App Design is a digital solutions company that goes beyond development to act as a strategic partner. Focused on scalable, user-centric web and mobile applications, it blends creativity with technical expertise. From optimizing apps for Google’s latest algorithms to delivering responsive designs, secure architectures, and high-performing solutions, App Design helps organizations across Europe and Latin America innovate, scale, and engage customers effectively.
Oliver Guirado, founder and CEO of App Design, is an entrepreneur and app developer specializing in React Native, Flutter, Android, and iOS. Starting as a freelancer, he turned his passion for building apps into a company serving global clients. With hands-on expertise across the full development cycle, he combines technical depth and strategic vision, emphasizing collaboration, user validation, and long-term client success.
1. Career Journey: Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career, especially one that shaped your leadership approach at your current company?
One of the most defining moments in my career happened when a large-scale project failed due to misalignment between our design and development teams. It was a costly lesson—financially and emotionally—but it forced me to reimagine how we work. From that moment, I made cross-functional collaboration and clear communication a core part of our culture at App Design. This approach has not only improved delivery but has shaped me into a more empathetic and strategic leader.
2. Career Path: What initially brought you to this specific career path, and how did it lead to your role in this company?
I began as a freelancer building custom websites and mobile apps. What started as a solo venture quickly turned into a full-time business, as I realized more companies needed not just development—but strategic, scalable digital solutions. That led to founding App Design, where I now lead a remote team delivering tailored software solutions to clients across Europe and Latin America.
3. Company Differentiation: What makes your company stand out from competitors in the market? Can you share an example that highlights this?
App Design stands out because we go beyond development—we act as strategic partners. We don’t just build what clients ask for; we help them define what they truly need. For example, one startup approached us with a massive feature list. After a strategic session, we redefined their MVP, reduced development time by 40%, and helped them go to market faster—with a more focused, high-converting product.
4. Product Innovation: Are you working on any exciting new products or projects? How do you think this innovation will positively impact your customers?
Yes—we’re building a simple, free invoicing platform tailored to Spain’s new Verifactu regulations. Most existing tools are too complex or expensive for small businesses. Our solution will be fast, compliant, and user-friendly—perfect for freelancers and small companies that need to meet legal requirements without technical headaches or high costs.
5. Success Insight: What was the tipping point for your company’s recent success? Was there a change in strategy or approach that others might learn from?
Our tipping point came when we shifted from being “just developers” to becoming long-term strategic partners. We started saying no to projects that didn’t align with our values or the client’s long-term success. This clarity led to better collaborations, higher-impact projects, and a significant increase in recurring revenue.
6. Challenges and Lessons: Can you share a significant challenge your company faced and how you overcame it? What key lesson did that experience provide?
A few years ago, we built and launched a product that completely missed the mark—because we skipped early user testing. It was a painful mistake. Since then, we’ve implemented mandatory user validation processes in all projects. That experience taught us that listening early is far more powerful than building fast.
7. Leadership Impact: In just a few words, what differentiates your leadership role from others in the company? What impact does this have on company culture or product success?
As founder, my role is to serve as the strategic compass. I ensure every decision—design, development, or marketing—aligns with our long-term vision and adds real value to the user.
To learn more about Oliver Guirado or App Design, visit the website here.
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