As smart devices become more advanced, the demand for app developer who can design, create, and maintain mobile applications continues to increase. They are essential to the project management or technical team and are responsible for meeting user needs.
With high earning potential, strong career prospects, and the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology, many app developers find their careers very rewarding. In this article, you will learn what an app developer does and how to become one.
What does an app developer do?
Application developers work on designing and implementing applications for mobile devices. This can include both utility apps and mobile gaming apps.
Although some developers work alone, many professional app development projects are completed by teams of developers and often involve working with additional departments such as writers, artists, and graphic designers.
How to become an app developer
There is no one way to become an app developer. However, there are steps you can take to ensure you are as qualified as possible. If you are interested in a career in app development, follow these steps.
- Decide how you want to grow.
- Think about your ideas.
- Consider profit options if you are looking for independent development.
- Look for certifications.
- Diversify your coding skills.
- Create your application developer resume.
1. Decide how you want to develop.
Before jumping into app development, you must determine how you want to approach your career. The traditional route to working in app development is to find a job at a development company. When you work for a company, you will have to work and prove yourself.
Then, you will likely be assigned specific elements of building the app to work on throughout the development process. As you progress on this career path, you may find more opportunities to take on more leadership roles.
2. Think about your ideas.
If you start developing your app, there are other considerations you need to consider. The first question to consider is what your application will be.
Whether you’re looking to create the next great game or have an idea of what you think will be a successful working app, you must have a solid idea that you can develop over time to become a full-fledged application.
The best way to create a product that others will want to use is to create an app that you want to use, so think about the types of games you like to play or the problems in your life that need better solutions.
Once you find the idea that has the most potential or interests you the most, it’s time to move forward with the development process.
3. Consider profit options if you are looking for independent development
The main disadvantage of freelance app development compared to working as an employee or contractor for a company is that you will have to provide the funds yourself.
There are many options for financing a development project, each with advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, to make the right choice, you must evaluate your current situation and find a solution that suits your needs. Potential methods to generate income with your project include:
- Develop your app for commercial sale once completed – If you create a successful app, this can be a very lucrative model, but it means you won’t be rewarded for your work until the project is complete.
- Crowdfunding Services – They can change the order of payment and delivery, and a successfully funded project results in an instant injection of money into your accounts. This takes some of the uncertainty out of independent development since you receive your money upfront at the end of your fundraising campaign.
- Funding options for patrons: These are similar to crowdfunding, but instead of an initial lump sum, your patrons commit to a fixed donation, either monthly or per update. This can be a great way to generate financial support for your project, especially if you’re comfortable sharing current versions with backers.
- Develop a free or freemium application: this can generate income without requiring any financial contribution from users. Modern app platforms make it easy to integrate ads, offering small amounts of money for each ad the user sees. While freemium games are free, they provide in-game benefits to players willing to pay for more—small transactions.
4. Diversify your coding skills.
There are many language options for learning to code. The best way to position yourself for success in programming is to be proficient in multiple languages, as this broadens your options when looking for work. The most popular coding languages for app development are:
- Java
- VS#
- Objective C
- C++
- Fast
- Kotlin
5. Create your application developer CV
Application development is a competitive field, so programmers looking for work in a development studio should do everything possible to stand out as an exceptional candidates.
An attractive CV is one of the best ways to make a good impression, as it is the first thing a potential employer will see about you. To get started, list your best coding skills, responsibilities, and tasks from previous jobs that might be helpful as a coder.
Skills Required to Become an App Developer
To succeed as an app developer, you will need to develop the following technical and soft skills.
· Hard Skills:
Knowledge of programming languages: Prepare to become an expert in languagessuch as HTML, JavaScript, and CSS.
Logical thinking: App developers often need to figure out how to make different features work across various devices and operating systems. If you enjoy solving problems, you will excel in this career.
Design knowledge: You will likely work with UX professionals to bring the vision to life. But it’s also a good idea to understand good design practices.
· Soft Skills:
Attention to detail: The slightest coding error could lead to a catastrophic user experience. You will need to perform quality testing on your work and your teammates.
Curiosity: Our mobile devices are constantly evolving, and applications must evolve. You must love learning and have a natural curiosity about coding.
Project Management: Expect tight deadlines and complex projects.
Five Tips for Becoming an App Developer
Do you feel motivated? In summary, here are our five most valuable tips to help you get your career off the ground.
- Start with free coding tutorials to find out if you enjoy the web development challenge.
- Keep up to date with industry blogs. You’ll stay informed about how other developers are honing their skills and solving tricky coding problems.
- Do your research. Learn how coders create solutions for different mobile devices and stay ahead of new software and operating systems.
- Try some of the most popular software engineering tools. Even if you’re not ready to commit to a full-time program, you can still gain valuable hands-on experience and get a taste of that satisfying feeling when you build something with your coding knowledge.
- If you’re motivated to get into the industry quickly and learn through hands-on projects, opt for a Software Engineering Bootcamp designed to get you hired quickly.
