An Idea
The idea is one of the most important parts of the development process, whether it is an attempt to reinvent the wheel or something completely unique it is important to ensure that your idea is protected so that others can't steal your idea. Often the best way this is done is to enter into a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). This will ensure your idea is protected whether we decide to work together or not.
After the agreement has been signed we can continue and discuss the idea in hand. The first thing you need to do is flesh out your idea as much as possible in the form of a list of features. If required, be sure to include sources for your data (RSS Feeds, Stock Files, Databases etc), resources (brand images, logos, etc), drawings and designs. These will help me understand your idea as much as possible and ensure that the remaining development process goes as smooth as possible.
Initial Proposal
During the start of this phase of development, your ideas will be evaluated, alternatives suggested and I will be honest with any thoughts on your ideas. Some designs and a detailed proposal will be sent to you for your consideration. If enough information has been supplied by you; development cost estimates and approximate timescales will be included also.
To nurture a healthy partnership I will never over promise on ideas that i can not deliver. This will help keep development costs down and ensure that you are satisfied at the end of the development process. With all software development a simple sounding idea on paper can be extremely difficult or simply not feasible to realise. It is also important to understand that Apple themselves impose tight restrictions on applications distributed through the App store. Don't concern yourself too much with what they are, just be aware that they exist and wee will talk about this before work begins actually developing your App.
In Development
The easy part, well for you anyway. This is where i really get to work. Okay, so, you have agreed to the proposal the core foundations for the App will begin being implemented. Your App will start to be developed in stages. At each step you will be kept informed with what is going on. Versions will be sent to you to test directly on your own device. Should that not be possible for whatever reason, maybe you don't have access to a device, alternatives can be arranged.
Testing
There is no point in paying for an App that doesn't work or do what had been agreed, especially if your end user is paying you money for the privilege.
During the core development process the App will be naturally tested. You will also have the opportunity to test your App on your own device. Any bugs that may have been initially missed will be squashed and I will ensure that your shiny new App is ready to be submitted to Apple for review.
Submission
Right, together we have taken your idea shook it about a little and produced an amazing app. What next?
Your App needs to be submitted to Apple's review team to ensure that it meets their standards. As a rule of thumb, Apple takes between 1-2 weeks to review your App. Apple will either Approve or Reject the App. If they Approve the App it will be processed for the App store and released as per your instructions. If apple Reject the App, all is not lost. They will explain what the issue is and suggest a way to fix the problem. The App will need to be altered as per their request and resubmitted for review again.
Once Apple has Approved your App; It will be a available in the territories specified at the price tier set. (Price points and Tiers are set by Apple and can be discussed at any time).
Distribution
For your App to be distributed through Apple there are 2 options to you;
Option 1: Sell via My Account.
Option 2: Sell via you own iTunes Developer Account.
Each option has their own considerations. If you would like your App to be published under your own unique brand, you MUST subscribe to an iTunes Developer Account. This is currently priced at £59 ($99 US) per year. Should you require more information regarding this, it can be found on Apple's own website. If you do setup your own account, in order for me to submit your application account access will need to be granted. There are different levels that can be granted to an account user, you will regain all financial control while allowing me the privileges required to deploy the App. Once the App has been submitted, you have direct control over the description, pricing and availability. If your App generates any revenue, this will be paid directly into your account from Apple.
If you would rather have the convenience of having me host your App, that is possible and it will be added to my personal iTunes Developer Account. Please note that I will only host FREE Apps and Apps that do NOT have iAds implemented.
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