Mobile Playbook
Figure out what to build before writing code
Don't waste months building the wrong app. Get a clear recommendation on framework, architecture, and launch plan from someone who's shipped 25+ mobile apps for Rails businesses.
What happens without a strategy
Shipping a mobile app is more than writing code. Here's what I've seen go wrong.
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You pick the wrong framework
React Native, Flutter, PWA, Hotwire Native. Each has tradeoffs for Rails apps. Pick wrong and you're rebuilding in a year.
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You duplicate work across web and mobile
You already have a working Rails app. Without the right architecture, you end up rebuilding the same features in Swift and Kotlin instead of reusing what you have.
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Apple rejects you for paperwork you didn't know existed
DUNS numbers, business accounts, small business programs. There's a checklist, and it's not in the docs.
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You implement in-app purchases wrong
Apple and Google have strict rules about what goes through their payment systems. Violate them and your app gets pulled.
These aren't edge cases. They're the mistakes I help clients avoid every month.
What you get
A 1-week engagement that gives you clarity before you write a single line of Swift or Kotlin.
Framework recommendation
Hotwire Native, React Native, PWA, or fully native? I'll tell you which approach fits your Rails codebase, team, and timeline.
Architecture diagram
A visual map of how your mobile app will connect to your Rails backend. No surprises during implementation.
App Store opportunity mapping
Which features belong in the app? Which stay on web? I'll help you prioritize based on what actually matters.
Risk register
Every project has landmines. I'll identify yours before they blow up.
Phased build plan
A concrete roadmap for getting to launch. What to build first, what can wait, and what to skip entirely.
All deliverables in editable formats
Google Docs and markdown files you can share with your team, investors, or whoever needs to see the plan.
How it works
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1
Kickoff call
A 60-minute call to review your codebase, understand your goals, and ask the questions that matter.
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2
A week of analysis
I draft your deliverables with async updates throughout the week, no surprises at the end.
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3
Findings presentation
I present the plan live to your team. You walk away with editable docs you can hand to anyone.
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4
You decide what's next
Hand the plan to your team, hire me to build it, or bring in another contractor. The strategy is yours either way.
Why Joe?
I've shipped 30+ Hotwire Native apps for Rails businesses. I helped 37signals build the libraries. I wrote the book. But I've also told clients to go with React Native or skip the app entirely. The goal is the right answer for your business.
I've seen what gets approved and what gets rejected. I know the gotchas that don't show up in documentation. And I've helped companies from early-stage startups to publicly-traded businesses get their apps live.
“Joe is the person to go to for Hotwire Native guidance and expertise. Joe has been instrumental in building the Hotwire Native libraries with the team at 37signals.”
“Joe was a fantastic partner. He brought thoughtful documentation, quick turnaround on issues, and a calm confidence that made the whole process feel smooth.”
