Phase 0 · Decide

Do You Need an App? Website, Web App or Native

Many small businesses ask for an app when what they need is a fast, well-built website. Decide by what customers will do, not by what competitors have.

Phase 1 · Scope

Scoping a Minimum Viable Product

The first version should do one job well. Everything else waits until real customers tell you it matters.

Phase 2 · Build

Login and Verification Flows Customers Can Actually Complete

Sign-up is where many apps lose people. Verification is necessary, but each extra step should earn its place and fail gracefully.

Phase 3 · Launch

Getting Into the App Stores

Publishing is a process with its own rules. Plan for review, policies and the store listing as seriously as for the code.

Phase 4 · Grow

Promotions Inside Your App: Show the Terms, Not Just the Headline

Welcome offers and referral rewards are effective. They also generate the most complaints when the conditions are hidden. Design the terms into the screen.

Phase 5 · Hand over

Working With a Freelance Developer

A good freelancer can build a small business app well. The relationship works when ownership, scope and handover are agreed in writing at the start.