Do You Need A Mobile App?
Do your research to help you make a decision.
What Are Mobile Apps and Why Should You Consider One?
An app is an interactive software program. It offers the user something to do. A few examples include:
- A game or activity
- An interactive map
- Up-to-date weather information
- A photo editing or sharing program
- An ordering system where they can order goods directly from you on their phone
- An inspirational saying of the day or an online journal
Mobile Apps vs. Web-Based Apps
There are two types of apps – mobile and web-based. Mobile apps are downloaded and run directly on a mobile device. You have to download and installed them from an app store and they will have access to your device’s system resources. Such as GPS and the camera function. Mobile apps live and run on your device itself. Snapchat, Instagram, Google Maps, and Facebook Messenger are some examples of popular mobile apps.
Web apps need an active internet connection in order to run, whereas mobile apps may work offline. Mobile apps have the advantage of being faster and more efficient, but they do require the user to regularly download updates. Web apps will update themselves.
So how do you decide which one is best for your business?
What functionality and features will best meet the needs of your customers? Mobile apps are more expensive to develop than web apps so your budget will play a role in your decision. Will you need access to some of the mobile device’s features? Will your users likely go to the app store or to Google to solve their problem? Based on your answers, you have a great starting point from which to determine the type of app that will fit you best. The bottom line is to do your research and don’t make hasty a decision because of a sales pitch from someone.