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Am I Up to Speed on Small Business Apps?

Amy Morin

May 28, 2013

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Although most people are now browsing the web with mobile devices, many small businesses aren’t keeping up with the times.

In fact, only about 7 percent of businesses have developed a mobile app, according to the Adobe 2013 Digital Marketing Optimization Survey.

Apps aren’t just for big companies anymore.

Developing a mobile app for your small business can bring a great return on your investment.

Reach More Customers

Although some businesses may feel that optimizing their website is good enough for mobile users, it’s pretty clear that customers want apps. Apple reports that in 2012, users downloaded 20 billion apps through their online store alone.

Developing an app for your small business can reach more customers.  You can offer products through your app or develop an app that will lead people to your website.

You can also use an app to help customers find your physical location or simply check to see what items you have in stock.

Showcase Your Products

An app can be a great way to showcase your products, meaning you can allow app users to browse your products quickly and efficiently.

Often, the appearance of a regular website doesn’t just translate well to tablet and smartphone screens. Developing an app will ensure that your products look good on a small screen.

Offer Free Information

Give customers free and useful information at their fingertips with your app. Provide news, articles or information about your business.

Offering free information can help draw new customers to your store as well. For example, a jewelry store that offers a ring sizing app can draw business from anyone looking for a free ring sizer.

Advertise with Apps

You can even create an app that isn’t just about your business and use it for marketing purpose. For example, create a game that includes a banner ad directing users to your website.

Advertise on other apps to market your business. Find apps that might be reaching your target customers and market your business to those users.

Reach other Businesses

Small businesses make up a large percentage of people who are using mobile apps.

A 2012 survey by Paychex, a payroll and human resources firm, revealed that 85 percent of small business owners report using smartphones to manage their daily operations.

Use your app to reach those other small business owners by offering them something that will help them save time. You can also team up with other small businesses to create an app together.

Cost of Creating an App

The cost of creating an app varies greatly. It depends on the type of app you create.

Many companies offer low cost app creation so shop around to find a company that meets your needs.

Consider the creation of an app a great investment for your small business as it can be a great marketing tool that allows you to reach more customers and build brand loyalty.

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