Debunking the Myths of App Development: A Guide for App Building Agencies

As an app building agency, you could have some misconceptions about app development that make you hesitant to take on new projects and expand your business.

Some of the most pervasive misconceptions or myths may include the belief that all app development is:

• expensive;
• time-consuming;
• dependant on technical expertise;
• a one-time process;
• impossible to customize when using an app builder tool.

However, these myths are no longer true with the introduction of app builder platforms like AppMachine. With the ongoing technological advancement, you can now build apps for mobile devices with no or limited technical know-how.

In this guide, we will explore these myths and debunk them. We will show you how to use AppMachine to build apps quickly, affordably, and without extensive technical expertise. And then continue to profit from customer relationships as you provide maintenance and support services.

By the end of this guide, you’ll clearly understand how AppMachine will help you build powerful customized apps that meet your client’s needs. And all this while staying within your budget and timeline.

All You Need to Know in 30 Seconds (TL;DR)#

In a hurry? Here are the essential takeaways.

• Opting for an app builder platform significantly reduces costs as you don’t need to employ an in-house or outsourced development team. 
• Using app development software cuts the time to build an app from months to a couple of weeks or even days.
• With AppMachine’s no-code app builder, no technical expertise is necessary.
• App building is not a once-off activity. Mobile apps need regular maintenance to keep up with technological and other changes.
• AppMachine allows for extensive customization; all the functions and features you need can be accommodated. 
• You can repurpose apps and build white-labelled apps for clients in the same industry.
• Android apps are not cheaper to build - the app type and features determine the cost.
• Mobile apps can be as expensive to build as websites, but the cost may be greatly reduced using an app building platform.
• Mobile apps work on tablets, smartwatches, consoles, smartTVs, and smartphones.
• Rather than overloading your app with features, selecting those that will bring the most significant benefits to end users in the shortest timeframe is best.
• Apps can earn money from several sources besides downloads. These include advertisements, in-app purchases, subscriptions, and sponsorships. 
• A great idea is not enough to start building an app. Extensive market research must be conducted beforehand.
• AppMachine is ready to provide guidance throughout the process, from idea refinement to launch.

Mobile App Development Myths#

Here are some of the biggest myths about mobile application development. You will see how these outdated ideas no longer apply and should not restrict your progress as an app development agency. 

You can now build a more comprehensive product range to reach a whole new audience. 

Myth #1: App Building is Expensive#

The myth that app building is expensive is a common misconception many app building agencies share.

Using traditional IT app development methods when developing a custom mobile app from scratch can be costly and time-consuming, especially if you don’t have the right tools, skills, and resources.

However, this myth is no longer true with the rise of app builder CMS platforms. Building an app has become much more affordable. 

The best app builder platforms provide a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface that allows you to create your app without any coding knowledge. You don’t need to hire an expensive team of developers to build an app from scratch. And you don’t need a project manager to liaise between developers and your client.

In addition, app builder platforms offer a variety of pre-built templates and modules that you can use to speed up the app development process and save costs.

By leveraging the benefits of app builder platforms, app building agencies are able to create professional-quality apps without breaking the bank.

The myth that app building is expensive is simply no longer valid. And AppMachine will assist agencies to offer affordable app development services to their clients. 

Myth #2: Building an App Takes Too Much Time#

Another common misconception about app development is that it takes too much time. App building agencies may believe that building an app is a long and arduous process that takes months, if not years, to complete.

This was certainly true in the past, but not anymore! With the right tools and techniques, app building can be streamlined and efficient.

AppMachine helps to simplify the app development process, allowing you to create high-quality apps in a fraction of the time. 

Using an app builder, you are able to take advantage of pre-built templates and user-friendly interfaces. This allows you to quickly create a functional and visually appealing app without starting from scratch. It will drastically reduce the time required for app development, allowing you to get your app to market faster. 

In addition, app builders provide a range of built-in features and integrations, such as push notifications, social media integration, and in-app analytics. These features will help you create a more engaging and practical app. And you won’t need to spend the time and resources building these features from scratch.

Using an app builder platform will streamline the mobile app development process and significantly reduce the time required to create a high-quality app.

Myth #3: It Takes Technical Expertise to Build an App#

Many people still believe that building an app requires a mobile app developer with high levels of technical expertise.

However, this is only partially true. While it is true that app development involves programming languages like Swift, Java, and Kotlin, which can be challenging to master. Tools are now available that make the process a whole lot easier.

AppMachine provides an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that allows users to build their own custom apps without the need for the advanced technical skills of mobile app developers. This platform offers many pre-built templates and blocks of code that can easily be customized to suit your specific needs.

AppMachine also offers documentation, tutorials, and extensive customer support to help guide users through the app development process. This means that even those with limited technical skills can still create high-quality, fully-functional apps.

And the best part is that you don’t need to worry about keeping up with evolving technologies, security, and the reliability of your apps - AppMachine takes care of all the technical complexities.

So, while technical expertise can be helpful, it’s not always necessary for building an app. With the right tools and resources, anyone can create an app that meets their customers’ needs and delivers a great user experience.

Myth #4: App Building is a One-Time Process  #

Another common myth about mobile app development is that it’s a one-time process. Many app building agencies believe that once an app is built, it’s finished, and no further work is required. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.  

In reality, mobile app development is an ongoing process that requires regular updates, bug fixes, and improvements. The mobile landscape is constantly changing. 

Changes may be needed due to the following:

• New devices
• Updated operating systems
• New device features introduced 
• Recent trends in mobile app design
• Changing niche requirements
• Changes in laws
• New features requested by customers 

As a result, mobile app developers need to keep up with these changes and update their apps frequently. If, for example, your app deals with drawing, you may want to integrate it with DALLE 2. DALLE 2 is a new AI system that turns natural language text into images. 

In addition, user feedback is critical in improving the user experience and addressing any issues. App building agencies should be prepared to collect and act on user feedback. That way, apps are kept up-to-date and relevant.

The app stores also have (has) specific guidelines and requirements for app updates. Failure to meet these requirements can result in removal from the store or a poor user experience. 

In summary, you should understand that app development is not a one-time process. You must prepare to provide ongoing support, updates, and improvements to keep your customers’ apps competitive and relevant in an ever-changing mobile environment. This can be a valuable source of regular revenue for agencies. Especialy when AppMachine takes care of the technical updates for you.

Myth #5: You Can’t Customize an App Built with an App Builder CMS#

Another common myth among app building agencies is that apps built with an app buider cannot be customized, limiting their functionality and unique features. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

An app builder CMS like AppMachine is designed to be customizable. It has a wide range of features and options that allow an app developer to create unique, custom apps tailored to the client’s needs. AppMachine offers a variety of customization options, including branding, design, content, and integration with web apps. 

Additionally, AppMachine provides the ability to add custom code, further expanding the range of customization options available. This means developers can create unique features and integrate with external APIs to provide new and exciting functionality for their clients’ apps.

As a mobile app development company you can still offer your clients customized, powerful apps even if you use an app builder. The key is to choose a company that provides the necessary customization features and options - like AppMachine. And then to have a mobile applications developer with the technical expertise to take advantage of them.    

Myth #6: Each App You Build Needs to be Developed From Scratch#

Agency owners and future mobile app developers may believe that each client’s app requires the same development effort.

But think about it for a moment; how different is a tennis club from golf or any other sports club? The same applies to medical clinics specializing in, say, dermatology, dentistry, etc. You could develop one app and then repurpose it for other customers within a similar business area.

And where you are targeting a specific niche you could even create a white-labeled app, customize it for each client, and then sell this app multiple times.

AppMachine specifically caters to creating white-labelled apps.     

Myth #7: Android Apps Cost Less to Build than iOS Apps#

It is a common belief that Android app development is simpler than iOS app development due to its open-source nature. However, this does not necessarily mean the process is easy, although even those with basic mobile app development knowledge can create an app for this operating system. 

While the open-source aspect of Android may make it more accessible for developers, the mobile app development process still requires effort and skill. This is especially true when using traditional software development methods.

As we are all aware, Android devices are the most widely used in the market, and ensuring consistent UI across all platforms requires ongoing effort and dedication. Developing an Android app can also be costly. New features and functionality are continuously added, contributing significantly to the overall development and maintenance cost.

But if you use a modern app building platform, these efforts and costs are significantly reduced as maintenance is included in the monthly fee structure. And the best part is that OS maintenance is taken care of behind the scenes, so you don’t need to worry about that aspect.

Myth #8: Apps Cost Less to Build than Websites#

Although mobile apps are designed to be used on small devices, their development is not necessarily cheaper than that of websites. App development companies charge based on the features and type of app rather than the device on which it will be used.

Mobile app development is a complex process, similar to creating software or a website. It could involve the employment of analysts, developers, testers, and designers to create a single app. Therefore, if you plan to launch an app, you should expect to invest a significant amount of money to create a powerful platform.

The good news is that an app development platform with plug-and-play components can reduce your spending significantly. AppMachine also offers templates you can use as is or as a starting point for your development.

Myth #9: Mobile Apps are Only for Smartphones#

Undeniably, most people use a mobile device. Nevertheless, it is important to note that smartphones are not the only mobile devices that can support apps.

Not all applications are designed solely for smartphones. Other devices, such as tablets, smartwatches, smartTVs, and consoles, can run these apps effectively. These platforms offer users alternative means of accessing and utilizing apps and represent an additional revenue stream for agencies.

Myth #10: Apps Need All the Features to be Successful#

Many people tend to include all of their ideas into a single app, believing that it will help them stand out in a competitive market and win over their audience. However, this approach is often misguided.

It is essential to remember that the features included in an app should align with the app's theme, which should, in turn, be in sync with your customer’s business strategy and goals. Companies sometimes become fixated on particular features while overlooking essential ones that could truly benefit their users. 

Before building an app, carefully evaluate the utility and functionality of each feature. And include only those features that are essential. In fact, it is a good idea to start with a minimum viable product (MVP) for your first launch. 

Myth #11: Apps Earn Money From Downloads#

Some people hold the misconception that simply uploading an app to the Play Store and achieving a high number of downloads will guarantee a significant revenue stream. 

However, several factors determine how much money an app can earn. Approaches to increase revenue include the following:

• Incorporating advertisements into the app
• Harnessing geo-location and personal interests for marketing purposes
• Incorporating in-app purchases
• Offering subscriptions
• Sponsorships

In-app purchases allow users to purchase additional features or content within the app. Subscriptions offer users access to premium content or services for a recurring fee. Sponsorships involve partnering with other companies to feature their products or services within the app. 

Ultimately, the most effective monetization method will depend on the app's specific purpose, target audience, and competitive landscape.

Myth #12: All that’s Needed is a Great Idea to Build an App#

Having a great idea is a crucial first step in developing a successful mobile app. However, it is important to recognize that having a good idea alone is not sufficient to reach your target audience and generate significant revenue. It is essential to ensure that your plan is both feasible and practical. Attempting to execute an unworkable plan will inevitably lead to failure.

Conducting a thorough market analysis is an integral part of determining the feasibility of an idea. This process involves assessing the competitive landscape, identifying the target audience and their needs, and analyzing the potential demand for your app. 

By gaining a deep understanding of the market, you can identify gaps or opportunities that will help differentiate your app from others and provide users a unique value proposition.

It is important to note that conducting a comprehensive market analysis is time-consuming. However, it is a critical step in ensuring the success of your app. This analysis will help you determine whether your idea is worth the effort and investment required to develop and launch the app. 

Ultimately, investing the time and resources required to conduct a thorough market analysis will increase your chances of developing a successful app that resonates with your target audience and generates significant revenue.

Myth #13: App Building Platforms don’t Provide Adequate Support #

Many clients believe that they will be left to sink or swim when choosing to use an app building platform. And that they won't be able to grasp the complicated business of building a mobile app on their own, let alone the navigate the complexities of publishing an app.

AppMachine provides guidance throughout the development process, from initial idea conception to final launch. The platform offers a range of tools and resources to help agencies create and customize their apps, as well as to test and optimize app performance. 

Additionally, AppMachine provides access to a community of developers and designers who can offer support and advice throughout the development process. By leveraging the resources available through AppMachine, agencies can ensure that their app is innovative, creative but also practical, functional, and successful.

App Development Myths: In Conclusion#

In conclusion, the myths surrounding app development can cause app building agencies to miss out on the benefits of using an app builder CMS like AppMachine.

App development is no longer expensive, time-consuming, or limited to technical experts. And it is not a one-time process.

App builders also offer the flexibility to customize apps to fit specific business needs. 

As an app building agency you should consider the advantages of using an app builder for mobile app development for your clients. 

⁠By debunking these myths, you can provide better solutions to your clients and enhance your service offerings. With the right app builder, you will create unique and cost-effective apps with minimal technical expertise in a shorter time frame.

It’s time to dispel the myths and embrace the new way of building mobile applications. With AppMachine, building and maintaining mobile apps can be a very profitable and rewarding business model.

There is no end to the types of apps that can be accommodated. You can do everything from private business portals to music event apps with AppMachine!