Software development costs: What are the prices for custom software?

From idea to concept

Before you can start the actual development, you should first take the time to work out your idea in concrete terms. This applies to both small and large projects. A good concept is the foundation on which you will later build your app.

• Define target group: Think about which users you want to target and which problems you want to solve with your app. The more specifically you define your target group (age, interests, job, everyday habits, etc.), the more precisely you can design functions and design.
• Use cases and features: What are the main functions of your app? Collect all the ideas you can think of and prioritize them in order of importance. It is often better to start with a “Minimum Viable Product” (MVP) — i.e. with an app version that only contains the most important functions and can be brought to market quickly. This allows you to get feedback earlier and further develop your app in a targeted manner.
• Competitive analysis: Take a look at which similar apps are already on the market, what they do well and where there are still gaps. This is how you can find out how you can stand out and offer real added value to your target group.
• Mockups & wireframes: To get a better feel for the later look and feel, you can create simple sketches or wireframes. There are numerous tools for this that are very beginner-friendly (such as Figma, Sketch, or AdobeXD). This is just about the rough structure — the fine-tuning is done later in the design process.

Native vs. cross-platform vs. hybrid: overview of app types

The next step is to consider how your app should be technically implemented. Basically, there are three main categories:

Native apps

• iOS: Develop with Swift or Objective-C in the Apple ecosystem.
• Android: Develop with Kotlin or Java.

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advantages:

• Highest performance and best user experience, as the app is tailored directly to the operating systems.
• Full use of all device features (camera, GPS, sensors, etc.).
• Updates and new platform features can be integrated very quickly.

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Disadvantages:

• Higher costs and development effort as you have to maintain separate code bases for iOS and Android.
• Longer development time if both platforms are to be operated at the same time.

cross-platform frameworks

Frameworks for cross-platform apps include React Native, Flutter or Xamarin. The name means that thanks to them, you can cover several platforms with one development service.

advantages:

• One code base for both (or more) platforms.
• Faster development because you don't have to code everything twice.
• Good balance between performance and development effort.

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Disadvantages:

• Sometimes worse performance than native apps (although modern frameworks such as Flutter or React Native are getting better and better here).
• Some dependency on frameworks that require continuous updates and maintenance.
• Possible restrictions on very specific hardware features.

hybrid apps

Basically, these are web apps in an app shell, based on web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Typical development environments include Ionic, Titanium or Cordova.

‍advantages:

• Usually very cost-effective to develop, as web developers can build these types of apps.
• Quick adjustments and updates, as there is a lot going on via web technologies.

‍Disadvantages:

• Performance and user experience are often not at the level of native or cross-platform apps.
• Restricted access to certain hardware features.

Especially if you want to conquer the market quickly or are not yet sure how your app will be accepted, a cross-platform approach can be an attractive choice. However, for highly specialized and performance-critical applications, native apps are the better option.

Develop your own app: steps, tools and typical pitfalls

If you are tech-savvy or already have experienced developers in your team, you can implement your app yourself. But even if you don't have any programming knowledge, there are some platforms on the market that allow you to create simple apps with little or no code (so-called “no-code” or “low-code” tools such as AppGyver, Bubble, or Adalo).

Develop your own app: important steps

prototyping

Create as concrete a prototype as possible that you can test and show to potential users. Feedback is extremely valuable in this phase — it shows you whether your idea is met with approval and which features are still missing.

Design and user experience

Good design is much more than just “looking chic.” It makes a big difference whether your app is intuitive and easy to use. Even if you're not a professional designer, you can draw on ready-made UI libraries (such as Material Design for Android or Human Interface Guidelines for iOS). Make sure that your app looks consistent and doesn't pose a mystery when it comes to user navigation.

development process

• Choose a programming language or technology stack that you (or your team) are confident in.
• Set small, achievable interim goals.
• Maintain clean documentation so that you don't have to research later changes long afterwards.

Testing

Test your app regularly on various devices and operating system versions. It's worth inviting beta testers here. Pay particular attention to performance, load times, and stability.

Deployment

Once your app is ready, you'll need to submit it to the respective stores (Google Play and Apple App Store). There are certain guidelines to follow — from store policies to mandatory screenshots and descriptions.

Typical challenges and mistakes when developing an app

• Underestimate time required: An app is not a weekend project. Plan realistically and expect setbacks.
• Lack of technical expertise: Anyone who is just learning how to program quickly reaches their limits. Bugs or complex logic may be blocking progress.
• Neglect user experience: Even technically flawless apps can flop if they're not user-friendly.
• Budget overestimation: Doing it yourself isn't free either — there are costs for software licenses, servers, test equipment, marketing, etc.
• No clear project management: If you don't distribute tasks properly and set deadlines, you quickly get lost in details.

Have the app developed: When does it make sense to hire professionals?

Although the DIY approach has its charms, it makes sense for many companies — especially in the B2B sector or for larger projects — to seek professional support. This is where agencies that specialize in app development come in. But why should you a Agency like Axisbits consider?

Benefits of professional development

• Experience and expertise: An experienced team of developers, designers and project managers brings a wealth of combined expertise. In this way, you can be sure that best practices are being applied and that typical mistakes are being avoided.
• Time savings: Through clear processes and proven workflows, professionals can usually implement your project faster than you would be able to alone or with an inexperienced team. That means you're on the market faster.
• Quality and scalability: Agencies usually use high-quality tools and frameworks and know how to set up an app so that it runs stably even as the number of users increases. Regular tests and code reviews also ensure high product quality.
• Consulting and Innovation: Good agencies not only advise you on technical issues, but also contribute strategic ideas. They might discover niches or opportunities that you haven't even thought of yet. In this way, you benefit from an outside view of your project.
• All-round service: From the initial concept idea to UI/UX design to marketing and post-launch maintenance: With a full-service agency like Axisbits, you get everything from a single source. This saves you a lot of coordination and communication with different service providers.

Possible disadvantages and points that you should consider

• costs: Professional development is of course not cheap. Depending on the range of functions and complexity, this can amount to five or six figures. But as with many things, quality and reliability pay off.
• Dependency: When you work with an agency, you depend on their expertise and time availability. However, this risk can be minimized with clear contracts and transparency.
• Communication: Successful cooperation depends on good communication. Make sure you and the agency are on the same page and schedule regular meetings or status updates.

The most important steps in the professional development process

If you decide to work with an agency, you should be prepared for a structured and multi-stage process. An example flow could look like this:

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• Kick-off and design phase: Here, everyone involved gets to know each other and clarifies what the aim of the app is. The target group, functions and rough schedules are coordinated. At Axisbits, we value close communication with you to ensure that all ideas are brought in.
• Design and prototyping: In the next step, the designers create initial mockups and prototypes. These serve as a basis for feedback loops, so you get a feel for the app early on. This is also the phase in which the UI/UX design is defined — colors, fonts, branding elements, navigation, etc.
• Agile development: As soon as the design is ready, the developers start coding. Agencies often work after agile methods, which means working in short sprints and presenting an interim result after each sprint. In this way, requests for changes can be woven in promptly.
• Testing and quality control: Parallel to development, the app is continuously tested — both automatically (unit tests, integration tests) and manually (user acceptance tests). Every new feature or change is reviewed to quickly find and fix bugs.
• Launch and store submission: As soon as all functions have been implemented and tested, the app goes into live mode. We take care of submitting the app to the respective stores, posting screenshots and descriptions, and complying with all guidelines.
• Maintenance and updates: After launch is before update! Because apps are never “done.” User feedback, technical developments or new market requirements require regular updates. Axisbits continues to support you even after go-live and ensures that your app remains successful in the long term.

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Costs, budget planning and funding opportunities

Regardless of whether you develop your app yourself or hire professionals: A clear budget and realistic financial planning are always the necessary basis.

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• In-house development: This involves costs for your own time, possibly the time of team members, software licenses (e.g. for development environments), servers, test devices, etc. It is often difficult to precisely estimate the effort in advance, as problems or learning phases can break the schedule.
• Agency development: The price range can vary significantly. Simple apps may be in the five-digit range, while complex business applications can cost several hundred thousand euros. Reputable agencies will provide you with an offer that covers the scope or works with milestones.
• Funding and funding: Check whether there are government funding programs for digital development in companies. Also find out about potential investors or crowdfunding platforms if your budget is tight.

Make an app yourself or have it done?

The decision whether to develop your app yourself or hire an agency depends heavily on your resources, goals, and competencies. If you have enough time, basic development skills and not too complex a range of functions, a DIY approach can be appealing — especially to quickly build a prototype or a first version and get feedback.

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But when it comes to professional demands, high user numbers and long-term scaling, doing it yourself quickly reaches its limits. Here, specialized professionals not only offer technical expertise, but also strategic and design know-how that can save you many detours and expensive improvements.

Develop an app with Axisbits

As a full-service agency with many years of experience in app development, Axisbits covers all areas that are crucial for a successful project — from initial idea to launch and beyond:

• Consulting & concept: We help you define your goals and develop a strategy that is market-oriented and profitable in the long term.
• UI/UX design: Our creative team ensures that your app is not only visually appealing, but is also intuitive to use.
• Software development: Whether native apps for iOS and Android or cross-platform (*) — together with you, we choose the technology that best suits your project.
• Quality Assurance: Through testing methods and code reviews, we ensure that your app is robust, performant and secure.
• Maintenance & Support: After launch is before update. We will support you over the long term and assist you with technical and strategic questions.

Especially for companies that value professionalism, reliability and sustainable growth, it is worthwhile to rely on an experienced agency. This allows you to concentrate fully on your core business and not have to worry about technical pitfalls.

Regardless of whether you're just getting started or already have a specific concept on the table — a non-binding consultation will help you get on the right track.

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App development: duration of phases, project examples & tips

For a company, an app can be an important tool used internally or a high-selling product to the outside world. In addition to the costs of app development, the required duration is a decisive decision criterion. In this article, we therefore show which phases of development consist of and how much time must be planned for this. Using two example cases from our customers, we also show very specific values from practice.

The most important factors for the duration of app development

When creating an app, several development steps affect the overall duration:

Features and complexity

The more features you want your app to have later, the more time is initially for Design and later for programming and testing necessary. A simple quiz, which can be used as a game or test for applicants, often has only a few screens and not an overly complex backend. However, an extensive e-commerce shop with product search, shopping cart and payment function requires significantly more development time

platforms

The choice of platforms significantly influences the duration of programming:

• iOS: Development for iPhones and iPads
• Android: Development for a wide range of Android devices
• Cross-platform: It is possible to provide an app for both iOS and Android with a common code base (with limitations).

If you're only developing for one platform, it can be faster. However, when developing in parallel for iOS and Android, you have to expect more effort — unless you use cross-platform technologies, which in many cases also need time to optimize. Either way, effort and development time increase, the more devices should operate your app.

Design and user experience

Creating a modern and well-thought-out design that is optimally tailored for mobile use takes time — but it's worth the investment. A good UX/UI design improves usability and increases Likelihood that users are comfortable with your app. Depending on complexity and requirements, design processes can take from a few weeks to several months.

Team and resources

The size and experience of the team have an influence on the development time. A experienced team, which has already internalized processes and workflows, can often move a project forward faster. Just Agencies that specialize in app development , can give you tips on how to save time right from the planning phase.

Tip: If you're wondering how high the costs are, it's worth taking a look at our article on App development costs.

The typical development process and its duration

Although each app project is unique in itself, the development of many apps follows a rough structure that you can also apply to your project. Below you'll find a Orientation timeline, which can of course vary depending on the scope of the project.

Idea generation and requirements analysis (1 - 4 weeks)

It all starts with an idea. Here you clarify Which problem your app solves and which features it should include. You also determine which target group you want to address. During this phase, it can be really helpful to get feedback from potential users to validate your assumptions.

Key tasks:

• Market analysis and competition check
• Preparation of a rough list of functions
• Sketch your first wireframes

Concept and UX/UI design (2 - 8 weeks)

In this phase, the requirements are specified and visually presented. How do users navigate through your app? Which screens are necessary and what do they look like? This is where the first interactive prototypes are created, with which you can test usability.

Key tasks:

• Create detailed wireframes or mockups
• Iterative user testing and feedback loops
• Final UX/UI design

Technical planning and architecture (1 - 4 weeks)

Before you start the actual development, you should create a solid technical basis. Questions like “Which programming language do we use? ” or “How do we integrate a payment system? “will be clarified in this phase. One well-thought-out architecture Save yourself from negative surprises later on.

Key tasks:

• Selection of technologies (e.g. Swift/Objective-C for iOS, Kotlin/Java for Android, Flutter, or React Native for cross-platform)
• Backend design (servers, databases, interfaces)
• Development environment planning (CI/CD processes)

Development (8 - 32 weeks)

Die Programming the app is the focus of all phases. Design and concept become code here. Depending on the complexity, this part of course takes up the majority of the time. While actual programming is ongoing, communication with stakeholders remains important in order to be able to react quickly to changes in requirements.

Key tasks:

• Programming frontend functions (UI)
• Connecting the app to the backend (API integration)
• Data security and performance optimization
• Regular status updates and feedback rounds

Testing and quality assurance (2 - 6 weeks)

Before your app is available in app stores, it must be used in every conceivable situation Work flawlessly. This is ensured by detailed tests — both automated and manual. The large number of Android devices and iOS versions in particular can take up quite a bit of time here.

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Key tasks:

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• Code-level unit testing
• Integration testing and automated UI testing
• Manual testing on various devices
• Bug fixing and performance tuning

Launch and release (1 - 2 weeks)

Publishing an app always means bringing it to app stores. At Apple, the review team usually takes a few days, while Android apps can usually be published faster. that launch marketing should also be planned to make your app more popular.

Key tasks:

• Create all necessary metadata, screenshots, app icons
• App store submission (Apple App Store, Google Play Store)
• Maintenance, updates and bug fixes after go-live

Examples of app types and their development time

The timings in the process above are generally valid to give you a feeling for the development time of all conceivable apps. Here we show you two specific examples, which are based on cooperation with our customers:

Learning and quiz app as a web app

Quiz or learning modules, evaluations, user registration, payment (e.g. for certificates) and gamification.

• Time required: 2 - 5 months

Typical B2C mobile app (iOS/Android)

Mobile application (iOS/Android) with user profile, in-app purchases, push messages, backend API and, if applicable, chat functions.

• Time required: 4 - 10 months

The lower time values always refer to a minimum viable product (MVP), with which customers go into the market test first. After this More features are added to validation, which pushes time to the upper end of the range.

Tip: In our article, you can find out more about the development costs of your app — there you can find out how costs are made up and which aspects you should consider when planning your budget.

How can you keep development as short as possible?

• Agile processes: By developing in short sprints, you can keep development on track and avoid time-consuming detours.
• Prioritize: Focus on key features. Additional features may also follow after the launch.
• Automation: Automated testing and continuous integration help ensure quality and iterate quickly.
• Experienced partners: A team that has already implemented similar projects will save you a lot of time (and nerves).

With these approaches, you can save time, even with the highest quality standards, without sacrificing performance or the end result.

For all questions regarding the development time of your app, we offer you a free consultation, In which we define the key points of your app idea and can tell you much more precisely what period of time you have to expect. The price can also be estimated more precisely in this way.

What makes up the price of an app?

The cost of your app depends primarily on the following:

• Complexity: Should your app have many features and interfaces or is it more simple?
• Design: Do you have special requirements for the interface including an elaborate design, or is a simple standard sufficient?
• Technical platform: Would you like a native app for iOS/Android, a web app or, if possible, everything together?
• Quality & safety: Do you need a very high level of security (e.g. for banking or health data)?
• Scope of aftercare: How much support and maintenance do you want after the release?

Native apps, i.e. apps that are specifically programmed for iOS or Android, are usually more powerful and offer more options — but are also more complex to develop. When it comes to web apps that are opened via the browser, there are big differences in terms of effort. You are Aber tends to get to the market faster zu, but they may be less powerful in terms of performance and range of functions, depending on the project.

Typical cost drivers in app development in detail

The development of an app takes place in several phases, each of which involves a different amount of the budget.

Planning & conception

No excellent app can be created without specific planning. In this first phase, your concept is therefore sharpened, use cases are defined and it is determined which functions should be represented.

• Time required: From a few days for small projects to several weeks for more complex apps.
• costs: Depending on the hourly rate (see below), the costs for a solid design phase are usually in the low to mid-four-digit range.

App Design

When it comes to design, not only the superficial appearance is important, but also the user experience (UX). A truly intuitive app impresses your users from the very first minute.

• Time required: Small, simple design: just a few days Individual UI/UX for various platforms: several weeks.‍
• costs: Design can range from a few thousand francs (or euros) for small apps to five-digit sums for complex, tailor-made solutions.

Developing the app: The costs

The biggest task is usually the actual programming. Here we make a rough distinction between:

• Native apps for iOS and Android: Highest performance and full control over device functions. Usually higher development costs, as two platforms must be developed in parallel (Objective-C/Swift for iOS and Java/Kotlin for Android). Unless you want to target one Program the operating system.
• Web apps: Work on all devices via the browser, therefore one-dimensional development effort. In return, the app may have less access to the device's native functions.

Testing & quality assurance

To prevent major errors from finding their way into the live system, it is necessary thorough testing. It should also not be underestimated how users push an app to its limits or look for gaps. User testing is therefore also important.

• Expense: Around 10-20% of total development time.
• costs: Can quickly become a five-digit amount, depending on how many devices and test plans are taken into account.

project management

Project management is also a very important cost item. A good communication structure ensures that the project stays on track and that the team works in a targeted manner.

• Expense: A share of 10—20% of the total project costs is often underestimated but realistic.

Operation & maintenance

After launch is before update! Regular updates, bug fixes and new features keep your app alive. Depending on how extensive your project is, the ongoing costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand francs per month.

Hourly rates in app development: freelancer vs. agency

Are freelancers cheaper?

• Hourly rates: Between 50 and 150 CHF/€ per hour.
• advantages: Quick availability, often cheaper, direct communication.
• Disadvantages: Less capacity for larger projects, dependence on individual people, possibly no full-service offer (design, development, testing, etc.).

Do agencies work more reliably and comprehensively?

• Hourly rates: Between 100 and 200 CHF/€ per hour or even more, depending on the degree of specialization and location.
• advantages: An experienced team, various competencies (design, development, PM, testing) under one roof, more capacities, quality standards and processes are usually established.
• Disadvantages: Higher costs, sometimes longer lead times.

Ultimately, it depends on the size of your project and your requirements whether you choose freelancers or an agency. In the case of a complex project with a long-term perspective Can the Working with an agency Pay off quickly in terms of reliability and quality.

Cost examples: What does an app ultimately cost?

To give you price ranges, we've put together two scenarios based on working with our customers. Please note that the figures are indicative — the actual costs vary depending on project scope, functional requirements, design requirements and selected technology and cannot represent a binding price list here.

Learning and quiz app as a web app

Quiz or learning modules, evaluations, user registration, payment (e.g. for certificates) and gamification.

• Expenditure: 2 - 5 months
• Costs: 40,000 to 100,000 CHF

Typical B2C mobile app (iOS/Android)

Mobile application (iOS/Android) with user profile, in-app purchases, push messages, backend API and, if applicable, chat functions.

• Expenditure: 4 - 10 months
• Costs: 60,000 - 200,000 CHF

The lower values always refer to a minimum viable product (MVP), with which customers go into the market test first. After this More features are added to validation, which increases expenditure and thus drives the price to the upper end of the price range.

How can I reduce the costs of developing the app?

With the following ideas for saving costs, we deliberately omit quality compromises, as we Axisbits exclusively in the high-quality range move and have had the best experiences with it. Nevertheless, there are ways to manage costs very consciously, even with the highest quality standards:

• Define clear requirements: From the outset, specify in detail which requirements your app should meet. In this way, milestones can be processed in a targeted manner without costly detours or subsequent changes in the development process.
• First focus on an MVP: Start with a minimum viable product — i.e. an app version that only contains the core functions. This allows you to test your idea on the market at lower costs and gain valuable insights for further development before it goes into a more comprehensive and expensive full version.
• Using no-code/low-code platforms to get started: No-code and low-code tools are great for simple prototypes or MVPs. They allow the first app versions to be implemented quickly and cost-effectively, which can later be converted to tailor-made programming as soon as the range of functions grows.
• Use agile development methods: Through iterative development steps, as are common in agile methods (e.g. Scrum), the development process remains adaptable. In this way, adjustments can be made at an early stage and unnecessary expenses can be avoided, as the app is gradually adapted to your wishes.
• Make a strategic choice of platform: Consider whether your app absolutely needs to be developed natively for iOS and Android or whether a web app or a cross-platform solution is sufficient. The latter enable development for both platforms with a single code base, saving time and money.
• Consider long-term planning and scalability: Plan your app from the start so that it can grow, if that makes sense. This avoids expensive new developments later on when your app grows or additional features need to be integrated.‍
• Include realistic budget planning and buffers: Set yourself a realistic budget right from the start and plan a buffer of around 10 - 20% of the total costs to cover unforeseen adjustments.

With these approaches, you can consciously save costs even with the highest quality standards without sacrificing performance or the end result.

We know that it takes a lot of information to start app development. So before you decide on a path, you can visit our Axisbit's portfolio Find ideas for your project.

In addition, we always offer you a free consultation, In which we define the key points of your app and tell you much more precisely what price you can expect. The duration of the project can also be estimated more precisely in this way.

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What is the best way to plan your app budget?

• concept: Take time for detailed planning and define the MVP (Minimum Viable Product). This gives you a clear set of must-have features and reduces the risk of budget overruns.
• Get offers: Compare offers from several service providers, whether freelancers or agencies. Pay attention not only to the price, but in particular to their references, communication and reliability.
• Schedule buffers: Good rule of thumb: You should set aside 10-20% of the total costs as a reserve for unforeseen tasks.
• Iterative approach: Design your app in small steps (sprints) so that you can make adjustments and control the budget at any time.