10 Qualities of A Great Mobile App for SMEs
As the use of mobile devices increases across the world, organizations are starting to find new and smarter ways to reap the benefits of the technological revolution. Mobile apps are helping them tap new markets and get the exposure they need to succeed.
Only two years ago it was reported that only 20% of businesses had a mobile app of some kind. That number was projected to rise to 67% by the end of 2017. This simply means that your business still has the time to earn an edge over the competition by developing an app for your organization.
App development training can give business owners the tools to help them get found online. With a solid mobile app, they can get more exposure, more downloads and more positive feedback.
App Development Training: Leave the Competition Behind
The number of SME apps is on the rise. It is predicted that at least 50% of all small businesses will have an app as 2018 begins. This means that if your business has an app, you are already ahead of the competition. With this smart and very powerful tool, you can boost the perception of quality and service around your brand.
Now that we have the importance of an app established, the biggest question is: what is a good app for SMEs? When you are making your business app, make sure it has the following characteristics:
1. A Great Mobile App Has A Defined Purpose
People use an app that gives them a definite result, no one pays attention to an app that doesn’t serve any purpose other than its existence. Users like apps that offer them information, help them improve productivity, let them communicate, or entertain them. If you are unsure about the purpose of your app, look at others who are in the same industry as you.
It is extremely important for a small business to know if their app will fulfill the specific niche of its users/buyers. Without this purpose your app will never really be able to motivate mobile users to download it.
2. It Has A Set Target Audience
Once you have decided the purpose of the app, it’s time to define the target market for it. This step can empower you to create a quality app that will efficiently compete with larger businesses, because you will know exactly what you are up against in the App Store. Understanding the target market will help you spend the marketing budget more productively as well.
Use customer feedback and surveys to build your buyer persona and learn more about the target audience for your app.
3. Design for The Future
With app development technology progressing at blazing fast speeds, it is essential that your app is able to withstand the changes. Your SME should have an app that doesn’t fade away in the next 6 months of it’s release. Instead the function, looks and usability of your app remain relatable despite the passage of time.
In case you get stuck somewhere during the app design, it’s better to err towards the future. For example, when first app makers decided to use speed radars in their apps, they knew that mobile devices didn’t carry the capability. However, they also knew that future smartphones will be fully equipped to meet the needs of their apps.
4. The Perfect App is Easy to Use
An app that’s designed for future isn’t necessarily complex. The right app for your SME will offer uniqueness, while also delivering a seamless user experience. Your app should be more powerful, and faster than the competition. This will ensure the uniqueness of your app. Rest assured, the end users know the difference and they will appreciate the additional value provided by your app.
5. Good Apps Have A Short Launch Time
Your app may be packed full of amazing features, but if it’s taking too long to launch the users wont care for it. The best apps launch within 5 to 6 seconds of first click.
6. Social Media Friendliness Is an Important Factor as Well
Social media is where all your buyers, consumers and audience hang out. This is where they discuss your brands and all of it’s offerings. If social media isn’t already a part of your app development strategy, then you are missing out big time on opportunities that can boost your sales and exposure.
It is possible to integrate real-time Twitter and Facebook interaction into mobile app these days. This will help build a community of like-minded people around y our app, but also turn them into powerful brand advocates.
7. Also Integrate A Mobile Payment Solution
Mobile payments are a very real possibility thanks to Google Pay and Apple Pay. You can allow your customers to pay using their smartphones, giving your competition a real run for their money. These mobile payment solutions will also make your app look like the cutting edge of technology it is, and customers love brands that are innovative!
8. Your App Should Work on Various Platforms
Your app should be available for both Android and Apple mobile owners. Developing apps for various platforms is a great way to improve their revenue, and ensure better reach for your message.
9. Matchless Marketing and Connectivity Capabilities
When your app is installed on a phone, you have a direct access to that phone’s owner. And vice versa. You have a powerful communication tool at your hand. Use it wisely, use it to provide marketing materials, latest deals, notifications on on-going sales and a variety of advertising as well. At the same time, this direct line of communication is also great for getting timely feedback, and gaining quality data on your core target audience.
10. Ensure the Protection of Sensitive User Data
Smartphones can sometimes break down or get lost. The owner must be sure that your app will not compromise any business or personal data stored on the phone. This sense of security is important for popular apps. You can employ password protection, or even go up to more cryptographic protocols to ensure the security of user data held within your app.
App Development Training: Leave the Competition Behind
The number of SME apps is on the rise. It is predicted that at least 50% of all small businesses will have an app as 2018 begins. This means that if your business has an app, you are already ahead of the competition. With this smart and very powerful tool, you can boost the perception of quality and service around your brand.
Research shows that 9 out of every 10 customers want to communicate with the business before buying from them. An app is the perfect way to connect with them and give them exactly what they are looking for.
If outsourcing app development seems like a monumental task, you can even invest in app development courses for your inhouse team. This way you can create a cost-effective app for your business while also providing them with the tools and resources they need to cater to your clientele in a more holistic manner. It’s as simple as that.