Make an App - Start a Mobile App Business

This class is designed to help anyone take an idea for an app and get it to the app stores. You'll learn about the ways apps make money, what it takes to build an app, and ways you can outsource your app development. The material is easy-to-understand for anyone with an idea for an app such as:

• marketers
• website designers
• graphic artists
• small business owners
• programmers

Your Course includes:

• A complete recording of the live class
• A download of the video you can keep on your computer
• A 50+ page workbook with detailed information
• Access to a discussion group for Q&A

Taught at Pasadena Community College, Los Angeles Valley College, and West Los Angeles College, you'll have access to the same material used in the class to learn what's necessary to launch an app. Included are slides and text from the class workbook, along with dozens of resources for additional help.

Join Now for Online Access to Class Materials

Course Outline

Introduction

• Understanding the business of apps
• Opportunities for individuals and small teams
• Overview of the app marketplace (Apple vs Android)

App Market and Categories

• Smartphone market share (U.S. vs global)
• App Store categories and trends
• Market research: finding opportunities and gaps

Planning and Business Models

• Concept development and business plan basics
• App planning: sketches, designs, and prototypes
• Organizing a business: sole proprietorship, LLC, partnerships, corporations
• Revenue models: paid apps, advertising, in-app purchases, subscriptions

App Development Process

• Planning → Production → Delivery cycle
• Content requirements: media, copy, navigation, graphics
• Designing screens and user navigation flow
• Updating and maintaining apps over time

Development Tools and Options

• Apple Developer Program and Xcode
• Google Play Developer Console and Android Studio
• Cross-platform and third-party development tools
• AI-assisted development tools (emerging trends)

Outsourcing and Team Building

• Hiring freelancers and development studios
• Outsourcing platforms: Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer
• Managing specifications and communication
• Costs, contracts, and protecting your app idea

App Store Submission

• Preparing for submission: app bundles, screenshots, descriptions
• Approval processes for Apple and Google
• App store listings: writing effective descriptions
• Support websites and customer support

Marketing and Promotion

• App Store optimization (ASO)
• Social media promotion (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn)
• Websites, YouTube, and content marketing
• Importance of reviews and ratings

Maintaining and Growing Your App Business

• Updating for new operating systems
• Ongoing maintenance and bug fixes
• Expanding with multiple apps and cross-promotion
• Skills to develop: coding, graphics, marketing, project management

Conclusion

• Key steps to becoming an app entrepreneur
• Resources and communities for ongoing support
• Next steps to launch your app business