I've spent about $40-70K on app development over the past 2 years. I could look up the exact amount but it doesn't matter. Instead of thinking about the money as a sum, I think about it per app and in terms of how fast I can return my investment. If I was making $1Million/year and saw $1Million worth of opportunities, I would invest it all without a second thought.

Over time I've created a development strategy that accomplishes several goals:
✓ Reduce the risk involved with app development
✓ Potential to double your profit per dollar spent
✓ Reduce development costs for future apps

In one quick conversation with your developer you can potentially do all of this. It's all about the user interface. I simply look for opportunities where I can develop one interface (or shell of an app), and use it for as many apps as possible.

Once your developer creates an app 'template,' it's far easier for them to create a similar app which uses that same design. A few weeks ago I decided to develop an app which helps users keep track of their pain. To reduce my risk, I looked for other apps which would allow users to track something similar. Headaches and migraines seemed like an obvious extension. 

I talked with my developers before starting the project and agreed to one price for both of these apps. It was almost exactly the price of just one. Now if one of them fails, I have another chance to make back my investment. Also, when I have new ideas in the future, I have about 6 app templates which I can modify and develop at a much lower price.

If you want to use this strategy, most of the work is done in the research phase. Actively look for opportunities where you can develop one 'template' for a variety of apps.

Spencer Costanzo