You’re not going to like this. The answer is: it depends.
If you’re considering turning your idea into an app, understanding the development timeline is crucial. In fact, it’s one of the biggest questions startup owners have. So, let’s break it down together.
Complexity Drives the App Development Timeline
The app’s complexity is the biggest determining factor in how long the development will take. A simple app—one that doesn’t store user data, require backend integration, or involve advanced features—can take anywhere from 2-4 months to complete. This kind of app will have limited functionality and just a few screens.
However, as soon as you add features like user accounts, payment systems, or a basic backend, you’re extending the timeline to around 4-9 months. This is a typical scenario for an eCommerce app or a service-based app where users need to log in, store information, or make purchases.
For more complex apps—think of apps with AI integrations, real-time cloud syncing, or complex databases—the development timeline can easily stretch to over a year. This applies to apps with intricate functionality, advanced algorithms, or specialized performance requirements like fintech apps or sophisticated SaaS platforms.
So, when we say it depends – it truly does depend on exactly what you want to build.
Team Size Matters – But It’s Not Linear
Two heads are better than one. However, doubling your team doesn’t mean halving your development time. Software development works based on cycles of implementation, feedback and refinement, which can only be streamlined up to a point.
However, if you plan on an app that requires both frontend and backend development, you would ideally have dedicated team members on each side. Imagine having 10 features implemented on the backend and only one on the frontend. That’s not just a waste of time, but also a waste of resources.
At EmotionStudios, we’ve worked on both small projects with just one or two developers and larger projects with full teams of specialists. This experience helps us tailor the right team size to your specific app requirements, ensuring we maximize efficiency without overcomplicating the project.
Expect the Unexpected
Truth be told, in software development, a lot of things can go wrong – and they will. Even with the best developers, project managers and, ideas, issues are gonna come up all the time. Team members get sick, requirements change, and features get added.
When planning a timeline, take into account the unexpected and plan for 20% more time. You’ll either finish right on time, or faster – and there isn’t anything wrong with that.
Streamlining the App Development Process
While certain aspects of app development are out of your control, there are steps you can take to speed up the process without sacrificing quality
Build an MVP First
One of the best ways to reduce your timeline (and cost) is by starting with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). An MVP focuses on the core features of your app, allowing you to release a working version faster. You can collect user feedback while our team continues to develop the full version. This agile approach helps ensure you don’t sink all your time and budget into unnecessary features from the start.
Work With a Specialized Team
Working with an experienced team can prevent you from making time-wasting decisions. For example, you might think you need certain features, like user accounts or cloud integration, but a good team will help you decide what you truly need to launch and grow your app efficiently. A specialized team will also foresee challenges and offer solutions that fit your budget and timeline.
Choose the Right Framework
Should you develop for iOS, Android, or both? Do you need a native app or a cross-platform solution like React Native? Choosing the wrong framework can add months to your development process, but an experienced team will select the ideal technology stack based on your needs. At EmotionStudios, we know which platforms and programming languages can optimize your development process, whether you need a high-performance native app or a flexible cross-platform solution.
Make Your App a Reality
Now that you know what goes into the app development timeline, it’s time to think about where you want to be in the next 6 months. Will you be launching your new app and collecting feedback from users, or still stuck dreaming about it?
The best time to start was yesterday. And the second best time is right now.
