How to Build an App like Thumbtack?

We will see how you can create an app like Thumbtack.

But, understanding the Thumbtack business model is what needs to be covered first.

It gives you an idea, inspiration, and whatnot.

Before that, let’s take a quick tip from Thumbtack’s clever monetization strategy.

They operate as a marketplace business model, primarily generating revenue from service providers who pay for leads they generate through the platform.

And they also have users to make money from.

So, Thumbtack introduced a membership program, Thumbtack Plus, which offers extra benefits to users for a yearly fee.

This combination of lead-based revenue(from service providers) and a membership model(for users) illustrates how diversifying their revenue streams are.

For a business like Thumbtack, it can contribute to long-term success and profitability.

This explanation is to stress the point that you can consider similar approaches when it comes to your business.

There is another insight we need to keep an eye on. Thumbtack is more inclined to build liquidity within specific geographic locations.

Didn’t understand?🤔

They ensure that customers can easily find suitable service professionals at reasonable prices and in their desired time.

You may ask: “Where’s the development process? That’s why I am here!”

You got us.

The time wasn’t wasted. The insights we talked about are somehow related to the Thumtack-like app development guide.

How?

Before you develop an app, you didn’t right away work on the development process.

You need an understanding of Thumbtack’s business model, how they earn, and their workflow to develop the way that generates money for you.

Maybe, the other lists of top Handyman apps can help you take inspiration from.

Now, let’s move on to the workflow of the users and Thumbtack pros.

Workflow of the Thumbtack

Whether or not you're implementing the Thumbtack workflow - by seeing theirs, you get an idea of which workflow to embrace.

Let’s see the users first.

User’s workflow

1. Request for a service

Users start by visiting the Thumbtack website or mobile app. They enter details about the service they need, including the type of job, location (ZIP code), and any specific requirements.

2. Browse and compare

Thumbtack then generates a list of service providers who match the user's requirements.

Users can then browse through these profiles, which reveal information about the service provider's experience, ratings, and reviews from previous customers.

3. Receive quotes

Service providers interested in the user's job request can send quotes or estimates for the work.

Users typically receive multiple quotes from different providers. It allows them to compare prices, services offered, and the provider's credentials.

4. Communicate with service providers

Users can directly communicate with service providers through the Thumbtack platform. It may involve asking questions, discussing details, or negotiating terms.

5. Choose a service provider

Based on the quotes, reviews, and communication with service providers, the user can select the one they feel most comfortable with and believe will meet their needs.

6. Complete the transaction

Once a service provider is chosen, the user and the service provider agree on the terms and any final details.

After the user pays for the job, they can rate & review their experience.

Workflow of Thumbtack pros

1. Create a profile

They sign up on Thumbtack and create a detailed profile that highlights their skills, experience, and services offered.

Additionally, they provide their business information and pricing details.

2. Receive job requests

When a user posts a service request that matches their skills and expertise, service providers receive notifications and review the request.

3. Submit quotes

Interested Thumbtack pros can send quotes to users.

They provide estimated costs, additional details about their services, and any other relevant information.

4. Communicate with Users

Also, the service providers can interact with users(in-app messaging) who have shown interest in their quotes.

This communication gives them a space to clarify details, answer questions, and build a connection with potential clients.

5. Get hired

When a user selects a particular service provider, both agree on the final terms, including scheduling and payment. The service provider is then hired to complete the job.

6. Complete the Job

After the job fulfillment, they receive payments from users via the platform's payment or from a payout method which takes three to four business days.

Utilizing the Thumbtack payment solution, the service provider can accept deposits, tips, and payments at no cost.

Let’s discuss the features you can consider

Features for users

User registration and profile creation: Allow users to create accounts, update profiles, and manage personal information.

Service search and selection: Enable users to search for various services and browse service providers.

In-app chat: A messaging system for communication with service providers to discuss requirements, pricing, and scheduling.

Booking and scheduling: Users should be able to book services, set appointments, and manage bookings.

Reviews and ratings: Provide a system for users to leave reviews and ratings for service providers, which ensures transparency and trust.

Payment processing: Integrate secure payment gateways for users to pay for services directly within the app.

Geolocation: Implement location-based services to find nearby service providers and track service providers' arrival.

Notifications: Send push notifications for booking confirmations, reminders, and updates on service progress.

Service categories: Categorize services to make it easy for users to find what they need.

Features for service providers

Provider registration and profile: Let the service providers create profiles, specify their services, and share qualifications.

Bid submission: Enable service providers to submit quotes or bids for user requests.

Appointment management: Manage booking schedules, accept or decline service requests, and set availability.

Communication tools: In-app chats to communicate with users and clarify service details.

Payment and earnings: View and manage earnings, and invoices, and receive payments through the app.

Review management: Monitor and respond to user reviews and ratings.

Dashboard: Provide a dashboard with analytics and performance data.

Features for admin

User and provider management: Admins should have control over user and provider accounts, including suspending or banning accounts if necessary.

Content management: Monitor and moderate user-generated content, such as reviews and service listings.

Service categories management: Admins can add, edit, or remove service categories.

Reports and analytics: Access data and analytics related to user activity, service provider performance, and overall app usage.

Payment and commission management: Admins should handle payment processing, including collecting fees or commissions.

Customer support: Provide tools for handling user inquiries and issues.

Security and privacy: Ensure data security, privacy, and compliance with relevant regulations.

App Updates and Maintenance: Maintain and update the app to improve functionality and security.

Developing your Thumbtack-like app

There are several stages involved in the process of developing an app.

Here I break down some steps in a straightway articulation.

1. Conceptualization and Research

• Define your app's niche and target audience
• Research your competitors, and understand their strengths and weaknesses
• Identify the core features your app will offer and the problems it will solve

2. Market Analysis

• Evaluate the market demand and potential for your app
• Identify trends, pricing strategies, and user preferences
• Create a unique selling proposition (USP) for your app

3. Design and Prototyping

• Create wireframes and prototypes to visualize the app's user interface
• Develop a user-friendly and intuitive design
• Plan the user journey, from registration to service booking

4. Technology stack selection

• Choose the right technology stack for your app (e.g., programming languages, frameworks, and databases)
• Decide on the development approach: native (iOS and Android), hybrid, or cross-platform

5. Development

• Develop the frontend (user interface) and backend (server and database) components of your app
• Implement features such as user registration, service posting, search, messaging, payments, reviews, and more
• Ensure security measures to protect user data and transactions

6. Testing

• Thoroughly test the app to identify and fix bugs and issues
• Conduct usability testing to ensure an intuitive user experience
• Verify the app's compatibility with different devices and screen sizes

7. User Feedback and Iteration

• Collect user feedback through beta testing or pilot launches
• Analyze user reviews and ratings to make further improvements
• Continuously make changes and refine the app based on user input

8. Deployment

• Deploy the app to app stores (Apple App Store and Google Play Store)
• Ensure that you comply with store guidelines and policies
• Elevate your app presence, such as adding app descriptions and screenshots

9. Maintenance and Support

• Regularly update the app to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features
• Provide customer support to address user inquiries and issues
• Stay informed about industry trends and competition to remain competitive

Have you understood each process?

These are the ways that are involved when it comes to creating a Thumbtack-like app from scratch.

You could create your plan and implementation when developing everything from scratch.

While we have seen the custom development way, not every startup can go this way.

That’s the core reason some businesses opt for readymade solutions.

Before deciding either way, you need to understand the difference between custom development and readymade solutions.

After knowing that, you could plan further steps based on what goods or your business.

In a nutshell, I hope you understand what we have seen in this blog.

In case you choose a readymade solution, a TaskRabbit clone can help you launch your Handyman marketplace app quickly.

Don’t know what TaskRabbit clone is and how TaskRabbit clone can help you launch your app? Surely you need to know before getting started.

A quick recap: At first, we explored the workflow of the Thumbtack for you to get a better understanding and to create your preferred workflow for your Thumbtack-like app.

And then we talked about features to give some ideas.

Talking of features, it’s essential to start with essential ones rather than complex ones. It ensures what works and what doesn’t.

Also, the development stages you can follow.

If everything goes well - I mean, after you launch your Handyman app, you need to follow a set of marketing strategies to get that app to users.

So that you can establish your service and monetize it.