Mobile device users are increasingly turning to apps to get things done on their devices. But small business owners are lagging behind when it comes to developing apps, a study by Clutch shows.
Clutch surveyed small business owners—mostly with 10 or fewer employees—and found that only 15 percent have a mobile app, while another 18 percent plan to build one this year or in 2016. However, 40 percent don’t expect to ever develop a mobile app, while 27 percent aren’t sure.
Apps are becoming more important. Last year was the first year in which mobile usage surpassed desktop computer usage, according to comScore. Some 60 percent of online time was spent on a mobile device, and of that time, 80 percent was spent using apps.
What are some reasons a small business might want a mobile app?
Developing a mobile app doesn’t have to mean reinventing the wheel. In fact, it’s actually better if your app doesn’t reinvent the wheel, Clutch says. The Oracle survey reports Millennials have especially high standards for apps. To attract them, your app must load quickly, be appealing to look at and offer the same functionality they could enjoy on a desktop computer. Using standard templates and formats for an app help ensure that your app works smoothly and is easy for customers to learn to use. That way you can focus on using the app as a marketing and sales tool, vs. dealing with technical concerns or customer complaints about usability.
Not ready to create an app just yet? Try incorporating existing apps into your mobile marketing to help deliver a better user experience.
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