The demand for applications that help businesses and freelancers manage their finances has surged, especially in the wake of the gig economy’s growth. One such app is Everlance, which has become a staple for freelancers, self-employed individuals, and small businesses who need to manage their mileage and expenses effortlessly. By offering a platform that automates these processes, Everlance helps users save time and ensure accuracy in financial reporting. In 2024, the app development landscape is more competitive and technologically advanced than ever. As businesses increasingly rely on mobile apps for operational efficiency, understanding the costs associated with creating an app like Everlance is crucial for making informed decisions. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the cost to create an app like Everlance, along with essential statistics, features, and factors to consider.

What Is Everlance?

Everlance is a mobile application designed to help users automatically track their mileage, log expenses, and generate tax reports. The app uses GPS to track trips and categorizes them as either business or personal, helping users maximize tax deductions. Additionally, Everlance offers receipt scanning, expense tracking, and comprehensive reporting features, making it a valuable tool for anyone needing to manage their finances on the go.

As of 2024, Everlance has been downloaded over 1 million times on the Google Play Store alone, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. The app’s popularity underscores the demand for tools that simplify financial management, especially for freelancers and small business owners.

Key Features Of An App Like Everlance

To develop a competitive app like Everlance, you need to include several key features that make it valuable to users:

  • Automatic Mileage Tracking: GPS-based tracking that automatically logs trips.
  • Expense Tracking: Ability to manually or automatically log and categorize expenses.
  • Receipt Scanning: Integration of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to scan and digitize receipts.
  • Tax Reporting: Automated generation of tax reports based on tracked mileage and logged expenses.
  • Cloud Sync: Synchronization of data across multiple devices, ensuring that users can access their information from anywhere.
  • Integration with Accounting Software: Seamless integration with popular accounting tools like QuickBooks or Xero.

Adding advanced features like AI-based categorization of expenses or real-time tax calculations can further enhance the app’s appeal and usability.

Estimated Cost To Create An App Like Everlance

Create an app like Everlance

The cost to develop an app like Everlance varies widely based on several factors, including the app’s complexity, the number of features, the development team’s location, and the choice of technology stack. Below, we break down the estimated costs for different stages of app development.

Cost Of Developing An MVP

A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is the first step in app development, focusing on the core features necessary to meet the app’s primary objectives. Developing an MVP allows you to test the market and gather user feedback before investing in a full-featured application.

  • Estimated Cost: $20,000 – $50,000
  • Development Time: 3 to 6 months

For an MVP of an app like Everlance, you would include essential features such as basic mileage tracking, manual expense logging, and simple report generation. This version of the app provides the foundation for future development and helps validate your idea in the market.

Cost To Develop A Mid-Range App

A mid-range app goes beyond the basics, incorporating additional features and a more refined user experience. This version of the app would include automated mileage tracking, receipt scanning, and integration with third-party accounting software.

  • Estimated Cost: $50,000 – $100,000
  • Development Time: 6 to 12 months

With a mid-range app, you start catering to a broader audience by offering more convenience and functionality, such as automated trip classification and cloud data synchronization. The app is more polished and capable of handling a moderate user base.

Cost To Develop A Feature-Enriched App

A feature-enriched app represents the highest level of development, incorporating advanced features and a superior user experience. This version might include AI-based expense categorization, real-time tax calculations, multi-device synchronization, and enhanced data security measures.

  • Estimated Cost: $100,000 – $250,000+
  • Development Time: 12 to 18 months

Developing a feature-enriched app like Everlance requires significant investment in both time and resources. However, the result is a robust, scalable app that can compete with the best in the market and cater to a large user base.

Factors That Influence The Cost of Creating An App Like Everlance

The cost of app development is influenced by a variety of factors. Below are some key considerations:

1. Features And Complexity

The complexity of features directly impacts the cost of development. For example, basic mileage tracking is relatively simple, but implementing AI-driven expense categorization or real-time tax calculations adds layers of complexity that require more development time and expertise.

The typical minimum cost of an app development project, according to a Clutch poll, is between $5,000 to $10,000.This survey does highlight the fact that many pilot programs are limited to the discovery stage. With a median total cost of $171,450, the actual application development cost is significantly higher.

2. Design And User Experience

A well-designed app with an intuitive user interface (UI) is crucial for user retention. Investing in a quality design can significantly increase the cost but is essential for ensuring the app’s success in a competitive market.

Research from the Design Management Institute indicates that companies that prioritize design outperform others by 219% on the S&P 500 index. Therefore, investing in good design is not just about aesthetics; it’s a strategic decision that can yield significant returns.

3. Development Team Location

The cost of hiring a development team varies significantly depending on their location. Developers in North America and Western Europe typically charge higher rates than those in Eastern Europe or Asia. Below is an estimate of hourly rates by region:

  • North America: $100 – $200/hour
  • Western Europe: $80 – $150/hour
  • Eastern Europe: $40 – $80/hour
  • Asia: $20 – $50/hour

4. Technology Stack

The choice of technology stack also influences the development cost. Some technologies require specialized skills, which could increase the cost. For example, developing an app with AI-based features might require data scientists and machine learning experts, who command higher salaries.

5. Maintenance And Updates

App development doesn’t end at launch. Regular maintenance and updates are crucial for keeping the app relevant, secure, and free from bugs. According to industry reports, the annual maintenance cost typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the original development cost. This means for an app developed at $100,000, you should budget $15,000 to $20,000 annually for maintenance.

How To Create An App Like Everlance

Creating an app like Everlance involves a meticulous process that ensures every aspect of the app is well-planned, designed, developed, tested, and maintained. Each stage of development is crucial for building a successful app that meets user needs and stands out in the competitive market. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the development process:

1. Discovery Phase

The Discovery Phase is the foundation of your app development journey. During this stage, you’ll conduct extensive research and planning to ensure that your app idea is feasible, valuable, and well-defined.

Market Research

Market research is vital to understanding the current landscape, including the demand for your app, the competition, and the target audience. This research helps you identify gaps in the market that your app can fill and understand the needs and preferences of potential users.

  • Demand Analysis: Investigate the demand for mileage and expense-tracking apps like Everlance. Look at trends, user pain points, and market size.
  • Competitor Analysis: Analyze existing competitors like MileIQ, QuickBooks Self-Employed, and Stride. Assess their strengths, weaknesses, and unique selling points (USPs).
  • Target Audience Identification: Define who your app will serve—freelancers, small business owners, self-employed professionals, etc. Understand their needs, behaviors, and how they currently manage mileage and expenses.

Project Roadmap

Once the market research is complete, the next step is to define a clear project roadmap. This roadmap outlines the app’s goals, key features, development timeline, and milestones.

  • Goals Definition: Clearly articulate the primary objectives of your app, such as automating mileage tracking, simplifying expense management, and providing accurate tax reporting.
  • Feature Prioritization: Identify the core features that will deliver the most value to users, like GPS-based mileage tracking, receipt scanning, and cloud sync.
  • Timeline and Milestones: Establish a realistic development timeline with specific milestones. This ensures the project stays on track and allows for timely progress reviews.

Feasibility Study

A feasibility study assesses the technical and operational feasibility of your app idea. This involves evaluating the technology stack, estimating the resources required, and identifying potential challenges.

  • Technical Feasibility: Determine if your app’s features can be implemented with the available technology. For instance, assess the complexity of GPS tracking, integration with third-party accounting software, and data security requirements.
  • Resource Estimation: Estimate the resources needed, including the development team, budget, and tools. This helps in planning the allocation of resources effectively.
  • Risk Analysis: Identify potential risks, such as technical challenges, market competition, and regulatory compliance, and develop strategies to mitigate them.

2. Design Phase

The Design Phase focuses on creating a user-centric design that is both functional and visually appealing. A well-designed app enhances user experience (UX) and plays a significant role in user retention.

Wireframing

Wireframing is the process of creating a blueprint for your app’s structure. It outlines the layout of the app’s screens, the placement of UI elements, and the overall flow of user interactions.

  • Structure Definition: Define the app’s architecture, including how different screens are connected and the user’s journey through the app.
  • UI Element Placement: Decide where buttons, icons, and menus will be placed to ensure a seamless and intuitive user experience.

Prototyping

Prototyping involves developing a clickable prototype that provides a visual representation of the app’s interface. This prototype allows stakeholders to experience the app’s design and flow before actual development begins.

  • Interactive Design: Create an interactive prototype that simulates the app’s functionality, allowing you to test the user experience in a real-world scenario.
  • Feedback Gathering: Share the prototype with stakeholders, including potential users, to gather feedback on the design and make necessary adjustments.

User Testing

User testing is a critical step in refining the app’s design. By testing the prototype with real users, you can identify usability issues and areas for improvement.

  • Usability Testing: Conduct tests with a group of users who represent your target audience. Observe how they interact with the prototype and identify any challenges they face.
  • Design Refinement: Based on user feedback, refine the design to address any issues, improve navigation, and enhance overall usability.

3. Development Phase

The Development Phase is where your app idea comes to life. This phase involves the actual coding and implementation of the app’s features, ensuring that it functions as intended.

Backend Development

Backend development involves setting up the server, database, and APIs that will support your app’s functionality. The backend is the engine that powers the app, handling data storage, user authentication, and communication with external services.

  • Server Setup: Choose a reliable server infrastructure that can handle the app’s data processing and storage needs. Cloud-based solutions like AWS or Google Cloud are popular choices.
  • Database Design: Design a database that efficiently stores user data, trip logs, expenses, and receipts. Ensure the database is scalable and secure.
  • API Development: Develop APIs that allow the app to communicate with the backend, retrieve data, and integrate with third-party services like Google Maps for GPS tracking or accounting software for expense management.

Frontend Development

Frontend development focuses on building the app’s interface—the part that users interact with. This includes implementing the design created in the Design Phase and integrating it with the backend.

  • UI Implementation: Code the app’s user interface using frameworks like React Native or Flutter, which offer cross-platform compatibility for iOS and Android.
  • Feature Integration: Integrate core features like mileage tracking, expense logging, and report generation. Ensure these features work seamlessly with the backend.
  • Responsive Design: Ensure the app is responsive, providing a consistent experience across different devices and screen sizes.

Feature Implementation

During this stage, the app’s key features are fully developed and tested. This includes not only the core functionality but also additional features that enhance the user experience.

  • Automated Mileage Tracking: Implement GPS-based tracking that automatically logs trips and categorizes them as business or personal.
  • Expense Tracking: Enable users to log expenses manually or automatically, with options to categorize and tag them for easy retrieval.
  • Tax Reporting: Develop a feature that generates tax reports based on logged mileage and expenses, helping users maximize deductions.
  • Receipt Scanning: Integrate OCR technology that allows users to scan and digitize receipts, storing them in the app for easy access.

4. Testing Phase

The Testing Phase ensures that the app is reliable, bug-free, and ready for launch. This involves thorough testing at different levels to identify and resolve any issues.

Unit Testing

Unit testing involves testing individual components of the app to ensure they function correctly in isolation. This helps catch errors early in the development process.

  • Component Validation: Test each feature, such as mileage tracking and expense logging, to ensure they work as intended.
  • Error Handling: Ensure the app handles errors gracefully, providing informative messages to users without crashing.

Integration Testing

Integration testing verifies that all components of the app work together seamlessly. This is crucial for ensuring that the app functions as a cohesive whole.

  • System Integration: Test the integration between the frontend and backend, ensuring data flows smoothly between them.
  • Third-Party Integration: Verify that integrations with external services, such as GPS and accounting software, work correctly.

User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

User Acceptance Testing (UAT) involves testing the app with real users to identify any issues before the official launch. This helps ensure the app meets user expectations.

  • Beta Testing: Release a beta version of the app to a select group of users who represent your target audience. Gather feedback on performance, usability, and functionality.
  • Final Adjustments: Make any necessary adjustments based on user feedback to ensure the app is polished and ready for a wider audience.

5. Launch Phase

The Launch Phase is when your app is officially released to the public. This phase involves deploying the app, launching marketing campaigns, and gathering user feedback for continuous improvement.

Deployment

Deployment is the process of publishing the app to app stores like Google Play and the Apple App Store. This step makes the app available for download to users worldwide.

  • App Store Optimization (ASO): Optimize your app’s listing with relevant keywords, engaging descriptions, and high-quality visuals to improve visibility and attract more downloads.
  • Release Management: Ensure the app is thoroughly tested and approved by the app stores before launch. Plan a strategic release date to maximize exposure.

Marketing

Marketing is essential for driving downloads and user engagement. A well-executed marketing campaign can significantly impact the success of your app.

  • Pre-Launch Marketing: Generate buzz around the app before its release through social media teasers, blog posts, and influencer partnerships.
  • Post-Launch Campaigns: Continue marketing efforts after the app is launched. Utilize paid advertising, email campaigns, and content marketing to reach a broader audience.

User Feedback

Gathering user feedback after the app’s launch is critical for making necessary adjustments and planning future updates.

  • In-App Feedback: Encourage users to provide feedback directly within the app. This can be done through surveys, ratings, and reviews.
  • Data Analytics: Use analytics tools to monitor user behavior, identify patterns, and pinpoint areas where users may be experiencing issues.

6. Maintenance And Updates

Maintenance and updates are ongoing tasks that ensure the app remains functional, secure, and relevant over time. Regular updates based on user feedback and market trends keep the app competitive.

Bug Fixes

Even after thorough testing, bugs may still arise once the app is in the hands of users. Promptly addressing these issues is essential for maintaining user satisfaction.

  • Monitoring: Continuously monitor the app for bugs and performance issues using tools like crash reporting and user feedback.
  • Rapid Response: Develop a process for quickly identifying and fixing bugs to minimize disruption for users.

Feature Updates

Updating your app with new features keeps it relevant and competitive in the market. Regular updates based on user feedback and market trends are key to maintaining user engagement.

  • User-Driven Updates: Prioritize feature updates based on user requests and feedback. This ensures that the app evolves to meet user needs.
  • Innovation: Stay ahead of the competition by introducing innovative features that enhance the app’s functionality and user experience.

Performance Optimization

As your user base grows, ensuring that the app runs smoothly and efficiently becomes increasingly important. Regular performance optimization ensures the app can handle increased traffic and data.

  • Scalability: Optimize the backend to handle a growing number of users without compromising performance.
  • Load Testing: Conduct load testing to simulate high traffic and ensure the app performs well under stress.

How Appic Softwares Can Assist You in Creating an App Like Everlance?

At Appic Softwares, we specialize in developing high-quality mobile applications tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to create a basic MVP or a feature-enriched app like Everlance, our team of experienced developers, designers, and project managers can guide you through every step of the process.

  • Expertise: Our team has extensive experience in developing apps for various industries, ensuring that your app is built using the latest technologies and best practices.
  • Customization: We understand that every app is unique, and we offer customized solutions that align with your vision and business goals.
  • End-to-End Development: From initial concept to post-launch support, we provide end-to-end development services that cover every aspect of your app’s lifecycle.

With a focus on delivering scalable, user-friendly, and secure applications, we ensure that your app stands out in the competitive market. 

Conclusion

Developing an app like Everlance in 2024 involves significant investment, but the rewards can be substantial if the app meets the needs of its target audience. By understanding the costs and factors involved, you can make informed decisions that will help you create a successful app. Whether you start with an MVP or aim for a fully-featured application, the key is to focus on providing value to users while managing costs effectively.

If you’re ready to embark on the journey of developing an app like Everlance, Appic Softwares is the best mobile app development company. Our expertise and commitment to excellence can help you turn your vision into reality.

Contact us!