First things first: Are mobile apps worth it?
It is clear that mobile applications have caused a monumental shift for many businesses. How exactly do they affect profitability and ROI, though?
It is well known that companies with a mobile business can gain more from their IT operations than those that do not possess one. Generally, it is typically the people who get new technology and products quicker who benefit most from mobile products – they utilize rapidly growing digital systems early, focus on fresh digital services, and switch their already existing business processes to be compatible with mobile use.
As reported by Motus: The Mobile Workforce Report, 84 percent of companies said they experienced an overall rise in productivity after introducing a mobile application. According to research from Forbes Insights & VMWare, the vast majority of 2,200 business personnel (over 80%) were of the view that mobile technology had a significant influence on the expansion of their enterprises.
It was observed that a majority (62%) of IT directors who had a clear-cut plan for mobile technology could recoup their investment within twelve months or fewer. Businesses that successfully implemented mobility initiatives were able to open up additional income sources 35% more quickly than those who did not make it a priority. It appears that mobility will have an effect on your organization in the future, if both those in business and those in the tech sector admit that this is the case.
Discussing objectives related to movement – they can also differ from one organization to another. Although generating more income is frequently noted as the principal aim, mobile apps can also be created to cultivate customer fidelity and commitment, guide customers to brick-and-mortar establishments, promote awareness of a brand and public relations, or plainly offer an organization’s services on mobile instruments to meet their patrons halfway.
#1 Loyalty apps
If done correctly, mobile applications can dramatically enhance user involvement and faithfulness – chiefly as they open up a chance to make shopping and taking part in loyalty schemes far more convenient. It has been determined that the majority of consumers would have an increased interaction with loyalty programs that have rewards obtained through mobile devices.
Holding onto rewards points and having loyalty cards accessible, looking at products, and paying with a mobile device are some of the ways that loyalty applications can be utilized. Apps are equally imperative for businesses, who can benefit from them by talking straight to customers, involving them in numerous activities, and simultaneously acquiring useful client information.
#4 Internal communication & team management apps
An additional instance of a procedure that can be improved within your business is exchanging information and supervising teams. Confronting it can be an extremely laborious and lengthy process, particularly in giant companies. Fortunately, enterprise mobile applications can not only obtain and give access to instantaneous information and productivity facts, but also increase employee collaboration simultaneously.
In fact, mobile solutions are increasingly used to:
Assess & improve employee satisfaction,
Involve employees in the decision-making process,
Help them apply for internal job opportunities,
Share company news,
Organise events,
Keeping track of all vacation days and sick leaves,
Measure everyone’s performance,
Submit any problems found with IT systems or the building itself.
Or even book conference rooms.
There are lots of different options to choose from with regards to these issues – but having numerous separate applications that aren’t connected to one another could complicate matters over time. In other words, if you make your app as individualized as possible, it will benefit your business.
#5 M-commerce apps (B2C and B2B)
An app specifically for mobile phones makes it simple to generate another avenue of selling items from your digital shop. Conversion rates for mobile applications are particularly higher than those on mobile browsers, sometimes reaching as much as threefold.
Salesforce reports that purchasing items on mobile devices is as significant, if not more popular, than buying them through a computer. In the UK, Spain, and the USA, mobile commerce has grown to be more popular than traditional e-commerce. About 70% of purchases made using mobile devices in North America are done via an app of retail businesses which have one.
#2 Business management apps
It has already been said that mobile products can assist in gathering different sorts of information, streamlining various internal tasks, and also organizing them. It is essential for businesses to arrange and safeguard data so that both those that work there and consumers can access and make the best use of it without delay.
That’s precisely why internal management software was created. ERP systems, sophisticated analytics, and CRM software can be used to help regulate and scrutinize data in an expeditious manner, especially when accessed with a mobile device. CRM is a great instance to consider when looking at mobility for those who are temporarily away from the office, as it will be hugely beneficial for salespeople.
Customer relationship management systems and other forms of operation organization tools are extremely popular and do not necessarily require personalized development for your company. In many instances, it may not be sufficient. Major organizations regularly necessitate special, sophisticated programs which are effective at aggregating information from varying sources and can be useful in varied ways. Creating a program precisely-customized to the requirements of your company would be a fantastic idea.
#3 Apps that streamline internal processes & boost employee efficiency
Mobile solutions do not need to be as intricate as internal control applications. It is effortless to employ them to make certain operations in your company more efficient – mainly when these operations involve recognizing, entering, and managing information. By doing this, staff members can be freed from tiresome, time-consuming duties, eventually raising their productivity.
An intriguing instance of this kind of remedy is the application developed for Generali, a worldwide insurer ranked third-largest. Agents working for Generali had difficulties manually entering large amounts of information from the registration forms to figure out the premium. The application that reads the 2DAZTEC codes from registration documents makes it so the computations are conducted automatically. The application has not only boosted the operational procedures but has also increased Generali’s standing in the insurance industry during the process.
The Benefits of Having an App
Increase Visibility to Clients at All Times
In the US, the typical individual uses their mobile phone for two-plus hours each day. Globally, there are more than a billion smart phones. It is beneficial for businesses to change their marketing plan to cater to the trend of people spending more time on their phones instead of computers.
It is clear that if you have a mobile presence, your business will be seen by a lot of people. Your branding (image, name, logo) should be visible when people are scrolling, unlocking their devices, and engaging with their phones while they’re moving around.
People carry their gadgets either on the tips of their fingers, in the palm of their hand, or in their pockets. We enjoy employing them when we are waiting for the bus, commuting to and from work and even when viewing television at night. These are all good occasions to notify potential customers.
If you have goods or services that are accessible on the web, utilizing a mobile application to generate revenue is recommended. Enable customers to carry out the same activities they would usually do when in their workplaces. Offer valuable solutions for customers remotely. The greater number of chances you provide prospective clients to get in touch with you, the more successful your business will be.
Market More Directly
Mobile apps offer a wealth of knowledge regarding your customers to your business. Examples are demographics and geographical locations. You can provide your clients with a wealth of knowledge about your products and services.
Examples of things could include news reports, product details, fresh attributes, costs, sales and discounted deals. It is possible to ascertain the likes and dislikes of particular customers and satisfy their individual requirements. The great benefit of targeting your marketing more precisely.
Provide Your Customers with Value
Do you have a loyalty program? Why not make it digital using a mobile app? You can switch from relying on traditional methods for collecting rewards to using smartphones and other mobile devices. As previously noted, people are using their cell phones now more than ever before.
Customers are interested in valuable products and services. It can be challenging for customers to choose between so many businesses that offer the same items. A mobile app can nudge clients to your store. For instance, send an area-specific push notification through your app.
Build Brand Recognition
You can boost your business’s exposure, whether it’s newly established or in the process of being relaunched, through the utilization of a mobile app. Design an app that has appealing characteristics, and you will captivate your viewers. Rather than spending a lot of money on a billboard, build an application that fulfills a purpose. Not everyone is taking notice of the messages that appear on billboards.
Discover methods to ensure your customers engage with your app regularly. The more they come into contact with it, the more they will enjoy the goods or services it offers. The guideline for advertising known as effective frequency is often used. If a brand is viewed by a customer at least 20 times, then it can be said that it has been truly noticed.
Nowadays, mobile apps provide a feature where people can share their conversations with other people in their network. It is akin to being informed by a friend about an amazing service or product they acquired recently. Investigations suggest that recommendations from other people and sales from other organizations are some of the most effective advertising techniques.
Increase Customer Engagement
Every customer requires a method of getting in touch with the company that provides the service or product they desire. If you are unavailable, you could end up alienating customers. A mobile app would be useful in extending one’s reach. Provide customers with a mobile platform help desk where they can submit their queries, orders, feedback and complaints.
If you are able to answer or respond to all of your customers’ inquiries or messages individually, then you have a terrific level of customer engagement. Keep the booking or purchasing process as straightforward as can be yet still ensuring it is secure. People are discouraged by lengthy procedures. It could be simpler to select the ‘Back’ button rather than the ‘Next’ button.
Stand Out From the Crowd
The importance of having a mobile app in order to stand out cannot be overstated. Make use of this powerful communication and promotional resource before it becomes commonplace. By the time your rivals realize the value of it, you will have almost entirely monopolized the market. No matter what commodities you offer for sale, you can assume a preeminent position among your competitors.
With the press of a button, your customers can view your offerings. The undeniable truth is that it is advantageous to benefit from the speed, ease, and simplicity of mobile apps. This can lead to customers being more engaged and dedicated than ever before.
Increase Customer Loyalty
How many of your customers return to your business for a subsequent purchase? This is something critical in business that you should develop. Customers can remain committed to your business if you continually remind them of your presence and the range of items or services that you offer.
There is already too much advertising out there. Examples of advertising include billboards, roadside banners, newspaper ads, flashing signs, flyers, website banners, coupons, email campaigns and social media promotion. Will you be contributing your input to these congested areas?
There is a chance that your communication could be overshadowed by the loud background. Consequently, reconsider your marketing and advertisement plan from a different perspective. A mobile app forms a genuine and authentic bond between your business and your customers. Being nearest to the individual produces greater recognition and allegiance. Simply put, you are at their fingertips.
Turn Your App Into a Social Platform
Integrate numerous social features into a mobile app. A study once showed that the majority of users on social media log in simply to check what their contacts are discussing. Include this concept in your marketing plan in order for people to recognize your brand as they interact with their buddies.
