Apps are a popular tool for businesses who want to engage with their customers in a new way. With more and more people using a smartphone, it makes sense that your business gets in on the action. However, there is a difference between a good app and a bad app, and your business could lose customers (and money) if you end up with the latter. Read some useful advice below on making your app work for your business before you decide if it’s the right move for you.
Do you need an app?
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The first thing you need to consider is whether or not your business actually needs an app. If you’re a retailer, then absolutely, but if you don’t really have a purpose for your app, or your website is sufficient, it could be a big waste of time and resource. A handy quiz could help you to assess whether or not an app is a good move for your business, as will some time to research your competitors.
Establish the cost
An app may seem like a great idea, but the cost could be a factor as to whether it’s a ‘nice to have’ or a necessity. You can estimate the cost of your app using an app cost calculator that will give you a clear indication of what it will cost to develop your app, which you can factor into your business’ budget. If the cost is higher than you expected, don’t be tempted to use a workaround by an unknown company who promises you a great app at a fraction of the price, as this could end up costing you more if the company fails to deliver what is promised.
Make it simple
For an app to be useful for customers, it needs to be simple and not over-complicated. Reading up on tips for making your first app could help you work out what to include and what to forget. Don’t add too many functions that people can’t understand what it’s for and try to keep the purpose of it to one or two things. Text should be easy to read, and navigation should be straightforward. Make sure buttons are clear and distinguished, and your customers shouldn’t have any problems.
Link it to the rest of your business
Apps, especially retail apps, work best when they’re joined up to the rest of your business. For example, if customers were to add items to a basket on your app but may not purchase at that time, they should be able to pick it up later on at their laptop or on a tablet. The same goes for apps that help customers manage accounts, view media and other functions that can be done on multiple platforms – people want to pick up where they left off, and that should be a key consideration for your business.
An app can be a great thing for your business when done right and will need to be planned carefully. If you need some inspiration for creating a great app, check out some of the most entertaining apps to have on your smartphone. With the right concept and right design, you’ll have a top app that works for your business, and your customers too.
