. If you have never written code a day in your life… you should look into a no code app builder or a low code app builder. When working on one of these app development platforms, you don’t have to write a single line of code, and can still build a fully functioning app. So, if you lack coding skills but still have the ambition to build an app, then the best app builder for you would be a no code or low code platform.
- Does It Build the Right App? Next, does the app builder let you build the type of app that best fits your brand and goals? Your options here are a native mobile app, web app, or Progressive Web App (PWA). Native mobile apps are the apps downloaded from the infamous app store (yes, I said infamous). They are downloaded to your phone, and take advantage of the smartphone’s functionality (like access to your camera, geolocation, and push notifications). However, they are also more expensive and time consuming to build, and the only way for users to access these apps is through the app store.Web apps are different. Web apps are run solely through the web, and are basically just a web page that can also be saved to your home screen (think Google Docs). One huge perk of web apps is that since they are run through the web, they can work seamlessly on both iOS and Android devices.PWAs are the last option, and they bring the best functions of both a native mobile app and a web app together. PWAs are run through the web and can be saved to the home screen, but they also integrate with your phone's native functionality. PWAs can also be activated in multiple ways (QR codes, NFC, text, etc.), so you don’t have to solely rely on downloads. So, when determining what mobile app development tools are the best for your organization, think about what app is best for your organization.
- Does It Fit Your Plan? One of the most important things to consider when searching for the best app development tools is if it fits into your mobile marketing plan, AKA it should be in budget and fit your timeline. App development software and tools shouldn’t break the bank. Yes, an app is important for your marketing strategy, but it isn’t the only mobile marketing tool you need. Therefore, you can’t spend all your money on it. Also, you should have your app when you want it. You shouldn’t have to wait months to get your hands on a mobile app, and you shouldn’t keep your customers waiting that long for a better mobile experience. The best app builder will let you build an app quickly and efficiently.
- Is It Easy? Finally, the best mobile app development tools should make your life easier. If you wanted it to be hard you would have decided to code the app. When using mobile app development tools, you should be able to build their app your way, and have the necessary support to end up with an app you are happy with. Whether that be in the form of tutorials, starter kits, or customer support. The right app development tool should make building an app easy and enjoyable.