What is the cost of that on demand app you’re looking to develop? That depends on a number of elements which include what features you require, which technology you’d like to see used and the development approach. By identifying these at the start you better able to budget and also which is very important to avoid some very expensive surprises.
On demand app development we see in terms of three main categories. We look at a basic MVP which has what is required from the start like user registration, service display, and basic booking which in that case will range from $15,000 to $30,000. For mid level apps which include real time tracking, payment integration, push notifications and admin dashboards we are talking from $40,000 to $100,000. Then for the very complex apps we have AI powered recommendations, in depth analytics, large scale infrastructure which can go over $150, 000. Of course exact cost will also depend on what you as the user require in terms of the apps’ scale and functions.
One of the greatest cost factors is feature set. We see that real time GPS tracking, in app chat, different user roles (customer, service provider, admin) and rating systems greatly extend development time. Also we put into play which platform we are to use we see that development for both iOS and Android is greater than that of a single platform. Also we see that which UI/UX we use, backend we build, third party we integrate with and security we put in place all play a role in the bottom line.
Selecting the right on demand app development company also plays into your budget. While experienced teams may charge more, they in turn present you with scalable, secure, and well optimized solutions which you will see the value of in the long term.
Today we see that app development frameworks like React Native and Flutter which report to reduced costs in the world of app development. Instead of developing two independent native apps, businesses may instead put together a single code base which saves them time and resources. But at the same time that which framework to use should fit in with performance requirements, scalability issues, and long term maintenance plans.
Advanced functions which are a result of AI in app development like smart matching, predictive analytics, chatbots, or demand forecasting do add value but also bring in higher costs. These features require more development, data processing and testing which is why they are best left for later stage improvements rather than early MVPs.
Development times do vary around the world. In India you will find that hiring an app development company is a cost effective option which also includes very competitive prices and a large talent pool at your disposal which in no way hurts the quality. Also location plays a role in what the hourly rates will be, what the communication models will look like, and project timelines which is why it is very important to do what you can to still have great collaboration despite the cost savings.
Start with a solid MVP that includes core functions. For the first version do not add in advanced features. Use third party APIs when you can, plan for continuous maintenance, and put in a solid scaleable structure from the start. Also in the beginning stages of development include in depth docs and a regular testing regimen which in the long run will reduce expensive rework.
There is not a set price for which building an on demand app falls into. By looking at what the main cost factors are, making smart tech choices, and planning development in phases you are able to put out a successful on-demand app within your budget.