The pros and cons of building your own app

If you’re launching a new product or service, you’ve probably considered creating an app for it. And if you have design experience, you may decide to follow the self-build route. To help you know whether this is the right choice for you, we’ve pulled together the pros and cons of building your own app. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know.

How could I build my own app?

Different options are available, depending on your level of design experience. If you’re familiar with React Native, a framework for creating apps, consider building your app from scratch.



Or you could use an app builder — a software tool that guides you through the entire process. If you choose a no-code app builder, you won’t need any special technical skills. This can be an appealing option for anyone who wants to build a simple app without knowledge of coding.

The pros and cons of app builders

For this post, we’re going to focus on the pros and cons of creating your own app with an app builder.

Pro 1: Cost-effectiveness

One of the most obvious pros is that an app builder means you can create an app for free or at very little cost.

This means it can be a good option for individuals and small businesses who don’t have a large budget.

Be aware, though, that free app builders offer only a limited set of features at no cost. You may have to upgrade to access greater functionality or remove ads.

Pro 2: No technical knowledge required

The majority of free app builders are simple to use without any background technical knowledge. You can drag and drop elements or use templates to customise your app.

Many app builders also provide tutorials, FAQs, and forums to help guide you through the process, so you won’t feel completely on your own.

Pro 3: Customisation available

App builders offer a range of customisation options to help ensure your app reflects your business. These include colour schemes, layouts, and features to add interest and value to your app.

The extent of customisation will vary from one app builder to another, so be sure to do your research if this is an important factor for you.

Con 1: Limited design options

While free app builders do offer a certain amount of options, these are inevitably limited compared to having an app custom-made for you by a digital agency.

A free or low-cost app builder is unlikely to offer you more advanced features like chatbots or AI-enabled personalisation options. This means that your app may end up being more basic than you had imagined.

Con 2: Lack of scalability

Apps made with builders often work well on a small scale. But as your business grows, you may need to expand your app’s functionality.

This means you may have to upgrade to a more costly version of the app builder or abandon your app altogether.

Con 3: Not enough support

Many app builders do come with customer support features — but this tends to be limited.

Unlike working with a local digital agency, you won’t have a familiar person to turn to when something goes wrong with your app.



If you’re looking to create a highly customised app with plenty of features that grows with your business, the support options offered by app builders may be inadequate for your needs.

Find mobile app development services in Melbourne

App builders can work well if you only need basic functionality. But in many cases, collaboration with a local digital agency will give you many more options to create your own unique mobile app.

That’s where the team at Kodaa can help. We design and create a range of digital products, including mobile apps, that exactly reflect our clients’ needs. We offer React Native development in Melbourne to help build beautiful, functional apps that grow with your business. And we’re also only a click or phone call away if you need help.

Why not reach out to us today to find out where we can go with your mobile app idea?