How Long Does It Take to Build a Web App?
How long does it take to make a web app?
This is one of the most popular questions entrepreneurs and business owners face up with. The first one is, of course, about the price. You can find the detailed answer to the first one by googling, and today we’ll tell you everything about web app development time.
Paradoxical as it may sound, but creating a precise web app development timeline demands time and, more importantly, experience.
So today, we’ll share with you a detailed time breakdown for each stage of web app development with real numbers and talk about the factors that make up the price and the trends in web app development.
After reading this article, we suggest checking out the steps to hire a proficient web developer. It will help you to find and hire the best expert for your project!
4 Current Trends in The Web App Market
The web app market keeps changing, especially due to the current global crisis. What people think is normal today might not be the same soon.
To be at the driver’s seat of web app development, you should be well aware of the ongoing shift in the web app development industry.
Here are the areas to keep an eye on as you plan for a new web app.
1. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)
PWAs are web applications that give users a native app-like experience on mobile phones. For engineers, it means that they don’t need to develop separate apps, instead they write a single codebase that works on web browsers, iOS and Android.
PWAs are great as they make load time faster, offer offline functionality, and a native app-like experience. Such big companies like X and Pinterest adopted PWAs, and now they see a boost in user engagement and performance.
For businesses, we suggest leveraging service workers for offline capabilities, which will ensure uninterrupted user access even in low connectivity areas.
2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning integration
New things are changing how web apps work compared to 10 years ago. One big change is using AI to make web apps talk and interact in smart ways. This is a big trend in software for 2024.
Based on the most recent info, around 35% of companies worldwide are using AI in their business. It’s interesting that 42% of companies are checking out how AI could help them. More than half, about 50%, are thinking of using AI in 2024. So, you could say that about 77% of companies are either using AI or thinking about it.
3. Single Page Applications (SPAs)
Single Page Applications (SPAs) deliver a smoother, more responsive user experience by dynamically loading content without refreshing the entire page. Gmail and Facebook are prime examples of this technology.
SPAs reduce server load and enable faster interactions. To optimize development and boost performance, implement SPAs using frameworks like React or Angular.
4. Cybersecurity
It’s become quite clear that cyber attackers are getting more cunning by the day. This reality made the need for stronger security measures a new web app development software development trend.
Enter “cybersecurity mesh” – think of it as an extra layer of security checks spread across different parts of the app’s network.
Web development teams are now prioritizing security alongside functionality, adopting a proactive approach to eliminate potential vulnerabilities. They’re also on their security hats.
As cybersecurity concerns continue to grow, incorporating security apps like VIPRE, Nox, and Lookout can be valuable for emerging businesses.
For more detailed insights, check out this guide to successfully outsource web development. This guide covers when and how it’s better to outsource your web development project.
5 Factors That Influence the Development Timeline
The development timeline of a web app is influenced by several critical factors. They contribute to the overall time required from conception to deployment. When you consider these factors, you can plan and manage the project more effectively.
1. Complexity and functionality of the app
The complexity and functionality of a web app are primary determinants of the development timeline. Simple apps with basic functionalities such as static pages, basic forms, and minimal interactivity can be developed relatively quickly.
In contrast, complex web apps with features like real-time data processing, user authentication, or interactive dashboards naturally require more time.
Simple vs. Complex Features
- Simple features: Static content, basic forms, and simple navigation.
- Complex features: Real-time updates, dynamic content generation, and advanced user interactions.
2. Team size and expertise
The size and expertise of the development team hugely impact the project timeline. A larger team with diverse skill sets can handle multiple development aspects simultaneously, potentially speeding up the process. However, coordination and communication challenges can arise in larger teams.
But let’s take a look at smaller teams. They might work more cohesively but the same job may take more time due to the limited number of people.
3. Technology stack and tools used
The technology stack and tools for web development also affect the timeline. Modern frameworks and libraries such as
- React, Angular, or Vue.js for front-end
- js or Django for back-end
They cut up the development time because of their extensive documentation and community support.
Also, automated testing tools, CI/CD pipelines, and project management software can simplify development and reduce time.
4. Number of integrations
Let’s start with the case when you need to add a few integrations into your web app. Basic third-party service integrations, such as payment gateways or social media logins will not take much development time.
Multiple and complex integrations, for instance, demand more developers time. By complex, we mean integrating CRM, ERP, and other enterprise solutions.
5. Custom vs. template-based design
Custom design: Tailored user interfaces designed from scratch to meet specific user requirements and branding guidelines. This approach guarantees uniqueness but requires more time.
Template-based design, like utilizing pre-designed templates can greatly reduce development time. However, it may involve trade-offs in terms of uniqueness and customization flexibility.
Why Should You Create a Web App?
The demand for web apps speaks for itself. But let’s discuss the benefits of web app development for your business in more detail.
Benefits for businesses
- If your goal is to build a scalable app that will be able to work smoothly even when the number of users, traffic grow – web apps satisfy this need. It supports long-term business goals and lets you adapt to changing market demands with no extra effort. For example, Shopify’s web app platform enables many businesses to grow their online presence effectively.
- Developing a web app can be more cost-effective compared to native apps. Web apps require a single codebase for all platforms, so you reduce development time and cost significantly.
Benefits for users
- Web app development gives you an incredible opportunity to create personalized experiences for your customers. By developing features like push notifications and offline access, you can improve the customer satisfaction rate, build stronger brand loyalty, and provide a better overall experience for users.
- Web apps are accessible as you can implement features that make your product accessible to everyone. It can be keyboard navigation, color contrast, captioning and transcripts, and more. Implementing these practices ensures that your web app is inclusive and accessible to all users.
Conclusion
In summary, the development timeline of a web app depends on different factors such as app complexity, team size, expertise, and the technology stack. Simple apps with basic functionalities will take less time, while complex apps with advanced features require a more extended timeline.
Figuring out these factors helps you in managing your project. With the right planning and resources, your web app development will turn out to be both rewarding and successful!
