App testing problems

Original Post:

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StephenHill

New Member
Apr 21, 2026
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1
  • #1
    I have written an app in my spare time aimed at people who run rounds selling sandwiches out of a van. When I first developed the app, I had a local business who was willing to use and test the app for me. Since then, she has retired, and the person who took over has not responded to me. I have also sent out countless emails to businesses outlining the app, and asking if they would be willing to help. The app is designed to let people know when they are around - and also possibly attract more customers. Obviously, testers of the app would be able to use it for free in perpetuity.

    Does anyone have any experience of finding people to help test/try a website/app, and do they have any advice or pointers to where I might find someone, or other advice to help?!
     
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    Paul Kelly ICHYB

    Paul Kelly ICHYB

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    • Jan 21, 2008
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    icanhelpyourbusiness.co.uk
  • #2
    You appear to be contacting the right people, but just extend the reach - look at FB groups etc.

    My initial thought is have you created something that nobody really needs i.e. have you created a solution for a problem that doesn't really exist? However, if you give some details of what the app does, I might change my mind.

    I would have thought that one of the standard messenger apps would already offer something to help, assuming that it announces when the person is on site/nearby.
     
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    fisicx

    fisicx

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  • #3
    Most vans toot their horn when they arrive in the car park. Everyone bundles downstairs to pick up their preorders or get a doughnut or whatever.

    In any case, there are already similar apps in the online souks.
     
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    StephenHill

    New Member
    Apr 21, 2026
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  • #4
    Paul Kelly ICHYB said:
    You appear to be contacting the right people, but just extend the reach - look at FB groups etc.

    My initial thought is have you created something that nobody really needs i.e. have you created a solution for a problem that doesn't really exist? However, if you give some details of what the app does, I might change my mind.

    I would have thought that one of the standard messenger apps would already offer something to help, assuming that it announces when the person is on site/nearby.
    Click to expand...
    The app allows the vendor to alert customers to their presence. It also has a menu section, a screen for news/information - where vendors can post pictures and advertise deals, and a map where you can see the locations of all the vendors in the area.
     
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    S

    StephenHill

    New Member
    Apr 21, 2026
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  • #5
    fisicx said:
    Most vans toot their horn when they arrive in the car park. Everyone bundles downstairs to pick up their preorders or get a doughnut or whatever.

    In any case, there are already similar apps in the online souks.
    Click to expand...
    I did look for other apps and couldn't find any that allow any vendor to sign up. Also - our sandwich lady beeps her horn - I never hear it!
     
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    Paul Kelly ICHYB

    Paul Kelly ICHYB

    Moderator
    • Jan 21, 2008
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    icanhelpyourbusiness.co.uk
  • #6
    WhatsApp have Broadcast Lists:
    "You can use broadcast lists to send a message to several contacts at once.

    Broadcast lists are saved lists of contacts that you can repeatedly message without having to select the contacts each time."

    Give your number to people and tell them to message you their location. You then add them to the relevant group and then send a broadcast to the group.

    People are more likely to use Whatsapp than download another app with a very narrow use.
     
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    UKHost.Solutions

    UKHost.Solutions

    Free Member
    Mar 2, 2021
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    Scarborough
  • #7
    I think a lot depends on the area. For example, we have one in situ every day.
    But if your new to the area, you wouldn't know they were there.
    Sometimes ours isn't open (for whatever reason) so you might be on to something.
    Regarding advertising once polished. Maybe AppSumo, or Product Hunt to see if you can get traction.
    Sign up to Free Reddit - great source of info where you could find food groups and ask your questions in there.

    Good look and hope you make good progress.
    I'm a SaaS developer too and understand the 'pain points' your aiming to fix.

    Mark from Tooltilities . com
     
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