The mobile app industry is growing rapidly, and a well-designed business app can be an important asset for your company. But mobile apps are not cheap, and developing an app requires a significant investment in time and money. The return, however, can be substantial if you develop an app that your customers want and use.
Mobile apps are software programs designed to run on a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. They are often downloaded from a distribution platform, called an app store, or directly from the device’s internet browser. App stores are operated by the owner of the mobile operating system, by the device manufacturers such as Apple’s App Store and Google Play, by third parties, such as Amazon and F-Droid, or on a standalone basis for specific devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy Store and Huawei AppGallery. Apps may be used for a wide variety of purposes, including entertainment, productivity assistance, mobile games, GPS and location-based services, ordering and ticket purchase support, and social networking.
A mobile app can be a powerful tool to connect with customers and increase brand loyalty, particularly if it offers built-in features that can help your business provide customer service over the long term. While fridge magnets and calendars bearing a company logo once served as an affordable means of building brand awareness, a mobile app allows companies to engage with customers at the point of decision making and build lasting relationships.
As the number of mobile devices in the world continues to grow, more consumers are expecting businesses to offer a mobile experience. Consumers are accustomed to using mobile devices to access their favorite websites, and they will not tolerate poor usability on a small screen. A mobile app will allow your business to create a seamless, high-quality experience for your customers, resulting in increased engagement and brand loyalty.
Customers are not only accustomed to using mobile apps in their day-to-day lives, but they also trust them to keep their personal information secure. A reliable security platform in a mobile app can increase user confidence and lead to more downloads.
Many apps require a subscription fee to function properly or at all, but if you can build a product that users will love, you can create an app that generates revenue on its own. In addition to direct revenue from in-app purchases, a mobile app can also boost your marketing efforts, especially when you implement an integrated advertising program. In fact, a comprehensive advertising campaign in a mobile app can be less expensive than traditional advertising in print, TV and radio and can also be easier to track and target. The ability to nurture deeper relationships with mobile-first customers is a major reason for many businesses to invest in their own branded apps.