Hi. Thanks for your interest...
As a non-tech person, I've found that there a couple of ways to develop apps:
Online Service providers - there are a heap of these sites/services that will help you develop a pretty generic app using template technology. I've messed around with some of them (like Red Foundry) but found that to do something more complex, you had to have a bit of programming knowledge. A google search on "how to create apps" will pull up a heap of them.
Learn to Code sites - I have found a heap of these where they will teach you to code and develop apps. Some of them have a modularised solutions where you can develop complex apps using a combination of pre-programmed modules plus your own coding. I personally have no interest in learning to code so haven't spent much time here.
Engage a contractor - I have used this method successfully to develop 2 apps which are currently making money on the App Store (not heaps of money but I've recovered my development costs and am making a small profit). I currently have 4 other apps in the pipeline getting coded as we talk. I found my Coder through Freelancer (but you can use any of the "match maker" sites like Elance, etc). This is a quick and cost effective way of developing your app.
My best tip is to start with a mock up of your app using either some of the good apps available , online services or a free download called "MockApp" (search for it in Google). This then gives you something concrete to take to the Coder which reduces the cost and timeframes.
All the best
Russell
