Buying Source Code
Do’s :
- It is best to buy source code from app flipping companies that reskin their own apps. This is to ensure that you will have a high level of support in case there is a problem with the source code.
- Make sure that the source code supports the latest platform version. Also make sure what specific platform the source code is made for and in what devices they could work. Generally, source codes will only work for one platform and specific devices.
- Look for a source code with cloned mechanics that you can reuse. A match-3 game format is proven to attract many downloads. You can select a source code that uses the same mechanics or rules as any of existing match-3 game apps.
- Consider the features that come with the app. There should be something more (options for social network sharing, etc.) than the original app.
- Buy a multiple-license app template. This will enable you to reskin the app as many times as you deem necessary using different themes that target different demographics.
- Check for the documentation that comes with the source code. Well-structured source codes should have good documentation. The documentation is where you can find information on the procedure that the original programmer use and you can use in reskinning and then publishing the app. This usually includes instructions for inserting your account information to divert ad revenue to your account.
- Check for the organization of files and settings. The graphic files should be arranged in a way that is easy to access with proper labels so that you know what is used in specific parts of the app. The file types for the graphics should also be the same within each source code.
- Buy graphics together with the code. There are several source code marketplaces that also offer the services of predefined graphics that you can use for multiple reskins of the app. This can be good deal and you can also save a lot of time.
Don’ts :
- The source code should come from reputable sources like highly recognized source code marketplaces and companies with good background. This is to make sure that the vendors do have the rights and license to distribute the source codes.
- Read the licensing agreement and make sure that you know the limitations of the license you bought.
- Don’t select source codes that have clones of graphics of an existing app. This is a case of copyright infringement. Though you may argue that the app template is “not really an exact clone”, you might get flak from the Apple App Store for this.
- If it’s your first time reskinning an app, do not jump into buying source code for complex apps. The goal is to launch the app within a month or less.
- At this stage, stay clear of using source code for a cross-platform app. This can be quite complex – complexity that you won’t need while starting up.
Outsourcing App Development
Do’s :
- Do search for experts on each specific field you want work on through websites like freelancer.com or elance.com. If you are on a tight budget, there are a variety of freelancers to choose from with different levels of skills.
- Hire a game developer if you are not proficient in programming. There are also companies that offer reskinning services like programming and graphics design. This is advisable if you want to build a large app portfolio.
- Learn enough of the game development process (programming, design, etc.) to give valuable suggestions and feedback. This would also help in ensuring that the developer is doing what he should do.
- Conceptualize what you want to happen with the app and clearly convey this to the developer/designer. You should have a say on what and how things should be done. This is true not only for the graphics but also for the sound and music selection.
- Another reason to outsource is if you don’t have access to some of the resources needed. For the app to be uploaded in the App Store, an Apple device is necessary, the same with testing (you need different Apple devices for this).
- Check if the assets you outsourced are original work. Upload the images on Google search to search for any duplicates. All assets should be unique.
- If your outsourced freelancer intends to use stock photo or sound, make sure that the usage rights for these assets allow for redistribution and if the license can be only used for one free app or an extended license you can use for paid apps.
- Test the app itself. Simple apps mostly need two rounds of testing. Testing would also enable you to see if the app is up to your expectations. The developer should provide you with testing platforms for both i0S and Android. You can set a pre-launch test gameplay or just hire testing companies to assess the app.
Don’ts :
- Don’t fall into scammers that would pretend they have a certain set of skills. In some websites, it is alright for freelancers to use aliases without any validation of their identities. An interview is a must, especially if you doubt if they can deliver the services they promised.
- Don’t hire one person to do everything. It is rare to find a programmer/developer that is also good in design and graphics, the same can also be true with app designers/graphic artists. It can appear cheaper but most of the time, the person you hired isn’t really proficient at both areas and can overlook some essential features which may result in poor graphics or bugs. It is also advisable to hire a separate ASO expert.
- Don’t intervene too much with your outsourced personnel’s work. An idea or opinion here and there would be appreciated and even necessary but it’s always advisable that you do not stifle their creative process.
- If you have no prior experience with the process of app reskinning, don’t try to do everything by yourself or outsource everything. There should be some middle ground for you to be able to learn the process.
- Don’t just trust that your outsourced personnel will check if everything’s up to par with your reskinned app. If it is not part of your agreement that they’d be doing this level of checking, they won’t do it and if you asked for it, they would demand extra payment just to do this task.
In the 2nd part of this article, we’ll talk about the do’s and don’t for :
- App quality
- Mobile App Monetization
