These days, there are more technological options than ever. Unfortunately, while this can be wonderful, it can also be overwhelming as every business has limited funding and can only do so much. As a result, many business owners find themselves wondering if they should start a website or create an app.
Should You Go With a Website or an App?
The truth is that it really depends on your overall business objectives and type. However, there are a few questions that you can ask yourself to help make this determination.
Regardless of Your Business, You Absolutely Need a Website
A website doesn’t need to have deeply integrated e-commerce options, but people use search engines in order to find information about a company, and if you don’t have a website, you cannot easily be found online. According to industry experts, there are some basic pieces of information you should incorporate into any website. These include:
- Contact information
- Description of where you are located and what type of services you and your business offer
- Customer testimonials about how good your company is
- A site that is optimized for search engines to discover
From there, you can decide whether you need more advanced functions, like e-commerce integration, updated social media links, or a blog.
Apps May Be Useful, but They Are Not Required
Apps are another story entirely. Many businesses do have them, but they are by no means required. When it comes to deciding whether or not you want an app, the questions are these: Is it worth the added expense and maintenance associated with keeping the app up to date? What can an app do that you couldn’t do otherwise? An app that is just a fancy version of your website is a total waste of money. An app should add quality and value to your customers’ lives or daily routine. Keep this in mind: Many apps are used once and then never again. This means you really have to make sure your app can do something that your website can’t and do it more easily.
Questions for Determining if You Need an App
- How would it add value to your customers’ lives?
- Would it make your business more money?
- Do your competitors have an app, and if so, how does it impact them or their business?
- Is it necessary for branding or enhancing customer loyalty?
- How much would it cost you to create and then maintain it? Keep in mind that cost should be measured both in staff time and dollars.
If you ultimately decide to pass on getting an app, remember that you still have plenty of options. You should give your business a mobile-friendly website that allows for a smartphone user to easily access your site and utilize all the same functions as someone accessing it from a laptop or desktop computer.
