Does your business need a mobile app?

October 18, 2022 6

Many businesses consider mobile apps the next logical step in any effective marketing strategy. Today, 6.648 billion people use smartphones, representing 83.32% of the global smartphone-owning population.

With mobile devices accounting for more than half of all internet usage, mobile apps offer an effective marketing strategy. Plus, they’re relatively easy to develop nowadays. However, an app is a significant investment; and can become a massive financial burden if it fails to reach enough users. So, does your business need a mobile app? Here are some ways to tell.

Your business operates in an industry that has a high demand for digital technology

One of the key signs that a business should invest in a mobile app is if it operates in an industry where digital technology is key. A good example is a restaurant or food service. Recent food services industry trends show that digital communication, for example, is a key communication tool.

Customers are looking for easier ways to book restaurant tables and want more convenient ways to dine, access menus, and so on. In an industry like this, a mobile app will prove extremely beneficial. It helps customers to order food conveniently, check out various menus, and even book tables before they visit a restaurant. An industry that has a high demand for digital technology is a place where a business app can thrive.

Your target audience prefers mobile apps

If your target audience prefers mobile apps, it may be time for your business to develop a mobile app. Examine your target audience or customer base to determine if they embrace mobile applications.

Usually, Millennial and Generation Z customers find mobile applications very convenient. On the other hand, a customer base that comprises mainly senior citizens may not be too enthusiastic about mobile applications. So, if you have a target audience that has adopted and embraced mobile internet usage, that may be a sign to consider creating a mobile app for your business.

You should only consider an app if it will help to increase sales or support marketing efforts. Even if you have a target audience that embraces mobile internet usage, you should be certain that your business app aligns with your business plan.

The goal of your app should not necessarily be to please your customer base, especially if it doesn’t earn you revenue or enhance your business in any way. However, if it improves customer experience, offers them convenience, and attracts more customers, that should be a worthwhile investment.

Your app fills a gap or solves a problem

Finally, if an app provides extra value to your customers, that’s a good sign. The last thing you want to do is create an app that mirrors your website; that will be a waste of money. A better alternative will be to make your website mobile-friendly. Your app should offer added value your customers will not get from your website.

If there’s a unique but necessary service or feature you want to push to your customers, an app may be able to do that for you. In other words, if there are clear problems that only an app can solve, you should consider creating one.

As several businesses emerge, you need to identify innovative ways your company can stand out. Creating a mobile app for your business to meet your customers’ needs is a good start. However, the above factors will help you know whether your business needs an app to help you achieve significant results.