Mobile App Development

Have you decided to create your own mobile app? We're glad you're reading our “manual” of key insights about mobile software development. Along with endless features and possibilities, mobile apps also bring a number of specifics and questions that need to be answered before development begins. And the best part? Everything written below is based on real experience, not theory. In 2019, I decided to develop my own mobile app—and back then, I had no idea that just a few years later, I’d be leading the marketing of a major Czech provider of custom IT solutions and get to know the other side of the process as well.

The biggest special on the Czech Internet

What Will You Learn in This "MOBILE APPLICATIONS" Brochure?

INTRODUCTION

Who Is MEMOS and Why Did We Create This Guide?

We’re MEMOS Software – a team that’s been developing custom software and IoT solutions since 2003. We’ve completed over a thousand projects for clients across the globe. From ambitious startups aiming to “change the world” to large corporations and government institutions, we’ve worked with all kinds of organizations. Thanks to our high quality standards, we’ve achieved an impressive 98% client satisfaction rate.

Having developed many mobile apps, we’ve put together some tips, insights, and warnings—things everyone should read before diving into custom mobile app development. Why? Because we want to introduce you to the not-so-simple world of bespoke development. From time to time, we meet clients who simply aren’t prepared—whether in terms of their idea, budget, or approach.

Who Is This Guide For?

Company Managers and Executives

Modern Entrepreneurs and Freelancers

Assistants and Consultants

Students and Aspiring Developers

Visionaries and Changemakers (or anyone aiming to transform their industry)

Basically, anyone curious about how mobile app development works

How This Guide Will Help You

How This Guide Will Help You

Practical tips and insights from both client and developer perspectives
Real-world scenarios you need to be prepared for
A clear roadmap to creating a functional and reliable mobile app

What This “Cheat Sheet” Won’t Do:

Tell you the exact cost of your custom mobile app—pricing can’t be guessed just from “I want an app”
Identify market gaps or tell you what kind of app to build
Provide the technical know-how to develop the app yourself

What exactly is a mobile application?

Let’s first take a simple look at what a “mobile app” actually is. It’s a piece of software specifically developed for smartphones or tablets, offering users a wide range of functions and features. Some mobile apps entertain you, others educate or help optimize certain processes. Most apps for phones and tablets are built for either the iOS or Android operating systems. Mobile app development is a specialized discipline that requires close collaboration between the client and developer, combining analysis, coding, design, and marketing.

Apple devices have their own system – iOS – and apps for it can be downloaded from the App Store. Almost all other devices run on Android, where apps can be downloaded from various stores, the most well-known being Google Play.

Examples:

WhatsApp – originally a mobile-only app, it revolutionized direct messaging by offering a simple and free communication tool.

TikTok – some love it, others hate it, and governments debate whether it’s safe. Regardless, this mobile platform reshaped how younger generations are reached directly.

The last example might already be a bit “past its prime”, but its market entry caused a huge stir – we’re talking about Pokemon Go, a game based on virtually hunting Pokémon in the real world.

Why Should You Want Your Own Mobile App?

There are many reasons to develop a custom mobile application. Let’s take a look at the most common ones.

Modernization and Innovation of Your Business

Modern technologies drive progress and innovation in your industry. One example: a recent client of ours, a young author of three travel books with an e-shop, wanted to enhance the customer experience by leveraging mobile tech for travelers.

Boosting User Interaction and Loyalty

Engage your customers through an additional platform. Studies show that companies with their own mobile app build stronger relationships. As Forbes.com states: “How To Use A Mobile App To Improve Customer Loyalty.” (HERE) - “How To Use A Mobile App To Improve Customer Loyalty”

A Powerful Marketing Tool

Your own app can streamline purchasing, boost sales, and deliver exclusive deals or loyalty programs. As highlighted in an iDNES.cz (HERE) article titled “Supermarkets discriminate – seniors complain about app-only discounts.”

And More…

Apps can improve shopping experience, optimize production, entertain users, or even become a direct revenue stream.

INTERESTINGNESS

Users spend up to 4 hours and 13 minutes daily on their phones.

The average Czech has 40–60 apps installed.

We check our phones 78 times a day on average.

From Idea to Launch

Every project is unique, and its development process is always a bit original. In general, however, mobile app development can be divided into these stages: idea, planning, analysis, design, prototyping, development, testing, deployment, and publishing. In agile development, these phases often overlap, allowing the team greater flexibility and the client an easy way to make changes during development.

iOS or Android? Develop Hybrid for Both Platforms

In the past, each operating system required its own technology and coding language Swift for iOS and Java for Android. This is known as native development, and many developers (and clients) are now moving away from it. Running your app on both iOS and Android meant developing two separate versions. While this approach has advantages, it nearly doubles development time and cost.

A more modern, cost-effective solution is hybrid development, which allows you to write one codebase for both platforms.

Interesting links:

One Codebase for iOS and Android? Discover Hybrid Development (read more)
Apps for Android and iOS? Native Development Is the Real Deal! (read more)

Native Mobile App Development
Advantages	Disadvantages
Maximum performance, lower memory and battery usage.	Higher development cost—almost double if both iOS and Android versions are needed.
Less dependency on external frameworks and components.	Longer development time and need for proper coordination of two separate development teams
Greater options for graphical optimization—hybrid apps may not reflect OS updates equally well	Dual testing required for each platform.
Full access to device hardware—e.g. direct control over physical buttons.

Conclusion: You should opt for native app development if you require flawless, 100% reliable performance across all devices, or if the app’s functions are highly demanding in terms of performance, or your requirements involve direct use of all mobile device components.

Hybrid Mobile App Development
Advantages	Disadvantages
Single codebase for both operating systems = time and cost savings.	More complex coordination during development and dependency on third-party frameworks.
Easier testing and ongoing maintenance	Higher resource consumption on the device; hybrid apps cannot be fully optimized for all devices.

Conclusion: In recent years, most of our clients have opted for hybrid app development. Examples include the mobile apps Zažijkraj.cz and Mojesrdce.cz. The most commonly used technology in this coding approach is MAUI.

MAUI Technology

MAUI allows developers to create Android and iOS apps using a single C# codebase, significantly simplifying and speeding up the development process. One of its main advantages is the ability to build truly native apps. Even though the application is written in C#, it provides access to the native APIs of each platform. This means the apps can look and behave just like those written in native languages such as Swift (for iOS) or Java/Kotlin (for Android).

Chapter One

"I Want a Custom Mobile App"

This is the stage where you have the idea, the enthusiasm, and the drive to create your own mobile app. Most often, you go through this phase in a small team, trying to build the determination to move forward. The Czech saying "He who is prepared is not surprised" applies perfectly to software as well. Preparation and organizing your thoughts is the absolute foundation before starting the development process.

Try Answering This

Do You Know the Answers to All These Questions?

We've compiled a list of questions every prospective client interested in custom software should be able to answer. They could save you a significant amount of money...

Do I Know What a Mobile App Is and What Its Development Entails?

A custom mobile app is a software solution designed specifically for mobile devices—most often for iOS and Android. Development starts with a defined problem or idea, which is solved, simplified, or innovated through tailored software. It includes graphic design, analysis, coding, and testing.

We have covered this in more detail here

Should We Go Custom or Use an Off-the-Shelf Solution?

Evaluate whether you truly need a custom-built app or if an existing service could meet your goals. The main benefit of a custom solution is full flexibility over its functions and features.

The basic comparison can be found here.

Do We Know Our Target Audience?

Design the app with your audience in mind—they’ll be the ones using it. Gather feedback from outside your internal bubble to get fresh, unbiased insights. Think outside the box.

What’s the Purpose of the App—Profit or Optimization?

If your goal is monetization, prepare a detailed business plan early. Define all necessary features and core components from the start.

Do We Have an Internal Team or Will We Need an External Partner?

In most cases, custom app development is outsourced. That’s because it requires highly specialized skills that in-house IT staff often don’t possess or use.

Chapter Two

“Let’s Do This”

This phase begins when you’ve made the decision—you’ve got the drive and now you’re looking for the right “partners.” Those who will build it, and those who will fund it. This is typically the time for market research and selecting a development partner. A better word than “supplier” might be “partner,” since you’ll likely be working closely with this company for months—or even years—to come.

TIP

5 Things to Look for in a Reliable Custom Software Development Partner

When searching for a dependable partner to develop custom software, focus on several key aspects. These indicators will give you a strong sense of confidence that your project will be delivered efficiently, on time, and exactly as envisioned. Here are the five most important things to look for when choosing your provider:

You Always Know What You're Paying For

Any transparent company should be able to give you a price estimate based on an initial analysis (we offer this for free, but others may charge tens of thousands of CZK). Of course, the price for custom development may change over time, but only after mutual agreement between both parties.

Thorough Preparation and Analysis

Custom software development isn’t magic or guesswork. It requires a solid foundation set in the analysis phase. A proper analysis reveals key aspects of the project—from potential risks to opportunities for improving features or technologies.

Prototyping

Before any coding begins, a prototype should be created to visualize the basic structure and functionality of the app. This step is often skipped—but it shouldn't be. Why? Because changes at this stage are significantly cheaper than later in the development process.

A Czech Company with Czech Developers

If a provider seems too affordable, be cautious—it may be a middleman outsourcing development to third-party countries. We’ve had clients come to us after being burned by such setups—delays, poor communication, and unusable code that had to be scrapped and rebuilt from scratch due to non-standard structure.

Willingness, Transparency, Experience, and References

Finally—trust your instincts. If your early meetings leave you unconvinced or uneasy, take it seriously. You're about to enter a months-long collaboration. Confidence and mutual understanding are essential.

FAQ

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How much does mobile app development cost?
What are the expenses of a mobile app?
What’s the price tag of a custom application?

Setting a price without knowing the details of your project is like fortune-telling. Imagine calling a carpenter and saying, “I want a nice kitchen”—you’d immediately face a barrage of questions. The same applies to app development. You might spend CZK 300,000, or just as easily CZK 5 million, depending on your requirements' complexity and scope. We understand cost matters, which is why we offer a free initial analysis worth CZK 10,000 to all new clients. Want a clear estimate of your app's time and budget? Contact our Sales Director Tadeáš for a no-obligation consultation.

How to choose a custom mobile app developer?
How to find a reliable software partner?

You’ve already taken the first step – you’ve found this guide. Keep reading and you’ll get the answers you need. But to put it simply: what matters most is reliability, fairness, and quality. Always check their references and case studies.

What determines the cost of app development?

Let’s break it down. First, a good project manager will ask on which platform you want to run the app – iOS, Android, or both – and from which OS version it should be available. This depends on your users’ behavior. For internal tools, for example, if your devices run only Android, it makes sense to prioritize Android. This decision affects whether the app is built natively or hybridly. Next, your provider will ask about features – AI integration, offline mode, push notifications, payment gateway, etc. Every feature affects cost and complexity. Finally, decide how you want to manage content. Most projects benefit from pairing the mobile app with a web-based admin interface.

3 RED FLAGS – Don’t Burn Yourself at the Start

In this chapter, we’ll share three “red flags” based on our experience – warning signs you should watch out for to avoid unwanted issues right from the beginning of your collaboration.

Final price isn’t everything
Of course, we’re not saying the cheaper option is always bad. But cost alone shouldn’t be your only metric. At the same time, you should have a realistic budget in mind. Remember – the work doesn’t end when the app is launched. You’ll need maintenance, server infrastructure, storage, and often pay for third-party tools and integrations.

Beware of working with solo freelancers
This applies especially to larger and more complex projects. A simple website can be built by a student – but a feature-rich app should ideally be built by a team. Each developer usually has a focus – e.g., frontend vs. backend. You wouldn’t ask a sommelier to make you perfect coffee, right?

Don’t let excitement cloud your judgment
We understand that your enthusiasm might drown out early warning signs. Try to take a step back and get outside opinions. Make sure your idea is original or valuable enough, that it’s not crushed by competition, and most importantly – that it will actually be used. We love happy endings with satisfied clients, and we don’t want to develop software just for the sake of it.

Appropriate questions

Make Sure You’ve Answered These Questions!

Do I fully understand all the key aspects and implications of developing a custom mobile app?
Am I confident I’ve chosen the right development partner?
Do I know I can afford the development and have calculated the expected return on investment?
Have I clearly communicated all required features and expected outcomes to the developer?

Could It Be Done a Bit Cheaper...?

In IT, quality comes at a price — and in app development, this is especially true. Sure, you can build something quickly and cheaply, but in today’s competitive market, only the best apps get used. If budget is your primary concern, consider whether a custom mobile app is really the right choice — or if a ready-made solution might serve your needs better.

Consider MVP

A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is a smart cost-saving strategy. It means building a stripped-down version of your app with only the core features needed to deliver its main purpose. An MVP lets you get to market faster, collect feedback from real users, attract early investors, or even start generating revenue. Based on that feedback, you can gradually refine and expand your product. MVP helps you control costs without compromising on user value — a strategic mix of lean development and meaningful impact.

Information

Development Can Follow Several Modes

There are multiple approaches to software development, each tailored to different needs, budgets, timelines, and technical demands. In this chapter, we break down the three main modes of application development: no-code/low-code platforms, off-the-shelf solutions, and custom development.

Low-Code Development

This approach enables app creation without the need for any programming, ideal for users with no technical skills. It typically uses intuitive drag-and-drop tools and prebuilt templates. However, complexity, security, and feature flexibility are often limited. Best suited for small-scale projects.

Off-the-Shelf Solutions

These offer limited customization and generally address common business problems. Suitable when your goals align with pre-coded platforms. Ironically, they can become costly over time—often approaching the expense of custom development in the long run.

Custom Development

This tailored approach builds software specifically around the client’s needs. It’s widely considered the most effective method, as it ensures the solution is fully aligned with your business objectives and challenges.

Chapter Three

Ready, Steady, GO!

At this aptly named stage, you’ve already chosen your development partner (an IT company). The show is about to begin... almost. By now, you should have completed a basic analysis, have a rough budget, and clearly understand the collaboration terms. If everything was done diligently, you’ll likely enjoy the development process—your vision (and for many startup founders, their "baby") will start taking shape. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before coding begins, a detailed analysis must be completed. Typically, the handover from your sales rep goes to a project manager, who assigns a suitable analyst. The outcome of this analysis should be a comprehensive manual spanning several dozen pages. This document defines your requirements, outlines the solution, and provides materials for both designers and developers.

Roles within a Software Company

Who might you encounter when developing a mobile application with MEMOS?

Sales Representative

Your first contact with MEMOS Software will most likely be through our sales team, led by experienced sales director Tadeáš Matoušek. He emphasizes close collaboration with clients and strict adherence to agreed deadlines. Our salespeople are in close contact with developers (they literally sit in the next office), so they’re always up to date with the latest tech news and can recommend the most modern development methods.

Project Manager

The PM is a crucial part of the development process. They make sure everything runs smoothly, that there’s enough capacity, and that deadlines are met. They are also your main contact throughout the development of your mobile application. You can discuss your wishes, complaints, or praise with them—they're happy to grab a coffee or lunch and go over anything important.

Analyst

Our analysts look at development from a slightly different angle. Their job is to deeply understand your needs and situation, and based on that, propose the ideal solution. They prepare lists of features and requirements based on client discussions and link and pre-structure them for the developers.

Designer / UX Specialist

Content is key... but without a clean and user-friendly design, no one will use it. That’s why we have skilled designers and UX specialists on our team who can create an ideal solution tailored to your users’ needs and usage patterns.

Developer / Coder

Think all developers are “nerds” who avoid people and spend their free time gaming? Maybe we’re an exception, but most of our team are communicative and passionate experts. You’ll meet them in meetings. For each project, we build a specialized team tailored to the current needs, so your app will be coded by true experts in the field.

5 Recommendations from Sales Director Tadeáš Matoušek

1) Have a solid business plan — at MEMOS, we’ll take care of development, but the business side is your responsibility. We’re happy to consult and support you, but the final decisions and accountability are yours. Review key questions and goals with your team before development begins.

2) Communicate regularly with the developers (IT agency) and ask for progress updates. Ideally, have a written process and defined development milestones. Most IT projects today follow modern agile methodologies, which allow quick reactions to changes, better planning, and reduced pressure on you as the client.

3) Keep your expectations realistic. Rome wasn’t built in a day — everything takes time and can’t be rushed. Take your time when reviewing prototypes or approving designs.

4) Set up clear security processes when working with developers. If your software integrates into an internal network, there’s a risk of data misuse in the wrong hands.

5) Don’t try to have everything all at once. If you have the budget, great — but often, budgets are limited, so spending must be strategic. Consider whether all features are needed in the first phase or if it’s better to add them gradually.

Will your app need third-party tools and features?
Choose the right ones.

Integrating third-party services into mobile apps is a common practice, as it allows developers to use existing features and tools without building everything from scratch. Communication is handled via so-called APIs.

Payment gateway

Many of our clients request integration of a payment gateway. It can be used for e-commerce transactions, subscription payments, or in-app purchases. Based on our experience, we recommend Stripe — low fees, a high level of customization, and easy integration are key benefits you’ll appreciate in the long run. Other options include ComGate, GoPay, or native payment gateways.
Full comparison of payment gateways

Map services

Planning to use maps in your mobile app? Be mindful when choosing a provider — each offers different pricing and integration conditions. In our projects, we most often use Mapbox, Seznam Maps, or Google Maps.

Mailing

Running your own mail server to send predefined messages from the app can be unnecessarily demanding. Whether it's a welcome email, account update alert, or regular newsletter — all of it should be highly personalized. Our top pick is Sendgrid: simple, fast, and cost-effective.

What is an API?

An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a crucial element when integrating third-party services into mobile applications. It defines the rules and protocols for communication between different software components. For example, when integrating a payment gateway or map service into your app, the API provides a set of rules and functions that allow you to use those services. APIs enable you to leverage complex functionalities without needing a deep understanding of their internal workings.

Programmer–English Glossary

Frontend is the part of web development focused on creating the user interface and interactions that users see and engage with in a web browser or on a mobile device.

Backend is the part of web development responsible for data processing, logic, and database communication. This part is usually hidden from users and handles all the computations and data manipulation in the background of a web application.

Release is the process by which software or a new version of it is made available to the public and distributed to users.

Prototype is a simplified version of a product or software used for testing and validating a concept, functionality, or design.

Production version is the final, fully functional version of the software intended for regular use by end users. This version should be stable, validated, and ready for deployment in a real-world environment.

Testing version is a version of the software or product created specifically for testing and verifying features, performance, and quality. It is used to identify and fix bugs, optimize performance, and ensure proper functionality before the product is released into production.

You can translate more technical terms using our online Programmer–English Dictionary.

Chapter Four

“It’s almost here…”

That could be the name of the penultimate phase of your mobile app development. At this stage, you’ll often encounter the first versions of the app undergoing intensive testing, gradual improvements, and the addition of missing features. By now, you should have decided whether you’ll be hosting the app on your own server or using the cloud. For you, this means it’s the perfect time to prepare your company (or customers) for the arrival of the new technology.

Referral

Why does Tadeáš Matoušek recommend choosing the cloud?

“The main advantage is flexibility. Cloud services are designed to adapt precisely to your current needs—whether it’s an increase or decrease in computing power or storage. This means that if your business grows, you can quickly and easily add resources. Conversely, if you need to scale down, you can reduce your usage without having to sell or dispose of expensive hardware. The second major advantage is lower upfront investment. With cloud hosting, you don’t need to invest in purchasing and maintaining your own server hardware. Instead, you pay only for what you actually use. Most of our clients use Microsoft Azure cloud for hosting web applications and APIs.”

Tadeáš Matoušek, Head of Sales

Integrating Software into Your Company? Don’t Forget Change Management!

Consider the impact of the new software on your employees. If you expect the application to significantly change workflows, it’s essential to manage this transformation properly. Any major change—especially one affecting daily operations—requires a carefully planned and strategically managed approach. In this context, established change management models like Lewin’s Change Model can be a valuable source of inspiration.

What to watch out for:

Are your employees properly trained?
Do they trust the system, or are they consciously or unconsciously trying to bypass it?
Is the change communicated clearly and effectively?

Especially when implementing higher-level innovations, such as artificial intelligence, expect concerns among your staff. People naturally fear the unknown—and potential replacement. Clear and honest communication is absolutely essential.

Taking Your App to Market? Don’t Forget Marketing Support.

Even the best app is useless if nobody knows about it or uses it. As mentioned earlier, I’ve personally gained extensive marketing experience in launching apps. Here are 5 essential points to keep in mind:

1) Presentation matters! App stores are your shop window. Want downloads or sales? You have to capture attention—whether your app aims to change the world or simply educate and motivate. Have your designers create compelling preview images that clearly express your app’s value. Graphics are the first thing users notice; only then will they read the description. And don’t underestimate that first paragraph—focus on your app’s key benefits for the target user. (Include links to App Store/Google Play guidelines)

2) Money first.. Take the time to define your pricing strategy. Apps can be monetized in multiple ways, each with its pros and cons—choose wisely based on your goals and audience.

3) Reach your target audience. Tailor your communication to your users. Social media is the obvious channel, but don’t neglect other tools in the communication mix. Attend trade fairs and events to meet your audience in person, if possible.

4) Build and activate a community.There’s strength in numbers. A strong community around your app is often key to success. Know your audience, create a space that serves their needs, keep in touch, welcome criticism, and use feedback to improve. Building a community takes effort, but the reward is a base of loyal, engaged users.

5) Keep evolving—don’t rest on your laurels. Today’s hit can be obsolete tomorrow. A great product isn’t enough; stay competitive by continuously testing, developing, and improving. Follow industry trends, listen to feedback, and allocate budget for ongoing updates and innovation.

Here are six of the most common monetization models

If your app is meant to serve as a primary source of revenue—i.e. it's a product or service in itself—choosing the right monetization model is crucial.

Freemium

In this model, the app is free to download, but some features or services are only available to users who purchase a premium version. It's a popular model for apps aiming to attract a large user base and then convert a portion into paying users.

Example: Spotify offers a free version with limited features and ads. Users can upgrade to a premium version for ad-free listening and offline access.

Biggest advantage:rapid user acquisition and increased brand awareness

Biggest disadvantage: balancing free vs. paid content can be challenging

Subscription

Users pay a recurring fee (monthly or annually) for access to the app or certain features. Common for apps offering regular content or services.

Example: Netflix requires a monthly subscription for access to its streaming library.

Biggest advantage: predictable, recurring revenue

Biggest disadvantage: requires a steady stream of new content

One-time Purchase

Users buy the app once for a fixed price. Previously common—think of buying mobile games via SMS. Today, it's less viable due to market saturation.

Example: Minecraft for iOS must be purchased for CZK 199 before download.

Biggest advantage: upfront revenue per download

Biggest disadvantage:limits long-term monetization

In-App Purchases

Similar to freemium, but users buy specific features, content, or virtual goods within the app.

Example: Tinder is free to use, but certain premium options can be purchased separately.

Biggest advantage:high potential revenue from appealing add-ons

Biggest disadvantage: risk of imbalance; avoid a "pay-to-win" experience

In-App Advertising

Users see ads, and developers earn based on impressions or clicks. Works well with large user bases.

Example: IDOS, most mobile games; often ads can be disabled with a premium upgrade.

Biggest advantage:effective for high-traffic apps

Biggest disadvantage: needs careful ad placement to avoid harming UX

“It’s here”

The long-awaited moment has arrived – your app is finally in production and ready for full-scale use. That’s certainly cause for celebration, but it's equally important to realize that the development process doesn’t end here. On the contrary, you're now entering a crucial new phase: maintenance and improvement. Just like any other software, mobile apps require regular updates. These can be necessary for many reasons – ensuring compatibility with new versions of operating systems, fixing bugs, improving performance, or adding new features. Another key aspect of app maintenance is monitoring server performance and load. It's not enough for your app to function correctly – it must also run efficiently and quickly. Server overloads can lead to slowdowns or even service outages, which could cause serious issues. Regular performance tracking and resource optimization are essential to prevent this.

Development isn’t the end…

Once the initial development is completed, it’s wise to consider who will take care of the app, monitor its availability, and respond quickly if any issues arise. These services are called support and monitoring.

With support, the client can contact us at any time, and we can respond promptly within the agreed SLA (Service Level Agreement). Just imagine – your app is running successfully and suddenly stops working. Finding a suitable developer to fix it without breaking your budget might take days, even weeks. But if you have support in place with your custom software provider, these worries disappear. Predefined hours can also be used to gradually expand your app’s features.

Monitoring, on the other hand, works by actively tracking and evaluating your software, servers, etc. Our team continuously monitors CPU usage, disk activity, RAM, and more – and in case of anomalies, they can intervene immediately.

Referral

5 rules to follow after development ends

Prioritize data protection and security at all time
Regularly monitor and optimize performance
Actively observe market trends and customer behavior shifts
Be open to constructive feedback and criticism of your app
Ensure consistent updates and maintenance

FAQ

What do people often ask us about custom software development?

How long does it take to develop a mobile application?

The development time of a mobile app can vary significantly and depends on several factors. These include the complexity of the app, target platforms, the experience of the development team, and integration and testing requirements. A basic app with limited functionality can be developed in a few weeks, while more sophisticated apps may require months or even years of work. Therefore, it is not possible to determine an exact development time without detailed information about the specific application.

Is it a good idea to involve our users and community in testing the app?

Absolutely. Involving users and the community in beta testing can bring many benefits. This process gives you a realistic view of the app as a whole. You and the development company are often too close to the project to objectively assess how the app functions in the real world – how well it truly solves users' problems and needs. User testing can also reveal performance issues or bugs that developers might overlook, especially when users test the app on various devices and under different conditions. Additionally, users can contribute new ideas for features or improvements, which can be key for future development. Testing with a larger user base can also help identify performance issues that may arise when more people start using the app. Moreover, when users are involved in testing, they feel more engaged, which can lead to higher user loyalty. However, it's important to remember that although user testing is valuable, it should be complemented by professional software testing to uncover technical problems that regular users may not identify or describe adequately. During this testing, make sure to set up a proper feedback collection process so that all insights and ideas are not lost.

What is UX/UI in mobile apps?

UX/UI stands for User Experience and User Interface, two key aspects of mobile app development. User Experience (UX) refers to the overall impression a user gets while using the app. It includes how intuitive the app is, how easy it is to use, how quickly it responds to user interaction, and how well it meets expectations. In contrast, User Interface (UI) refers to the visual elements of the app – everything the user sees and interacts with, such as buttons, icons, texts, as well as colors, layout, and fonts. When designing UX/UI, it's important to consider user goals and needs, so the app not only looks good but is also functional and user-friendly. Quality UX/UI design can greatly contribute to the success of a mobile app by improving user satisfaction, increasing retention, and supporting better conversion for commercial apps.

What is a roadmap in application development?

A roadmap is part of strategic planning. It is an output that outlines the goals or expected outcomes of development and the main steps or milestones needed to achieve these goals. This document, often presented as a timeline, provides both developers and stakeholders with a clear understanding of the project’s direction, which features are planned for future releases, and what the priority tasks are. In agile development, regular updates are key to adapting to changing market or client needs. This planning occurs at regular intervals during so-called Sprints. A Sprint is a short, time-limited period (often 1–2 weeks) in which the team works on specific tasks or goals. At MEMOS, we use Microsoft DevOps for this planning. We’ve covered this topic more thoroughly here.

What are the most common mistakes people make when they want their own mobile app?

The most common mistakes include general unpreparedness, lack of knowledge, and having no clear plan. While you as the client aren't expected to define all technical aspects of development, you should at least know your budget, whether your idea is sustainable, and if there is actual market demand for it.

Is it possible to include artificial intelligence in a custom mobile app?

Yes, it is certainly possible to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into your mobile app. This brings additional possibilities and features you can offer your users. AI can improve personalization by analyzing user behavior and adapting content or app features to their needs and preferences. It can also increase the app’s efficiency and usefulness by automating tasks such as answering customer queries via chatbots or helping users find information more quickly through smart search. We discuss AI integration into internal systems in more detail here.

What are push notifications and how to use them effectively?

Push notifications are messages that apps can send to users’ mobile devices. They can alert users to new content, inform them about received messages, remind them of events, or notify them about order updates. Proper use of push notifications can boost user engagement and improve your app’s performance. However, keep in mind that overusing them or sending irrelevant messages may lead users to disable notifications or uninstall the app entirely.

What is a “bug”?

In IT, a “bug” refers to an error in the software code. It’s important to conduct internal testing during development to minimize these issues. However, bugs are a normal part of development. The key is thorough testing and fixing. Minor bugs may include incorrectly rendered text or shapes; major bugs can cause overall instability or even make the app unavailable.

How is an app published on Google Play or the App Store?

Publishing an app on Google Play or the App Store requires specific expertise. For both platforms, developers must first prepare the app, create a developer account, and pay the required fees. As of August 1, 2023, Google charges a one-time fee of $25, while Apple charges $99 per year. Then you create an app listing in Google Play Console or App Store Connect, provide app details, upload files, and set pricing and availability. Finally, you submit the app for review, which may take several days to weeks depending on the platform and app complexity. Apple, for instance, manually reviews every app, which makes the App Store significantly safer. Once approved, your app is ready to be published and welcome its first users.

What is outsourcing in mobile app development?

Outsourcing refers to delegating parts or all of the mobile app development to another (specialized) company. Instead of designing, coding, testing, and maintaining the app internally, a company hires an external provider. Outsourcing is increasingly used for complex IT projects. A clear advantage is cost-efficiency—there’s no need to hire, train, and maintain an in-house development team. External teams also tend to have broader expertise and experience, which is critical for successful development. Additionally, outsourcing allows companies to react faster and more efficiently to changing market conditions. However, it also carries risks such as communication issues, quality concerns, data security, and missed deadlines. That’s why selecting a reliable partner is crucial.

Can you take over an ongoing development project from another vendor if we're dissatisfied?

Yes, we can. Our experienced developers are capable of taking over ongoing projects from other companies and bringing them to a successful completion. We go into more detail on this topic here.

Can mobile apps work with Bluetooth, AirDrop, or NFC?

Yes, mobile apps often utilize device features. Bluetooth is a standard for short-range wireless communication. Apps can use Bluetooth for file sharing, audio streaming, or connecting to external devices such as headphones, smartwatches, or fitness trackers. AirDrop is an Apple technology that enables fast and easy file sharing between Apple devices via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Apps can use this for sharing content among users. NFC (Near Field Communication) allows communication between devices at very short range (usually a few centimeters). Apps can use NFC for mobile payments, data transfer between devices, or interacting with NFC tags.

Can mobile apps use GPS?

Yes, mobile apps can access location data via GPS. This feature is widely used in various apps. You’ll see it in navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze, which use GPS to provide route guidance. It’s also common in fitness apps to track your route during runs or bike rides and measure distance and speed. Social apps may use location to display personalized content or target ads. However, many users are concerned about potential misuse of location tracking and therefore share this data only sparingly.

How can you save money on mobile app development?

Mobile app development can be costly, but there are ways to optimize the process and reduce expenses without compromising quality. Before starting development, clearly define your requirements (or at least goals) to avoid costly changes later. Focus on building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)—a basic version of the app that lets you enter the market faster and gather valuable feedback for further development. Consider using cross-platform tools like React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin / MAUI, which allow you to write code once and deploy it on both iOS and Android.

Do you develop mobile apps in Prague, Brno, and Hradec Králové?

The answer depends on your specific needs and goals. However, we believe that a custom mobile app can bring many benefits—it can improve and optimize internal business processes, enable more effective communication with employees and customers, and enhance overall customer experience. It can also serve as a powerful marketing tool to increase brand visibility and boost your competitiveness

Can you handle large and complex development projects?

Yes, at MEMOS Software we have extensive experience with large and complex projects. Over our 20+ year history, we’ve developed a wide range of custom software solutions for clients—from small businesses and startups to large corporations. Our team of skilled developers, analysts, and project managers is capable of handling any challenge. We work closely with clients to fully understand their business and specific needs to deliver the best possible solutions.

What technologies can you use in development?

We cover the technologies we use in detail here.

Do you develop applications in .NET and C#?

Yes, our developers actively use C# and .NET technologies in various projects. If you’re considering these programming languages, feel free to contact us.

Do you use Xamarin / MAUI for custom app development?

Yes, at MEMOS Software we use Xamarin and its successor, .NET MAUI (Multi-platform App UI), for custom app development. These tools allow us to build high-quality, reliable hybrid apps for both Android and iOS using a single C# codebase.

Can you send us a proposal for mobile app development for a tender?

Of course. At MEMOS Software, we’re ready to provide you with an official proposal tailored to your tender requirements. We’ll be happy to learn about your project goals so we can prepare an offer that best matches your needs. Please contact us via our website form or call us directly.

What does mobile app development involve?

Mobile app development is a complex process that begins with analysis and planning—setting goals and defining app features in line with the client's requirements. This is followed by detailed analysis and design preparation to create a user-friendly interface. Then comes the development phase, where developers build the app using various programming languages and tools. Before release, the app must be thoroughly tested on multiple devices and platforms to detect and fix any issues. Once approved, the app is published on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. After launch, it’s important to update and improve the app regularly to meet evolving user and market needs.

Do you build mobile apps for startups?

Yes, we enjoy supporting startups on their path to success by creating high-quality and innovative mobile and web apps. We understand the challenges they face in today’s fast-paced world, and our extensive experience can help them overcome these hurdles. Working with startups inspires us, and we look forward to being part of their growth and success.

Do you create mobile apps for free?

Mobile app development is a time-consuming and complex process requiring a wide range of expertise and experience. While we understand that some entrepreneurs might wish for free development, this is neither financially nor logistically feasible. However, we’re happy to prepare a cost estimate tailored to your budget.

Do you have a mobile app cost calculator?

No, we don’t have an online calculator for estimating app development costs. The reason is simple: the cost varies greatly depending on many factors, and it requires a detailed understanding of the project. Key factors include app complexity, feature count and difficulty, and chosen technologies. Every project is unique, so we need to conduct a thorough analysis of your requirements and needs

Is it worth developing a custom mobile app?

Yes and no—it depends entirely on your specific situation and requirements. Unlike “off-the-shelf” solutions designed to serve a broad user base, custom apps are built specifically for your business and its needs. These apps can help streamline operations, boost productivity, improve customer experience, and even unlock new growth opportunities. Custom apps also provide better security, as you can control how data is stored and processed. Moreover, as your business grows and changes, a custom app can be adapted accordingly. However, custom development usually requires a higher upfront investment than ready-made solutions. But in the long run, this often pays off through greater efficiency and competitive advantages.

Is a web app or a mobile app better?

Whether a web or mobile app is better depends on your business goals and needs. Web apps run in browsers and are accessible from any device with internet access. They’re generally less expensive to develop and maintain since they don’t require separate versions for different operating systems. Mobile apps, on the other hand, offer deeper and richer user interactions. They can access native device features like GPS, camera, push notifications, and more. They also often work offline, which is useful in areas with limited internet. However, they are usually more expensive and complex to build, since they require separate versions and updates. If you’re unsure, contact us—we’ll be happy to help you decide.

Do you develop marketing mobile apps?

Yes, we develop all types of mobile apps and can build a high-quality marketing app tailored to your vision.

What does iOS development include?

iOS development involves creating apps and software for Apple’s iOS operating system, designed for the iPhone, iPad, and certain other Apple products.

What does Android development include?

Android development involves building apps and software for the Android operating system developed by Google. Unlike iOS, Android is not limited to one manufacturer’s devices—it’s used by various brands in their smartphones and tablets.

How do you create an app for Android?

Creating an Android app requires technical skills and experience. It can be done natively (e.g., using Java or Kotlin) or through hybrid frameworks (e.g., .NET MAUI). If you’re thinking about hiring professionals to build your Android app, feel free to contact us.

How does the development of a mobile app work?

You can learn more about the mobile app development process here.

What are other terms for a mobile app?

Mobile apps are also referred to as mobile software, smartphone apps, mobile applications, apps for mobile devices, mobile programs, or apps for smart devices—among many other terms.

Do you have more questions we haven’t answered?

Then write to our team and ask us anything you’d like to know about custom mobile app development.

Contact Us

Considering mobile app development? We’d be happy to take a look with you.

Tadeáš Matoušek

Business Director

I’ve been with MEMOS for over five years and have contributed to hundreds of projects. In addition to my sales activities, I’m also partly involved in project management and ready to help you find the right IT solution for your business. With my experience and expertise, I can support the smooth progress of development and help you achieve your goals. Feel free to reach out—together, we’ll find the best solution for your needs.

+420 739 299 568
[email protected]

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Where to find us

MEMOS Software s. r. o.

IČ: 27093930, DIČ: CZ27093930
Zapsáno v OR ved. Městským soudem v Praze, oddíl C, vložka 95772

Mobile App Development

What Will You Learn in This "MOBILE APPLICATIONS" Brochure?

Introduction

“I want a custom mobile app”

“Let’s do this”

Ready, steady, GO!

“It’s almost ready...”

“It’s here”

Contact us

Who Is MEMOS and Why Did We Create This Guide?

Who Is This Guide For?

How This Guide Will Help You

What exactly is a mobile application?

Why Should You Want Your Own Mobile App?

From Idea to Launch

iOS or Android? Develop Hybrid for Both Platforms

MAUI Technology

"I Want a Custom Mobile App"

Do You Know the Answers to All These Questions?

“Let’s Do This”

5 Things to Look for in a Reliable Custom Software Development Partner

Most Frequently Asked Questions

3 RED FLAGS – Don’t Burn Yourself at the Start

Make Sure You’ve Answered These Questions!

Could It Be Done a Bit Cheaper...?

Development Can Follow Several Modes

Ready, Steady, GO!

Who might you encounter when developing a mobile application with MEMOS?

5 Recommendations from Sales Director Tadeáš Matoušek

Will your app need third-party tools and features? Choose the right ones.

What is an API?

Programmer–English Glossary

“It’s almost here…”

Why does Tadeáš Matoušek recommend choosing the cloud?

Integrating Software into Your Company? Don’t Forget Change Management!

Taking Your App to Market? Don’t Forget Marketing Support.

Here are six of the most common monetization models

“It’s here”

Development isn’t the end…

5 rules to follow after development ends

What do people often ask us about custom software development?

Considering mobile app development? We’d be happy to take a look with you.

Where to find us

MEMOS Software s. r. o.

Will your app need third-party tools and features?
Choose the right ones.