Key Steps to Develop a Social App

In today’s digital world, many third sector organisations are starting to consider mobile app development as a strategic tool to improve their activities, expand social impact, or facilitate communication with users and volunteers.

However, creating an app is not just about programming it—it’s a process that requires careful planning, collaboration, and a strong focus on people’s needs.

At teclaSocial, we specialise in this process. In this article, we share the key steps for developing an app with purpose and social effectiveness.

Needs Assessment: What problem do you want to solve?

It all starts with one essential question: What problem are you trying to solve with an app? At this stage, it’s important to:

• Listen to your target audience (users, professionals, volunteers).
• Identify which features are essential and which are simply “nice to have”.
• Evaluate whether an app is truly the best solution (or whether a well-adapted website might already suffice).

This phase often includes participatory workshops—especially valuable in social contexts where inclusion and listening are crucial.

User-Centred Design (UX/UI)

Once your goals are clear, it’s time to think about how to deliver the solution. A social app must be designed with:

• Accessibility in mind (for people with functional diversity, low digital literacy, etc.).
• Simplicity: clear interfaces, visible buttons, understandable messages.
• User journey: from first access to regular use.

This phase includes the creation of prototypes and visual mockups that allow the idea to be tested before development begins.

Technical Development

Once the concept is validated, we move into the technical phase. This is where the app’s features are programmed and integrated with databases, admin panels or external systems. Key decisions include:

• Type of app: native, hybrid or PWA (Progressive Web App).
• Open-source programming languages and frameworks.
• Integration with external services such as maps, authentication systems or push notifications.
  

It is essential to work with a tech team that understands the social context and the priorities of the organisation.

Testing and Validation

Before launching, it’s crucial to test the app with real users:

• Usability testing: is the navigation clear? Are there any errors?
• Technical testing: compatibility with different devices and operating systems.
• Collect feedback to improve before the official launch.

These tests can also become a great opportunity to reinforce community participation in the project.

Launch and Outreach

Once the app is ready, you need a launch and communication strategy:

• How will you inform your community about the new app?
• Do you need to prepare support materials (tutorials, explainer videos, FAQs)?
• Which communication channels will you use: email, social media, websites of partner organisations?
  

It’s also important to offer early user support to solve doubts and encourage active use from the beginning.

Maintenance and Evolution

App development doesn’t end with its launch. Ongoing tasks include:

• Regular updates to adapt to new versions of iOS or Android.
• Server maintenance and data security.
• Collecting usage data to enhance the app’s functionality.

It’s also important to maintain open communication channels to detect new needs and propose continuous improvements.

Conclusion

Developing a social app is far more than a technological task. It’s a collaborative design process, a way of putting technology at the service of people, and ensuring that each step reflects the values of the organisation.

At teclaSocial, we can support you through all phases of the process—from the initial idea to post-launch maintenance—always with an inclusive, sustainable, and third-sector-oriented approach.

teclaSocial, digital commitent.