The application development life cycle refers to a logical sequence of activities to develop an application according to set goals and objectives. However iPod touch apps are IT applications and as such have some unique characteristics that must be understood. Regardless of the scope and complexity any application development goes through a series of stages during its life. First there is a conception phase, in which the outputs and critical success factors are defined. Second, is the planning phase, in which the application development project is broken down into smaller parts/tasks. Third, is the execution phase, in which the application development plan is carried out. Last, is the exit phase, in which the application development project is closed out. The completion of the application development plan results in a finished product or application that is then presented for sale in the Apple App Store. With IT application development the phases do not have to be completed in sequence many tasks from different phases can be accomplished simultaneously. This is a big advantage because the application development project can move forward at a faster pace if numerous tasks are accomplished simultaneously.

iPod touch apps development activities can be grouped into phases so that the manager and his/her team can better plan and organize the resources needed to complete each activity, and also establish objective metrics for progress and to justify decisions for moving ahead, correcting or ending the app development project. Diverse application development tools are available in the different phases. Below is a closer look at what is important in each phase.

1. Conception

In this first stage, the scope of the iPod touch App development project is defined along with the approach to be taken to deliver the desired outputs. The application development project manager is appointed and in turn, he selects the team members based on their skills qualifications. Project Charter, Business Plan, Project Framework (or Overview), Business Case Justification, and Milestones Reviews are common tools for use in the conception stage.

2. Planning

The second phase of IPod touch apps development should include a detailed identification and assignment of each task until the end of the application development project. It should also include a risk analysis and a definition of criteria for the successful completion of each deliverable. The oversight process is established, beneficiaries identified and reporting criteria and reporting methodologies agreed. Business Plan and Milestones Reviews are commonly used tools in the planning stage.

3. Execution and Controlling

The focus of this phase of iPod touch apps development is the proper execution and control of project activities. The plan from the planning phase is implemented to accomplish the project requirements. As the plan progresses, groups from other areas of the organization become involved to prepare for the final testing, production, and support of the product. Risk Analysis, Score Cards, Business Plan and Milestones Reviews are commonly used tools in the execution and controlling phase.

4. Closure
In this last stage of iPod touch app development, the manager must ensure that the project is brought to its proper completion. The closure phase is characterized by a written report containing the following components: a formal acceptance of the final product, a matching of the initial requirements specified by the client with the delivered product, releasing project resources, and a closure notification to higher management. The app is then submitted to the App Store and the waiting period begins. Different developers have had different experiences in terms of how quickly their apps were approved. Sometimes Apple requires the developer to make changes to that app and then resubmit it for approval. Others have experienced quick approvals within a few short days. Once approved, the iPhone or iPod touch app makes its way into the proper category in the App Store for all the buyers to see.

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