Mobile applications (apps) are becoming more commonplace as mobile phones and tablets begin to replace traditional desktop devices. Software developers are usually located in areas where good connectivity is the norm, but large numbers of users are located in other areas where 3 G connectivity is at best poor or non-existent. This results in app development which is unsuitable for many areas of the world and, as well as being a problem in rural areas of the UK, has ramifications for mobile app use in third world countries where fixed broadband services are largely absent. Drawing on experiences of users on the margins of connectivity, this paper discusses difficulties of mobile internet access in Wales and recommends changes to app development methodology to maximise bandwidth in areas of limited network coverage.

This paper describes empirical research into Internet software development practices. The focus of our study is to develop an understanding of the features that characterize Internet software development. Based on a Grounded Theory analysis of data collected in nine US software development organizations, we identify three factors that influence Internet software development processes: demand for rush to market, operating in a different kind of market environment and the lack of experience developing such products. Though many of the characteristics of the development processes identified in our study may be observed in traditional software development, the intensity with which they apply and together distinguish Internet software development. The differences include a distinct collection of methods, tools, and management techniques for software engineering, and embody a unique development culture and negotiable software quality.