RUNNERS HIGH: Run your best with the ultimate music app

Our customer had the following request: to build a fast, cost-efficient music app for runners, meet the startup budget, and release it before a major event. As an experienced startup software development partner, NERDZ LAB gladly took up the challenge. 

But the journey towards a successful music app for runners wasn’t without its speed bumps. We needed to balance cost-effective mobile development with the urgency of delivering a health application on time for an event. Choosing a native approach added complexity, but achieving the best user experience with a real “wow” impact was critical.

In addition to product development, we provided the client with ongoing product and technical insights that went far beyond day-to-day delivery. Our team did the following

• Guided the client in identifying a sustainable pricing model that balanced user acquisition and revenue growth
• Recommended and introduced effective analytics tools to collect actionable data
• Collaborated to adapt design elements for maximum user engagement

To ensure a value-oriented approach to the iOS application without sacrificing quality, we decided to use Firebase Firestore instead of creating a backend, which required extending the timeline slightly while saving considerably on development costs. We also utilized FireCMS to manage the admin tool functionality.

This decision was much more cost-efficient than creating a custom panel. To ensure we delivered the smart music app before the client’s event, we expanded the team with an additional developer in the final stretch, which helped us stay on schedule and refine some extra features added at the end of the design phase. 

We also used native Swift with UIKit, which allowed us to develop advanced UI/UX, while ensuring a seamless experience with the desired visual “wow” effect the client was expecting. In addition to development, an engineering manager provided ongoing product and technical consulting to the client and supported them in making business decisions.

We conducted a detailed analysis of user behavior and market positioning, which informed our decision to adopt a freemium model. As a result, we successfully expanded our customer base and opened new revenue streams. And this is not all! Our expert also oversaw the redesign of the onboarding process, aligning it with industry best practices to reduce friction, accelerate activation, and improve retention.

Long story short, NERDZ LAB bridged the gap between business strategy and engineering execution elevating both usability and market opportunity.

Unlike other popular streaming services, RUNNERS HIGH produces all of its music internally. Each track is designed to help users navigate each stage of their run, is tested by runners, and is designed to promote rhythm and flow. With chapters that change your mood, the long-form tracks take you on a narrative trip. The music is made to move with you.