Businesses are realizing they need to be where their customers are, and these days that’s on mobile!

Having a mobile presence can take several forms. It’s important to remember a mobile app is different from a mobile friendly website or a web app. Building a mobile friendly (or responsive) website is only one part of a well developed mobile strategy.

So what is a responsive website vs. a mobile app? Both very important tools with different purposes. Websites are aimed at engaging new visitors searching for information online and mobile apps take user experience to the next level.

A mobile app remains on a customers phone, keeping your business top of mind, and giving easy access with the touch of a finger. Mobile apps provide a richer user experience and can be used as a powerful tool to increase customer engagement and streamline operations.

According to the study done by research and review company Clutch, nearly half of all small businesses plan to have a mobile app by 2017.

The top reasons why small businesses develop mobile apps are to:

Enhance User Experience. Mobile apps allow users to complete tasks quickly. Push notifications can remind users of events or important deadlines. One swipe or tap can complete a task that would require many more clicks on a website resulting in a more frustrating experience.

Increase sales. A mobile app can provide a quick checkout option, and facilitate more convenient ways to shop and price compare. Businesses can easily send alerts to customers of deals and offers ultimately increasing sales.

Stay Competitive. With so many businesses providing the full mobile experience customers are looking for, it’s imperative to provide this experience as well in order to stay competitive. A quick Apple App Store search will reveal where your competition is at, and what they are offering clients.

Having both a responsive website and a complimenting web app offers the well-rounded mobile experience users are looking for.

Developing a long term mobile strategy will require a close look at your business to evaluate your needs in order to grow and reach your consumers.

An app goes anywhere a person’s phone goes – and that’s everywhere! Check out our Mobile App services page to learn more.