Microsoft has been working hard to make the Windows 8 environment better and better, and not only for the end user on every platform, but also for the developer by creating applications for them to use. In doing so, one of the biggest pushes has been to get the developers to build more apps to attract more people to the platform, but how are they doing this?
Microsoft is working to improve its environment and app market by giving tons of free tools to developers and people interested in developing apps. Since the introduction of smart phones and tablets, people have become increasingly interested in apps and their development, and this not applies your little sister or random family member, but it also applies to the professional web and desktop developer.
The biggest challenge with any new adventure is where to start? Give a big “Hello!” to Microsoft’s App Studio! For Windows Phone developers Microsoft has provided tons of free API’s, SDK’s, and example apps. They have also published the Windows Phone App called “App Studio," this is a fully web-based application that takes you through the app development process all the way to completion and submission.
The Right Fit?
So who can benefit from the Microsoft App Studio app? With all of its power and ease, Microsoft App Studio is terrific for anyone just getting started in development or app development! In some cases, App Studio is terrific for experienced developers as well, although we will touch on this a bit more towards the end of my blog.
So who can benefit from the Microsoft App Studio app? With all of its power and ease, Microsoft App Studio is terrific for anyone just getting started in development or app development! In some cases, App Studio is terrific for experienced developers as well, although we will touch on this a bit more towards the end of my blog.
Microsoft has packed a ton of great features into this web based application and they are constantly updating it to provide more value. This application only requires one person with a basic understanding of the web in order to use it. Once you start building an application you can use RSS feeds, YouTube user names, Instagram hashtags, and many more sources to dynamically create content inside of the application. You can also modify the layout and display of each page as well as choose themes and different colors. When finished setting up your app and its display, you can simply publish it straight to the app store or even download the source code.
Who Cares?
For anyone interested in Windows Phone App development regardless of the skill level, they should absolutely consider using this tool! It’s also a great way to see how Microsoft puts everything together, and this can give developers ideas on how to create their own app. And since you have the ability to download the source code, you can look at it and learn how Microsoft created certain portions of the app.
It could take a developer hours upon hours to develop functionality such as pulling Instagram hash tags or creating orientation layout for the phone, but with the source code from this application you can easily accomplish these tasks by learning from the experts.
The Customization Catch
Like most everything in life that is super powerful and cool, there is a catch, and App Studio is no exception. Although Microsoft has put out a great piece of technology that I highly encourage anyone starting out with app development to try, it is the ultimate a “cookie cutter” type application that has limitations. So how do we get around this?
Either in the beginning or after using App Studio as a base, the only way to get custom features is through custom development! App Studio can give you a great start to a phone app, but it cannot replace custom code. With App Studio you can make outstanding basic apps, which might be just what you need. Other times, if you want some cool features for your users or you would like your app to do something special or “out-of-the-box” the only way to get that done is by writing the code for it or paying someone to write the code for you.
Where it’s Going & Where it’s Not
Microsoft’s App Studio is an amazing free tool! Every month I sign-in just to see what new features they have added to their application. This routine has come in handy by giving me ideas or source code on how to do things especially dealing with orientation.
In time, I see this tool becoming more and more powerful with tons of additional features that any user could want in their app. Ultimately, this is a great base app development tool, but it cannot replace custom development. So coders, do not fear! Your job is still very much needed! For all those aspiring app developers though, this is a great place to begin getting hooked on app development!
The Comparison
I thought it might be nice to give you a quick comparison chart. This is a simple comparison of features and benefits of both the MS App Studio and Custom App Development. If you are trying to make a decision about what is right for your business app development needs, this may help you determine the right direction to start. Let me know if you have questions!