One thing any company should do when they launch a new mobile platform is keep their developers happy. At the end of the day, if you have no developers designing apps for your platform, then there is nothing for users to buy, and the platform won’t be successful. Developers are the backbone of any mobile ecosystem, and their satisfaction directly impacts the quality and quantity of applications available to users.
You would think that Microsoft would be doing everything they can to keep their developers happy. However, it seems this is not the case, as it is reported that they won’t be paying their developers until February 2011. This delay in payment can have significant repercussions on the developers’ willingness to continue creating apps for the platform.
The Impact of Payment Delays on Developers
Some developers have been submitting applications to the Windows Phone 7 marketplace as early as October, so that means they will have to wait almost five months before they receive their first payment from Microsoft. This extended waiting period can be particularly challenging for independent developers and small development studios that rely on timely payments to manage their cash flow and sustain their operations.
If you look at it from a developer’s point of view, which platform would you prefer to develop applications for? One that pays you every month, or one that makes you wait five months before you see any return on your investment. The choice seems obvious, and this delay could potentially drive developers to prioritize other platforms like iOS or Android, where payments are more frequent and reliable.
Comparing Payment Practices Across Platforms
To put things into perspective, let’s compare the payment practices of different mobile platforms. Apple, for instance, pays its developers on a monthly basis, ensuring a steady stream of income. Google also follows a similar monthly payment schedule for its Play Store developers. These practices not only help developers manage their finances better but also foster a sense of trust and reliability between the platform and its developers.
In contrast, Microsoft’s decision to delay payments until February 2011 could be seen as a significant disadvantage. Developers invest a considerable amount of time and resources into creating applications, and delayed payments can hinder their ability to reinvest in their projects, pay their teams, and cover other operational costs. This can lead to frustration and a lack of motivation to continue developing for the platform.
Moreover, the success of a mobile platform is heavily dependent on the variety and quality of applications available. If developers are dissatisfied and choose to focus their efforts elsewhere, it could result in a limited app ecosystem for Windows Phone 7, ultimately affecting user adoption and satisfaction.
Engadget via Mobile Crunch
In conclusion, while launching a new mobile platform, it is crucial for companies to prioritize the needs and satisfaction of their developers. Timely payments are a fundamental aspect of this, as they directly impact the developers’ ability to sustain their operations and continue creating high-quality applications. Microsoft’s decision to delay payments until February 2011 could have negative consequences for the Windows Phone 7 platform, potentially driving developers to seek more reliable and developer-friendly alternatives.
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