Why a cross-platform app is not always a good idea
It sounds appealing: getting a single application developed for different platforms.
You only need to invest once and can roll out your application effortlessly.
Whether it is for Windows or MacBooks users, for iPhone enthusiasts or Android phone users.
Low cost, big reach. That is, if it works.
That remains to be seen. As software developers, we are a little cautious when it comes to cross-platform applications.
After all, your low development costs will be of no use if the end result doesn’t work.
If the interpretation of the developed code does not turn out to be the same for each platform. And that happens quite a lot.
Suppose the code is 1,2,3. Then, depending on the parameters, the interpretation may be 2,3,1. With a completely different outcome.
This is a common problem with cross-platform applications. However, there are a few exceptions when such a platform is a viable option.
We’ll mention three of them:
Simple applications
Applications without complex functionalities. Small scale, with standard functions. This could be an information or business app with no platform-dependent functionalities.
Content applications
Business applications with content such as photos, texts, graphics and links.
Form applications
Applications with fill-in forms. You will need to thoroughly check and test that the application works on all platforms, because it is of course very important that everything works well!
It is hard to say when cross-platform does or does not work well. Testing is often the only way to find out.
Always avoid situations that could end up costing you dearly and get good advice in advance. If you would like more information or advice on your specific idea then please contact Solvware as we guarantee honest advice.