Understand Developer Console | Creator Developer Console help

Understanding Developer Console

1. What does this page cover? 

Learn about Zoho Developer Console and how developers can use it to create and distribute applications to a large community using Zoho Marketplace or privately sharing them with clients.
2. Availability 
  • Developer Console is a free platform and is available in all data centers.  
  • The super admin can create applications and assign developers to edit and manage them.

3. Overview 

The Zoho Developer Console is a free platform that enables developers to build powerful applications using the latest version of Zoho Creator (Creator 6). Developers can distribute and monetize these applications through two main distribution types:
  • Marketplace distribution: This method is suitable for applications with broader purposes that can be used by a large community of users. Applications distributed through Zoho Marketplace are accessible to a wide audience, allowing developers to reach more clients and generate revenue. Once the application is listed on Marketplace, clients can install and start using the application.
  • Private distribution: This method is ideal for delivering customized applications to specific clients. It allows developers to share tailored solutions that meet an organization's unique needs. Applications can be shared either as a trial or with subscription-based validity, offering control over access and flexibility in usage.
Developer Console gives a platform for Partners and developers to monetize their applications by allowing them to set their own pricing for their published apps. Developers can also easily deliver updates and bug fixes without disrupting the applications installed by their clients by using dedicated development and testing environments.

3.1 Benefits of the platform

  1. Source code protection: Applications created and shared using Developer Console don't require sharing of the source code with clients. Because the backend is hidden, the risk of unauthorized modifications to the app and its source code is greatly reduced.
  1. Dedicated development environment: The platform provides a dedicated environment for development and testing, allowing continuous development without interfering with the live version of the app.
  1. Efficient update distribution: The platform simplifies the CI/CD process, and developers can perform continuous deployment of updates to the applications installed by their clients.
  1. Zero cost: The platform is available free of charge.
  1. Developer collaboration: The platform allows multiple developers to collaborate on a project, thereby increasing productivity and efficiency.

3.2 Creator vs Developer Console 

 

Zoho Creator

Zoho Developer Console

Target users

Business users, team leaders, and various departments within an organization, like HR, marketing, and sales

Solution providers, like Partners and developers
Usage
Mainly curated for users within an organization
Distributed externally to Marketplace and private clients
Cost and monetization
There is no monetizing aspect, as the primary use is to ease internal business processes
Partners and developers can monetize the apps they create by distributing them to clients

3.3 Creating a Developer Console account 

If you're signing up for the first time, you must access Developer Console by entering the necessary details on this page.

If you're already a Developer Console user, you (the super admin) can start building your applications right away by clicking Zoho Creator > Start building.

When creating an application for the first time, you'll be prompted to read and agree to the Terms and Conditions. 

3.4 Using Developer Console 

Once an account is created, the account owner is considered the super admin. They can start creating an application by choosing the distribution type as Marketplace or Private Clients. They can then assign more developers who can continue with the application development process:
  1. As the application is being developed, you can preview it simultaneously in a development environment to ensure it functions correctly.
  1. Next, you can publish the application to stage environment for thorough testing.
  1. Upon completion of testing, for public distribution, you can submit the application to Zoho Marketplace, where the application undergoes a review before being distributed. This step can be performed only by the super admin.
  1. For private distribution, you can add specific clients and deploy the application to their environments. This step can be performed by only the super admins.
  1. Finally, you can manage the application post-publication to keep it updated and functional.
The following flowchart provides an overview of the process for setting up and distributing applications using Developer Console:


4. Use cases 

  • Sharing an application to Marketplace
    Using Developer Console, you can submit your tested app to Zoho Marketplace, where it will undergo a review process. Once approved, your app becomes available for anyone to install, either for free or as a monetized product. This allows you to reach a wider audience, gain more clients, and potentially generate revenue. Additionally, the platform's distribution capabilities enable you to manage app updates efficiently, ensuring a seamless experience for all clients.
  • Sharing an application privately with your clients
    Imagine you're a developer and a client approaches you with a requirement for a custom application tailored to their business needs. Using Developer Console, once the app is developed and tested, you can share the application exclusively with your client, ensuring that only they have access to it. This approach allows you to deliver a highly customized application while maintaining control over who can use the application. Your client benefits from a tailored application that meets their unique needs, while you ensure a secure and exclusive distribution.


What's next
What's next

 The next step after learning about Developer Console is to start creating an app. 



      Create. Review. Publish.

      Write, edit, collaborate on, and publish documents to different content management platforms.

      Get Started Now


        Access your files securely from anywhere

          Zoho CRM Training Programs

          Learn how to use the best tools for sales force automation and better customer engagement from Zoho's implementation specialists.

          Zoho CRM Training
            Redefine the way you work
            with Zoho Workplace

              Zoho DataPrep Personalized Demo

              If you'd like a personalized walk-through of our data preparation tool, please request a demo and we'll be happy to show you how to get the best out of Zoho DataPrep.

              Zoho CRM Training

                Create, share, and deliver

                beautiful slides from anywhere.

                Get Started Now


                  Zoho Sign now offers specialized one-on-one training for both administrators and developers.

                  BOOK A SESSION







                              Quick LinksWorkflow AutomationData Collection
                              Web FormsRetailOnline Data Collection Tool
                              Embeddable FormsBankingBegin Data Collection
                              Interactive FormsWorkplaceData Collection App
                              CRM FormsCustomer ServiceForms for Solopreneurs
                              Digital FormsMarketingForms for Small Business
                              HTML FormsEducationForms for Enterprise
                              Contact FormsE-commerceForms for any business
                              Lead Generation FormsHealthcareForms for Startups
                              Wordpress FormsCustomer onboardingForms for Small Business
                              No Code FormsConstructionRSVP tool for holidays
                              Free FormsTravelFeatures for Order Forms
                              Prefill FormsNon-Profit
                              Forms for Government
                              Intake FormsLegal
                              Mobile App
                              Form DesignerHR
                              Mobile Forms
                              Card FormsFoodOffline Forms
                              Assign FormsPhotographyMobile Forms Features
                              Translate FormsReal EstateKiosk in Mobile Forms
                              Electronic FormsInsurance
                              Drag & drop form builder

                              Notification Emails for FormsAlternativesSecurity & Compliance
                              Holiday FormsGoogle Forms alternative GDPR
                              Form to PDFJotform alternativeHIPAA Forms
                              Email FormsWufoo alternativeEncrypted Forms
                              Accessible FormsTypeform alternativeSecure Forms

                              WCAG

                                          Create. Review. Publish.

                                          Write, edit, collaborate on, and publish documents to different content management platforms.

                                          Get Started Now






                                                            You are currently viewing the help pages of Qntrl’s earlier version. Click here to view our latest version—Qntrl 3.0's help articles.




                                                                Manage your brands on social media

                                                                  Use cases

                                                                  Make the most of Zoho Desk with the use cases.

                                                                   
                                                                    

                                                                  eBooks

                                                                  Download free eBooks and access a range of topics to get deeper insight on successfully using Zoho Desk.

                                                                   
                                                                    

                                                                  Videos

                                                                  Watch comprehensive videos on features and other important topics that will help you master Zoho Desk.

                                                                   
                                                                    

                                                                  Webinar

                                                                  Sign up for our webinars and learn the Zoho Desk basics, from customization to automation and more

                                                                   
                                                                    
                                                                  • Desk Community Learning Series


                                                                  • Meetups


                                                                  • Ask the Experts


                                                                  • Kbase


                                                                  • Resources


                                                                  • Glossary


                                                                  • Desk Marketplace


                                                                  • MVP Corner



                                                                    Zoho Sheet Resources

                                                                     

                                                                        Zoho Forms Resources


                                                                          Secure your business
                                                                          communication with Zoho Mail


                                                                          Mail on the move with
                                                                          Zoho Mail mobile application

                                                                            Stay on top of your schedule
                                                                            at all times


                                                                            Carry your calendar with you
                                                                            Anytime, anywhere




                                                                                  Zoho Sign Resources

                                                                                    Sign, Paperless!

                                                                                    Sign and send business documents on the go!

                                                                                    Get Started Now




                                                                                            Zoho TeamInbox Resources





                                                                                                      Zoho DataPrep Demo

                                                                                                      Get a personalized demo or POC

                                                                                                      REGISTER NOW


                                                                                                        Design. Discuss. Deliver.

                                                                                                        Create visually engaging stories with Zoho Show.

                                                                                                        Get Started Now









                                                                                                                            • Related Articles

                                                                                                                            • Understanding marketplace distribution

                                                                                                                              This help page is for users in Developer Console version 6. If you are in the older version (Developer Console 5), click here. Know your Developer Console version. 1. What does this page cover? Learn about the Marketplace section in your Developer ...
                                                                                                                            • Identify your Developer Console account version

                                                                                                                              Zoho Developer Console is a low-code application development and distribution platform which helps distribute the business software you create with your clients (Zoho Marketplace or private distribution) easily. The Zoho Developer Console application ...
                                                                                                                            • Understanding usage

                                                                                                                              1. What does this page cover? Learn how to check and understand the various limits and usages related to applications with your Zoho Developer Console account. 2. Availability The super admins can access the Usage section to view the details of the ...
                                                                                                                            • Understanding connectors

                                                                                                                              1. What does this page cover? Learn about connectors and the list of built-in connectors supported in Developer Console for connecting your application with Zoho and third-party services before distributing your apps. 2. Availability Connectors can ...
                                                                                                                            • Limitations: Developer Console

                                                                                                                              Note: This is a work in progress page as we're constantly updating our services. Developer Profile: Developers have restricted access; they can only edit applications created by the super admin and cannot create new apps. They also can't export ...
                                                                                                                              Wherever you are is as good as
                                                                                                                              your workplace

                                                                                                                                Resources

                                                                                                                                Videos

                                                                                                                                Watch comprehensive videos on features and other important topics that will help you master Zoho CRM.



                                                                                                                                eBooks

                                                                                                                                Download free eBooks and access a range of topics to get deeper insight on successfully using Zoho CRM.



                                                                                                                                Webinars

                                                                                                                                Sign up for our webinars and learn the Zoho CRM basics, from customization to sales force automation and more.



                                                                                                                                CRM Tips

                                                                                                                                Make the most of Zoho CRM with these useful tips.



                                                                                                                                  Zoho Show Resources