The effective existence of each of the modern industries is not possible without the use of information technologies. The network is becoming an integral and necessary condition for the successful functioning of all parts of the economic space. Each of us is a user of the network and this is a sign of the modern world.
Information technologies play an important role in business. They have become part of a large number of services, enable the exchange of information over long distances, change the process of production, etc. However, many companies are preferring to use mobile apps for business over websites. This is because the use of applications is becoming more simple and versatile. Below experts from https://jatapp.com/ who create applications daily, break down the main reasons why you need a mobile app to grow your business.
Growth in Mobile Apps: Definition of a Business Mobile App
Any modern phone has a built-in operating system and apps we need. Such basic programs are very useful in everyday life. The most popular of them are a calculator, alarm clock, organizer, etc. The other programs (for example, games, a browser, instant messengers) are usually installed at the own discretion of the user.
Each mobile app developed for business has specific application features. In this regard, the meaning of the concept may vary depending on the context in which it applies. There are two main definitions:
- A program for everyday use in business, helping to achieve the established goals. An example here is Google Drive cloud storage;
- A program that is created for use by users solely in the interests of a specific business. An example here is a movie theatre poster.
Both the first and second definitions are used in everyday life. However, the second definition is more common. With the help of special software, a business gets new customers interested in goods/services.
Benefits That Mobile Software Provides for Business
The introduction of modern software in business helps not only to perform various tasks simultaneously but also to obtain reliable and efficient channels of interaction with the target audience. Here are some of the key advantages of mobile applications:
- Improving the brand image. By creating a convenient and useful mobile application, you demonstrate to your customers that you are ready to follow modern trends. You also express your interest in long-term partnerships;
- Standing out from competitors. Traditional channels of communication with customers and the promotion of goods and services (advertisements, leaflets, SMS notifications, etc.) are still used by many companies. Your business can compare favourably with competitors and provide customers a convenient interaction channel;
- Taking customer loyalty to the next level. The application allows you to successfully conduct various loyalty programs and encourage customers;
- Achieving a new service level. Thanks to instant push notifications, customers stay up to date with all the news, events, and promotions of the company;
- Work in the interests of the target audience. As a rule, the application is downloaded only by those people who are really interested in particular goods or services. This is a new unique opportunity to work with “warm” clients and offer them your services;
- Carrying out marketing campaigns by offering special promotions and discounts to users;
- Increasing sales. Using the app for a service business, you are constantly in touch and can apply different types of purchase promotions;
- Achieving continuous communication with the target audience. The application creates a unified system of communication channels with customers. And this, in turn, provides a modern level of customer service.
Difference Between the App and the Mobile Version of a Website
At first glance, it may seem that smartphone applications are no different from the mobile version of the company’s website and perform the same functions. However, this is not at all the case. Here are some arguments to back this up:
- The company’s website has an adaptation for mobile devices which represents its simplified version. The application, as a rule, is dedicated to one direction (for example, booking rooms) and, therefore, absolutely does not claim to be complete and all-inclusive;
- The website is hosted on an Internet server. The user needs to open it in a browser for further use. The mobile application, on the contrary, is available for use only after installation on the device;
- From a technical perspective, the website adapted for the mobile version uses the same Internet technologies as its main version. However, the display on different devices may be different and not always correct due to adaptation. As for the app, it uses a multi-platform principle or is developed for a specific operating system. So, there are usually no display and operation problems.
What Industries Can Benefit from The Use of Mobile Applications?
Practice shows that mobile applications bring benefits to companies operating in various industries. However, there are niches in which the use of the software is the most promising:
- Agribusiness. In combination with wireless networks, mobile applications have a significant potential to expand the time, space, and efficiency of farmers. At the same time, mobile technologies open new communication channels and opportunities for the introduction of agribusiness. This offers potentially wider access to public information and basic services.
- Hotel and restaurant business. The use of mobile applications in the hotel and restaurant business allows for reducing customer service time, as many functions the guest can perform independently. Effective communication between employees is provided to improve customer service;
- Car business. Car service owners prefer mobile apps over websites because they are effective in attracting customers. Thanks to the application, the user can view the repair schedule, order specific spare parts, use bonus points at the car wash, etc.;
- Tourism. Using the app, users learn about new resorts or hot tours. They can also search for guesthouses with comfortable conditions, book rooms, etc.;
- Medicine. Modern apps can show users the current schedule of doctors’ appointments and allow to register for a consultation;
- Beauty industry. The application for hairdressers and ZRA-salons makes it possible to optimally distribute working time by pre-registration;
- Sport. The application for the fitness center or gym usually provides customers with the necessary information about prices and the opportunity to use the particular services;
- Service industries. Freight transportation, consumer services, courier delivery, etc. companies can greatly benefit from the use of mobile software. Having configured the application in the right way, it will be convenient for the client to track the status of the order;
- Leisure. The use of mobile apps by entertainment establishments (cinemas, concert halls, etc.) has the same benefits as in other industries.
Examples of Mobile Application Development for Business
The mobile applications market research allowed to reveal some successful developments:
- Booking.com (booking hotels). This is one of the most popular apps in the world, which can be easily downloaded to any phone. The uniqueness of the application is that after booking the phone immediately receives confirmation, which contains all the important information for the customer;
- Resti is a unique application of the electronic customer service system installed in restaurants, hotels, and other establishments. It includes a simple and convenient QR code scanner. Thanks to this application, the guest can call the waiter and view the menu on his smartphone. It is also possible to place an order, make a payment with a bank card, and leave a review;
- inDinero allows keeping all accounting online, tracking income, taxes, and expenses. All data is stored by multi-step protection;
- Evernote is a good small business app development. It is a universal notebook that allows making notes, attaching pictures, recognizing audio and images, saving web pages and handwritten notes;
- HootSuite is a mobile app for cross-platform publishing. It allows saving time on posting on Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, and LinkedIn.
How to Start a Successful Business Mobile App Development?
Therefore, the use of mobile apps for business is favourable and effective. They allow promoting products/services and maintaining direct contact with any customer. Apps can also be used to conduct advertising policies, analyze the market, speed up business operations, and so on. Thanks to high-quality software, the seller can present information to the user in an accessible and comfortable form, as well as facilitate the search for the desired product or service.
If you want to create an app for your business, you can start by finding the best experts in the mobile app development industry. Experts will definitely create quality software for you that will take your company to a whole new level.