So, you have an idea for an app, but when you finally reach out to a developer, you're surprised to learn that "app" can mean many things: web apps, mobile apps, and even desktop apps.
What originally seemed like a pretty straight forward startup idea, now has you asking yourself: do I need to hire a web developer, a mobile developer, or both?
To answer that question we first need to understand the difference between a web app and a mobile app.
What's a Web App?
A web app is an application that runs on a web browser. This means you don't need to download it from an app store; you just need an internet connection and a browser (like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox) to use it. Web apps are more flexible in terms of accessibility because you can use them on any device that has a web browser - be it a computer, a phone, or a tablet.
What's a Mobile App?
A mobile app, on the other hand, is an application that is designed specifically for mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets. You typically download these apps from an app store like Apple's App Store for iOS devices or Google's Play Store for Android devices. Mobile apps can use the device's hardware (like cameras, GPS, etc.) more effectively and can offer a more customized experience for mobile users.
Why Start with a Web App for an MVP?
An MVP, or Minimum Viable Product, is a version of a product with just enough features to be usable by early customers who can then provide feedback for future product development. Starting with a web app for an MVP makes sense for several reasons:
1. Faster and Cheaper to Develop
Web apps generally take less time and money to develop compared to mobile apps. This is because you're essentially creating a single version that works across multiple platforms and devices, rather than creating separate versions for iOS, Android, etc.
2. Easier Updates and Maintenance
With a web app, you can make updates or fixes directly on the server, and the changes instantly apply to everyone using the app. For mobile apps, users need to download updates from the app store.
3. Validation of Idea
A web app allows you to quickly launch and validate the core idea of your product with real users. You can gather feedback, understand user behavior, and make necessary adjustments before investing more heavily into a more complex and expensive mobile app.
When does a web version not make sense for an MVP?
Building a web app seems like a more attractive option at this point for your MVP. It's cheaper, faster, and less of a headache to maintain.
But does that mean you should always build a startup MVP as a web app?
Not necessarily.
There are scenarios where launching directly with a mobile app just simply makes more sense.
Here's a couple of such scenarios:
1. High Dependence on Device Features
Apps that rely heavily on smartphone features like GPS, camera, accelerometer, or push notifications might be better suited as mobile apps from the start. For example:
- Navigation and Location-Based Services: Apps that offer navigation, local services, or location-based recommendations (e.g., ride-sharing or local discovery apps) need real-time GPS data, which is more seamlessly integrated into mobile apps.
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Photography Apps: These apps require direct access to the camera and advanced processing capabilities, making them inherently more functional and engaging as mobile apps.
2. User Expectation of Offline Access
If your target audience expects or requires access to the app's core functionalities without an internet connection, a mobile app can provide a better solution by storing data locally and syncing when online. This is particularly relevant for music streaming, e-reading, or productivity apps designed for use in areas with spotty internet coverage.
3. Market and User Behavior Trends
Certain markets and user demographics may show a strong preference for mobile app usage over web browsing on mobile devices. For instance:
- Dating Apps: User behavior in dating apps often involves frequent, spontaneous usage and notifications that are more naturally suited to a mobile environment. The convenience of accessing the app on the go aligns with the spontaneous nature of making connections.
- Food Delivery and E-commerce: The immediacy and convenience of ordering food or shopping on a mobile device, often accompanied by location tracking and notifications, make these services more user-friendly as mobile apps.
4. Gaming
Mobile games benefit from the hardware and software optimizations of smartphones and tablets, offering a more immersive and accessible gaming experience. The social and casual nature of many games fits well with mobile usage patterns.
Making the Decision
The choice between starting with a web app or going straight to a mobile app depends on the specific needs and behaviors of your target users, as well as the unique features of your app. While web apps can serve as a cost-effective testing ground for many ideas, certain types of applications will benefit from the immediacy, engagement, and functionality that mobile apps approach.
So before rushing into developing a mobile app or a web app, it isn't a bad idea to first research the market to better understand your target users and their needs.
Best of luck with your startup!