With the rapid proliferation of Android mobile devices, the demand for applications on the platform is booming. Android devices are more widely used than iOS and other devices, with a 71.45% share of the mobile device market. As for applications, Android apps outnumber IOS apps by a margin of 3.3 million to 2.1 million.
The demand for Android application developers is growing apace. But application skills are not “one size fits all,” so you need to hire an Android developer with the proper skills and experience to fit your unique needs.
What are the most critical Android development skills to look for when hiring an android developer for your application? Read on to learn more.
Essential Android development skills
When you hire an Android developer or developer team, they should be able to “bring the goods” needed to get your application built, tested, and deployed according to application development best practices. Each developer should possess a core set of Android-specific skills and knowledge.
Use this summary of Android developer skills as a guide in evaluating prospective developer candidates.
- Languages and tools – Android development skills start with programming languages, and JAVA and Kotlin are the most commonly used. XML is another primary tool, often used in conjunction with Android Studio. A deep understanding of these languages and tools is needed.
- UI and user interaction – An attractive and user-friendly user interface is essential to a successful Android application, and your developer should know how to design and build one. They should be familiar with the Activity call, RecyclerView, ConstraintLayout and Fragments, and other Android components.
- Navigation – Smooth user navigation helps ensure user satisfaction. Your developer should be skilled in using Toolbar, BottomNavigationView, and JetPack. They should be able to design a logical and intuitive layout.
- Testing and QA – Testing is a vital component of a successful app, and your developers should be familiar with commonly used testing libraries such as Expresso. Testing should be ongoing and include both component and functional testing.
- Databases and data management – Android developers need expertise in common databases like SQLite. They should be skilled in database selection, setup, and data exchange.
- Notifications – Notifications can increase user engagement through reminders and information exchange. Developers should be skilled at creating messages, content, and links back into the app.
- Android SDK, Firebase, and frameworks – The Android SDK (software development kit), Firebase, and development frameworks such as React Native and Flutter are used to automate development processes, so your developer should know how and when to use each.
- Security – Your application must be secure, and your developer should be skilled in creating a safe yet convenient user experience. They should be well versed in various authorization and access management tools and functions.
- APIs – Application programming interfaces or APIs are a powerful way to make your application more valuable and interactive by enabling direct communication with other apps or services. Developer knowledge of the APIs available and how to access them is essential.
- Version control – The most frequently used version control tool is GitHub. Your developer should be adept at using GitHub as a code repository and for project collaboration.
- Deployment – Your developer should know the pros and cons of the various app deployment options, including the Google Play store, website downloads, and direct distributions.
Rules of engagement
In addition to a suitable skill set, your choice of an engagement model is an important consideration when hiring an Android developer. For instance, should you hire one as a W2 employee or as a freelancer? Do you need one developer or a team? How will your project be managed from concept to completion?
Here are a few established development service models to consider. One will likely be a good fit for your needs.
- Staff augmentation – This is a good approach if you have an existing development team and need to add additional skills. Working with a good partner can help find the right resources quickly.
- Project teams – Maybe just one developer isn’t enough to complete and deploy your application in a timeframe that meets your needs. A dedicated team of multiple programmers might be the answer.
- Outsourcing – Outsourcing is an alternative to adding programmers or a dedicated team. This model may be best if your organization is short on time or lacks development and project management resources.
In summary
Android mobile applications are popular productivity tools, and you may be planning one for your business. What should you consider when you hire an Android developer to develop your app? Look for developers with a core set of Android-specific skills and knowledge along with the right engagement model.
Distillery can help you hire the right android developer
When you need to hire an android developer, consider Distillery as your “go-to” resource for custom software development. Our Android development expertise is unmatched, and we can help find the right Android development resources for your project. Contact us to find out more.