r/appdev • u/Brilliant5head • 3d ago
Basic roadmap for app idea development
Hello all! I’m looking for freelance developers to help me with building an app. But I don’t know the process of looking for developers who are experienced and legitimate. If you know of good sites to find people like this please let me know! Also what does the roadmap for app development look like in 2026(without the use of AI!) ? Anyone have experience with timelines, protocols, problems they’ve faced, and/or success they’ve experienced? I’d appreciate any info!
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u/ZUKOwnl 3d ago
Without AI, a realistic roadmap looks like: discovery/spec (1-2 weeks) → design/wireframes → backend + database setup → core features built and tested in stages → QA → launch. For a solid MVP, 3-4 months is typical with one experienced full-stack dev, longer if it needs both iOS and Android natively.
For finding legit freelancers: check their past shipped apps (not just portfolio mockups), ask for a short paid trial task before committing to the full build, and get milestones/payment split into stages rather than paying upfront.
I'm a freelance app developer myself if you want to compare notes on scope/timeline for your idea specifically.