In today’s digital era, mobile apps have transformed the way we live, work, and do business. From ordering food to booking a ride, mobile apps are deeply ingrained in our daily lives, offering convenience and efficiency at our fingertips.
According to Statista, there were over 200 billion mobile app downloads worldwide in 2019, generating more than 460 billion US dollars in revenue. These numbers are expected to grow even more in the coming years, as more people use mobile devices to access information, entertainment, services, and products.
But, how do mobile apps contribute to business growth? Let’s delve deeper into this.
Benefits of Mobile Apps for Businesses
Increase customer loyalty and retention –
Mobile apps can increase customer loyalty and retention. Mobile apps allow businesses to create a direct and personalized connection with their customers, by offering them exclusive rewards, discounts, coupons, or freebies. Mobile apps can also collect customer data and feedback, which can help businesses understand their preferences, behavior, and satisfaction. By using this information, businesses can tailor their products, services, and offers to meet the needs and expectations of their customers. This can result in higher customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention, as well as positive word-of-mouth and referrals.
Enhance brand awareness and reputation –
Mobile apps can enhance brand awareness and reputation. Mobile apps can serve as a powerful marketing tool that can showcase the business’s logo, name, slogan, and values. Mobile apps can also provide useful and engaging content, such as blogs, videos, podcasts, or games, that can attract and retain the attention of the users. Mobile apps can also leverage social media integration, which can allow users to share their experiences, opinions, or recommendations with their friends and followers. By having a mobile app that is visible, valuable, and viral, businesses can increase their brand recognition and reputation among their target audience and potential customers.
Improve customer service and communication –
Mobile apps can improve customer service and communication. Mobile apps can provide customers with easy and convenient access to the business’s contact information, location, hours, and policies. Mobile apps can also enable customers to make reservations, bookings, orders, payments, or inquiries with just a few taps on their screens. Mobile apps can also offer customer support features, such as chatbots, FAQs, or feedback forms, that can answer customer questions, resolve issues, or collect suggestions. By having a mobile app that is responsive, helpful, and friendly, businesses can improve their customer service and communication quality and efficiency.
Boost sales and revenue –
Mobile apps can boost sales and revenue. Mobile apps can increase the exposure and reach of the business’s products or services, by making them available anytime and anywhere for the users. Mobile apps can also stimulate the user’s interest and desire to buy, by using push notifications, pop-ups, or banners that can inform them about new arrivals, special offers, or limited-time deals. Mobile apps can also facilitate the user’s purchase decision and action, by providing them with secure and easy payment options, such as credit cards, PayPal, or Apple Pay. By having a mobile app that is persuasive, attractive, and convenient, businesses can boost their sales and revenue.
Examples of Successful Businesses That Used Mobile Apps to Grow
Now that we have seen some of the benefits of mobile apps for businesses, let’s look at some examples of successful businesses that used mobile apps to grow
- Starbucks
Starbucks is a global coffee chain that offers a variety of beverages, food, and merchandise. Starbucks launched its mobile app in 2009, and since then, it has become one of the most widely used and profitable apps in the world. According to Statista, Starbucks had over 19 million active users in its app in 2020, generating more than 3 billion US dollars in revenue.
How did Starbucks use its mobile app to skyrocket its growth? Here are some of the ways:
- Starbucks used its app to create a loyal customer base and increase revenue through its Starbucks Rewards program. This program allows customers to earn stars for every purchase they make using the app, which they can redeem for free drinks or food. The app also offers personalized offers, coupons, and birthday rewards for its members.
- Starbucks used its app to offer convenience and speed to its customers through its Mobile Order & Pay feature. This feature allows customers to order and pay for their drinks or food ahead of time using the app, and then pick them up at their preferred store without waiting in line. This feature also reduces operational costs and increases efficiency for Starbucks.
- Starbucks used its app to provide value and engagement to its customers through its Content feature. This feature allows customers to access exclusive content, such as music playlists, podcasts, games, or news articles, while they enjoy their drinks or food at Starbucks. This feature also helps Starbucks build its brand image and reputation as a lifestyle destination.
- Airbnb
Another great example of a successful business that used mobile apps to grow is Airbnb. Airbnb is a global online marketplace that connects travellers with local hosts who offer unique accommodations, such as apartments, houses, cottages, or even castles. Airbnb launched its mobile app in 2010, and since then, it has become one of the most popular and innovative apps in the travel industry. According to Statista, Airbnb had over 150 million users and 7 million listings in 2020, operating in more than 220 countries and regions.
How did Airbnb use its mobile app to skyrocket its growth? Here are some of the ways:
- Airbnb used its app to disrupt the travel industry and offer a unique experience for travelers and hosts. The app allows travelers to find and book affordable, comfortable, and authentic accommodations that suit their preferences and needs. The app also allows hosts to list their spaces, set their prices and availability, and earn extra income by sharing their homes and cultures with guests.
- Airbnb used its app to provide value and engagement to its users through its Airbnb Experiences feature. This feature allows users to book or host fun activities led by local experts, such as cooking classes, hiking tours, art workshops, or yoga sessions. The app also offers online options, such as virtual concerts, meditation sessions, or trivia games, that users can enjoy from anywhere in the world.
- Airbnb used its app to improve customer service and communication through its Airbnb Support feature. This feature allows users to contact Airbnb’s customer support team anytime and anywhere through the app. The app also offers a resolution centre, where users can request or issue refunds, cancelations, or alterations for their bookings.
- Uber
Uber is a global platform that connects riders with drivers who offer ridesharing, taxi, or car rental services. Uber launched its mobile app in 2010, and since then, it has become one of the most widely used and influential apps in the transportation sector. According to Statista, Uber had over 93 million active users and 3.9 million drivers in 2020, operating in more than 10,000 cities and 600 airports around the world.
How did Uber use its mobile app to skyrocket its growth? Here are some of the ways:
- Uber used its app to revolutionize the transportation sector and provide convenience, affordability, and safety for riders and drivers. The app allows riders to request a ride anytime and anywhere, and choose from different types of vehicles and services. The app also allows drivers to set their own schedule and earn income by offering rides to nearby riders.
- Uber used its app to offer value and engagement to its users through its Uber Rewards program. This program allows users to earn points for every ride or order they make using the app, which they can redeem for discounts, upgrades, or free rides. The app also offers personalized offers, tips, and recommendations for its members.
- Uber used its app to improve customer service and communication through its Uber Support feature. This feature allows users to contact Uber’s customer support team anytime and anywhere through the app. The app also offers a safety toolkit, where users can access emergency assistance, share their trip details, or report any issues or incidents.
- Netflix
Netflix is a global streaming service that offers a wide variety of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and original content. Netflix launched its mobile app in 2010, and since then, it has become one of the most popular and influential apps in the entertainment industry. According to Statista, Netflix had over 200 million subscribers and 36 billion US dollars in revenue in 2020, operating in more than 190 countries and regions.
How did Netflix use its mobile app to skyrocket its growth? Here are some of the ways:
- Netflix used its app to offer convenience and flexibility to its users through its Download feature. This feature allows users to download their favorite shows or movies on their mobile devices and watch them offline without an internet connection. This feature also helps users save data and storage space on their devices.
- Netflix used its app to provide value and engagement to its users through its Personalization feature. This feature allows users to create up to five profiles on one account, each with their own preferences, recommendations, and watch history. The app also uses algorithms and data analysis to suggest shows or movies that match the user’s taste and mood.
- Netflix used its app to improve customer service and communication through its Help Center feature. This feature allows users to contact Netflix’s customer support team anytime and anywhere through the app. The app also offers FAQs, troubleshooting tips, and device compatibility information for users.
- Amazon
Amazon is a global e-commerce giant that offers a wide variety of products, services, and content. Amazon launched its mobile app in 2008, and since then, it has become one of the most widely used and profitable apps in the online shopping industry. According to Statista, Amazon had over 150 million mobile app users and 386 billion US dollars in revenue in 2020, operating in more than 100 countries and regions.
How did Amazon use its mobile app to skyrocket its growth? Here are some of the ways:
- Amazon used its app to offer convenience and flexibility to its users through its One-Click Ordering feature. This feature allows users to purchase products with just one tap on their mobile devices, without entering their payment or shipping information every time. This feature also helps users save time and avoid cart abandonment.
- Amazon used its app to provide value and engagement to its users through its Prime Membership feature. This feature allows users to access exclusive benefits, such as free and fast delivery, unlimited streaming of movies and music, access to e-books and magazines, and more. The app also offers personalized recommendations, deals, and coupons for its members.
- Amazon used its app to improve customer service and communication through its Customer Support feature. This feature allows users to contact Amazon’s customer support team anytime and anywhere through the app. The app also offers FAQs, order tracking, returns and refunds, and product reviews for users.
Challenges and Best Practices for Developing Mobile Apps for Businesses
We have seen some of the examples of successful businesses that used mobile apps to grow. But developing a mobile app for your business is not an easy task. It requires careful planning, design, testing, and optimization. Here are some of the best practices for developing mobile apps for businesses to ensure you can maximise your growth potential.
Identify the target audience and their needs – You need to know who your potential customers are, what they want, and how they use mobile devices. You need to conduct market research, user surveys, and competitor analysis to understand your audience and their expectations. You also need to define your value proposition, goals, and metrics for your app.
Choose the right platform and features – You need to decide whether you want to develop a native app, a web app, or a hybrid app, depending on your budget, time frame, and performance requirements. You also need to select the features and functionalities that will provide value and convenience for your users. You need to prioritize the core features and avoid unnecessary or complex features that will increase the development cost and time.
Design a user-friendly and attractive interface – You need to create a layout, color scheme, typography, and iconography that will reflect your brand identity and appeal to your users. You need to follow the design guidelines and standards for each platform and device. You also need to ensure that your app is responsive, adaptive, and accessible for different screen sizes, orientations, and resolutions.
Test and optimize the app performance and functionality – You need to test your app on various devices, operating systems, browsers, and network conditions. You need to identify and fix any bugs, errors, or crashes that may affect the user experience or security. You also need to monitor and analyze the app usage, feedback, ratings, and reviews. You need to update and improve your app regularly based on user feedback and market trends.
Promote and market the app effectively – One of the ways to promote and market your mobile app is to optimize it for app stores. You need to use relevant keywords, titles, descriptions, and screenshots that will highlight your app’s features and benefits. You also need to choose the right category, subcategory, and tags for your app. You need to encourage and respond to user reviews and ratings that will boost your app’s visibility and credibility.
A different and more effective way to promote and market your mobile app is to use social media platforms. You need to create and maintain a social media presence for your app on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube. You need to share engaging and informative content, such as blogs, videos, podcasts, or infographics, that will showcase your app’s value and functionality. You also need to interact with your followers, answer their questions, and solicit their feedback.
In A Nutshell…
What are some of the benefits of mobile apps for businesses?
Some of the benefits of mobile apps for businesses are that they can increase customer loyalty and retention, enhance brand awareness and reputation, improve customer service and communication, and boost sales and revenue.
How can mobile apps increase customer loyalty and retention?
Mobile apps can increase customer loyalty and retention by offering them exclusive rewards, discounts, coupons, or freebies. Mobile apps can also collect customer data and feedback, which can help businesses understand their preferences, behavior, and satisfaction. By using this information, businesses can tailor their products, services, and offers to meet the needs and expectations of their customers.
What are some examples of successful businesses that used mobile apps to grow?
Some examples of successful businesses that used mobile apps to grow are Starbucks, Airbnb, and Uber. Starbucks used its app to create a loyal customer base and increase revenue through rewards, mobile ordering, and personalized offers. Airbnb used its app to disrupt the travel industry and offer a unique experience for travellers and hosts. Uber used its app to revolutionize the transportation sector and provide convenience, affordability, and safety for riders and drivers.
What are some of the challenges and best practices for developing mobile apps for businesses?
The best practices for developing mobile apps for businesses are to identify the target audience and their needs, choose the right platform and features, design a user-friendly and attractive interface, test and optimize the app performance and functionality, and promote and market the app effectively.
How can businesses promote and market their mobile apps effectively?
To promote and market mobile apps effectively businesses should optimize them for app stores, use social media platforms, use paid advertising channels, and use word-of-mouth marketing strategies.
Conclusion
If you are a business owner or entrepreneur who wants to create or improve your mobile app, we hope this article has given you some insights and inspiration. Mobile apps are not only a trend but a necessity in today’s competitive and dynamic market. By developing a mobile app that is valuable, convenient, and engaging for your customers, you can take your business to the next level.
