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Getting Started with App Development

Building and publishing an app on the epilot platform follows a straightforward process designed to help you move efficiently from initial setup to marketplace presence. This guide outlines the core steps you'll take on your journey to becoming an epilot app developer.

The App Development Journey​

The path from idea to published app consists of four essential phases:

flowchart LR
    A[1. Request Developer Account] --> B[2. Build Private App]
    B --> C[3. Request Review]
    C --> D[4. Publish Public Version]
    
    style A fill:#e1f5fe,stroke:#01579b
    style B fill:#e8f5e9,stroke:#1b5e20
    style C fill:#fff8e1,stroke:#ff6f00
    style D fill:#f3e5f5,stroke:#6a1b9a

1. Request Developer Account​

Your first step is to obtain a dedicated developer sandbox account:

  • Visit the developer sandbox section to learn about sandbox accounts
  • Provide details about your organization and development plans
  • Once approved, you'll receive credentials for your sandbox environment
  • This isolated account provides a safe space to experiment with epilot's features

2. Build Your First Private App​

With your developer account activated, you can begin building:

  • Navigate to the app creation page at https://portal.epilot.cloud/app/apps/configuration/new
  • Configure your app's metadata (name, description, category)
  • Add components based on your integration needs
  • Develop and upload your component code
  • Test your app thoroughly within your sandbox environment
  • Make iterative improvements based on your testing

During this phase, your app remains private and is only visible within your organization. Take advantage of this isolation to perfect your app's functionality.

3. Request Review​

When your app is ready for the spotlight:

  • Ensure your app documentation is complete
  • Verify all components function as expected
  • Navigate to the version management section of your app
  • Select the version you want to publish
  • Click "Request Review" to submit for evaluation
  • Our team will assess your app against quality and security standards
  • You'll receive feedback if any improvements are needed

The review process helps maintain high standards in the epilot marketplace and ensures all apps provide value to users.

4. First Public Version​

Upon approval of your review request:

  • Your app becomes visible in the epilot marketplace
  • Other organizations can discover and install your solution
  • You'll receive notifications when your app is installed
  • This version becomes immutable to ensure stability for users

Once public, you can continue developing new versions with enhanced features while users benefit from your current release.

Next Steps​

Ready to start your app development journey? Explore these resources:

By following this streamlined process, you'll be able to contribute valuable solutions to the epilot ecosystem and reach organizations throughout the energy industry.