Listen to our expert guide on developing a mobile application in Ireland.
Reading time: 12 minutes
Table of Contents:
There are several ways to go about having a mobile application developed in Ireland. Typically, the options are:
Each of these has it's own pros and cons, so the same solution is not best in all circumstances. The optimal solution for you will depend on multiple factors, including:
Assuming that you don't have the time, will, or inclination to learn how to build the app yourself, let's look at the other three options for app development in Ireland. Similar realities exist for app development in the UK and the US, but there are nuances and regional variations.
Hiring a freelancer is typically the cheapest option for building a mobile app. However, in an Irish context, local freelancers are expensive. Bear in mind that, when hiring a technologist in Ireland, you are competing with 19 of the 20 largest technology companies in the world for talent. So, Irish companies hiring freelancers typically use platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour to source overseas developers.
If budget is the primary consideration, freelancers might be considered a good option. However, there are numerous inherent risks associated. As 'guns for hire', freelancers can chase the best gig available. If, for example, you agree to pay a freelancer €15 per hour and halfway through the project they are offered €20 per hour elsewhere, what do you think is likely to happen? That's not to say that all freelancers lack integrity, but the engagement is precarious. This scenario can be covered by contract, but pursuing legal recourse against an individual overseas is tedious. Similarly, if the freelancer finishes the project and, at some point in the future, you need changes, updates, or additions, will they still be available to help?
The most reliable routes for Irish businesses to develop an app are engaging an agency or hiring staff.
As discussed above, hiring tech staff in Ireland is an expensive business but does provide greater control of the technology delivery process. In-house staff can be instructed and monitored. One issue, though, which also applies to freelancers, is that building apps requires a cross-functional team, not just an individual. If you choose to build your app in-house, you will likely need developers, a designer, and a project manager (possibly others depending on the nature and complexity of the project). You could outsource some of the elements, but that defeats the purpose somewhat.
The cost of an in-house team is not just a matter of the team members salaries. You also need to consider the associated recruitment, onboarding, and overhead costs.
Engaging a specialist development agency in Ireland balances the lack of control over freelancers with the long-term commitment to an in-house squad. When deciding which agency to appoint, there are several elements for consideration. There is a separate guide to agency selection in our resources section.
The advantages of having an agency develop your app are manifold, but there are some safeguards that you may wish to consider to protect your interests.
Who should you engage to develop your mobile application in Ireland? It depends on your circumstances and requirements but is likely to be a specialist mobile tech agency. There can be some risks working with an agency, so do your due diligence in selecting the best partner and ensure that you have safeguards in place to cover any potential risks. Good luck!
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