Think Differently. Solve the Impossible.

The Many Skills Behind Building and Launching an iOS App

Using my software engineering skills, I created the app, Song Chef®.  I used Figma to design the user interface and test how users might interact with the app. I explored programming the app with HTM, WordPress and other languages, ultimately teaching myself Apple's programing language, Swift. 

Developing an iOS app from start to finish is a multi-disciplinary process that requires a combination of design, programming, version control, deployment, and business strategy. Here’s an overview of the various steps and skills involved:

1. Designing the App (UI/UX Design - Figma)

• Understanding user needs and designing an intuitive interface.
• Creating wireframes and interactive prototypes using Figma.
• Implementing user experience (UX) best practices to ensure smooth navigation and functionality.
• Refining the visual design, color schemes, typography, and iconography for a professional look.

2. Programming the App (Swift & SwiftUI)

• Learning and mastering Swift, Apple’s programming language.
• Using SwiftUI or UIKit to build a responsive and dynamic user interface.
• Writing efficient, modular, and maintainable code following Apple’s best practices.
• Debugging issues and optimizing app performance for speed and reliability.
• Integrating essential Apple frameworks (such as Core Data for storage, Combine for reactive programming, and CloudKit for syncing).

3. Managing Code and Version Control (GitHub)

• Using Git and GitHub to track changes, collaborate, and maintain a history of code versions.
• Creating branches to experiment with new features without breaking the main codebase.
• Resolving merge conflicts and ensuring clean commits for a smooth development workflow.

4. Preparing and Submitting the App to the App Store

• Setting up an Apple Developer account and configuring the necessary provisioning profiles.
• Creating an App Store Connect listing, including app descriptions, keywords, screenshots, and preview videos.
• Testing the app thoroughly using Apple’s TestFlight to catch bugs before submission.
• Uploading the app using Xcode and passing Apple’s automated checks.

5. Getting Apple’s Approval

• Ensuring compliance with Apple’s App Store Review Guidelines to avoid rejection.
• Addressing any rejections or required changes from Apple’s review team.
• Handling privacy and security requirements, such as App Tracking Transparency (ATT) and user data policies.

6. Monetizing with a Subscription Service

• Setting up in-app purchases (IAPs) or subscription models using StoreKit.
• Configuring pricing tiers and subscription renewal options in App Store Connect.
• Implementing a seamless user experience for subscribing, managing, and canceling subscriptions.
• Handling revenue tracking, App Store commission fees, and payout schedules.

Final Thoughts

Building and launching an iOS app isn't just about coding—it requires a combination of design, problem-solving, technical expertise, project management, and business strategy. Each step presents unique challenges, but overcoming them results in a product that’s ready for real users. Successfully taking an app from idea to revenue-generating product is a testament to critical thinking, adaptability, and innovation—all key traits of a world-class problem solver.

I formed an new company (Song Chef LLC). A short time later I was contacted by two recruiters, one working on be-half of a major existing app on the market, looking for fresh ideas.  The company created a hybrid position with me in mind: someone with both iOS software engineering and UX/UI skills (most are either programmers or designers; not both). They asked if $300,000 would be enough.  It felt good to be valued. Working in the industry as a programmer. At the same time I received a call back for an audition to give a TEDx talk.