There’s an app for that.
But should there be?
These days, we all think we need an app. Restaurants want apps for online ordering, credit unions want apps for ATM maps, retail stores want apps that send coupons in real time, and then some of us just want an app.
Because apps. @_@
Personally, I am in a constant battle with my phone as I try to pack more and more photos, videos, and APPS into its little storage bin and onto my constantly-upgrading cloud backup account. Sometimes, I just wish a brand or business would ditch the app and make all the awesome features available on a mobile site. If I’m in a hurry, I’m more likely to check out a company’s mobile site than take the time to download an app. And let’s be honest, I am quick to delete an app from my phone if I don’t think it’s pulling its weight.
The Stats
Even so, the app store is filled to the brim, with Apple boasting over 1 million iOS apps in 2014, and Android not far off. The Guardian reported that among the 100 biggest brands, over 90% have apps, averaging out at 24 apps per company (Distimo). (Disney has over 600!)
And people are loving it (I said that in a Tim Gunn voice.). In May 2013, Android announced its 48 billionth download, and Apple celebrated its 50 billionth.
Apps are a big deal.
To App or Not to App?
For some companies, mobile apps are a necessary component of a media strategy (Entrepreneur). They can help engage customers via push notifications and custom coupons, and they can help streamline customer support. An app might also improve eCommerce or allow brands to incorporate gaming into their marketing campaigns.
But for small business – and even some big ones – the rush to get an app can be more about staying hip than sound business strategy. Oftentimes, developing a mobile version of a website will be far more economical, quicker and easier to implement, and more user-friendly than a full-blown mobile app. In terms of search engine optimization, it is simpler to have one URL that works across all devices (a responsive site), rather than multiple sites and apps for different devices. Google can crawl and index that site more efficiently (Search Engine Watch), and your business will only have to manage one URL and SEO campaign.
So, does your business – or your client’s business – really needs an app for that? Ask yourself these four questions before you spend the time and money to build yourself an app.
1. What will the mobile app do that the responsive mobile site couldn’t?
Before building a brand new app, ask yourself what new functionality an app can bring to your business. What will it bring in that a mobile version of your site absolutely cannot do? Does the app need access to the smartphone GPS system, for example, or maybe to the camera or touch screen? If you or your client can’t answer that question with ease, you may want to reconsidering building an app for that.
2. How much profit can you make from this app?
Sometimes an app might be a really cool idea for your company, and it might bring in new features that a mobile site can’t. But before you dive in, consider how much of your budget will go into building this app, and how much you can reasonably afford to get out. Especially if you’re working on a startup budget, ask yourself if an app with a high price tag (and a big drain on your time and energy) is worth it.
3. Is the app immediately necessary?
Okay, maybe your app will be able to do some awesome ninja moves your mobile site only dreams of, and maybe you are ready to rake in the big bucks on this thing. But will a mobile site do for now? I’m not saying to be shoddy or to cut corners on your business plan, but sometimes an app sounds awesome, but your business isn’t quite ready for it. Consider waiting until your numbers match your ambitions when it comes to your app dreams.
4. How likely is your target demographic to use an app?
Obvious, I know, but something to think about. Imagine the context in which a user will access your mobile app. Are they likely to take the time (to type in a password and wait for a download) or pay the money to access an app? Maybe they’re more likely to fall in love with your responsive site after a quick Google search as they wait in line at the grocery store. And don’t forget to analyze your data before moving forward. How many of your customers access your site via mobile? (The Next Web)
The takeaways?
Know your goals, and know your data. There’s no catch all answer when it comes to choosing to app or not to app, but understanding your needs and your customers’ behavior can help you make an informed decision before you add another special snowflake to the blizzard that is the App Store.
Randle Browning manages content and works on product-development for Skillcrush. Randle got her start in tech in a Skillcrush 101 class. Since then, she has become a freelance web designer and co-founded a local WordPress Meetup in Waco, TX, where she lives with her husband and two rescue dogs.