As the modern world moves more towards ease and convenience, consumers are becoming less inclined to digitally dig and search for what they want. Customers want distilled, relevant information right at their fingertips. No platform is better suited for this than a mobile app, which is why it’s never been more important for businesses, big and small, to learn about Mobile App Development , Web App Development, and the multitude of ways it can benefit you and your customers. 

In a nutshell, Mobile App Development is the process by which software is created for mobile devices, such as phones and tablets. Back when Mobile Apps were fresh on the scene, the only way to ensure your app will perform on different devices (i.e. iPhone vs Android, etc) was to natively build it specifically for each platform. Translating your user experience across different platforms was particularly time-consuming, as everything had to be retailored for each device’s processor. Thankfully, today there are ways to easily build apps so they are device-agnostic and it’s never been more accessible.

The greatest appeal of Mobile Apps is their ease of use compared to traditional websites. Pull your phone out and with a couple of taps, using a mobile application, you’re right where you want to be. Though as convenient as they are for the user, they are equally powerful for the brand. 

Mobile Users Prefer Apps to Websites

When a customer chooses to install your software onto their phone, they are permitting you to directly interface with them.  This direct line allows you to keep them current on all things about your brand, reach out to them with push notifications for special offers, digitize your loyalty program (no more plastic cards necessary), and remove friction for those seeking customer service. This new digital relationship not only gives your brand a more human quality, but it strengthens engagement and fosters a relationship of mutual trust.

A new Mobile App is a blank slate. You can make it however you like. This total power over the user experience affords you a greater opportunity to solidify your customer’s brand recognition and awareness.  In a world where we are constantly bombarded by hundreds if not thousands of ads and scams every day, an app that markets sincerely and puts the customer first is like a breath of fresh air. 

Provide them with value, a good design and an intuitive interface and they will associate your brand with those positive traits. Done well, a proper Mobile App will go a long way towards making your company stand out, particularly if you are a small business, whose competition likely doesn’t have an app at all. As a small business, your customers will see your app as an indication that you are serious about providing them with convenience and great user experience. 

Mine User Data with Mobile Apps

Mobile Apps also allow you to collect data from your clientele–with their permission of course. Given that the customer accepts, installing your app onto their device can give you detailed information about the way people interface with your brand, products, and services. These insights can allow you to further target your audience as well as provide an even more tailored experience to your existing one. 

You can also create a unique point of sale in your app that is laid out intuitively for your products and services. You can integrate tracking and notifications for purchased products, or perhaps an in-app confirmation for any appointments they may have made. This can eliminate the need for phone calls and ultimately makes the experience more convenient for both you and the customer. 

Think of Mobile Apps as the websites of the modern age, and though the process of developing one may seem daunting, it has never been more accessible. Fortunately for you and your business, most businesses have failed to capitalize on these incredible benefits available to them. So developing your own Mobile App gives you a great advantage over the competition. All it takes is that first step.