By Tom McAllister, Sales Manager and Brianna Hale, Account Representative

You might remember our blog article in late July examining mobile websites versus responsive web design. There are many questions to be answered to determine the best approach.  The same can be said about “apps.” Think of the ad campaign not long ago saying, “There’s an app for that.” Suddenly, everyone wants an app.

We hear this quite a lot from businesses we talk to:

“I need an app, let’s talk.” 

In standard fashion, we will ask many questions to determine the need and the goal.  But one of the most key questions you should ask yourself if you think your business needs an app is simply,

“Who will use the app?”

Here an App, There an App, Everywhere an App, App

It seems very simple, but your users should always be foremost on your mind.  If you were to tell us that your customers are all on Apple devices, an app developed for the Apple iOS platform (used by iPhone and iPads) would make good sense. Similarly, if your users are primarily using Android devices, an app in the Droid store would be okay. But what if your users are a mix of iPhone, Droid, and other smartphone users? You might spend money on an app that doesn’t reach your key audience simply based on the device they’re using. Many of our customers have us start by developing an app for the Apple customers first, then follow up with a Droid version, just to have an app to catch both groups.

To App or Not To App?

Sometimes it doesn’t make sense to build an app at all. Instead, maybe it’s a mobile-friendly website that provides all of the key functionality you want or need, but it’s made in such a way that no users have to download any apps at all. Instead, users just browse to this interface on their mobile browser and the “application” interface is presented in a clean, easy-to-use mobile format. One project, one solution . . . but no group is excluded.

The Great App Debate

A lot to think about, right?  We know, and that’s why we love this stuff, and we love spending time with you to help you figure out what’s the best solution for your business.  Whatever solution turns out to meet your objectives, we can certainly get you there!