by Iryn Ureta | Feb 21, 2018 | 2 comments
Mobile app development has been embraced by small and large enterprises because of its countless benefits. More and more companies are going digital as they are enticed by the many attributes that this technology provides. Universities even offer degrees that specialise in Mobile App Development.
Importance of Mobile Applications
Mobile Apps are now considered as an important part of our daily micro-moments, not just for our own personal interests but also for business purposes. Apps increasingly become so important in our day-to-day lives that a time will come that we won’t be able to function without them (surely some people are at this point already). Applications like Messenger, Facebook, Skype, OneNote / Evernote, Instagram and countless others are not only playing an integral part in our daily lives in this digital era. But they also become important tools in growing and running a business.
Mobile App Development
Here are some things about mobile apps that may surprise you.
1. It May Not Cost as Much as You Think
If you have an amazing app idea and you want to turn it into a new mobile app, you will need to spend money on it. You will need the right advice from a trusted source who is knowledgeable not only about the costs of developing an app, but the potential return on investment too. It may not cost as much as you think to develop an app, so one important consideration is what is the return on your investment.
When you look to hire a mobile app developer, choose to work with someone who’s on the same page as you; someone who understands and knows what you are trying to achieve and who can add value and offer sound advice; and someone whom you feel comfortable with. For many, this is a big investment, so you would want to be comfortable and confident with your developer and feel that you can trust their advice.
2. Global Reach and Accessibility
According to Statista, the number of mobile app downloads worldwide in 2017 reached 197 billion and its projected to reach 352 billion downloads by 2021. These statistics show how important mobile apps are in today’s world.
In a recent study conducted by comScore, 35% of millennials (people aged 18-34) prefer to purchase products through a mobile app rather than via any other platform. This implies that consumers find mobile apps as a functional tool that can easily be accessed anytime and anywhere.
3. Earn Money
Advantages that you could expect from having an app:
- Earn money from a new revenue stream; for example, selling or licencing your app.
- Save money by increasing business efficiencies or automation.
- Increase your current revenue by creating additional customer touchpoints; for example, offering your current customers an app that makes it easier for them to engage and buy from you.
Depending on the purpose and desired audience of your app, you can earn money through:
- In-app purchases
- Advertising within the app
- ‘Free-mium’ app sales (i.e., you offer some of your app features for free, but the ‘premium’ features come at a cost)
- Subscription
4. Marketing Strategies
Social media apps such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter are now replacing the traditional billboard, television, paper and radio ads that have been highly used decades ago. Conducting marketing campaigns and promotions are some of the perks of having your own mobile app for your business. This then increases your brand awareness and reputation. Conducting these activities from within your own app that your customers are using is even more powerful. You can truly ‘speak to’ and engage your customers at a more personal level and at a time that suits them.
With its many benefits, don’t be surprised to see an increase in the number of users and businesses who are willing to spend money on mobile app development. Are your competitors already enjoying the benefits that mobile apps provide? Can you afford not to have your own app for your business?