Fastlane

Term from Mobile Application Development industry explained for recruiters

Fastlane is a popular tool that helps mobile app developers save time when releasing their apps to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Think of it as an assistant that automates many repetitive tasks involved in getting an app ready for release. Instead of manually taking screenshots, updating app information, and handling testing, Fastlane does these tasks automatically. This is especially helpful for companies that need to update their apps frequently. It's like having a reliable helper that makes sure everything is properly packaged and delivered to the app stores without human error.

Examples in Resumes

Implemented Fastlane to reduce app deployment time from 2 hours to 15 minutes

Set up automated testing and deployment using Fastlane for iOS and Android apps

Created custom Fastlane workflows to streamline the app release process

Typical job title: "Mobile App Developers"

Also try searching for:

iOS Developer Android Developer Mobile Developer DevOps Engineer Release Engineer Mobile Application Developer App Developer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you set up a complete mobile app deployment pipeline using Fastlane?

Expected Answer: A senior developer should explain how to create an automated process that handles testing, code signing, screenshot generation, and app submission to both iOS and Android stores, with emphasis on handling different environments (development, staging, production).

Q: How do you handle different configurations for multiple apps or app versions using Fastlane?

Expected Answer: Should discuss managing multiple configuration files, environment variables, and different deployment lanes for various app versions or white-label applications.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What Fastlane tools have you used and for what purposes?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss common tools like snapshot for screenshots, gym for building iOS apps, match for certificate management, and deliver for uploading to app stores.

Q: How do you handle app signing and provisioning profiles with Fastlane?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to manage certificates, provisioning profiles, and code signing identities using Fastlane tools, especially for iOS applications.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is Fastlane and why is it useful?

Expected Answer: Should explain that Fastlane is an automation tool that helps deploy mobile apps by handling tasks like testing, building, and uploading to app stores automatically.

Q: How do you run a basic Fastlane command?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how to execute simple Fastlane commands and describe what a basic Fastfile looks like.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of app deployment process
  • Running existing Fastlane scripts
  • Simple modifications to Fastlane configuration
  • Basic command line usage

Mid (2-4 years)

  • Creating custom Fastlane workflows
  • Managing app signing and certificates
  • Integrating with continuous integration systems
  • Handling multiple app configurations

Senior (4+ years)

  • Complex deployment pipeline setup
  • Custom plugin development
  • Multi-platform deployment strategies
  • Team workflow optimization

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No experience with mobile app deployment processes
  • Unfamiliarity with command line tools
  • No knowledge of app store submission requirements
  • Lack of experience with version control systems