In the United States, fewer than two-thirds of small businesses have their own websites. They might have a social media presence or other online listings, but they’ve failed to hang out a shingle on WordPress or other basic platforms. For those businesses who’ve successfully tackled the website aspect or professional promotion, though, there’s still more to be done. In particular, tech-savvy small businesses should consider investing in a custom app, giving customers easy access to your services on the go.
The Application Economy
Custom software development, including app development, is a valuable niche because it can help your small business improve services and increase sales, but your business should consider commissioning such a project for a much simpler reason: 70% of smartphone use is dedicated to apps. Apps are where consumer activity happens and your business needs to break into that space.
Are Apps Attainable?
Given how many businesses don’t even have their own websites, does it make sense to suggest they should launch their own apps? It may seem far-fetched, but in fact, having your own app is more affordable than you might think. This is particularly the case if you work with an app developer that understands small businesses. While there are certainly big developers who will charge you an arm and a leg, there are also plenty of small companies that can create top quality work that’s within your financial reach.
The Advantages Add Up
Deciding to invest in an app for your small business isn’t just about whether you can afford to pay for the project – ultimately, you can’t afford not to invest in an app. Restaurants across the country realized this in recent months as they tried to escape outside delivery apps without giving up the customers who demanded that convenience.
Of course, unlike restaurants, other industries may not be as heavily dependent on app-based business as restaurants. That doesn’t mean customers don’t appreciate having that kind of simple point of access, though, or that evident circumstances can’t create conditions such that an app could help your business thrive. Especially when customers are at home, rather than on Main Street, having a mobile app keeps your company visible and at the top of their mind, and that’s what drives sales.
The On-Demand Economy
Restaurants lean so heavily on apps because they offer an on-demand service, but on-demand services have consistently grown in popularity in recent years, which means there are plenty of other local businesses doing the same thing. If this describes your business – whether you offer housekeeping services, healthcare appointments, or lawn care – then an app is a must. While many Gen X homeowners will happily make a phone call to schedule services, Millennials, who start turning 40 this year, and Gen Z, many of whom are now in college, will skip over companies that don’t offer an app in favor of those who do.
It may take some time for your business to successfully launch its own app, but once you’ve got it off the ground, you may be surprised just how much value it delivers. Apps are where business happens today, and even more of it will shift in that direction over the next few years. Make the move now so that you don’t get left behind.
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