How Much Does It Cost To Create an App For a Small Business

If you’re looking to develop an app for your small business then there are several factors that you need to consider! First, there are many distinct phases to the app development process. So, knowing the best ways to allocate funds for each stage of app development will help you figure out how much does it cost to create an app for a small business. 

Developing a sophisticated app may cost anywhere from $15,000 to $1,000,000 or more. The development time for an advanced app typically ranges from 11 to 16 weeks and includes highly complex features like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and machine learning. 

This typically applies to eCommerce apps, gaming apps and apps for businesses (big or small). However, small businesses might not adopt all the same features.

So, here’s a basic idea about the app costs!

How Much Does It Cost To Create An App For A Small Business?

The cost of creating an app is affected by the complexity of the app, the features required, the development platform, and the location of the development team. A rough estimate of how much does it cost to create an app for a small business is as follows:

  • Basic:
    The cost of an app with basic functionality can range from $5,000 to $15,000 if it is simple. A few screens and basic features like contact information, product information, and location-based services are typically included in this kind of app.
  • Moderate Complexity:
    The app may cost anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000 if it requires additional features like user accounts, push notifications, and social media integration. Usually, developing this kind of app takes more time and effort.
  • High Complexity:
    It can usually cost more than $50,000 for the app to have complex features like e-commerce, custom APIs, and real-time communication. This kind of app needs a lot of time to make, so you might need a bigger team of developers.

But let’s see how this cost is divided into different phases!

Also Read About – Top Mobile App Development Companies Clutch in 2023

App Development Cost Breakdown

Just like any other tool or software, app development is divided into phases. And these phases oversee different steps, which further control the app creation cost. However, a rough percentage of the fee is allocated to all the phases of the total app cost. The basic breakdown is given below:

  • Research and planning:
    Market research, competitor evaluation, and project requirements definition are all part of this phase. It typically contributes between 5 and 10 percent of the project’s total cost.
  • Design:
    This stage includes making the UI and client experience (UX) plans for the application. It typically contributes between 10 and 20 percent of the project’s total cost.
  • Development:
    The actual coding step in the app development process is this. It typically contributes between 60 and 70 percent of the project’s total cost.
  • Testing and Assurance of Quality:
    The app is tested for bugs, errors, and usability issues during this phase. It typically makes up 10 to 15 percent of the total cost of the project.
  • Maintenance and deployment:
    The app is released to the app stores and maintained during this phase with updates and bug fixes. It commonly represents around 5 to 10 percent of the absolute venture cost.

The amount may not be as much as high revenue businesses, to make an app for a small business. But, the percentage of the total cost of app remains somewhat similar. Given that the app features might be similar. 

Major Cost Of Developing A Mobile App 

Cost Of Design Phase

A large number of custom-designed elements, intricate screens, and UI take more time. The cost of the design phase, which accounts for between 10 and 15 percent of the total cost of creating an app, is estimated to be between $5 and $55,000. 

Additionally, the visual complexity of the design for gaming and social media apps typically results in a higher price. For small businesses, this price doesn’t lie on the higher end of the spectrum, but a basic idea is important. 

The design phase of an app is important because it determines how users will see the app. So it is important to allot more funds to the phase.

Also Read About – Web and App Development Company in San Diego [Top 10]

Development Phase

The developers can provide an estimate of the development cost and delivery time based on the received design. The number and complexity of required features, which will determine the app’s overall complexity, greatly influence the development cost. 

The complexity of your mobile application must be taken into consideration since it is frequently linked to user retention. The app development phase takes two to six months and costs between $2,000 and $60,000.

There are several factors in an app that determine the cost. These include: 

  • The number of screens and features included in an app
  • The app’s complexity
  • The level of quality control needed to eliminate bugs
  • Third-party integrations
  • Modern security and privacy protocols
  • The size, level, and experience of the app development team
  • The number of app developers working on a single project

Now, let’s move on to external factors that can change app costs!

Factors Affecting App Costs

The basic costs to create an app depend on some factors. And it’s good to have a clearer picture. So, we’ve listed them for you:

  • Choosing a platform for your application is an additional factor in determining the average app price. The target audience should determine your choice between the Android and iOS platforms. And you should keep in mind that these platforms have different programming languages, SDKs, and development tools.
  • The price of an app also depends a lot on its marketing and can change, based on it. This is done to invest in increasing your app store visibility. The budget for app marketing is distinct, but it’s better to plan it at the same time as your overall app budget. 
  • The app creation cost can also be affected by the area/city/country of development. The varying hourly rates of programmers are the primary reason why mobile app development costs less in some areas than in others. Development costs are generally higher in North America and Europe than in Asia or Africa.
  • The development approach also has an impact on the cost of developing a mobile app. As a result, when making a mobile app, you must keep the development approach in mind. So whether you choose freelancers or hire a company, that would make a huge difference in the total app costs.

But, it’s always important to make the right decision when investing in tech for your business!

Things To Consider Before Investing 

Like any business tool, app development also requires careful planning. This means considering factors before investing in app creation or a company to do so. Some points to remember include:

  • You should check the security and privacy policies of the software development company of your choice. These policies are in place to ensure that the information gathered from business analysis during app development is not disclosed to any third parties.
  • Choose a company/freelancer that specializes in all aspects of software development and can provide qualified specialists throughout the app’s development lifecycle. Expert UI/UX designers create user-friendly interfaces, developers fulfil your requirements, and quality assurance (QA) specialists eliminate bugs and errors in the application.

You might also require app updates and maintenance regularly. As a result, you should think about the total costs to create an app and maintain it.

  • Ask the company or the project management team about some of the best mobile apps they have created. It will assist you in evaluating the company’s portfolio and determining whether it can meet your needs. Check to see if the mobile apps are robust and easy to use.

Conclusion 

Several factors influence how much does it cost to develop an app for a small business. A simple app with few features can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000. While a more complicated app with advanced features like e-commerce, social media integration, and custom APIs can cost more than $50,000. 

It’s important to keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and the cost to make an app can vary based on specific requirements. Before beginning the app development process, small businesses must therefore thoroughly investigate their requirements and conduct thorough research. They will be able to create an app that meets their business goals and provides value to their customers. While also ensuring that they will get the most out of their investment.

Our detailed guide will help you make the right decision!

Our Readers Also Love

Apps For Startup