When I work on finance tools, I always focus on building apps that are simple, clean, and fast. I like using tools that do one job really well, so that is the style I build in. A tool should give a clear result without forcing the user through extra screens or confusing layouts. That is why I build a collection of small apps instead of one large super app.
Right now I am working on tools like Summit Loan Calculator and LeaseLimit. I also plan to release a compound portfolio tracker and an options profit calculator. Each tool has a specific purpose. When the purpose is clear, the design becomes cleaner and the experience becomes nicer to use.
A lot of finance apps try to be everything. They add too many features, too many screens, and too many steps. This often makes the app slow to open and hard to understand. You spend more time tapping through menus than using the actual tool.
That does not match how I like to use apps in real life. When I need a payment estimate, a payoff schedule, or a lease comparison, I want the answer right away. I do not want to deal with pop ups or forced accounts. I want to enter the numbers, see the results, and move on.
When I design tools like Summit or LeaseLimit, I follow a few simple ideas that help keep each app focused and easy to use.
A collection of small apps gives me more control over the design and makes the experience better for users. Summit can focus on loan math and amortization. LeaseLimit can focus on calculating overage fees on a lease and help create track miles to prevent those fees. A future compound tracker can focus on deposits, growth, and progress. Each tool has its own space to be simple and effective.
This also makes development easier. I can ship one tool, improve it, and then move to the next idea. I avoid getting stuck in one giant project. Everything stays manageable and enjoyable to build.
By building small apps, I can create a clean ecosystem where each tool does exactly what it was designed to do. Users can download only what they need. The apps stay fast, focused, and clear.
Over time this collection of tools will grow. Each one adds something helpful. Each one stays simple. And everything fits together under the same idea. Fast. Focused. Easy to understand.
If you enjoy simple finance tools or you like learning how things work, I hope this gives you a clear look into how I think about building the apps in Kurt and Leo Labs.