I have an idea for a messaging app that I want to build. I would greatly appreciate some advice on this from people who have experience with app building
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This is a good question for ChatGPT, since you’re in such an early phase of this. I don’t mean that to be degrading at all, it’s just a good starting point for research. I also agree with others in this post, in that you need to decide why you want a messaging app. If it’s for profit, that is an extremely difficult space to get in to. Messaging apps have had thousands of developers and billions of dollars invested into them, so it’s hard to create anything better. You’ll need some niche that makes your app unique and valuable. Unsurprisingly that’s what ChatGPT said below too actually lol. Happy to provide more specifics if you have more questions.
I took your post and plugged in into ChatGPT, here’s what it replied to that inquiry:
Creating a messaging app is a significant project, especially for someone without a background in programming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process:
- Define Your App Concept
Unique Value Proposition: Identify what makes your app different from existing messaging apps. Consider features, design, user experience, or specific target audiences.
Requirements and Features: Make a list of essential features (e.g., text messaging, voice/video calls, file sharing) and additional features that could set your app apart (e.g., encryption, unique emojis, themes).
- Learn Basic Programming or Partner with a Developer
Self-Learning: If you’re interested in learning to program yourself, start with languages relevant to app development like Swift (for iOS) or Kotlin (for Android).
Partnering with a Developer: If programming isn’t for you, consider partnering with a software developer. You can find skilled developers on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or by networking in tech communities.
- Create a Prototype
Use tools like Sketch, Adobe XD, or Figma to design a basic prototype of your app. This doesn’t require coding skills and will help you visualize the app’s layout and user flow.
- Validate Your Idea
Share your prototype with potential users to get feedback. Adjust your app concept based on this feedback.
- Develop the App
If you’ve partnered with a developer, work closely with them during this phase. Ensure they understand your vision and the app’s requirements.
Regularly test the app to identify and fix bugs.
- Consider Legal and Security Aspects
Understand the legal requirements for messaging apps, particularly privacy laws and data protection.
Implement robust security measures, especially if your app handles personal communication.
- Plan for Ongoing Maintenance
Apps require regular updates and maintenance, especially to address security vulnerabilities and update features.
- Launch and Marketing
Plan a launch strategy. Consider how you will market your app to reach your target audience.
Collect user feedback post-launch for continuous improvement.
- Continuously Learn and Adapt
The tech field is constantly evolving. Stay informed about new trends and technologies that can enhance your app.
Additional Resources
Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Codecademy offer courses in app development.
Tech Meetups and Conferences: Networking with experienced developers can provide valuable insights and potential collaborations.
Conclusion
Building an app is a journey that involves continuous learning and adaptation. Don’t hesitate to seek help from experienced professionals, and be prepared for a long-term commitment to developing, launching, and maintaining your app.
Without giving away your IP, what niche is filled/need gets met by your app that existing apps don’t already do?
Yes this. Unless you have something that no one else can do or has done, it’ll be hard to do. I’ve met a bunch of people wanting to build a replacement Facebook but you’re competing against people with millions in resources. The only group I know who’ve managed it had a very specific use case in mind and a ready group of users.
You can develop and app with flutterflow (the pro version is free for student during 1 year) or bubble.io (for a Saas)
You can also ask chatGPT to ask for coding. You can do a quick verison of it with python or search for "how to developp a chrome extension also)
What do you want to know?
If you’re looking to learn to code and build something you could look at Ionic Framework and watch video tutorials and do some online coding classes.
It’s not the shortest route, but a lot of people love learning to code.
Shortest route is finding someone who codes, document what you want. Have them make it, pay them.
the quickest way, for a webapp, is bubble.io
for native apps, iOS and Android, professional solutions are costly, and there some no-code solutions like flutterflow, Adalo, Glide and Thunkable.I use bubble a lot, message me if you need any dev work done, I do a lot of chat features usually…
Option 1. Learn to code. It really depends on the complexity of your application, but for absolute customizability, there’s no shortcut.
Option 2. Pay someone to do it. Since you’re not from a tech background, it could leave you prone to being ripped off. I’d suggest outsourcing it for cheap to India or something, but you have to be extremely careful and monitor it very closely to ensure you’re getting what you paid for.