App development is a major investment of time, money, and energy. Companies and startups often rush into it without proper preparation, leading to costly mistakes and unnecessary code rewrites. To prevent this from happening, we’ve prepared a practical list of 10 things you should clarify before starting development.
1.Purpose of the App
What do you want to achieve with your app? Improve internal processes, attract new customers, or create a completely new business model? A clearly defined goal is the anchor you’ll keep coming back to during the entire process.
2.Target Audience
-Who will use your app?
-What are their needs?
-What problems are they facing?
-Which devices do they use the most?
Without understanding your users in detail, you risk developing something nobody wants.
3.Platform (iOS, Android, Web)
Will you build for one platform or multiple? Options include:
-Native apps (best user experience, higher costs)
-Hybrid / cross-platform solutions (faster development, lower costs)
-Web app (good option if you don’t need full mobile functionality).
4.Budget
App development is not a one-time cost. Consider:
-initial development costs,
-maintenance and updates,
-marketing and user acquisition.
5.MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
Start with an MVP – the simplest version of your app that still delivers value. MVP allows you to test your idea quickly, get feedback, and avoid building unnecessary features.
6.Features and Priorities
List all desired features and divide them into:
1.Must-have – essential for functionality,
2.Nice-to-have – added value, but not urgent.
This will help keep the project realistic and efficient.
7.Design and User Experience (UI/UX)
Users expect a simple, intuitive, and visually appealing design. Focus on:
-easy navigation,
-readable typography,
-mobile optimization,
-testing with real users.
8.Technology and Team
Which technologies will you use (Angular, React Native, Flutter, Django…)? Do you have an in-house team or will you partner with experts? The right choice impacts development speed and long-term sustainability.
9.Security and Scalability
Plan for data security and ensure your app can grow with your business. Protecting user data and complying with GDPR is non-negotiable today.
10.Marketing and Distribution
How will you bring your app to users?
-App Store / Google Play optimization,
-website presentation,
-PR and social media,
-launch plan (e.g., Product Hunt).
Remember: launch is just as important as development.
RegulusTeam Insight
At RegulusTeam, we know that great code is only part of success. That’s why we guide clients through the preparation phase before development – to make every project efficient, fast, and truly valuable.
Conclusion
Before starting development, ask yourself:
👉 “Are we clear on these 10 points?”
If not, stop and clarify them first.
You’ll save money, time, and increase the chances of your app’s success.