You may have the Next Big Idea for a Chrome App or Extension … How to Find Out!

One of the benefits of Google’s Chrome browser is the level of customization you can bring to your browsing experience by using various apps and extensions. From tools that let you refresh pages automatically to those that let you remove annoying ads with a single click, many people at computer tables across the country are using Chrome extras.

If you have some programming skills and want to give developing a Google app or extension a go then you’re going to need to come up with a good idea.
Use these tips to get your creative juices flowing.

Check Out the Competition
Have a look through the apps and extensions that are already available. This can be helpful in a number of ways:

• It can stop you wasting time working on a project that has already been done very well by someone else.
• It can let you know what kind of apps and extensions are popular.
• It might help you to see a gap in the market if a particular niche has obviously not been filled.
• You might be inspired by a certain app or extension whose principles could be applied to a different area.

Be Aware
At various points in the day we all meet some challenge or frustration and think to ourselves “I wish I could…” or “If only there was…” Try to remain aware of your desire. This desire is actually a possible idea, or at least a jump starter to prompt creative thinking.

However, don’t just run with the first problem you think of. Note down all the potential ideas you have any problems you think you could solve.

Then, do some quick research to see whether or not other people have also had this problem. You don’t have to come up with a huge survey – just do a quick Google search or ask your own friends or colleagues on Facebook.

Think Outside the Box
Once you have decided on a single idea, don’t begin development yet. It’s time to ask some hard questions.

How can you maximize the value of your final app or extension? Does the problem you are trying to solve exist on its own or as part of a group of related problems? Can your app solve them all? Are the principles behind your app easily expandable to make an even better experience with the greater appeal? Is a full-service app actually a good idea or are you better off focusing on one single issue?
Asking and answering these questions will help you to ensure the reality of your app or extension does your idea justice.

Carl contributed this guest post. Passionate about the online world, he likes writing about everything from computer tables to Chrome.