Developing an app? It's not that easy!
Again and again, I talk to people who want to build an app and start directly with a developer or an agency without asking the right questions beforehand. This often ends in frustration when development takes longer, costs more, or the result doesn't work and fails to attract users.
Here are 6 classic mistakes you should avoid in a software project, whether you're a founder, a company leader, or just have a good idea.
1. You don't validate your idea
Just because you think the idea is good doesn't mean it will work. Before you start the project, talk to the users. What are their pain points? Based on that, you can work on a value proposition. If the idea already exists on the market, then look at the competition. What do they do well? What do they not? How can you differentiate yourself?
Before you invest money in development, you should test the idea: With a clickable prototype, a landing page, or a simple survey, you can quickly find out if anyone is interested. My most important tip is: Don't build an app to find out if someone wants it. Find that out beforehand.
2. You prioritize tech over problem-solving
Many people start with the question: "Should I use React Native or Flutter?" or "Which is better: Firebase or Supabase?"
The mistake here is that technology doesn't solve your users' problems. Before you choose tools, you should answer these questions:
What is the main problem of my target audience?
Which features solve this problem most easily?
What does a meaningful MVP look like?
Technology always follows the solution.
3. You don't calculate costs realistically
What does an app actually cost? This is a common and non-trivial question because developing an app requires more than just a developer. The valuation of an app's value depends on many factors, and since it is an intangible asset, it's difficult to determine a price. Despite these uncertainties, we still have to act and calculate. It's important to estimate the costs realistically. To do this, you should define the following points: But what's often missing:
A clear budget limit
An understanding of ongoing costs (hosting, maintenance, updates)
A plan for further development (you'll never really be finished)
Many projects fail not because of money, but because of a lack of planning. If you have a budget, state it openly so that you can plan realistically.
4. You want everything at once
A common mistake that occurs in app development is bloating the MVP with different features that are not yet needed. Every function, every idea, every special case should be in version 1. This makes development times longer, increases complexity, and the app can no longer be clearly validated by users.
It's better to focus on a core function and do it really well. You can always expand later with real user feedback.
5. You build without a goal
Many people just start without knowing what they actually want to achieve. A clear business goal should be behind every development. Be it to achieve an increase in sales, improve internal processes, or increase user acceptance.
If you can't answer this question, you won't be able to measure success. Accordingly, further development will be for nothing. Apps are not an end in themselves. They must support a specific goal, otherwise, they become a gimmick.
6. You don't have a roadmap
There's nothing wrong with starting once without a plan and just developing. Often we get stuck in procrastination and don't move forward. But without a vision, it gets chaotic. A roadmap helps you stay focused after the first MVP and plan the next steps. The roadmap is not set in stone but is a living document that evolves with the project. Launch dates or features can also be postponed. It is advisable to divide the individual steps into small Product Backlog Items, as in Scrum. These can then be prioritized, and a rough schedule is automatically created that helps you keep track.
A roadmap gives you orientation, control, and the ability to iterate meaningfully.
Conclusion
App development is a business case, not a technology project.
When you develop an app, you're investing money and time. Therefore, you should treat it like a business model, with the necessary strategy, goals, and measurable benefits.
I help companies and founders with exactly that:
✅ Specifying the idea
✅ Defining the MVP
✅ Choosing the right tech
✅ Planning the roadmap & implementation
If you have an app idea but you're not sure how to start? Or you have problems with implementation or marketing. Then write to me. I'm happy to work with you on an equal footing and help you gain an overview and give you tips on how to iterate further. I offer a free orientation meeting where we can check together if and how your idea can be implemented.
Translated by AI