The Essential Tools That Make App Projects Run Smoothly
App development doesn’t just require code. Behind every successful project is a toolkit that keeps everything organized, on track, and secure.
Whether you're hiring one freelancer or managing multiple collaborators, here are the core tools you (not just your developer) should have in place — and why owning the accounts matters.
Code Repository (Version Control)
This is where your actual code lives and evolves. It’s a central hub for collaboration and history tracking.
Recommended tools:
Why it matters:
Tracks every code change
Enables collaboration
Protects your investment (you can revoke access anytime)
✅ Important: YOU should own the repo account, not your developer.
“If you don’t own the repo, you don’t truly own your app.”
2. Project Management System
A good PM tool organizes features, bugs, timelines, and task assignments.
Recommended tools:
Trello
Basecamp
Asana
Jira
Why it matters:
Keeps scope, timelines, and deliverables visible
Helps track progress and priorities
Avoids long chat chains
💡 Tip: Start simple — Trello with a “To Do / Doing / Done” board works great for most MVPs.
3. Communication Platform
Email is not enough for active projects. Use a real-time platform to streamline questions, updates, and file sharing.
Recommended tools:
Slack
Microsoft Teams
Zoom or Google Meet (for calls)
Why it matters:
Faster feedback = faster progress
Reduces miscommunication
Supports async collaboration across time zones
💬 Pro Tip: Set expectations up front — when you’ll meet, how fast responses are expected, and which channels to use.
4. App backend Services (Firebase, AWS, etc.)
If your app needs authentication, file storage, a database, or analytics, you'll need third-party services integrated.
Common services:
Firebase (Google)
AWS (Amazon)
Supabase, Azure, or other niche platforms
Why it matters:
Adds functionality fast
Often free to start
But can create surprise costs if you’re not monitoring usage
⚠️ Always ask your developer what recurring costs or usage fees you should expect.
“Don’t just ask “what does it cost to build?” Ask “what does it cost to run?””
5. Account Ownership Is Everything
This cannot be stressed enough: you must own the accounts for every critical tool and service.
That includes:
App Store / Google Play accounts
Code repositories (e.g. GitHub)
Firebase / AWS / hosting services
Design tools, if applicable
Slack or communication workspaces (if you’re managing a team)
Why? Because if a freelancer disappears — or even if they just move on — you need full access to everything they touched.
“Account ownership = control of your product and investment.”
Summary: The Core App Stack (Even for MVPs)
Here’s a quick checklist of what your setup might look like:
✅ GitHub (you own)
✅ Trello board for feature tracking
✅ Slack or Zoom for communication
✅ Firebase or AWS account (you own)
✅ Weekly check-ins and visibility into all progress
Let Me Help You Set It Up Right
If you’re unsure how to structure your tools — or want to avoid mistakes I’ve seen dozens of clients make — let’s walk through it together.
I’ll make sure you stay in control and set your app up for long-term success.