I was recently asked that question by a cool guy named Tope. He recently asked the same question to 13 top app makers and compiled their responses in one super awesome post: 13 Things You Must Know When Starting Out in iOS/Mac Development
Here’s my part:
Don’t neglect the idea. We’ve all heard that the idea for an app doesn’t matter; it’s all about execution. I used to firmly believe that but then something happened. My second app, Languages, made more money in one day then my first app made in two years. What on earth? They both were well executed. Grades even won an Apple Design Award. They both were well marketed, being featured by Apple and the press. What was the difference?
The idea.
Grades was always limited by the small niche it served – college students who really care about their grades (a smaller niche than we would hope). Languages was much more universal. Almost anyone might be interested in a translation app that works without an internet connection. Don’t get me wrong, as this chart illustrates, niche apps can definitely make a lot of money but they have to be in niches that care so much about the app that they will pay a premium for it. Most apps, unfortunately, make the mistake of targeting a niche that would only pay 99 cents for their app, resulting in a disappointing business equation.
Of course, I would have told my former self quite a lot more than that but that lesson was a biggie. A few other highlights:
Give back. The fastest way to learn is by openly sharing and discussing
-Marc Edwards
For this to be an enjoyable living you need the enjoy the process and people involved.
-David Smith
Be sure to check out the full article. It’s chocked full of goodness.
