There are 7.3 billion people walking this planet. Between them they possess 10 billion mobile internet devices. This bit of information highlights the amount of potential exposure a mobile presence, specifically an app, could translate to for a fledgling business.
According to an April 2014 article on Forbes.com, when mobile users are on their devices, 86 percent of that time is spent in an app and 14 percent in a web browser. The exposure and versatility that an app can provide should make this route a lucrative possibility for a business.
Creating an app can be expensive, so in order to do it on a budget, have as clear of a concept as possible before pitching it to a developer. At the very least, figure out what you want the app to do and how you want it to look.
Mobile platforms such as iOS and Android make it very easy for users to download as well as delete apps from their phones. Therefore an app must have staying power or it will be flicked off a user’s home screen as if it were a piece of lint. They’ll be sure to tell friends, too, about how justified they felt in deleting it. So don’t give them a reason. Make sure the app is user-friendly, runs smoothly, and serves its purpose economically. Make sure it earns its place on a user’s home screen.
Here are a few basic questions to consider when deciding if an app is right for your business:
Would you benefit from being able to reach out to your customers 24/7? Would they benefit?
This question appears to be a no-brainer, but be sure that this direct line of communication serves to make a customer’s ability to interact with your business more streamlined and vice versa.
Would having an app make it easier to attract new customers?
Mobile versions of desktop websites can be clunky and unreliable to use. Apps can offer smoother functionality, thus making a new customer’s first experience with your company a pleasant one.
Are you able to create a unique experience for your customers?
Developing an app can be a great opportunity to further brand your company. As much as appropriate, try to make it fun and memorable. This can be accomplished by offering ways for a user to customize his or her experience and making him or her feel like a unique individual in a community. Additionally, a simple in-app game can be a great way to create buzz.
If you answered yes to these questions, I suggest dusting off that drawing board and hashing out some ideas. Your company stands to gain better exposure, a better relationship with your customers, and a stronger sense of branding. Having an app also shows customers and competitors that you’re adapting well to the changing landscape of technology. The mobile app is becoming a useful tool for a variety of different industries and there’s a good chance yours is one of them.
About the Author: Declan Peltier is a freelance writer operating primarily within the business management niche. With years of experience in the business management industry, Declan has discovered that through his writing he can share this experience with a larger audience.
photo credit: nan palmero via photopin cc
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