Distribution
One area often overlooked or not fully understood by our clients is the issue of distribution: How do I get my iPhone app into the hands of users? This is actually a multifaceted issue, because of of the nature of the iTunes App Store and the mechanisms Apple has put in place.
The first question to answer is whether your app is intended for consumption by the general public, or if it is meant only for individuals employed by your organization.
My App is intended for employees of my organization
If your company has 500 or more employees and you plan to distribute your application to 100 or more devices, distribution of your application will require enrolling your organization in Apple’s iPhone Developer Enterprise Program. This program allows us to develop applications which can only be run on devices registered with your organization, and which can be distributed via email or intranet.
If you require distributing less than 100 copies within your organization, we can enroll your organization in Apple’s iPhone Developer Standard Program and use what Apple terms “Ad-Hoc Distribution”.
Enrolling in the iPhone Developer Program is a straightforward process. Fees are low (currently $99 for Standard, $299 for Enterprise) and if desired BunsenTech can manage the enrollment process for you.
Once your organization is enrolled, BunsenTech can either manage your distribution directly, or provide training and documentation to your staff to manage it yourselves.
My App is Intended for the General Public
Great! Both free and paid applications can be distributed in the iTunes App Store. Next question: Do you have a brand you’d like to publish the app under, or do you want it published under the BunsenTech name?
I don’t have a brand of my own, and want minimal involvement in distribution.
No problem. BunsenTech can distribute your application when development is complete. If it is a paid application, BunsenTech will collect the payment from Apple and forward payment to you on a monthly basis. Your application will list “BunsenTech” as the publisher.
I would like the application published under my brand or company name.
We can do that too. This option requires enrolling your organization in the iPhone Developer Program, a straightforward and inexpensive process which can be managed by BunsenTech. Once your organization is enrolled, BunsenTech can either manage your distribution for you, or provide training and documentation to your staff to manage it yourselves.
Have other questions about iPhone app distribution? Give us a call and we’ll be happy to discuss all your options.