How to Build a Strong Mobile App Architecture
David Kenneth Zuckerman
PMP | Experienced Senior Product Manager | SaaS | PaaS | AdTech | Media | PropTech | Data Services | Marketing Leadership | Corporate Strategy
Any mobile or online application you create should have well-built components, so make sure this is the case. The final product's quality might be adversely affected by even the tiniest issues that may develop during the process of developing a mobile app architecture. If you want to do something, do it well, as the phrase goes. Because of this, every well-known Android and iOS app has a solid mobile app architecture and is well-liked by users.
What is the structure of a mobile app? It is a group of structural elements and their interfaces, as well as their behavior within the context of all other structural elements, from which the system is constructed. One could say that this is the program's framework, and the effectiveness of it will ultimately determine how well the mobile application functions as a whole. You risk your project's success by skipping a crucial step while designing the architecture of a mobile app. Depending on the size of the application, high-quality architecture construction is either simple or complex. Future time, energy, and cost savings will be made possible with the right architecture.
Application development without an architecture could have a number of unfavorable effects. These include increased expenses and lengthier development cycles, challenges with app testing and maintenance, increased error risks, etc.
What attributes define a good mobile app architecture? A compatible mobile application architecture can significantly alter the situation. It can fully support and expedite the software development processes and offer a clear data flow path, which will facilitate future application scaling. Better flexibility and the use of the Agile development technique can both be made possible by the correct design. It will also make future app maintenance easier and testing procedures more straightforward and effective. Therefore, a mobile app architecture will help organizations save a lot of time and money.
What Is an Architecture Diagram for a Mobile App?
First off, a mobile application that has the proper architecture is independent of outside resources. The successful projects that are currently available on iOS and Android were all made by developers by hand without the aid of frameworks or other comparable tools. No library should be used as a basis for architecture. As a result, you can use frameworks as tools rather than trying to force your system within their bounds. In order for your mobile application architectural diagram to work regardless of other applications' status, it should not be accessible to other operating systems and databases.
A lucrative design that makes the process of creating and maintaining a program easier and more effective is, first and foremost, what makes an architecture good. A program that has a solid architectural foundation is simpler to test, modify, debug, and comprehend.
Clean Architecture, for instance, works well for large-scale projects with big expenditures.
Although this kind of design is general and allows for the installation of several plug-ins and speedy debugging, it shouldn't be made utilizing frameworks. The program's source code must be entirely new.
Let's see an illustration of a mobile application architecture that has been successfully implemented:
Each layer of such a mobile application has its own key fragment that contains the logic of your application and key objects, and each layer is independent of other programs and components. The Dependency Rule, which specifies that all dependencies in the source code can only be expressed internally, connects all layers. For instance, a code from the inner circle cannot mention anything from the outer circle. This holds true for all entities, including variables, classes, and functions.
Android Mobile App Architecture
In the past, AsyncTask was still a crucial part of the architecture of Android mobile apps because developers lacked tools to communicate with the network.
Let's examine the traditional method for developing Android application architecture:
The adoption of Clean Architecture is the finest option for dependable functioning in the world of today. Your application will be able to run independently of frameworks, databases, and other systems thanks to this architecture. In this Android mobile app architecture, transitions between layers are accomplished by Boundaries, or through two interfaces: one for the request and one for the response. They are necessary for the inner layer to follow the Dependency Rule and not be dependent on the outer layer while yet being able to communicate with it:
The dependency inversion principle is utilized in order to guide a dependency in such an Android mobile application design towards the reverse flow of data (the letter D from the abbreviation SOLID). In other words, Uses Cases are dependant on the interface in its layer rather than the Presenter directly, which would break the Dependency Rule. The Presenter is required to implement this interface.
iOS Mobile App Architecture?
Four blocks make up the basic iOS mobile app architecture:
Kernel level (Core OS): Manages the file system and manages the many certificates that are attached to the programs. also in charge of the system's overall security. provides low-level access to the device's components.
Database and file access is provided via Core Services (Core Service).
Tools for processing the majority of media data formats are available at the media level (Media).
The interface level (Cocoa Touch) offers various components for designing mobile interfaces and also gives the other layers user-generated data.
An iOS mobile application architecture of the highest caliber is produced using an MVC (Massive View Controller) and its prototypes. Because the controller is so integrated into the view life cycle that it is challenging to distinguish it from the view, Cocoa MVC urges you to create a Massive View Controller. Although you still have the option to ship certain business logic and data conversion in the Model, there aren't many options when it comes to shipping work in the View:
Sending actions to the controller is typically all that the view is responsible for. In the end, the View Controller functions as a data source, a delegating component, a starting point for server requests, and more.
Hybrid Mobile App Architecture?
Because it can use both native and online solutions, hybrid mobile app architecture is quite potent. They are the most rapid apps that can be developed for many platforms. Although it is very simple to update, it is not the greatest method for delivering sophisticated applications.?
In hybrid apps, the backend is built on native programs, while the frontend is built on standards-compliant HTML/CSS and JavaScript. In order to fully access all the functionality of?native platforms, hybrid applications also employ common plugins like Ionic Capacitor or Apache Cordova.
Hybrid mobile apps are among the quickest to develop across a number of platforms and are simple to maintain, but they are not suitable for applications that are complicated, interactive, or feature-rich.
Cross Platform Mobile App Architecture?
Mobile apps' cross-platform architecture and hybrid architecture are extremely similar. Additionally, it makes use of the most popular code bases with particular platform capabilities in every native shell. It's important to note that cross-platform application architecture relies more on frameworks like React Native and Xamarin than web languages. Cross-platform programs guarantee a streamlined user experience that is superior to native and therefore more appealing. A few advantages of cross-platform architecture are as follows:
Enterprise Mobile App Architecture?
Many organizations use corporate applications that facilitate communication between the company and its clients and staff in order to run their operations successfully. Utilized within the program are monitoring, purchasing, communicating, and filtering firm services and goods. One of the top considerations for a modern organization is the strategic use of IT technology and the execution of business goals in order to achieve a competitive edge in the market.
The IT infrastructure and business needs in enterprise mobile app architecture frequently diverge, which is brought on by quick changes in the market. Most frequently, issues with the information architecture of business solutions are brought on by slowness, lack of scalability, dependability, and the difficulty of upgrading and maintaining software.
Mobile Application Architecture Properties?
We already know that using the Clean architecture of mobile applications is advised for the reliable, high-quality operation of your mobile application. You must go by a few guidelines to make sure your mobile application architecture is of the highest caliber while developing a suitable platform for the convenience of your clients and staff. It's crucial to create the proper technical specifications for the development team so that the specialists have a common objective and way of operation.
Best Practices?
The synchronization of all the activities and capabilities of the application must be maintained in order to create a mobile application with a high-quality architecture. It's still unclear which functionality in the future application will actually be in demand. As a result, including every concept in the first draft is not the ideal course of action. This will lengthen the development process, overburden the user interface, and delay the release of the "combat" product.
Tips for Creating a Well-Designed Architecture for a Mobile Application?
All apps, no matter how complex or straightforward, require a well-designed architecture. Time, money, and effort can be saved by using architecture for mobile applications. A dependable design makes it simpler to test, alter, and debug a software.
How can you tell if the architecture of your application is sound? The list is as follows:
Efficiency: The program works in any environment to complete tasks and carry out activities. The system is efficient, dependable, and able to handle all loads.
Flexibility: The answer can be changed easily, and mistakes are rare. One element can be changed without negatively affecting the other and it won't be fatal.
Extensibility: The application is extensible so you can add as many features as you like.
Scalability: Less time is needed for upgrades and development. You can control the development of numerous parallel threads thanks to the sturdy design.
Testability: Mobile application architecture is simple to test, which reduces the amount of errors and boosts reliability.
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Understandability: As many developers as possible should be able to grasp the code. The application is being worked on by several individuals. The project may be rapidly understood by beginners because to good architecture.
Things to Think About When Creating Your Mobile App Architecture
Some factors should be taken into account before anything else for a strong foundation for a mobile app. Building a mobile app specifically necessitates your vision in four crucial dimensions:
The details for each of these elements are given below.
Identifying the Types of Devices
The characteristics of your mobile app are determined by smartphone specifications. Consider in advance how each screen will operate (including its size and DPI), how the app will interact with the processor (CPU), and how much memory it will require. Your mobile solution will be more stable and dependable if these hardware and software details are given the right attention.
Make sure your app will function flawlessly across a variety of smartphone devices in addition to smartphones and tablets.
Scenarios Regarding Bandwidth
Your mobile app's interoperability with various sorts of Internet connections is another factor to take into account. When working on the architecture of mobile apps, many developers ignore this subtlety. Prepare yourself for the worst case scenario and be more proactive.
While reaching your distant target group, this issue merits your consideration. The Internet network's accessibility varies across the globe. While some nations have 5G, others are still able to get by with 3G. Additionally, the qualities of the speed and battery utilization are important. Therefore, make sure your mobile solution includes everything required to ensure that your users have a comfortable experience wherever they are.
Specifying the User Interface
A mobile app must always have a fantastic user interface. It serves as the point of engagement with users and is built on the fundamental presentation layer. Giving them a straightforward yet original solution is the secret to success. Additionally, you should always choose a mobile app architecture design that satisfies the needs of your intended users.
Choosing the Best Navigation Technique
Finally, effective navigation involves striking a balance between user expectations and program limitations. When the frontend and backend of a solution are linked together, it is the outcome of beautiful workmanship.
Consider these top 5 user-favorite approaches from the many available:
Learn about your consumers to choose the best navigation approach! For them, some styles seem intuitive, while others leave them perplexed or bored.
How Can You Pick the Best Architecture for Your Mobile App?
Everything begins with these foundational layers when it comes to the technicalities of developing an app:
The norm for software development is dictated by this multitier architecture: your team should build each dimension independently and ensure that they integrate seamlessly. This initial difficulty guarantees that advanced problems may be solved quickly and without modifying the entire app.
Check out how each of these levels functions.
Data Layer:
The security of data maintenance, including access, utilities, and service tools, is the main focus of this layer. It serves as the backdrop on which you may build business logic and presentation quirks. The patterns you select for the app's fundamental operations dictate how it will function.
Make sure the design you've created here is adaptable enough to satisfy shifting business requirements or client expectations.
Business Logic Layer:?
You will have distinct tasks for logging, caching, verifying, and other technological processes. This platform hides all management effort completed to construct a mobile app. Additionally, this is where intricate corporate policies and business procedures are located. In other words, you are looking at an application facade that hides underlying components, entities, and workflow.
The business logic layer, in brief, is the location for everything related to logic and business.
Presentation Layer:
The crucial stage here is to develop the customer profile so that the users are satisfied with the graphics on the screen and the element arrangement. Your customer is always right these days, even when choosing the data format. However, the focus of this layer is on creating a format that precludes the input of erroneous data, not on the precise selection of your data.
How do you choose the best architecture by taking these details into account? Simple: begin with the conclusion. Welcome your clients.
How to Pick the Best Mobile App Architecture in 5 Easy Steps
Identify Your Clients:
Consider your concept as a remedy for a specific customer ailment if you want to create a successful mobile app. Find out everything you can about your potential customers, including who they are, what apps they use, and what needs they have. After that, consider how you might create a convenient mobile app for them. For instance, older clients tend to choose designs that are simpler. While the elderly find motion design confusing, children like it.
Investigate some industry-specific requirements to support your conclusions. Here, your company's quirks can help you comprehend how your mobile app will function. For instance, a web app benefits fashion businesses the most (where users can see all the product categories and photos in big dimensions). But using a mobile app to access cab services is more practical.
Start developing a Test App :
Don't cut corners on this stage right away. Start by creating a native software; this is the best option for usability and smooth performance. Create a solution that will fully meet your users' wants and address their pressing issue using the information you have about them.
Cross-platform development should be used if your users require other platforms outside Android and iOS to complete their duties. If these two most widely used platforms are sufficient, it is safest to stick to native app development.
Develop the primary functionality on the basis of your choice. Create the setting your clients desire, whether they prefer to work offline, use a particular navigation strategy, access compelling content in a feed, etc.
Don't forget to ask users if they think it's good, of course! The capacity of your app to satisfy your target audience is always tightly related to the selection of the appropriate architecture. In the end, users don't mind greater convenience, which includes having widgets, notifications, and the home menu available in addition to fast speed and stored content. Make sure your app complies with all of these specifications, including both audience-specific and generic standards.
Enhance the Core Functions:
After completing the primary preparations and the reality check, you may begin closely collaborating with particular platforms and offline features. This step entails figuring out how to implement the app technically and in accordance with various industry-specific standards.
Consider all of the benefits and drawbacks of the various architecture models first from the perspective of the technical aspects. Native apps, for instance, offer the best performance and most user engagement, but they must be installed and cost a lot for people to download. Web apps, on the other hand, are SEO-friendly and don't need to be installed, but they function poorly and require an Internet connection. Consider Progressive Online Apps (PWAs) as a fantastic compromise; they improve the experience of web apps with higher dependability, engagement, and speed.
Next, make sure your app has offline support. Users dislike having to rely on their Internet connection to use an app, therefore you should take this desire into account. Create the essential features that you can turn off. once the user is connected to the Internet, involve synchronization with the server. Either native applications or PWAs are required for offline functionality (note that they still depend on a platform). We advise relying on these two mobile app architectural choices from the beginning for this reason.
Check Your Development Team's Readiness:
Your company may have some restrictions on the project. So, find them by evaluating the skills of your crew.
Find the precise development timeframe among all. Every entrepreneur wants their business idea to materialize quickly, but your team requires time to finish it. Therefore, before the project actually begins, discuss with your team whether they have the tools and expertise required for the development.
Pay close attention to their capabilities. Knowing Swift, Objective-C, C, C++, Kotlin, and Java is required if you want to create a native app. The toolset of HTML, CSS, and Javascript is sufficient for web apps. Make sure your staff is also knowledgeable of Web Native, Cordova/PhoneGap, and hybrid apps, particularly those. Hire fresh experts to create the app if you find some expertise gaps, or start internal team members' training.
Boost Your Budget
You can determine the expenses after gathering all the information about consumer preferences, fundamental features, improved features, and team limits. The ideal mobile app architecture always strikes a compromise between the essential criteria and your financial capacity to provide them.
Verify all the costs for support and maintenance. If necessary, reevaluate whether native apps or many platforms are best. Before deciding on the mobile app architecture, of course, consider the advantages in terms of return on investment.
Lasting Advice for Mobile Architecture
Prior to starting the development process, the creation of mobile architecture must be finished. This plan offers a road map for how the various application components should be set up and interconnected. It offers recommendations for best practices to follow during the development process as well as certain trade-offs (often related to using a lot of classes and templates) that will ultimately assist you in producing a well-written application that will be simpler to test, expand, and maintain.