Please tell us about your experience with Windows 8 and developing a Windows Store app.
My first glimpse in the world of applications was back in November 2012. Till then, I was only studying the design and content of the applications. Having acquired the knowledge needed to develop an application for Windows 8, I started implementing my first idea. At its early stage, the development of an application requires a lot of research on the internet web and at Microsoft’s samples. In regards to the application submission to the Windows Store, it is a rather strict process, without any particular difficulties. Following the steps provided from the guide, you won’t face any problems during the procedure. At this point, I have to mention the important help provided from the Windows App Certification Kit. It’s an extremely useful tool that every Windows 8 developer must utilize to test his/her app, before submitting to the Store.
What inspired you to start developing? What age were you when you started?
I started software development in 2008 at the age of 18 when I entered the Computer Engineering & Informatics Department of Patras. My first published application was a simple notepad for Windows Phone platform. My interest grew by attending the events organized by StudentGuru Patras, a Greek technical student community run by Greek Microsoft Student Partners. The force power was my curiosity for what lies behind the press of a button.
Could you tell us about the apps that you have built?
While my interest in programming started to grow, I set a personal goal to develop user friendly applications. Thus, I started developing four applications for Windows Phone and other four for Windows 8.
My last application and most successful is “Film Closet” which is available for Windows 8 and Windows Phone. It is a full movie database where the user can find information about any film in an easy, quick and intuitive way. At this time, it contains information for more than 120.000 movies (number rising at a fast pace).
Film Closet has already been featured in Greek Store in both of the platforms (Windows 8 & Windows Phone) and the numbers of downloads and reviews are have been rather impressive and encouraging so far. Specifically, the Windows Phone version was downloaded by more than 5700 users in the first 2 weeks of its launch (5/4/2013 till 5/18/2013)!
Furthermore, this application won the first place in the competition “Windows Phone Hackathon 2013, CODEDAMMIT” (which awarded me a gorgeous looking Lumia 820, among other great gifts). Winning this competition was a total reward to my efforts and gave me the impetus to continue the hard work.
You can find more information and download the applications in the links below, remember to leave some feedback as I’m planning constant and awesome enhancements in future updates!
Any advice you have for students?
In the apps world we live in, there lie many opportunities and potential for students worldwide. In combination with university studies that have a significant role in providing knowledge, extracurricular activities can also help students to broaden their horizons and gain important experiences.
Although failure is always a possibility, students shouldn’t consider it as a disaster. Learning from your mistakes is very important and I think that a setback can turn out to be an inspiration and a motivation to students. Moreover, the fact that real users review your app and provide feedback can make your app great and make you a better developer in no time. Don’t think of a bad review as a “STOP” sign; consider it more as a hurdle that you have to overcome in order to achieve personal development!
In conclusion, according to my personal experience, it is essential in order to create a successful application to conform with the rules of each platform because each platform has its own philosophy.
All in all, “Work hard, develop great apps, listen to your users and the future is in *your* hands!”