Having managed platform and app development teams over the past 20 years at my startup-focused brand development + marketing agency, I tell you that it can be a tough road for entrepreneurs and early-stage startup founders without an intense technical background...it can be downright frustrating, and even crippling to new startups in build mode, just trying to get off the line.

But, if you try to go it alone (I don't recommend isolating these types of teams from an overall, cohesive brand and marketing strategy), be sure that you're working with a senior team, with significant experience in the areas you're focused in. In other words, don't try to build a consumer marketplace type of business with developer(s) who have only worked in banking or finance. And don't bring on programmers with little experience in consumer brands that have only worked in biotech.

Also be sure you have a well-versed, senior lead/manager watching over the team of developers, as it's important to have someone to help keep the requirements, concept, and overall work moving forward cohesively. This will reduce your headaches and frustrations significantly.

Lastly, always be sure you have access and ownership over the code, even as it is being developed...if you don't, you get yourself into a sticky "hostage" situation if you find your work slipping grossly behind schedule and decide to pull the plug on the team entirely.

If you have any more questions on the matter, happy to discuss any time so feel free to reach out!