Best Practices for Shopify App Development in 2025

Last Updated on May 22, 2025

“Before delving into the best practices for Shopify app development, let’s first explore some key statistics about the Shopify market.”
Shopify has come out as the leading E-commerce software and has revolutionized the way entrepreneurs manage their business online. Shopify’s thriving ecosystem allows merchants to create online stores and apps with ease. Shopify is available in 150+ countries and in 20 different languages.

There are over 4.12 million stores on Shopify. And around 81% of the traffic on these stores comes from mobile phones, that simply explains the need for and importance of mobile app development. Shopify includes readymade themes and templates that help merchants to easily get started with their store setup.

Even if you use any of the available templates on Shopify it still becomes important to customize platform that reflects your brand and sets you apart from other online stores. In this article, we will look at the most crucial best practices to take into account when you decide to establish your online-commerce platform. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or a new e-commerce enthusiast, the success of your online business is strongly dependent on the groundwork you built before its big launch.

Shopify Market Statistics and Overview

• According to the research Shopify ranks forth and hold around 10.32% of the global Ecommerce market in 2023. 
• There are around 3.9 million websites that use Shopify and its facilities.
• Report says that in its 17 years of existence, Shopify has earned over $700 billion in sales, with projected total revenue of $5.6 billion in 2022.
• According to the research Shopify has generated a revenue of $1.5 billion in the first quarter of the year 2023.

Understanding the Shopify App Ecosystem: How Apps Boost Your Online Store

How Shopify Apps Work with Your Store?

Shopify apps are like special helpers for your online store. They work together with your store to add extra features and make it even better.

Here’s how it works: Shopify apps have two parts. One part is what you see as a web interface or a mobile app. This is where you use the app’s cool features. The other part is behind the scenes, hosted by developers on their servers or cloud platforms. It takes care of things like processing data and handling requests.

The magic happens through APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). These APIs let the apps securely connect with your store and access its data. This way, the app can offer you a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience.

Different Types of Shopify Apps

Mainly there are 3 types of Shopify apps:

1. Public Apps: Convenient for Everyone

Public apps are like popular stars in the Shopify App Store. They are available to all merchants and offer solutions for common e-commerce needs, like marketing or managing inventory. Shopify checks them to make sure they are safe and work well.

2. Custom Apps: Made Just for You

Custom apps are like customizable features. They are created specifically for certain merchants or businesses. They fit perfectly with your store’s unique requirements, branding, and systems.

3. Private Apps: Your Exclusive Experience

Private apps are like hidden gems. They are made only for your store and not for others. They offer you a personalized and private touch.

As you explore Shopify apps, you’ll find the ones that suit your store best. Whether it’s the convenience of public apps, the personalized touch of custom apps, or the exclusivity of private apps, they will help you set your online store apart from the competitors.

Best Practices for Shopify App Development

Merchant-Centric Approach
Your app’s success depends on understanding merchants’ needs. Communicate with them, gather fresh insights through surveys, interviews, and user testing. Use this valuable information to create an app that addresses their pain points and helps them achieve their business goals. Always remember that Happy merchants means a successful app!

Innovation
Plan and develop cutting-edge features that will make your app stand out and thrill users. Bring out the features that customers didn’t even know were available to keep them from turning around. Try to differentiate yourself from the crowd by being practical.

Code Architecture
Lay a solid foundation with clean and efficient code. It’s like the backbone of your app! This helps it grow and stay easy to manage in the long run. Plus, organized code makes teamwork smooth during development.

Focus on UX and UI
When developing a Shopify store, the user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) are crucial factors to consider. Streamlined UI ensures easy navigation and maximum functionality. The checkout process should be quick, efficient, and simple, as lengthy or complicated checkouts can lead to cart abandonment.

Robust Security
Take all required steps to protect the privacy and security of the user and merchant data. A secure app builds trust and confidence among the users and merchants making them feel comfortable while using your app.

Website Performance and Speed
One of the best measures you can take while developing a Shopify app is to consider the type of features that you want to include in your app. A carousal for example, is a great feature to add but it can slow down your site’s speed if you add too many images.

Regular Updates
Keep your app in sync with the latest Shopify changes through regular updates. By staying updated, you can build trust amongst your customers and merchants. This will ensure a seamless experience, setting you apart as a responsive and reliable app developer.

Marketing
A well-planned marketing strategy can help you take your app to the next level by creating awareness and engagement. Utilize all the marketing channels to reach your potential customers.

Shopify App Development Services by Oyelabs

Oyelabs is a cutting-edge Shopify development company specializing in creating user-friendly, feature-rich, and sales-driven online businesses.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to update your current e-commerce website, we got you covered. Meet all of your demands for an online shop on the most popular e-commerce platform in the world. With our knowledge and commitment, we design online businesses that make a lasting impression on your clients, boosting user experiences and boosting revenue.

Contact us today and bring your dream online store to life!

Conclusion

Shopify has transformed e-commerce management, making it the top choice for entrepreneurs worldwide. With its user-friendly platform, you can easily create online stores and apps. For success, focus on user experience, efficient code, and security. For expert help, turn to Oyelabs, a leading Shopify development company that specializes in creating user-friendly and successful online businesses