Working as an app developer is one of those career paths that seem to be gaining more popularity recently.
The appeal to develop apps and provide solutions to users is appealing. Many young people with a knack for technology consider app development as a viable career option.
Of course, you do not have to be young to consider such an option. Nor is there a need to have a background or be super interested in tech (these things obviously help, though).
Because there are so many learning sources available online, one has to dedicate some time to get the fundamentals down and work toward becoming a professional.
Having said that, it is important to note that, like other careers, app development also comes with its share of pros and cons.
It would make sense to familiarize yourself with the advantages and advantages of working as an app developer before you commit to it. Let’s start with the positives.
Pros:
1. Job Variety
One of the first things that stand out is the fact that you have a variety of jobs in the industry. App development knowledge is useful because you can work not just as an app developer but also as a tester.
Add the fact that there are different operating systems that require development. Android and iOS are often the choices because mobile app development seems like a natural course of action.
At the same time, one can also consider macOS, for instance. Coming up with ideas and solutions for MacBook users could be just as fulfilling and profitable.
2. Competitive Salaries
If you have a passion for app development and technology, then the money might not be a priority. However, it is still worth noting that app developers can boast of having a competitive salary even if they are still relatively inexperienced.
Of course, as you become better at what you do, you can expect to make even more money. In addition, going freelance is also a consideration due to the nature of the job. You are free to create your own schedule and work as much as you like, focusing on particular projects.
Keep in mind, though, that working as a freelancer requires discipline because you are not under the strict supervision that one finds in a company.
3. Potential to Grow
Besides the salary, there is potential to grow in other areas. As you gain experience, you can take on more complex projects that require specific knowledge.
Some app developers also have the goal of starting their own company in the future. Building even a small agency from scratch takes a lot of experience and resources, and it is hard to imagine achieving such a goal without prior background in app development.
Overall, the future for app developers seems pretty bright. The use of mobile devices continues to grow as more and more people get access to smartphones, tablets, and computers. And with new challenges, there will be a need for solutions that can come in the form of applications.
Cons:
1. Competition
Now, as far as the drawbacks of an app development career go, the competition is perhaps the worst thing about it.
As expected, because of how appealing it is to work as an app developer, the career attracts a lot of interested candidates.
If you are self-taught and work as a freelancer, you will have to fight against other already established developers who had time to get ahead of you. And if you are planning to apply for a company job, expect other candidates with more impressive resumes than yours.
2. Individual and Team Work
It depends on your work, but you can expect to jump between working in a team with other developers and discussing issues with your clients.
Sometimes, this frantic environment puts a toll on one’s productivity. It is easy to get stuck if you are not feeling it, and who knows how long it will take to get back on track.
Take customer reviews, for instance. You might find that some users are experiencing issues on your app, and you are not finding it easy to determine the root of the problem.
3. Responsibilities and Pressure
Responsibilities and pressure are disadvantages that often get overlooked. If you like your job or the idea of working as an app developer, your experience might turn out to be different once things stop going your way.
As you take on more work and fall behind on your prior tasks (this happens more often than one thinks), panic ensues, and it can be difficult to get out of the slump.
Avoiding such situations becomes easier as you become more experienced, but do not expect that the work will be easy right from the get-go. If anything, those who are serious about becoming app developers should come in prepared and expect hardships.