Playbook: how to build mobile apps

Starter StoryAbout 2 min readMay 16, 2025Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts: Brain dumping, competitor analysis, sketching, UI design, 99 Designs.

Brain Dumping and Initial Idea Refinement:

The initial step after solidifying an app idea involves a comprehensive "brain dump." This process entails documenting all potential features, functionalities, and ideas related to the app within a Google Docs document. The purpose is to externalize all thoughts and concepts, creating a central repository for further refinement. Competitors are also listed to provide context and inspiration. The brain dump includes a written description of the app's intended functionality.

Competitor Analysis and Feature Identification:

A crucial aspect of the process is analyzing existing competitors within the app's niche. This involves scrutinizing their features, onboarding processes, and user interface (UI). The goal is to identify successful elements and best practices that can inform the app's design and functionality. The speaker emphasizes the importance of observing competitors who are already generating revenue within the app store, as their success indicates a proven market demand and effective strategies.

Sketching and Visual Prototyping:

Following the brain dump and competitor analysis, the next step involves creating initial sketches of the app's UI using paper and pencil. These sketches serve as visual representations of the app's layout, navigation, and key features. The sketches don't need to be perfect but should convey the general structure and flow of the app.

UI Design Outsourcing via 99 Designs:

The sketches are then uploaded to a platform called 99 Designs. The user provides a detailed brief outlining the app's premise, features, and target audience. The platform then facilitates a design contest where numerous professional UI designers submit their interpretations of the app's design. The speaker mentions that users can receive 50, 60, or even 70+ design submissions, providing a wide range of visual options to choose from. This allows the app creator to leverage the expertise of multiple designers and select the design that best aligns with their vision.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The process described involves a structured approach to app development, starting with idea generation and culminating in professional UI design. The key takeaways are the importance of thorough planning through brain dumping, learning from competitors, creating initial visual prototypes, and leveraging platforms like 99 Designs to access a diverse pool of design talent. This methodology aims to increase the likelihood of creating a visually appealing and user-friendly app.

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