App Development Hacks
Has developing your app got you stumped? We can help.
Creating an app is a challenging process. From constructing a stylish yet user-friendly interface that displays on all screen sizes through to streamlining code to minimize the completed file size, the process of constructing a mobile app can tax even experienced programmers and developers. It can also be completely daunting to novices who need an app store presence, but have no coding expertise and don’t know their APIs from their GUIs.
A Helping Hand
Perhaps inevitably, a complementary industry has grown up around app development. Specialist programs have been created to simplify the process of creating new apps, often by providing a standardized cross-platform framework that can be adapted and expanded upon with bespoke interfaces and functionalities. From beginner-level drag-and-drop WYSIWYG editors through to sophisticated development platforms, below are some of the key packages that can resolve any app development challenge:
Appcelerator
Cross-platform mobile development service Appcelerator enables people to create JavaScript code that will run on Android, iOS and Windows devices. It’s used to power dozens of apps including those of eBay, Avis, Lego and Rolls-Royce. The app designer interface enables visual design and development of apps from a standardized template, while the automated mobile testing functionality claims to reduce testing time by 90% – ideal for new companies who are keen to reach the market ASAP.
Apache Cordova
Formerly known as PhoneGap, this Adobe-owned open-source platform delivers a single piece of code capable of running across iOS, Android, Windows and BlackBerry platforms. Unlike Appcelerator, it can use HTML and CSS as well as JavaScript, with almost 1,400 plugins available. Covering everything from push notifications to barcode scanners, dozens of these plugins are updated on a weekly basis for compatibility with the latest OS updates.
Good Barber
Despite its questionable name, Italian platform Good Barber represents an excellent starting point in the world of app development. Focusing on visually dynamic apps rather than complex functionalities, it enables apps to be created without a single line of code being entered. It even helps users to get their apps published in the Google and Apple stores, with real-time visual feedback every time a change is made.
GameSalad
With the bold claim that new users can create a game app within an hour, GameSalad utilises drag-and-drop functionality to import graphics, sound effects and music into a dynamic interface. A tie-up with Amazon ensures Kindle Fire compatibility alongside the usual Apple, Google and Microsoft platforms, while OS X and HTML5 are also covered. GameSalad also markets itself at teachers and academics, who can construct bespoke computer science education products to deliver interactive and memorable lectures.
Twilio
Communication platform Twilio helps app developers create programmable communications tools from SMS to 2FA authentication, as well as handle audio/video experiences via the cloud. Suitable for iOS and Android devices, Twilio focuses on delivering jitter-free streaming through hardware-accelerated codecs. This popular service has already amassed a client base including Coca-Cola, OpenTable and Uber.
ShoutEm
One of the more comprehensive app builder platforms, white label service ShoutEm offers everything from social media integration to monetization options through the iTunes and Google Play stores. The latter is ideal for new companies to quickly generate revenue streams, while drag-and-drop interfaces can be tested in a native preview app and created by coding rookies.