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AI for Small Business

AI for small businesses helps automate tasks, improve customer service, and boost efficiency, enabling growth and competitive advantage with minimal investment.

AI for Small Business: A Practical Guide for 2025

AI is no longer a buzzword reserved for tech giants or futuristic innovations. Today, it’s reshaping industries and leveling the playing field for businesses of all sizes. For small business owners, this isn’t just a trend—it’s an opportunity to outpace competitors, and streamline operations – at a fraction of the cost.

But what most people get wrong: they think implementing AI requires a computer science degree and a Silicon Valley budget. Not true.

In fact, if you can use a smartphone, you can use AI to grow your business. The secret is knowing exactly which tools to use and how to implement them without breaking the bank.

So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this guide will help you embrace AI confidently. 

Benefits of AI for Small Businesses

AI isn’t just a shiny new toy for big companies—it can be a game-changer for small businesses as using AI tools in various workflows gives the following benefits. 

Boost Efficiency Without Breaking the Bank: Business leaders experienced a 44% increase in productivity by adopting AI in their operations, as it can automate tasks such as email sorting, appointment scheduling, and responding to customer service inquiries. This automation saves hours of work each week. Tools like Zapier and ChatGPT can manage these tasks, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

Save Money by Making Smarter Decisions: AI helps you make data-driven decisions. For example, tools like Google Analytics or Tableau can analyze sales trends, customer behavior, and even competitor performance. Armed with this knowledge, you can allocate resources more effectively and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Delight Your Customers with Personalization: Think about your favorite shopping experience. Did you get a personalized discount or recommendation? AI can do that for your customers. Salesforce research indicates that 88% of customers believe quality customer service increases their likelihood of repurchasing.

Improve Customer Support—Even After Hours: No one likes waiting on hold. With AI chatbots like Freshdesk or Intercom, your business can respond to customer inquiries instantly—even at midnight. That’s the kind of service that keeps people coming back.

Common Use Cases of AI for Small Businesses

From marketing to operations, AI can touch every corner of your small business and make it smarter, faster, and more profitable. So, let’s explore some common use cases with real-life examples and data to back them up.

Marketing and Sales: Drive More Revenue with Less Effort

AI tools like HubSpot, Jasper AI, and Google Ads have revolutionized how small businesses approach marketing.

Email Campaigns: AI can analyze customer behavior to send emails at the perfect time. A study by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) revealed that using dynamic content in email marketing can result in a remarkable 760% increase in revenue. And, based on our research, the top AI email marketing tools for creating dynamic content are MailChimp and Mailmodo.

Customer Support: Always-On Service, No Extra Staff

We all know, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are transforming customer service for small businesses.

Chatbots: Tools like ChatGPT or Freshdesk can handle FAQs, take orders, and even process complaints—saving your team hours every week. Here are some key facts:

According to a report from Gartner, by 2026, chatbots and virtual assistants are expected to save businesses up to $80 billion annually in customer support costs.

A survey by Tidio found that 62% of customers prefer communicating with a chatbot rather than waiting for a response from a human agent.

3. Inventory Management: Avoid Stockouts and Overstocking

AI-powered tools can analyze trends and predict future demand, helping our businesses manage inventory more effectively.

Predictive Analytics: AI tools like TradeGecko or Ordoro forecast which products will sell best during specific seasons or promotions.

Dynamic Pricing: Adjust pricing in real-time based on demand and market conditions, a strategy used by big players like Amazon.

Supply Chain Optimization: AI ensures timely restocking by analyzing supplier performance and delivery times.

4. Hiring and HR: Find and Retain Top Talent

AI is making hiring smarter and more efficient, especially for small businesses that don’t have dedicated HR teams.

Recruitment: AI tools like Zoho Recruit or BambooHR can scan resumes, rank candidates, and even schedule interviews, cutting down hiring time by up to 50%.

Employee Engagement: Tools like TINYpulse use AI to analyze employee feedback and recommend improvements, reducing turnover rates.

Onboarding: AI-powered chatbots can guide new hires through onboarding, providing answers and resources in real time.

Financial Management: Stay on Top of Your Finances

AI can make financial management easier for small businesses with tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks by…

Bookkeeping Automation: AI can reconcile accounts, flag anomalies, and categorize expenses automatically.

Fraud Detection: AI algorithms spot unusual transactions instantly, protecting your business from fraud.

Cash Flow Management: Tools like Float use AI to predict cash flow, helping you avoid financial pitfalls.

Social Media Management: Maximize Your Reach

AI tools like Hootsuite and Buffer analyze social media performance, suggest posting times, and even generate captions.

Content Creation: AI tools like Canva and Lumen5 help small businesses create stunning visuals and videos effortlessly.

Sentiment Analysis: AI tracks how customers feel about your brand, helping you adjust campaigns in real time.

Performance Analytics: Identify which posts drive engagement and which don’t, saving time and resources.

Popular AI Tools for Small Businesses

AI tools are no longer a luxury—they’re essential for small businesses looking to scale operations, delight customers, and boost efficiency. The market is brimming with tools tailored to different business needs, so it’s crucial to know which ones offer the best value for your investment. Below, we’ve categorized the most popular AI tools for small businesses, provided examples, and included a comparison table for each category to help you make an informed decision.

Marketing and Sales Tools:These tools help to automate campaigns, generate leads, and improve customer interactions.

HubSpot: An all-in-one CRM platform with AI-powered marketing automation features like email personalization and sales forecasting.

Jasper AI: A content creation tool that uses AI to write blogs, ad copies, and emails. 

ActiveCampaign: Combines email marketing, customer segmentation, and AI-driven automation for customer journeys.

Drift: AI-driven conversational marketing and sales tool with chatbots and lead qualification.

Customer Support Tools:These tools streamline customer service with chatbots, ticketing systems, and AI analytics.

Freshdesk: AI-powered support desk with ticket management and chatbots.

Zendesk AI: Provides automated customer service workflows and real-time analytics.

Intercom: Combines AI chatbots with live chat to improve customer interactions.

Financial Management Tools:AI in finance helps with bookkeeping, cash flow analysis, and fraud detection.

QuickBooks Online: Automated bookkeeping and tax management powered by AI.

Xero: Offers AI-driven insights into cash flow and financial health.

Float: Specialized in AI-powered cash flow forecasting for small businesses.

Content Creation Tools:For blogs, social media, and marketing materials, these AI tools can save time and improve content quality.

Canva AI: Simplifies graphic design with AI-generated templates and suggestions.

Lumen5: Transforms blog content into engaging videos using AI.

Writesonic: AI-powered copywriting tool for blogs, ads, and social posts.

Workflow and Project Management Tools: Optimize team collaboration, productivity, and task automation with these AI tools.

Asana: AI suggestions for task prioritization and project tracking.

Monday.com: AI-powered automations for workflow management and reporting.

Trello: Combines AI with Kanban boards for task tracking and collaboration.

Hiring and HR Management Tools:To streamline hiring, performance reviews, and payroll processing.

BambooHR: AI-driven best HR software for small businesses.

Zoho Recruit: AI-powered talent acquisition platform.

Workable: Streamlines hiring workflows with AI candidate screening.

Adopting AI for Businesses: Challenges & Solutions

So, understanding these obstacles can help businesses prepare and make the most of AI adoption.

Limited Budget for AI Implementation: Small businesses often operate on tight budgets, and the upfront costs of AI tools can seem daunting.

For example, while AI solutions like QuickBooks Online or HubSpot are affordable for basic needs, advanced AI integrations such as predictive analytics or machine learning models can demand significant investment.

A report by Deloitte found that over 40% of small businesses cite cost as the primary barrier to adopting AI.

Custom AI solutions, in particular, can range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on complexity.

Lack of Technical Expertise: AI implementation isn’t as simple as flipping a switch—it requires an understanding of data science, machine learning, and workflows. Unfortunately, small businesses often lack in-house expertise to deploy and manage AI solutions.

50% of surveyed leaders identify the top challenges in scaling AI as:  

Managing AI-related risks  

Insufficient executive commitment  

Lack of maintenance and post-launch support.  

 How to Get Started with AI

Adopting AI for your small business might seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into actionable steps makes the process easier and more effective. 

Identify Your Business Needs and Pain Points: The first step is to pinpoint areas where AI can bring the most value. Are your customer queries taking up too much time? Do you struggle with managing inventory? Or are you losing potential leads due to slow follow-ups?

Example: If customer service is a bottleneck, a tool like Tidio AI Chatbot could be the solution.

Fact: A Forbes Advisor survey reveals that 73% of businesses currently use or intend to implement AI-powered chatbots for instant messaging. Additionally, 61% utilize AI to enhance email performance, while 55% leverage it for personalized services like product recommendations.

Sources: https://www.agicent.com/blog/ai-for-small-business/

[smithsullivan]

What is Web 4.0?

Explore the concept of Web 4.0, its innovations, and how it reshapes digital landscapes for a smarter, interconnected future.

Introduction to the Internet and its definitions

Internet is a large system that connects multiple servers and systems of computers, and mobile phones globally. Internet as per its definition is described as “networks of networks” that serve as crucial elements when it comes to communication between two distinct resources in the digital world. The conformations of the internet have always helped to transform day-to-day communication with every aspect that inclines us towards modern living.

World Wide Web is simply in common terms is pile of pages which are interconnected among each other and follow protocols called HTTP for communicating data between servers and clients. The World Wide Web referred to as the Web, is one of the subsets of the Internet that monitors and mediates interaction between users like us and the digital content available dynamically.

With the advancement in technology standards and user behaviour web is evolving and every time with the addition of new features it emerges as the new version. In this article, we will delve into the latest and most intelligent version of the web now i.e. Web 4.0 and consider it as the next evolutionary and significant step in the growth and development of the internet. Web 4.0 is still in the conceptual stage which means it has not yet been released, however, it is believed that the commencement of Web 4.0 could involve building AI tools of advanced level that turn out to be more responsive and intelligent.

History of evolution of Web and its versions

WEB 1.0

WEB 1.0 (Static web): As the name suggests, static web was used to deliver consumer with the content exactly the same as uploaded by the content creator. Later this static character of web got a code name of WEB 1.0 Web 1.0 was a “read-only” web. The basic core for this web was community governance, decentralization of networks, creation and contribution of content for the web.

HTTP, SMTP, FTP, IRC and SMS were the open protocols which made a foundation stone for Web 1.0. These protocols were crucial as anyone can easily work with them and make the content for the web Web 1.0 is the term used to describe the earliest form of the internet which sets the first example of a “global network”, which showed the potential for future digitalisation of Information sharing and communication.

This Web 1.0 was created in 1991 by TIM BERNERS LEE who is an English computer scientist best known for invention of the HTML markup language, the URL system, and HTTP along with WORLD WIDE WEB being his most famous invention. It was known as “static web” or “read only web” as it had no visuals, controls, forms and interactivity. It was all about web pages which are connected to a system with the help of hyperlinks.

In 1993, the web became available to the public and lead to Rapid increase in website that were created.

By Early 1995, over a million websites were available and this growth continued throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Web 2.0

The Creation of most important COOKIE: (HTTP COOKIE) To overcome one of the first limitations of web 1.0, which was being STATELESS.

As discussed earlier, web 1.0 was unable to capture state or user data and could not convey any data related to the user to web developer such as if the end user had previously visited the website or not and it was being difficult for a web developer to know the demographic of the end user, which meant you could not build products or services specifically targeted for your end users.

In first attempt of solving this limitation of capturing state or user data, LOU MONTULLI, a computer programmer came up with the invention of HTTP cookie with which developer can tell if the user had visited a website previously or not.

And, with this invention, now that we were being able to capture user state the Web transitioned into Web 2.0.

Web 2.0 often being referred to as “read and write” web, spans from early 2000s to current period. The the word web 2.0 was first given by DARCY DiNucci, a technology strategist.

WEB 3.0

THE FUTURE The inventor of world wide web TIM LEE, originally called web 3.0 as “semantic web “as it was conceived as a more autonomous, intelligent and open Internet. Web 3.0 is often described as read, write and execute. The open internet, we are talking about would involve AI and ML which would process content like a “global brain” with all data being connected in a way that is contextual and conceptual, but this didn’t work as planned because Tech just wasn’t at the right place.

In web 3.0, users can interact in a decentralized way, but with security. From money to information, all exchanges are conducted without the need of tech companies, banks, or any other middleman so if web 2.0 makes the user a product, web 3.0 makes the user the content owner.

Basically, the goal of web 3.0 is to make the internet more intelligent, personalized and responsive to users need, and to achieve this, Artificial Intelligence and Big Data are being used to create a semantic web that understands the meaning of information on internet and this will allow for more appropriate search result, better recommendation and more personalized experience to the users. The web 3.0 has shown the potential to transform the internet into a much more powerful and useful tool for everyone, from a developer to the end core user. With the help of Web 3.0, it is now possible for devices to interact with each other directly without the need for human intervention.

Difference in Web 4.0 from Web 3.0

Web 3.0 (Semantic Web)

Decentralization: Often termed the “semantic web,” Web 3.0 aims for a more decentralized, open-source, and immersive online experience. It facilitates user participation, content creation, and ownership without dependence on intermediaries.

Blockchain Infrastructure: Web 3.0’s infrastructure relies on the blockchain—a public ledger—allowing trustless interactions among users without reliance on a central authority.

Monetization and Ownership: In contrast to Web 2.0, where platforms profit from user-generated content, Web 3.0 empowers users to monetize their data and retain ownership of their contributions.

Elements: Web 3.0 integrates decentralization, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality (AR/VR), and ubiquity.

Web 4.0 (Intelligent Web)

Web 4.0 is way more decentralization and integration with Machines-

It has Higher Decentralization: where Web 4.0 extends decentralization further, aiming for a simpler and more integrated internet connected to human thinking and cognition, without precise definition.

It comprises features of Cerebral Web where Some sources suggest Web 4.0 will be more “cerebral” as it involves deep learning indicating a deeper connection between human minds and the digital realm.

Web 4.0, Mentioned by Elon Musk and Twitter founder Jack Dorsey, Web FOUR, a meme coin, humorously reflects the concept of the next internet iteration. While not directly addressing Web 4.0’s technical aspects, Web four promotes accessible decentralization¹.

Web 3.0 Critique: Musk and Dorsey argue that Web 3.0 lacks true decentralization and primarily serves venture capitalists (VCs), citing ongoing capital concentration issues.

Advancements in features of Web 4.0

In the ever-evolving landscape of the internet, the emergence of Web 4.0 marks a pivotal moment where technology succeed with its previous predecessors and their boundaries, which offer users an unprecedented type of personalization as well as customization. In the Centre of evolution there stays the utility of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms, empowering Web 4.0 to deliver tailored content as per the preferences of users and services with unique and accurate precision.  Web 4.0 has its special features to adapt the user that too individual user preferences creating a digital experience that feels uniquely crafted for each user.

Central to the promise of Web 4.0 is its augmented interactivity, which redefines how users engage with digital content and services. Through the integration of immersive technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, Web 4.0 elevates user experiences to new heights, blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds. This heightened level of interactivity enables users to interact with information and services in ways previously unimaginable, opening doors to innovative and groundbreaking experiences.

In conclusion, Web 4.0 represents a convergence of technologies that hold the potential and strength to shape and transform the future where innovation and creativity are limitless and knows no bounds. By embracing and encouraging creativity, collaboration, and a forward-thinking broad mindset, we can harness the power of Web 4.0 to create a digital landscape where there are endless opportunities and the future will possess a positive change within itself.

Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/what-is-web-4-0-explained/

[smithsullivan]

Why do Companies Choose to Outsource Work?

Companies outsource work not only for cost effectiveness but also for efficiency, access to global talent, scalability, faster time-to-market, risk mitigation, enhanced focus on core competencies.

Why do Companies Choose to Outsource Work and how do they do that?

If you’re struggling with tasks better handled elsewhere or can’t find the right in-house talent, probably think about outsourcing. But not sure if it’s really helpful or not and want to know why companies choose to outsource work.

In short, outsourcing isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a proven strategy that can help your businesses focus on what you do best while leaving the rest to experts. It is like gaining access to world-class talent, cutting operational expenses by almost half, and bringing your ideas to life faster. 

Top 7 reasons why companies outsource: Real facts & stats

As we’ve delivered 1,000+ projects, earned 10+ awards, and gained recognition from top brands worldwide since 2010, we’ve seen firsthand how outsourcing can transform businesses. Below are our findings on why companies choose to outsource.

1. Cost-Effectiveness without compromising quality

From salaries and benefits to office space and equipment, the costs of maintaining an in-house team can add up quickly. That’s why cost-effectiveness is often the first reason companies consider outsourcing.

2. Access to specialized talent

Gone are the days when talent was limited by geography. Outsourcing opens the door to a global pool of skilled professionals—people who are experts in their fields and can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to your business.

3. Focus on core competencies

In business, time is money. And let’s be honest—time spent managing tasks outside your expertise is time wasted. That’s why outsourcing is a no-brainer for companies that want to focus on what they do best.

4. Scalability and Flexibility

Business needs change. Sometimes you need more resources for a big project; other times, you need to scale down. This is where outsourcing becomes your best ally. And, 

16% of businesses cite flexibility as a major factor in choosing outsourcing partners as it allows you to adjust your team size, skill set, and capabilities on demand. Need 10 developers to meet a tight deadline? No problem. Want to scale back after a project wraps up? Easy. You’re not locked into long-term commitments or hefty payrolls—you pay for what you need when you need it.

5. Reduced time to market

Speed can help you get to market quickly and stay ahead of your competitors, but it can also make or break your business due to even a small mistake—whether you’re launching a new product, deploying software, or rolling out a service.

6. Access to advanced technology and best practices

Staying updated with the latest technology is challenging, not to mention expensive. From purchasing software licenses to training employees, the costs of keeping pace with innovation can be daunting. This is where outsourcing shines.

When you outsource, you gain access to advanced tools, methodologies, and technologies without bearing the full cost. Outsourcing partners invest heavily in staying at the forefront of their industries because it’s their bread and butter. By working with them, you tap into cutting-edge solutions and industry best practices.

7 Risk management and compliance

You know every business decision comes with risks. Whether it’s regulatory compliance, cybersecurity threats, or operational failures, navigating these challenges can be complex. But, outsourcing can help you mitigate risks by leveraging the expertise of professionals who specialize in managing them.

Disadvantages of outsourcing

So, first, identify these disadvantages and then mitigate them with best practices that we discuss after this, to turn outsourcing into a profitable endeavor.

A. Communication Barriers: When working with teams in different time zones or cultural settings, miscommunication may occur. Simple misunderstandings can lead to delays or misaligned project outcomes. For example, feedback loops can take longer, and small clarifications might require extended back-and-forth, slowing down progress.

B. Quality Control Challenges: Not all outsourcing vendors have the same standards of quality. So, without proper oversight, there’s a risk of receiving work that doesn’t meet expectations. This is especially concerning for tasks that are customer-facing or directly impact your brand reputation.

C. Confidentiality Risks: When outsourcing tasks that involve sensitive data, like customer information or proprietary processes, there’s always a risk of breaches. Even with agreements in place, lapses in security protocols can lead to data leaks or compliance issues.

D. Overdependence on Vendors: Relying heavily on an external provider can make your business vulnerable. If a vendor encounters challenges—capacity constraints, financial difficulties, or leadership changes—it can disrupt your operations.

E. Hidden Costs: While outsourcing appears cost-effective upfront, unexpected expenses, such as additional revisions, extended deadlines, or legal compliance costs, can affect the budget. Sources:  https://www.agicent.com/blog/why-companies-outsource-work/

[smithsullivan]

ReactJS Development Company for advance Apps

Build advance digital products with Top ReactJS Development Company Agicent Back in 2010, we planted our roots in Atlanta and India, dreaming of creating top-notch apps. Little did we know we’d soon be on a rocket ship! When React burst onto the scene in 2013, we jumped on board and made a React developers team, seeing its huge potential. Fast forward to today: we’ve wowed over 500 clients with 1000+ killer products. ReactJS Development Services: We offer At Agicent, we strive to craft digital experiences that resonate. Our Reactjs expertise spans a wide spectrum, ensuring we've got you covered no matter your project's scope or complexity. Here's a taste of what we bring to the table:

Custom ReactJS Application Development 

We turn your vision into reality, building bespoke web applications that captivate users and drive results. From sleek single-page apps to complex enterprise solutions, we've got the Reactjs chops to make it happen.

React Native Mobile App Development 

Why choose between platforms when you can conquer both? Our React Native wizards craft mobile apps that feel right at home on iOS and Android, saving you time and resources without compromising on quality.

No matter where you are in your React journey, Agicent is here to elevate your web presence. Ready to harness the full power of React?  Let's build something amazing together.

Tested ReactJS Tech Stack

When it comes to React development, we don’t just scratch the surface — we dive real deep. So, let’s have a look at the technical muscle that powers our solutions

Redux & MobX for State Management

Advanced tools for handling complex application states efficiently and predictably, ensuring your app runs smoothly under all conditions.

ReactJS Core

Our foundation enables us to create high-speed, modular applications.

Next.js for SSR

Optimizing SEO and load time with server-side rendering for smooth, high-performing ReactJS applications. Sources : https://www.agicent.com/reactjs-development-company

[smithsullivan]

Flutter vs React Native: A Comprehensive Comparison of Cross-Platforms

Flutter vs React Native in 2024: Analysis for Businesses

If you feel like you’re stuck in a maze trying to choose the right cross-platform framework for mobile app development—especially between Flutter and React Native in 2024 for your business—trust me, you’re not alone in this boat.

Clients often ask us, “Which one’s best for my business?” And, after working on 100+ projects with both frameworks, we’re here to spill the beans. So, this isn’t just another comparison of Flutter vs. React Native in 2024—this is real talk from real projects, experience, and expertise.

What are Flutter and React Native?

Before diving into which framework is best for your business, let’s first understand what Flutter and React Native bring to the table.

Flutter is Google’s UI toolkit launched in 2017, using the Dart programming language. It is like having a turbo engine for your app ideas. It’s all about speed: rapid development, instant updates, lightning-fast performance, and the ability to create visually rich, native-like apps from a single codebase. Giants like BMW and Alibaba are already on board.

On the other hand, React Native, developed by Meta in 2015, relies on the JavaScript ecosystem. It is your seasoned co-founder in the app world and speaks the language of web developers (JavaScript) but delivers native mobile experiences. It’s backed by industry titans like Instagram and Airbnb. 

Flutter vs React Native in 2024: A Detailed Comparison

So, let’s break down the hands-on experience and inside scoop that we’ve got using both technologies extensively in different projects.

1. Performance: 

Whether you’re building an app for speed, scalability, or seamless user experiences, performance plays a big role in determining which framework is better suited to your business. 

Flutter: Flutter’s performance has consistently impressed us. Here’s what we’ve found:

Smooth animations: Flutter apps run at 60fps out of the box.

Fast load times: We’ve seen Flutter apps start up in milliseconds.

In one of our projects, we successfully used Flutter to handle real-time updates for a data-heavy app called Kredily, designed to handle human resources and payroll processes. The client was thrilled with the smooth user experience.

React Native: React Native’s performance is solid but with some caveats:

Generally fast: Most React Native apps we’ve built perform well.

Occasional hiccups: Complex UI can sometimes cause frame drops.

2. Development Speed & Cost:

In the business world, time is money. So, we closely track development times to maintain our schedule, stay as the best app development company in this competitive world, and reduce costs for our partners.

Time to Market: Our first-hand experience with Flutter reveals that it speeds up development significantly for apps with intricate UI requirements. Flutter’s Hot Reload feature allows our developers to instantly see the impact of code changes, making the iteration process faster.

3. User Interface and Design

I hope you also agree that the look and feel of an app can make or break its success. 

Flutter shines in UI development:

Consistent across platforms: Our designers love the pixel-perfect consistency.

Custom designs: We can easily create unique, branded experiences.

I hope you also agree that the look and feel of an app can make or break its success. 

4. Integration & Compatibility: Backend, APIs, and 3rd-Party Services

For startups, integrating with existing backend services and APIs is a key requirement. Whether you’re using Firebase, AWS, or other third-party services, the ability to smoothly integrate these into your app can make or break your development process.

Backend Compatibility: Our projects have shown that Flutter integrates exceptionally well with Firebase, particularly when building apps that require real-time data syncs or cloud-based services. Flutter’s compatibility with Firebase allows for fast development cycles and reduces complexity for startups.

5. Security & Stability: Ensuring Business Safety

Security and stability are top priorities for any business, particularly startups that handle sensitive user data. As you evaluate Flutter vs React Native in 2024, these factors could play a decisive role in your decision.

Flutter offers built-in security features like Dart’s type safety, which helps prevent vulnerabilities such as SQL injections and XSS attacks. Additionally, its ability to compile to native code adds an extra layer of security by limiting direct access to codebases. How to Make the Right Choice for Your Business?

Choosing between Flutter and React Native isn’t just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one that can significantly impact your business trajectory. After working with 400+ startups and seeing both successes and stumbles, we’ve developed a framework to help you make the right choice. 

1. Assess Your Project Requirements: 

First things first: what does your app need to do? We’ve found that different app types tend to favor one framework over the other.

Complex, Animation-Heavy Apps: If you’re building a game, a highly interactive user interface, or an app with complex animations, Flutter might be your best bet. We’ve consistently seen Flutter outperform in these scenarios.

2. Cross-Platform Consistency: 

If your brand values flexibility with a native feel on both iOS and Android, React Native is a strong contender. 

While Flutter excels in pixel-perfect consistency, React Native offers the advantage of seamlessly integrating with native modules, making it easier to create a familiar user experience across platforms while maintaining performance. We’ve found React Native’s cross-platform capabilities efficient for many of our projects like Aiko & Egor.  

3. Consider Your Team’s Expertise: 

Your team’s skills and experience should play a vital role in your decision.

If your team has a web development background, especially with React, React Native offers a smoother transition, leveraging familiar tools and skills. 

For mobile-first teams with native development experience, Flutter can be an exciting option, offering high performance and cross-platform capabilities.

4. Time-to-Market Pressures: 

In the startup world, speed is often of the essence. Your choice should align with your launch timeline.

Need for Speed: If you need to get to market quickly with an MVP, Flutter often has the edge. Its hot reload feature and comprehensive widget library can significantly speed up development.

5. Budget Considerations

Your budget constraints can influence your framework choice. Right?

So, for startups on a shoestring budget needing a quick turnaround, we often recommend Flutter. Its efficiency in development can translate to cost savings.

For long-term scalability, either framework can work with more resources. However, React Native’s performance benefits can lead to lower server costs as your user base grows and is easy to scale.

React Native: Best for Fast-Moving, Web-Centric Startups

Screenshot of a web-centric app

For startups looking to build quickly and rely on JavaScript expertise, React Native is a solid choice. Our first-hand experience shows that React Native is particularly valuable for businesses with existing web platforms that want to expand into mobile without starting from scratch. 

React Native’s speed of development is unmatched, especially for MVPs and apps that don’t require heavy, customized UI work.

So, if you need to launch an app fast, React Native’s vast ecosystem of third-party libraries will help you get there. Plus, with the updates, Meta is pushing forward in 2024 and beyond, React Native is closing the performance gap, making it a strong contender for both short-term and long-term projects.

Key Industries for React Native:

Social media and content platforms

Startups needing fast deployment (e.g., MVPs)

Businesses looking for seamless web and mobile integration

Final Verdict

I want to emphasize that the choice between Flutter and React Native in 2024 depends on your startup’s goals, budget, and technical needs. Both frameworks offer significant advantages, but it’s important to conduct a thorough analysis using the points and factors we’ve discussed to ensure that the best fit aligns with your business’s long-term vision.

As mentioned, our team has extensive experience with both technologies. So, if you need guidance on choosing between Flutter and React Native or want to learn more about how these frameworks could work for your business, our team is here to help you make the most informed decision for 2024 and beyond. Sources: https://www.agicent.com/blog/flutter-vs-react-native/

[smithsullivan]

Part time remote jobs

Are you currently searching for the best work-from-home job sites in the USA? If so, you are not alone. A survey by Upwork says that the number of remote workers will increase to 22% in 2025, which will involve 326 million Americans.

Top 12 Work-from-Home Job Boards in the USA

The opportunities to work from home have grown significantly, providing far greater opportunities for people who are looking for flexible options within their careers. Those in the tech industry, especially programmers and software engineers, are privileged to have so many choices to make.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is not just an online professional community, but it is a great way to search for work-from-home jobs, particularly in the IT sector.

Indeed

Undoubtedly, Indeed serves as one of the biggest job search platforms in the world, providing a vast number of work-from-home vacancies in nearly all fields, especially in the IT field.

FlexJobs

FlexJobs remains one of the best websites for workers to search for remote and freelance jobs, especially in the technology sector.

We Work Remotely

We Work Remotely has become one of the most popular websites for employers and employment seekers in the sphere of remote work, especially in IT and programming from home work opportunities.

Remote.co

Remote.co has been recognized as a one-stop platform for finding remote jobs and employers recruiting employees under the modality of remote work.

Conclusion

All of these 12 work-from-home job boards provide great sources of work-from-home opportunities, especially for tech workers. Every platform is different and has its advantages and characteristics that allow covering some needs and interests of the remote job market.

Sources: https://www.agicent.com/blog/part-time-remote-jobs/

[smithsullivan]

React Vs React native: Which one to choose for your project?

React vs. React Native: Which One is Better and Why

React vs React Native(A Quick View): React or React.js is a free, open-source JavaScript library for building component-based user interfaces, primarily for single-page applications (SPAs). It can also be extended to mobile or server-rendered apps using frameworks like Next.js.

Meet React: The Master of Web Interfaces

React (or React.js) is an open-source JavaScript library developed by Facebook, designed to build dynamic and interactive user interfaces, especially for single-page applications (SPAs). Its component-based architecture allows developers to break down complex UIs into smaller, reusable components, that help development faster, more organized, and scalable. React can optimize rendering with its virtual DOM, ensuring high performance and a smoother user experience

Detailed Comparison: React vs. React Native

So, while writing the post, keep in mind that this in-depth analysis should help our readers choose the right technology stack based on project requirements, performance needs, and platform compatibility.

1. Performance Analysis:

React and React Native cater to different platforms—web and mobile—with distinct performance characteristics. So, understanding their performance benchmarks can help us choose the right technology based on factors such as rendering efficiency, responsiveness, load times, and the ability to handle complex tasks.

2. Development Speed and Cost Efficiency:

Initial Setup and Configuration

If we talk about the setup, a React project is more straightforward with tools like Create React App. For example, creating a new React project can be done with a single command: npx create-react-app my-app, which sets up a basic project structure with minimal configuration.

3. UI/UX Flexibility:

Native Look and Feel vs. Web Interface Flexibility

React allows for extensive customization and flexibility with web-based UI, using HTML, CSS, and various UI libraries. And, web apps can be styled to achieve any look and feel, though they remain within the constraints of web browsers.

React Native provides a native look and feel by using native components for iOS and Android. Though, it closely mimics native apps, but achieving highly customized designs can be challenging compared to web interfaces.

4. Scalability and Maintainability:

React is known for its stability and continuous evolution, and it is backed by a strong community and Facebook’s support. The best thing that a developer needs is the library’s updates and new features, which are introduced with a focus on backward compatibility.

5 React vs React Native Syntax:

React uses JSX, a syntax extension that allows HTML-like code to coexist with JavaScript and simplifies writing components by allowing developers to visualize UI elements alongside the logic, which makes the code more readable and easier to maintain. This is particularly helpful for web development where UI elements and interactivity need to be tightly coupled.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between React and React Native

So, now you want to choose either React or React Native, but keep patience because when deciding between them for your project, several factors come into play that can influence the overall success of your application.

Project Type and Requirements: The first and most important factor is the type of project you’re building.

React: Ideal for web applications, single-page apps (SPAs), and complex UI that requires rich interactivity. If your primary target is the web, React is the better choice.

React Native: Best suited for mobile applications, especially when you need to build cross-platform apps for iOS and Android. If the goal is to have a natively rendered mobile app, React Native is the way to go.

Which One is Better and Why?

In simple words, there’s no definitive ‘better’ technology; the choice between React and React Native depends on the specific needs of your project. But, before choosing, consider future scalability and updates.

For a general guideline, React is ideal for large, complex web applications that need to scale over time, while React Native is highly efficient for launching a minimum viable product (MVP) on multiple platforms. React Native allows you to iterate quickly without needing to build separate native apps for iOS and Android.

React JS vs React Native: Which is Easier to Learn?

I call it funny because, as we all know, nothing is inherently easy or hard—it depends on an individual’s skills, background, IQ level, and many more things. However, when choosing between React JS and React Native, the decision may often come down to the learning curve.

So, let’s dive into this topic step by step, by the end, I hope you’ll have a clear sense of which one might be easier for you to learn based on your background and goals. Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/react-vs-react-native/

[smithsullivan]

10 Best Nearshore Outsourcing Companies

Nearshore outsourcing is a process which includes consulting a company which is situated in a nearby country rather than going with companies that are present in the same geographical land to fulfil the requirements or needs related to business or IT avenues. It’s more like delegating work to a neighboring company instead of one which is completely far away.

Advantages of Nearshore outsourcing

Access to Skilled Labor

One can access to the skill as well as the expertise which might not be present in the in-house team with the advantage of nearshore development.

Proximity and Cultural Similarities

Nearshore also helps in building good relationships as it promotes cultural similarities which could be advantageous when it comes to communication. Outsourcing within a country which has proximity and shares similarities with their client not only helps in sharing similarities like time zones, weather situations, but also helps in establishing effective team spirit which ultimately returns as a profitable cost to the company.

Easy control and accessibility 

The company taking outsourcing services could easily monitor and look after the workings when it’s in nearshore development as compared to other outsourcing strategies, which could result in better requirement understanding, and in case there is instant requirement change, with the advantage of less geographical barrier the client can directly visit to arena of service providers and therefore the adjustment can be easily administered and the evolving needs can be easily meet.

Some of the Best Nearshore Outsourcing Companies

1. Agicent

Agicent is a globally recognised technology firm specialising in software development services for mobile apps and the web. With its decade of experience, the organisation has earned fame for providing top-notch web development solutions dedicated to both startup ventures and established enterprises alike. Its rich client base includes well-known corporations such as TCS and Panasonic.

2. 1840 & company

It’s a global business process outsource providers that offers vast range of services which are scalable and the services also include workforce solutions. The company assist businesses in meeting the right talent required. The services provided by the company includes modern outsourcing solutions, staff augmentation, and direct placement. We streamline business processes with scalable, cost-effective, and innovative outsourcing solutions.

3. Remotepeople

Remote People is a premier nearshoring and international recruitment firm that excels in connecting businesses with top-tier, affordable, talent in neighboring regions. Remote People’s extensive network of professionals ensures that clients have access to skilled individuals who can contribute effectively to their projects from day one.

4. Distillery

Regionally present in United States, Argentina, and Mexico and possessing headquarters in Manhattan Beach, California, the company works on technologies such as AWS, GCP, Docker, Kubernetes, Node.JS, React Native, and Cypress. It is nearshore outsourcing company that has served several key clients including eBay, Mercedes-Benz, City copyright, Rakuten, and more.

5. Novatech

With its regional presence in United States (Miami), Costa Rica, and El Salvador, Novatech possess the headquarter in San Salvador, El Salvador. Novatech work on technologies such as ASP. Net, Node JS, Django, React, AWS, MySQL, and Xamarin. It has served several key clients including Mid- and large-sized enterprises, blue-chip clients, and Fortune 500 companies.

Parameters to consider while choosing a Nearshore Outsourcing Companies

Choosing a suitable vendor is always an intricate affair. There are several key factors associated when choosing a suitable IT vendor as these service providers play a significant role in an organization’s success. Several factors are responsible for choosing the right vendor. Some of the key parameters are:

Experience evaluation – The prime step in looking for a perfect nearshore outsourcing company is to research its industry experience and check whether the company has prior experience in the service which you are looking for. Look for client testimonials and referrals.

Technical skill – Nearshore outsourcing is one of the kind of IT outsourcing which is a dynamic term, and therefore it comprises a vast number of services with respective technologies and therefore you must ensure that the IT vendor has a skilled team for your requirements.

Why Agicent could be your best Nearshore Outsourcing Partner?

Dev teams – retainer model – We follow a pay-per-use approach and therefore offer on-demand SaaS development through a retainer pricing structure. Whether you come with a scratch idea or a fully-fledged model, or you need ongoing development and maintenance efforts for your existing mobile or web apps, we help transition your idea into reality. This model works great when you have a team to manage the project.

Projects delivered – We have converted almost 1000+ app ideas into reality and have digitally transformed businesses.

Awards and Recognition – We are an established agency that has recognition from the best. We are categorized under top app development companies by first such as SelectedFirms, and GoodFirms.

Industries we have worked – Agicent has 15+ years of experience in generating solutions for our customers, we have covered almost all kinds of industries in providing our services.

Tech Stack – We work on the latest technologies to deliver you the quality. We use both Native as well as Cross platform technologies such as Swift, Xcode, Studio, Kotlin and React native, flutter respectively for Mobile App Development. We use open source wherever applicable for your benefit, and use the latest web technologies like react.js, angular, node.js, and graphql to build powerful web apps.

Sources: https://www.agicent.com/blog/nearshore-outsourcing-companies/

[smithsullivan]

How to Hire an App Developer: Step-By-Step Guide for 2024

How to Hire an App Developer? A guide for App Entrepreneur

Once you’ve your App product idea in mind, the next most important question you mostly encounter is “How can I hire an app developer or put together an app development team?” The simple answer is – you can hire an App Development Company, or Hire an App Developer Freelancer, or hire An Offshore App Development Team.

Why You Need To Hire An App Developer?

Hire an app developer is a pivotal choice that can enormously help people and organisations the same. Whether you have a particular venture as a main priority or are thinking about the drawn out benefits of having an application for your association, there are a few convincing motivations behind why you could have to employ an application engineer: Specialized Aptitude: Application improvement is a complicated field that requires specific information and abilities. Proficient application engineers are knowledgeable in programming dialects, systems, and devices important to make practical and easy to understand applications.

Customization: In the event that you have an exceptional thought for an application, recruiting an engineer permits you to rejuvenate your vision. Designers can tailor the application to your accurate determinations, guaranteeing it meets your particular requirements and goals.

Time Proficiency: Fostering an application without any preparation can be tedious, particularly in the event that you’re not knowledgeable about coding. You can send off your application all the more rapidly by employing an application designer, who can essentially accelerate the advancement interaction.

Cost-Effective: Even though it may appear to be an initial investment, hiring a professional developer can actually save you money in the long run.

Pre-requisites Before You Hire an App Developer

Before embarking on the journey of hiring an app developer or an app development team, it’s essential to lay a solid foundation for your project.

Define Your Project Scope: Begin by defining the scope of your app project. Outline its features, functionalities, and objectives.

Create Wireframes or Sketches: Visualize your app’s user interface and flow by creating wireframes or sketches. Hiring a designer for this phase might improve the quality of your visual concepts dramatically.

Describe Budget and Timeline Expectations: Setting a realistic budget and timeline is crucial. Outline the financial resources available for your project and your desired timeframe for development.

Essential Skills for Hiring App Developers

3 Best Ways to Hire App Developers

When it comes to hiring app developers, there are several common options to consider, each with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s explore three of the most prevalent options:

Option 1: Hire App Developers In-House

When it comes to building a dedicated team for your app development project, hiring in-house app developers is a choice that offers a high degree of control and integration within your organization.

Pros:

Full Control: With an in-house team, you have the advantage of immediate access to your developers. You can communicate with them in person, making it easier to manage and adjust project priorities on the fly.

Cultural Alignment: In-house developers can better assimilate into your company culture and become deeply familiar with your brand, goals, and values.

Cons:

High Costs: Hiring and maintaining an in-house development team can be costly. You’ll need to budget for salaries, benefits, office space, hardware, software, and ongoing training.

Limited Skill Set: In-house teams may have limitations in terms of expertise and skills. This can be a drawback if your project requires specialized knowledge in areas like AI, blockchain, or augmented reality.

The 10-Step Guide to Hiring App Developers

One of the most important steps in bringing your mobile app idea to reality is hiring app developers. The 10 steps we’ve outlined provide a good framework for the hiring process. Let’s break down each step in more detail:

Step 1: References from a Friend or Colleague

Start by reaching out to your network for recommendations. Friends, colleagues, or acquaintances who have worked with app developers can provide valuable insights and referrals.

Step 2: Explore the Recruitment Platforms

Explore online platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, Toptal, or specialized job boards to find app developers. These platforms often have a wide pool of talent. To find specialized talent, consider tools that provide indirect sourcing alternatives.

Challenges to Hire the Perfect App Developer

Hiring the best app developer is a pivotal step in bringing your app idea to life. Navigating the recruiting process, on the other hand, comes with its own set of obstacles and concerns.

Scarcity of Skilled Developers: The demand for skilled app developers far outweighs the supply, leading to a scarcity of top-tier talent. As a result, finding developers with the proper mix of technical expertise, experience, and project alignment may be difficult.

Identifying the Right Fit: Beyond technical skills, identifying an app developer who aligns with your project’s vision, values, and work culture is essential.

Balancing Budget and Quality: Budget constraints often force entrepreneurs to seek cost-effective solutions. However, striking a balance between affordability and the quality of work can be challenging.

High Attrition Rates: The tech industry is notorious for high attrition rates. After investing time and resources in training a developer, the risk of them leaving for a better opportunity can disrupt your project timeline and continuity.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an App Developer?

The cost of hiring app developers can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of your project, the location of the developers, their level of expertise, and the platforms (iOS, Android, web, etc.) you want to target.

Project Complexity: The more complex your app idea, the higher the development cost. Apps with advanced features, intricate design requirements, or integration with external systems will generally cost more to develop.

Developer Location:  The location of the app developers is a significant cost factor. Developers in regions with a higher cost of living, such as North America and Western Europe, tend to charge more than those in countries with lower living costs, like India or Eastern Europe.

Type of Developers:  The level of expertise and experience of the developers you hire also affects the cost. Senior developers with a proven track record usually charge higher rates than junior developers.

Conclusion

In the ever-changing landscape of app entrepreneurship, the quest to hire the perfect app developer is like choosing the right toppings for your pizza – it can make or break the entire experience! As you embark on this whimsical journey, it’s crucial to recognise that app development is not just about summoning a coding wizard; it’s more like assembling a squad of multidisciplinary superheroes who join forces to craft a knockout app.

Sources: https://www.agicent.com/blog/hire-app-developer/

[smithsullivan]

Top App Marketing Agencies USA

Are you also struggling to find a marketing agency for your business? Probably it would be yes atleast at some point of time. Since few years, marketing have gained a lot more importance in terms of business be it app or any other product marketing.In general if you ask me to define marketing, I would say- It is the best way to present your product and reach out to the right person in order to make it a named success. With the increasing market competitors, if you create an awesome app in all aspects with salient features, but fail to advertise it to the audience, all your efforts will drown because you couldn’t impress the audience who define your success.

1.Cyber Infrastructure Inc.

The first name in the List of Top App Marketing Agencies can surely be CIS as they are into this business since 14 years now. It was established with the aim to help customers succeed through high IT skills, and to bring in new employment opportunities in different countries and aid in country’s social development.

2.SeoEaze

SeoEaze is successfully working since 2009, providing digital marketing solutions to clients worldwide. The company comprises of an expert team of professionals who know how to offer the best services to the clients and keep them satisfied.

3.Five

Five is an App Marketing Agency based in Brooklyn, New York. It was setup back in 2007 and is being serving a large number of clients with their innovative solutions.

4.Blue Label Labs

It was established in 2009 and is based in US. They are known for providing end-to-end solution in the app development cycle- from development to app launch and also maintenance post launch.

5.Moburst

Moburst is an app marketing agency based in San Francisco, California. It is a global mobile success company that helps leading brands and startups master the mobile arena. Their main specialty is helping companies conquer their toughest challenges through cost-effective, creative, and innovative mobile marketing campaigns.

Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/top-app-marketing-agencies-usa/

[smithsullivan]

React Native App Development Company

We offer our React Native development services on the basis of Fixed Price Development (project based) as well as on Fully Managed Monthly Dev Team model starting at $ 2900/ mo. We create MVPs in a matter of weeks and then deploy bigger teams to quickly scale for the full product development and deployment.

Why React Native is a Tech stack of choice for the startups and why hiring Agicent React Native App Development Company to do the job?

React Native Allows Cross Platform Development

Enough said about this already, the first and biggest benefit is that react native allows you to write single code base that would run equally good on both iOS and Android platforms.

React Native Development is Cost Effective

As mentioned above, its cross-platform capabilities cut down the cost of the projects by 40% and in some cases even more that that (in case of projects where majority of the code is on the front end vs backend code).

Higher Performance by React Native

React native development offers as good of a performance and user experience as pure native apps would do and in some cases even better than that especially in case of data heavy applications. Due to its base in Javascript, the loading of heavy content is done quickly without refreshing the whole page thus providing a seamless robust performance to the end user.

Large React Native Development Community & Support

The react native developers community is so active and vibrant that you’ll never find yourselves along. Hardly any month passes by when you don’t have a new react native library, pre-built components and frameworks are launched by the community (and mostly free).

Flexibility, Scalability, Wide Integrations

React native blends with other famous technologies very well, then be it going hybrid with a native code or integrating with famous third party APIs – react native development enjoys more support than any other cross platform development technology framework.

React Native App Development Process at Agicent

Step 1 - Discovery Phase

At this step, Agicent’s analysts and development team understand the overall scope of the work and then break those down into weekly sprints and prioritize their development sequence according to client’s launch vision.

Step 2 - Wireframes and UI/ UX Design

Based on the overall scope of the work, our UI/ UX experts create the wireframes at first. Those wireframes are to depict the flow of the application for different user types and personas and once approved we convert those wireframes into beautiful high definition figma designs and again release those for customer’s approval and collaboration.

Step 3 - Tech Stack Identification, Development Setup and Initiation and Sprints

We always have react native app development setup ready to initiate new projects so there is no time lost in that part. The project is divided into weekly sprints with achievable targets defined and right engineers are allocated.

Step 4 - Standard React Native Development

Creation of components with an emphasize of making them re-usable and scalable.

Implement state management using tools like Redux, context Api.

Step 5 - Testing

Creation of the elaborated test cases right from the day one and executing them with every new adhoc release (progressive release during testing).

Unit testing of different components and functions individually.

Integration testing to ensure different parts of the app are working as expected.

Step 6 - Debugging & Optimization

Debugging using react native debugger, Flipper or built in console to identify the bugs and fixing them at the same time at developer’s end only.

Hot reloading: a constant verification of the implemented changes to ensure if they are working good or not.

Step 7 - Deployment, Hosting, Going Live

Preparing the app builds to be submitted to their respective stores as adhoc builds first then for beta release and ultimately for the final release. The file types for iOS will be .IPA and for Android will be .copyright.

Using Testflight (for apple) and Google play beta for beta testing.

Common mistakes during React Native App Development – we’ve to Avoid these!

Following are some of the common mistakes being done while doing React Native App development that are better to be considered before starting the project.

Overestimating the leverage which react native provides

React native surely provides you the option to have a single code base for the front end, however it is important to know that the backend and integrations do take their own sweet time whether you use react native or pure native technologies. So, using react native can save maximum 30-40% of your App development time Vs using pure native.

Ignoring creating an MVP or Proof of Concept (PoC)

For the projects or technologies that we’ve (or someone else has) already worked upon it is fine to directly jump on creating the app; however, in case you want us to create an altogether new feature or technology that has never been done before then it is advisable to create an MVP or a proof of concept before creating the whole project. A PoC makes sure of the feasibility, and allows us to foresee possible future challenges or opportunities while scaling up.

Using big tools even when they are not needed

React native developers may tend to use big tools like Redux even in the simple of the Apps where they can use more harm than benefit. Since it’s a cross platform tech and big community works on it all the time, a lot of tools and frameworks keep coming to help in react native development but not all tools and frameworks are meant for all the apps. So using a framework or tool should be done thoughtfully and with an objective of making the project lesser complex and not otherwise.

Avoiding Testing on real iOS and Android Devices using separate builds

Again, since it’s a cross platform technology a developer can theoretically believe that if it runs fine on iOS then it will run on Android too and vice versa and may not give time to test the react native App on a real iOS or Android Device. This overlooking should be avoided, and the App should be continuously tested on real iOS and Android devices to note down discrepancies and keep fixing those.

Neglecting image and resource optimization

Most of the time, React Native developers don't place a high value on images and resource optimization, which has an impact on app performance. Image optimization also helps to React Native developers reduces the size of their application and make it more lightweight. Let us create your React Native App using best design and coding practices – Contact our React Native Experts

Randomly choosing the UI Libraries

There are plenty of UI libraries (free or paid) available in the market for react native app developers. However, not many are good and not all will be good for all kind of projects. Libraries like React native Paper, Material kit, React-native Elements, UI Kitten, Nativebase are the most famous ones on Github and one can choose between those instead of just trying any library.

Sources: https://www.agicent.com/react-native-app-development-company

[smithsullivan]

How Much Does It Cost To Maintain An App?

The Importance of App Maintenance and Its Cost: A Comprehensive Guide

How about if we reveal all that is covered in the scope of the App maintenance, the reasons why you need to regularly manage your App, what kind of hours and money you should be planning to invest to manage your app in 2024? That would be cool, ya? So let us discuss this in detail!

What is covered in the Scope of App Support & Maintenance?

The App is needed to be regularly updated largely for its following parts and components:

iOS App and Android Apps whether built-in native or cross-platform tech.

Web Parts/ Web App (Front end, backend, Web replica of mobile apps).

Native APIs and Third-party APIs.

Database and Design files.

Any new feature development utilizing during the maintenance Activities that we perform for App Support & Maintenance

Following are the high level tasks that are performed to regularly upkeep and update your App:

Complete QA Testing by a dedicated QA Engineer and Business Analyst to figure out all possible Bugs – mostly a one time effort for every major release.

Here we assign a dedicated Quality Engineer/ App Tester with a Business Analyst who will note down all the functionality of the app, build test cases (or populate more test cases on top of existing test cases you have), setup a bug tracking board on Jira or Trello or jetbrains (though a simple google sheet would do the job too), build negative test cases, create Test Automation scripts (if needed), create UAT list and then execute all these test cases and create an exhaustive list of all possible issues sorted by their severity and share with the client + Add known issues/ bugs as reported by the client already.

The deliverables after this step is completed are as follows;

– Complete Test cases, sorted by the priority.

– Steps to reproduces the bugs, clubbing of bugs according to their origin.

Fixing of Bugs are Reported by the client + Bugs as reported by our Testing Team across iOS, Android, Backend, Web or anywhere else.

The next logical steps after knowing what all bugs we have is to fix them! A team of developers is assigned to reproduce, Fix and then re-test the reported bugs regularly and then plan on shipping the App build on live every week.

The deliverables here would be:

– High Quality Apps and backend are being shipped to the App stores every week like a clockwork.

Updating the App and its underlying Technology Whenever there is a soft or major OS update from Apple or Google.

As simple as it sounds, Apple and Google launch several soft and major OS upgrades throughout the year and even though they won’t let your app stop working suddenly it is advisable that you update your app to the latest OS versions as soon as they are launched.

Updating Apps to be compatible with all latest releases of all third Party APIs being used in the App and in the backend.

Your App is not standalone and it uses a hell lot of third party services (that are being consumed through APIs or web services) for many functions like (but not limited to):

– Authentication APIs (like FB signup, Twilio for OTP, linkedin signup etc).

– Payment Gateway APIs (like paypal, braintree, Paytm and what not).

– Location based/ Map APIs (Google location, foursquare etc). Regular App Performance optimization for a high-performing App

Following are the activities that should be performed regularly to keep the performance of your App top Notch:

– Resource optimization (battery consumption, camera usage and so on).

– Load time optimization by optimizing heavy content, API calls.

– Regular improvement in onboarding and overall User flow. Small things like remembering the password, easy login, and easy download of data make your user happy and retain him for a long time.

Periodical App Code cleanup as a regular practice and Code repository Maintenance.

When you have an App Maintenance Team on retainer then why not keep them busy with regular code cleanups, updating comments, doing version controls in git, managing the repository, and simplifying project modules to make the product future-proof and also to make life of any other future developer easier. Regular Documentation, Creating App’s SDKs and APIs

Regular documentation is an absolute essential activity but in the Agile App Development world, it gets missed because App development teams prioritize releasing first over any documentation. App Maintenance Plans and Pricing from Agicent

We’ve kept it very simple, you retain us for X number of hours a month for App maintenance and pay the fee. Obviously, the more hours you retain us for the better will be the pricing.

Skills and Engineers needed for App Maintenance Process

If your App runs on both iOS and Android and also has a web front end along with a backend, then you need following skilled Engineers to perform App maintenance:

– Native or Cross-Platform iOS/ Android Developers.

Native would include Swift/ Xcode developer for iOS; Kotlin/ Java and Studio Developer for Android.

Cross-platform skills would be React native, Flutter or Ionic.

– Backend Developers

The skills can be node.js, MongoDB, ExpressJS or MERN Stack or Laravel/ PHP, or .NET or Java (Depending upon the tech stack being used at your backend).

– Web Front End Developer

If you have a landing page website or a complete App’s replica on the web then you may need web front end developers experts in HTML, JS, React JS or Angular or PHP/ Laravel or ASP.NET (Depending upon the tech stack being used at the website end).

Factors to consider to find out how much does it cost to maintain an App?

Although we have made easier and straight forward for you to do app maintenance by offering hourly maintenance plans, but there still can be some factors that can raise or bring down the cost of App maintenance as follows:

The complexity of the application

The basic factor that contributes to the maintenance cost of the application in 2024 is the complexity of the application. Everyone wants to have advanced apps with more and more features, screens, and much more. But keep in mind that if you are adding these it will further raise your maintenance costs to the greatest extent.

Hybrid Applications

The smartphones available in the market depend upon different operating systems. Everyone loves to have the one that they prefer the most. Android and iOS platforms are the two leading operating systems that the majority of users prefer to have on.

Third-Party Integrations

The integration of third-party sources also adds up in raising the overall maintenance cost of an application. More will be your app linked closely with the different external sources such as payment platforms, social media services, higher will be the overall maintenance cost of your app. Why Hiring Agicent for your App Maintenance Cost Project?

– We are OCD when it comes to anything related to the development of the Apps. Believe it or not, our team is almost available 24*7 if there is anything wrong in the App and we try to fix it then and there. Our customers can vouch for this, try us yourself.

– We have simple, straightforward and transparent App maintenance plans. As shared above, we have the best plans available for you on retainer and you won’t need to bang your head to get estimation of every single task. The whole idea of having Agicent managing your App is that you focus on your important business and expansion while we take care of the App in the given hours. Simple as that.

– We have real expertise in Apps, been creating Apps for 13 years. Managing Apps like HASfit, VaycoPlus, Mediorbis that have millions of users. We know how to scale an App from just an MVP to as big as an App handling 10 million users everyday, this is a proven expertise. You’d love to work with the team that knows their stuff and loves it just too much.

– We have common interests – We help you make your App big and we become big ourselves. That’s just enough motivation for us to do the right work.

– Feedback system – Every month before raising an invoice, we ask our clients if they still find our services as good as we promised during the “sales cycle” and raise it only when they say yes.

Conclusion of App Maintenance Cost & Process

Application development and maintenance is a never-ending process. Right from adding updates to resolving issues, there are a lot more things that go on side by side throughout. The expenses on an app do not end with its creation, they kind of keep on but for only the good. The App is the core part of your business, you can’t leave it unattended and that is where Agicent comes into the play. Start maintaining your App as necessity before it becomes mandatory!

Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-maintain-an-app/

[smithsullivan]

Digital Transformation Companies

Top 10 Digital Transformation Companies in 2024  

The above quote says it all. No matter whether you are in a brick or mortar business or in a transport or logistic business or a manufacturing unit or ofcourse a software product or services company – you’re a tech company.

Major Services Provided by the digital transformation company

When it comes to services, there are multiple services these Digital Marketing Companies offer to different size of the client companies. These companies act as a guiding entity to these small start-ups and nurture them in terms of digital advancements and technological revolution. Let’s just see some of the services these companies provide –

1. Software consultation and implementation – This kind of service is more like a guidance that the digital transformation companies provide in which these companies act as strategic partner to the businesses, they help in providing consultation and giving roadmap as per the requirements and needs of the company as to achieve their respective objectives.

2. Software Development – With the advancements in technology and dynamic growth businesses have started evolving digitally and the digital transformation companies enhance their growth by providing software services to it.

Custom Software development – Developing software as per the requirements of clients, whether web and mobile applications, enterprise software platforms, or any type of solutions to accelerate business growth.

Testing and Quality Assurance– It becomes a vital function of any services which are in development to assure the quality and reliability of the product they are delivering to their customers.

Software maintenance – The digital transformation companies not only develop software rather they take care of the items that they have developed and it’s called its maintenance.

3. Digital Marketing and Branding – Branding is a term that has a top-notch association with the term Promotion. Most of us have used Zomato, which is a food delivery app. It is just a food delivery company that has boomed so much in the market that it has become a household go-to name for ordering food.

4. Risk management and cybersecurity – In the era of digital advancements, adding new techniques and technologies to grow the business is what is called digital transformation, but understanding the vulnerability of how the business can be more prone to threats when it comes to digitization is also a mandatory task.

5. Data analysis – We know that Data is the energy for an organization to work, without any processed information, nobody will know what has to be done and upon what the work has to be done.

Benefits of Hiring Top Digital Marketing Companies

Digital Transformation has benefitted companies in various ways and the most fascinating part is not only the big brands are leveraging its benefits but also the tech start-ups, SMEs, etc. Let’s see how some of the levels of companies have been thriving in the digital age with the help of digital transformation companies.

Digital Transformation for Start-ups

Start-ups are the ones who have just commenced their journey in the industry and just entered the race of businesses, the most needed clients for digital transformation companies could be start-ups only because.

New Product Development and Rapid growth – Incorporating technical strands within the business enhances its growth, it provides ease in its operations.

Innovation and customer engagement – Through SMMs, customer feedback can be generated on social media platforms which somewhere facilitates providing a mobile-first approach.

Guidance and Quality assurance – Digital transformation can scale the operations within the companies by giving them productive consultation.

Established Enterprises – Big Brands

Companies which are already established and possess a decent name in the market need assistance in maintaining their fame and for such companies, the benefits these digital transformation companies provide are –

Scalability – This term here refers to the consistency that these large brands benefit from, if they are withstanding within the market, it means that these are more into providing constant products to their customers and expansion of their new ideas, and innovation.

Predictive analysis and decision making – One of the avenues where these large tech giants benefit from digital transformation companies is extracting insights from data-driven analysis of the data of their customers who are engaged in their respective services.

Competitive edge – Encouraging technologies and incorporating multiple technical ways in distinct sections of the business can give a competitive edge in the respective industry as we know digitization is the future of the world, and opting for what will be in demand in future can give progressive as well as productive approach.

Digital Transformation for Non-tech companies

Digital transformation can enhance growth and productivity when it comes to user or customer experiences. Most of the world’s population has been following a mobile-first approach which means for even the smallest task, people prefer mobile phones, which not only make them smart but also help them to attain more in less time.

Innovative branding – Digital promotion with the help of search engine optimizations, increasing the visibility of the websites and making it under the top ten searches at search engines like Google, Microsoft Bing, etc.

User-friendly setups – Incorporating technology in business makes the operations run smoothly and without focusing on any kind of intricacies, the company can fairly focus on employee productivity.

What are the various parameters that the company should consider to choose the right digital transformation companies?

1. Client referral and testimonials – To choose the right digital transformation company so that it facilitates in growth of businesses the customer should go through different listing websites where most of the time past clients have already shared working with those respective companies.

2. Technical stacks – If the customer is into tech then it must look for the technological proficiencies upon which the chosen digital transformation company works.

3. Collaborative and familiar approach – One should choose for digital transformation company that encourages teamwork so that while working the team of a digital transformation company should not behave as an obstacle to customer’s internal projects, rather they should be collaborative enough to understand the business objectives and aims of their customers.

Top 10 digital transformation companies

1. Agicent

Agicent is a globally recognized Digital Transformation Company specializing in software consulting, development, and digital marketing services.

2. From

From is a digital transformation company that offers various services like the development of new digital products which are profitable for large enterprises.

3. Feuji Feuji is a global technology services that provides digital transformation of businesses. The company offers competitive edge to the enterprises in order to address their various business challenges.

4. Rhapsody The company is a digital transformation company that deals majorly in Media Production which possesses a crafting experience that led the businesses to grow.

Conclusion

As far as it is seen digital transformation is not only limited to incorporating technology but also fostering new innovative ideas within the businesses. All in all, clients need their business to become an established enterprise and to attain that these digital transformation companies help by leveraging their tech stacks. Digital transformation makes living easy and smooth, it enhances growth with maximum rise in the graph.

Sources: https://www.agicent.com/blog/digital-transformation-companies/

[smithsullivan]

Top Web Development Companies near you in New York

New York City’s tech scene is booming, and at the heart of it is web development – a key driver of business and technology growth. This list brings together the top web development companies in the NYC area near you.

The city’s tech sector is vast, with over 7,500 tech companies contributing to New York’s massive $150 billion tech economy. This makes NYC the perfect place for web development firms to grow and succeed.

Top 20 web development Companies near you in New York City 

Furthermore, we have listed the best web development companies in NYC near you who also do web designing, app designing, app development, and AI development

1. Agicent

Agicent is a globally recognized technology firm specializing in software development services for mobile apps and the web. With its decade of experience, the organization has earned fame for providing top-notch web development solutions dedicated to both startup ventures and established enterprises alike.

2. Space-O Technologies

Space-O is a leading web development company near you with over a decade of experience, having offices in the USA, copyright, and India. The company excels in creating custom, scalable, and responsive web solutions. The team of 100+ developers has successfully delivered 350+ projects worldwide, specializing in technologies like React.JS, Angular, and Node.js.

3. Appinventiv

Appinventiv Technologies is a prominent web development company renowned for its comprehensive and adaptable web development services.

4. Unified Infotech Unified Infotech is a global digital innovation agency known for serving clients across various industries, including healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. Some of their major clients include Citibank and NBC. They are headquartered in New York and have a global presence.

5. Andersen

Founded in 2007, Andersen has since emerged as a premier European web development powerhouse, boasting a formidable presence across 13+ development centers in the US and Western Europe.

6. Konstant Infosolutions

Konstant Infosolutions stands as a reputable web development agency renowned for crafting top-tier applications and web development solutions across diverse industry niches. Their commitment lies in achieving widespread customer satisfaction, boasting a team of technology experts adept at adapting to evolving industry demands.

7. Digital Silk

Digital Silk is a leading full-service digital agency specializing in high-performance web development, branding, and digital marketing solutions. Headquartered in New York, the agency focuses on creating innovative, user-centric designs that align with clients’ business goals.

What should be the parameters for choosing a web development company near you?

Review and portfolio: If you are looking to hire a company in New York, make sure you go through their customer reviews and ratings, check their portfolio and previous work, and also ensure the quality of work they have delivered in the past.

Technical skills: Most importantly you should seek tech proficiency. For that, you should make sure that the company you are choosing is working on advanced versions rather being struggling with outdated technicalities.

Budget investments: Being a client you should have proper budget planning with a cost-effective approach and likewise the company you are choosing should ensure the alignment with your budget. No extra cost or expenditures should be granted. Security Measurements: Make sure that the company you are going with is strictly abiding and maintaining IPR.

Local Reputation: Check for ratings and the position of the company within its local communities with the same roles. Also, check for ratings and preferences.

Client References: Check for major clients hosted by the company and consult the client to get firsthand feedback. Conclusion

Finding the right top web development companies can be a daunting task. However, finding the right partner is crucial for success in the digital realm. Whether you’re seeking innovation, scalability, or expertise in a specific technology stack, New York boasts a diverse array of web development firms that can cater to various business needs. Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/top-web-development-companies-new-york/

[smithsullivan]

How to Hire an App Developer? A guide for App Entrepreneurs

Once you’ve your App product idea in mind, the next most important question you mostly encounter is “How can I hire an app developer or put together an app development team?” The simple answer is — you can hire an App Development Company, or Hire an App Developer Freelancer, or hire An Offshore App Development Team. We’ll go into details of all these options and some more further in this article, so by the time you end up reading you’ll be well well versed in the following: Finding an App Developer, Shortlisting an App developer, hiring an app developer, negotiating on App development cost and much more.

Why You Need To Hire An App Developer?

Hire an app developer is a pivotal choice that can enormously help people and organisations the same. Whether you have a particular venture as a main priority or are thinking about the drawn out benefits of having an application for your association, there are a few convincing motivations behind why you could have to employ an application engineer:

Specialized Aptitude: Application improvement is a complicated field that requires specific information and abilities. Proficient application engineers are knowledgeable in programming dialects, systems, and devices important to make practical and easy to understand applications.

Customization: In the event that you have an exceptional thought for an application, recruiting an engineer permits you to rejuvenate your vision. Designers can tailor the application to your accurate determinations, guaranteeing it meets your particular requirements and goals.

Time Proficiency: Fostering an application without any preparation can be tedious, particularly in the event that you’re not knowledgeable about coding. You can send off your application all the more rapidly by employing an application designer, who can essentially accelerate the advancement interaction.

Cost-Effective: Even though it may appear to be an initial investment, hiring a professional developer can actually save you money in the long run. They can help you in staying away from expensive mistakes and guaranteeing that your application moves along as expected, in this way decreasing expenses related with application upkeep and investigating.

Quality Affirmation: Application engineers are prepared to keep best practices and industry guidelines. They can perform thorough testing and quality affirmation to guarantee your application is sans bug and performs well on different gadgets and stages.

Scalability: As your application develops and advances, you’ll have to make updates and enhancements. An accomplished engineer can assist you with scaling your application to oblige expanded client interest and add new highlights on a case by case basis.

Cross-Stage Similarity: Application designers can make applications that work on numerous stages (iOS, Android, web) utilizing advancements like Respond Local or Ripple. This augments your application’s range and potential client base.

Client Experience: The importance of designing an engaging and easy-to-use user interface is recognized by developers. They can plan and advance the application’s client experience (UX) to guarantee clients find it simple and pleasant to utilize.

Security: It is of the utmost importance to safeguard user data and your app’s security. Experienced application designers are knowledgeable in carrying out safety efforts to shield your application and its clients from expected dangers.

Long haul Backing: After the underlying turn of events, your application will require progressing upkeep, updates, and specialized help. Employing an engineer guarantees that you have a committed asset to address these necessities and stay up with the latest.

Pre-requisites Before You Hire an App Developer

Before embarking on the journey of hiring an app developer or an app development team, it’s essential to lay a solid foundation for your project. Here are some crucial pre-requisites to ensure a streamlined and successful app development process:

Define Your Project Scope: Begin by defining the scope of your app project. Outline its features, functionalities, and objectives. Seek the support of a competent business analyst if necessary to help crystallize your thoughts and convert them into a complete project scope. Clear project specs provide developers with a road map to follow, reducing misunderstandings and scope creep.

Create Wireframes or Sketches: Visualize your app’s user interface and flow by creating wireframes or sketches. Hiring a designer for this phase might improve the quality of your visual concepts dramatically. Wireframes aid developers in understanding your design goals, user interaction pathways, and layout preferences. This clarity helps to speed up the design and development process.

Describe Budget and Timeline Expectations: Setting a realistic budget and timeline is crucial. Outline the financial resources available for your project and your desired timeframe for development. Communicating your budget constraints and timeline expectations upfront allows potential developers to evaluate whether they can meet your requirements.

Define MVP Phase and Long-Term Vision: Delineate what you envision for the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) phase of your app — the core features that will launch initially. Simultaneously, articulate your long-term vision for the app’s evolution. This dual perspective provides developers with a comprehensive understanding of their short-term goals while aligning with your app’s potential growth trajectory.

Specify “Acceptance and Performance Criteria”: Clarify the criteria that will define the successful completion of your app. Specify what constitutes acceptable performance levels, usability standards, and user experience benchmarks. Setting clear expectations regarding app functionality, responsiveness, and user satisfaction ensures that the final product aligns with your vision.

Essential Skills for Hiring App Developers

3 Best Ways to Hire App Developers

When it comes to hiring app developers, there are several common options to consider, each with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s explore three of the most prevalent options:

Option 1: Hire App Developers In-House

When it comes to building a dedicated team for your app development project, hiring in-house app developers is a choice that offers a high degree of control and integration within your organization. In-house designers become a necessary piece of your organization, working intimately with your current groups, and lining up with your way of life and mission. Be that as it may, this choice accompanies its own arrangement of difficulties, including greater expenses and the requirement for extensive ability obtaining procedures.

Pros:

Full Control: With an in-house team, you have the advantage of immediate access to your developers. You can communicate with them in person, making it easier to manage and adjust project priorities on the fly.

Cultural Alignment: In-house developers can better assimilate into your company culture and become deeply familiar with your brand, goals, and values. This alignment can lead to a stronger sense of commitment and ownership of the project.

Cons:

High Costs: Hiring and maintaining an in-house development team can be costly. You’ll need to budget for salaries, benefits, office space, hardware, software, and ongoing training.

Limited Skill Set: In-house teams may have limitations in terms of expertise and skills. This can be a drawback if your project requires specialized knowledge in areas like AI, blockchain, or augmented reality.

Option 2: Hire App Developers On A Freelance Basis

For projects that demand flexibility and expertise on a per-task basis, hiring freelance app developers can be an attractive option. Freelancers provide a cost-effective way to access specialized skills and scale your development team as needed. Yet, this choice introduces unique dynamics such as navigating a pool of freelancers, managing remote collaborations, and ensuring seamless communication despite geographical and time zone differences.

Pros:

Cost-Effective: Freelancers often offer a cost-effective solution for short-term projects. They typically charge hourly rates or fixed fees, allowing you to budget more efficiently.

Flexibility: Freelancers provide flexibility in scaling your development team up or down as needed. This adaptability is especially useful for projects with fluctuating workloads.

Cons:

Limited Availability: Highly skilled and reputable freelancers are in high demand. Securing their services for your project may prove challenging, especially if they have multiple clients.

Communication Challenges: Freelancers may be located in different time zones or regions, leading to communication and collaboration hurdles. Misunderstandings can delay project progress.

Challenges to Hire the Perfect App Developer

Hiring the best app developer is a pivotal step in bringing your app idea to life. Navigating the recruiting process, on the other hand, comes with its own set of obstacles and concerns. Here are some of the key challenges you might encounter when searching for the ideal app developer:

Scarcity of Skilled Developers: The demand for skilled app developers far outweighs the supply, leading to a scarcity of top-tier talent. As a result, finding developers with the proper mix of technical expertise, experience, and project alignment may be difficult.

Identifying the Right Fit: Beyond technical skills, identifying an app developer who aligns with your project’s vision, values, and work culture is essential. The challenge lies in gauging this compatibility during the hiring process.

Balancing Budget and Quality: Budget constraints often force entrepreneurs to seek cost-effective solutions. However, striking a balance between affordability and the quality of work can be challenging. Opting for lower-cost developers might result in compromises on the final product.

High Attrition Rates: The tech industry is notorious for high attrition rates. After investing time and resources in training a developer, the risk of them leaving for a better opportunity can disrupt your project timeline and continuity.

Assessing Technical Proficiency: Evaluating technical skills from resumes and interviews alone can be insufficient. Accurately assessing a developer’s ability to solve real-world problems and produce high-quality code requires a more comprehensive evaluation.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an App Developer?

The cost of hiring app developers can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the complexity of your project, the location of the developers, their level of expertise, and the platforms (iOS, Android, web, etc.) you want to target. Here’s a breakdown of some key factors that influence the cost of hiring app developers:

Project Complexity: The more complex your app idea, the higher the development cost. Apps with advanced features, intricate design requirements, or integration with external systems will generally cost more to develop.

Developer Location: The location of the app developers is a significant cost factor. Developers in regions with a higher cost of living, such as North America and Western Europe, tend to charge more than those in countries with lower living costs, like India or Eastern Europe. Latin America is also one of emerging IT outsourcing hubs. For the cost optimization purpose, many companies opt for software development in Mexico, Colombia, Argentina etc.

Type of Developers: The level of expertise and experience of the developers you hire also affects the cost. Senior developers with a proven track record usually charge higher rates than junior developers.

Platform: Developing for multiple platforms (iOS, Android, web) will increase costs compared to targeting a single platform. Cross-platform development frameworks like React Native or Flutter may reduce expenses.

Design: High-quality, custom app design adds to the cost. A well-designed user interface and user experience can make a significant difference in the overall cost.

Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/hire-app-developer/

[smithsullivan]

Best No-code App Builder

In the rapidly growing and ever-evolving technical and innovative landscape, the skill and ability to develop software products like applications have been reserved for those who can code and possess coding skills. But, nowadays it is seen that the ones belonging to a non-technical skill set are also able to create software applications, all this is possible only with the help of no-code app builder tools. This paradigm shift is due to the emergence of a No-code app builder. These platforms help develop personalized applications without just making anyone learn coding skills and know any particular kind of technology.

What makes a no-code app builder good?

The following points are the advantages of why no-code app builders are in demand –

Feature of creating an inclusive environment

Since, with the advantage of No-code app builders, the disparity between individuals with and without coding skills have been alleviated and anyone can create their applications as per their requirements. No code App builder facilitates people to develop their fully functional applications

Enhanced Software development life cycle

With the help of No-code platforms, one can create the prototype of their idea and let it conceptualize by creating and developing the application from the same platform itself, streamline the app development process, which further reduces the time it takes to go from ideation to deployment. It provides time utility in gathering feedback and iterating on designs without the need for expertise in coding and technical programming languages.

Budget-Friendly process

Let us consider an individual who wants to build an application for his business organization and to develop such software he has to hire a developer or he shall consult with any service based provider and look for a suitable vendor for developing his application. Imagine how intricate and expensive it would be as he is supposed to pay for the services he shall be taking.

Innovation is the key feature

With the advantage of No-code app builders, each person establish the feeling to become innovative and it not only encourages experimentation, but also facilitates its users to develop and test new ideas and enhance it quickly.

Choosing the Right No-code app Builder

Selecting the appropriate no-code app builder involves assessing multiple aspects to ensure it meets your specific requirements:

User Interface (UI) — Opt for a platform with an intuitive interface, allowing easy navigation and drag-and-drop functionality.

Customization Options — Evaluate the platform’s customization features, including templates, widgets, and design flexibility, to suit your app’s needs.

Integration Capabilities — Check the platform’s compatibility with other tools and services like databases, APIs, and third-party applications to enhance functionality.

Scalability — Ensure the app builder can grow with your needs by offering scalability options and support for increasing user demands and features.

Some of the No-code app builder tools include

No-code app builders are a boon in today’s advanced time, where most of the individuals possess ideas and they want to conceptualize their idea through a software applications, so here are some No-code app builders with which you can develop your software applications.

1. Bubble.io

Bubble.io is renowned and powerful platform for developing applications without any code and expertise in technical field, one just has to give instructions and ideas of what they want to develop and this tool can build your application.

Features include –

It provides interactive functionalities with visual interfaces where its users can develop and design their applications which will be fully-functional.

It possess visual editor, which enables users to design the interface without any complexities and effort, users can set their interface as per their choice, they can customize the elements, by adding, or changing elements such as buttons, text fields, images, and more, arranging them on the screen as desired.

This tool facilitate with workflow management of the project or application the user wants to develop, it supports in defining the logic and workflow of the application without any coding expertise.

Not only with the frontend interfaces, the Backend Functionality offered by this tool is very distinct and robust, the backend systems look after for storage, user authentication, and server-side logic. Users can create and manage databases, define data relationships, and implement custom backend workflows to power their applications.

Advantages

It is economical and cost-effective, as it reduces the monetary load of hiring developer for creating an application.

It follows Agile methodology and therefore the user can build applications with the advantage of quick change and editing.

Its no-code app builder, so it enables smooth and effortless development of application without coding or tech skills.

Start building your Apps with Agicent

Dev teams — retainer model — We follow a pay-per-use approach and therefore offer on-demand SaaS development through a retainer pricing structure. Whether you come with a scratch idea or a fully-fledged model, or you need ongoing development and maintenance efforts for your existing mobile or web apps, we help transition your idea into reality. This model works great when you have a team to manage the project. Also, if you’re an agency that needs more workforce other than your in-house team, we just extend ourselves on hourly mode. For more information talk to our experts today! Projects delivered — We have converted almost 1000+ app ideas into reality and have digitally transformed businesses. We create quality apps and have created Apps like HASfit which has its users in millions and has been awarded as best fitness app in 2014–2019.

Saurce: https://www.agicent.com/blog/best-no-code-app-builder/

[smithsullivan]

How to Make an App: A guide for startup entrepreneuers

Theory of Creating a new App for a Startup

Creating an app in a world where apps are loaded with AI capabilities and many other advanced features is not just an intelligent decision for any business to find their digital edge, this has become more of an essential digital product to have than ever before. Making an App with advanced capabilities like AI, AR/ VR, Automation is easier for bigger organizations since they always have the resources and budget to hire their own team or a Mobile Application development company for a premium. But most of the First time App Entrepreneurs and startups wonder about what will be the best way to make an app or how to make an app from the scratch in limited budget and resources.

Define your App Objectives

Yes, we all know that the ultimate goal of any business is to generate a million-dollar revenue and an App business is pretty much capable to achieve that and more, however we suggest take one step at a time. First of all, define what Major Problem that your app is going to solve, then define secondary problems too. Figure out what is not already in the market that your app can fill with i.e Do an App Gap Analysis. Brainstorm about the main objective your app is going to serve. Will the app enhance the experience of all your customers or will it be generating sales and purchases? Will this App offer a unique technology that makes users’ lives easier, or the app is going to be an extension of your existing business? Once you’ve figured out the Gap, Opportunity, and Problem then you can make an App startup business around it.

Let’s just understand this with the help of an App example. Do you want to build an app like Garanti Fintech App, that has a goal to make a mind-blowing service targeting millennials using their App iGaranti or do you want to head for an app like Amazon where you can sell or shop anything you want or a service booking application like Taskrabbit which is a platform to sell or hire handymen or gig services?

Competition Research, Analyze, Validate your startup ideas and build a strategy

Even before you start thinking of actually making an App, it is very important to do a deep App competition research, analysis, and know how to validate your app idea, and Build a strategy for MVP App Development, Full App Product Development, and launch and growth and of course, Exit!

Scenario #1 — Your App idea is absolutely unique and there is no existing app which remotely does what you want your app to offer.

Now this is a great App situation to be in. There is no App competitor, your App idea is unique so you’d think of going full force to build it, right? Well, not just like that! More important than not having a competitive App, is a viable business model that your App can support. In such a case where you’ve an App idea that doesn’t exist yet, you should be asking the following questions –

Scenario #2 There are similar Apps out-there but you see a big opportunity to fill the gaps they’ve left.

This is a pretty common scenario, because there is an App for almost everything but so as with the automobile and they still launch new improved cars so you can still launch a new App, a better one than your competitors. A good thing in this scenario is that, you already have a market that is receptive to the App idea you’re contemplating making.

Scenario #3 The Market is saturated with many Apps similar to your App idea.

Well, it doesn’t sound very promising or does it? Take an example of another Dating App like Tinder, and you may not want to make another one but still there are many new dating apps being launched every month, so why so? Maybe because there is still a lot of untapped market around, maybe because more localization is still needed, or because people need new things to try, or because majority of users of such apps are not getting their due. The reasons can be endless.

Figure out a marketing strategy along these lines:

What will be your early App Marketing Boost strategy, and then for how long would you boost aggressively? Would you spend your own money on App marketing or raise funds for it? if your own money, then how much? Find out how much it costs per new app user acquisition you’re willing to pay. Find out about various channels of app marketing — like social media ads, video ads, blogging, PR reviews, celebrity endorsements and make a budget for it. Find out how much of free marketing can be done? We at Agicent always help our clients to gain first 1000 users using our inhouse App marketing team. Here is my quick take on How to gain first few thousands App users with almost free efforts:

Define your Mobile App’s USP or Unique Bragworthy Proposition

As mentioned in the competitive research point above, figuring out your App’s unique selling proposition and then secondary propositions is of utmost importance. The world is however moved on from USP (unique selling proposition) to UBP (Unique Bragworthy proposition) as described well by Cred’s Founder Mr. Kunal Shah, Cred is valued at approximately $ 6.4 billion as of mid 2022 is one of the biggest unicorns in India. So we can take his advice about UBP pretty seriously.

Make App Wireframes or Write user stories and Use-cases

A wireframe is the next step in the process of making an app. An App wireframe is the rough sketch of the mobile application you want to develop. Wireframes can be made on paper or also by using some very smart Mockups or Wireframes to create tools around that come with their mobile apps as well. We’ll talk about wireframing tools a little later, after describing an app specification document.

Mobile Application Maintenance and Support:

App maintenance is another important aspect of the process of creating an App. At Agicent, we offer a free 3 to 6 months of App maintenance warranty after going live and that covers most of the critical time. However, after a certain point you will need more dedicated maintenance team and we’ve several plans for the same.

Source: https://www.agicent.com/blog/how-to-make-an-app