Tuesday, August 28, 2012

So You Want to Be an App Developer? Here’s How !

Apps are in. There’s no denying it. Seems everyone these days has a great idea for a mobile app: apps to find food, apps to find rides, apps to find more apps. The list goes on.

But just how do you become an app developer anyway? As with so many paths to success, there’s no one rote way. But there are some common, helpful and progressive steps to turn your great kernel of an idea into reality, or land you a gig with that hot startup you’ve had your eye on.

A degree in computer science or software engineering is a very strong foundation. Alternatively, there are specialized courses you can take that are geared toward mobile app development specifically. Getting certified in different aspects of development will only make your case stronger to employers looking to hire. But the best way of all to prove you can build something great? Build something great!

To do that, you’ll need a well-rounded skillset, including UI design, familiarity with a range of programming languages, backend computing knowledge and — this one’s very important — some savvy business knowledge. Once you meet your goal, though, the hard work should literally pay off; the average annual salary for employed app developers in 2011 was nearly $90,000, according to one survey. And by 2016, the total revenue from consumer mobile apps is expected to top $50 billion, according to some estimates.

The online education portal Schools.com recently surveyed the app landscape, and pulled information from a variety of sources around the web to put together theinfographic below, which serves as a primer for aspiring developers. Check it out for the fuller picture, then let us know in the comments: Does this information ring true to you?

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