Even when websites are mobile-friendly, it is generally much easier to purchase items online using apps. Consider, for instance, the difference in using the Amazon shopping app over its website on your phone. Because of this, web development teams are now pushing to create more apps for e-commerce websites. Should your company invest in this?
What the Data Says About Smartphone Use
The data on smartphone ownership and usage differs across national and cultural lines. However, most indicators point to smart devices taking over the market in the near future:
- Pew Research estimates that 84% of men and 79% of women own a smartphone.
- The higher a person’s disposable income, the more likely someone is to own a smartphone.
- Statista reports that in the third quarter of 2019, 52% of the world’s population had recently bought something online using a mobile device.
- In Canada, a third of the population had bought something online; meanwhile, in Indonesia, 80% have done so.
- CNBC estimates that by 2025, almost three-quarters of the world will use only their smartphones to get online.
What the Most Common Challenges for App Development Are
Building an app for your business requires high levels of skill and creativity. You need professionals who know the ins and outs of not only your business but also your industry. Otherwise, the team may create an app that does not solve the pain points your products or services address for your customers.
To hire the necessary level of experience and skill, cost becomes an obstacle many small businesses struggle with. However, if you believe an app can take your business to the next level, a business loan can help make it happen. You may even have the opportunity for creative payment options, such as a commission basis.
Finally, apps require ongoing maintenance to function properly. As customers provide feedback on how well they operate across multiple platforms, making changes is important. This adds to the cost of the investment in both time and money.
Why You Should Get Your Own App
Many business owners feel intimidated by the success of Amazon and other large e-commerce platforms. After all, if these companies already sell everything imaginable, why should customers use small business apps that only provide a limited supply of items?
1. Brand Loyalty
Even if the checkout process simply takes the buyer to Amazon or eBay, your app makes it easier for buyers to pinpoint all the products and services you provide. They may discover new ones along the way and begin to choose your products over available options. This works especially well when companies offer lower shipping rates for bigger orders or subscriptions.
2. Personalization Opportunities
How well do you know your customers? Can you tie specific orders to names and addresses? When companies can do this easily, it becomes much easier to personalize communications, offers and other key aspects of your marketing campaign. Encouraging people to make accounts when using your app makes this possible.
3. Potential for Ad Revenue
Businesses that diversify their incomes stand a much better chance of weathering economic storms. One way to do so is to pitch partnerships with other companies. An excellent example of this is when apps that allow you to find vehicles for sale also incorporate offers for financing. Lenders may offer commissions or pay to run ads on the platform.
How To Create an App for Your Business
The first step is hiring qualified professionals for the design, creation and ongoing support work necessary to create a successful app. You should also write down your goals for the app and how it will integrate with other aspects of your marketing plan, such as SEO.
Unwired Web Solutions has a team of qualified professionals eager to assist with web development and the SEO process. Contact us for more information on how we can assist with your app development.