Don't build an app, build a business

Don't build an app, build a business(alexwarren.co.uk)

59 points by alex-warren 12 years ago | 15 comments

nkozyra 12 years ago |

Okay I'm making it a point to no longer click on titles that are simply commands. It's kind of getting ridiculous now.

sudhirj 12 years ago |

The article (and it's associated links) simply keep restating the fact that app sales, like most things in and out of this category are a power law distribution. If you want to get into the top of the curve, you need exponentially greater quality / marketing.

Was there ever a time, even in the early days of the store, when making a shitty app would automatically bring in primary income?

michaelbuckbee 12 years ago | |

Yes, in the early days, apps like fart soundboards and flashlights were making people significant chunks of money.

As the competition has increased, you either find dozens of clones of the low quality apps, or one or two competitors that have taken most of the market.

Terpaholic 12 years ago |

The core concept of this article is solid - build something useful. That's how I'm getting triple digit year on year growth & traction with my app, http://www.getcampusmaps.com . Students find the app easier to use than going to the visitors center and getting a paper map, and so it provides real value to them.

I disagree that the app store gold rush is completely over however - I entered a crowded space with established competitors (including each school's own app, Google Maps, Apple Maps, GuideBook, Blackboard, and many more, and am still able to carve out a solid niche for myself.

The trick is in not only providing value with the app, but having a scalable marketing strategy. Treat it like any other product you want to sell, don't ride the Appstore-luck wave.

stkni 12 years ago | |

Your app appears free though? Growth and traction of free apps and growth and traction of paid apps aren't really comparable unless you have a plan to convert. Care to share?

Terpaholic 12 years ago | | |

Point well taken.

I've been hesitant on monetizing because of that very same growth I'm seeing. In about 6 weeks I expect to peak in the top 10 US Navigation app for about 3 days (new school year).

I've been debating ads + freemium "ads free mode", but I feel that at this point I'm getting more value out of establishing a user base. My real issue is that I don't have a GOOD scalable monetization option in mind.

Negotiating local deals takes way too long with too much turnover. I'd be interested in offering school apparel deals though. That seems scalable with the right vendor.

e: I am currently split testing one campus @ 99 cents in a separate app to test how that's received.

mozboz 12 years ago |

DNR

Don't build a business, create something good.