Studies have shown that 96% of Generation Z is “hooked” to their smartphones. They use them for more than just communication. Easy access to entertainment, like Netflix apps, have made smartphones a source of constant engagement. Even though businesses, such as home service providers, integrate the same apps, into their bundles, like Frontier Packages, they still find it difficult to regain customers.
Witnessing this change in consumer trend has led many businesses into the ever-growing mobile apps industry. Besides creating apps to meet consumer demand, some businesses have integrated their use into their own operations. These businesses have reported significant increases in productivity as well as cost reductions.
There are several advantages to mobile apps for businesses. Let’s take a look at some in detail.
8 Advantages of Mobile Apps to Businesses
Businesses have started using mobile apps for more than just connecting with consumers. Some have integrated daily use into their operations.
Here are some ways businesses benefit from mobile applications:
- Efficiency of Operations
- Sales Management
- Human Resources
- Data Entry
- Ease of Payments
- Higher Level of Security
- Adding Value for Customers
- Customer Support
#1. Increasing Efficiency of Operation
Integrating mobile apps into daily tasks has improved efficiency for many businesses. The use of apps like Skype for Business makes team communication more efficient. Team members can communicate remotely and quickly, eliminating time loss.
Many businesses encourage the use of project management apps like Basecamp. These apps allow managers to organize and assign tasks to others. They help with team communication and allow measurement of employee productivity.
Applications like Whiteboard Capture and Awesome Note makes the organization of data efficient. Users can take notes, organize schedules and optimize other time-consuming tasks. Cloud-based apps like iShare, allow users to connect with Microsoft SharePoint remotely. This allows employees to access corporate documents, meetings, and tasks from anywhere.
#2. Sales Management
Businesses are increasing their use of mobile apps to improve sales management. There is a range of apps developed for this purpose. Kinito is an app which lets users organize vital information like sales contacts, leads and more.
Some businesses use apps like Salesforce to track sales progress. Users can log sales and update information, as well as receive new leads.
#3. Human Resources
Some apps make human resource task more efficient. Apps like HoursTracker, allow users to keep track of hours spent on projects. HR departments can use this data to manage client billings. Some apps are capable of analyzing rates for different jobs and project billable earnings.
#4. Data Entry
Some businesses rely heavily on data entry. They have to block valuable resources, to do this effectively. Mobile apps have made it easier for them to record data. Apps like Card Munch allows users to take photos of business cards for data logging. The app will be able to transcribe, edit and log contact information on a list for easy access.
Data recognition and sorting apps have made data entry a breeze for businesses. Making it more time efficient and cost friendly.
#5. Ease of Payments
The use of e-payment apps is growing quickly. Users find it easier and safer to make payments this way. Businesses are offering more ways for consumers to pay for their products. There are several e-wallets and alternative payment apps in the market. Most online stores accept a growing number of payment options.
Physical stores are also accepting more e-payment options. Payments through apps like PayPal or Apple Pay are widely accepted. Some businesses have even started their own brand-specific wallets like Walmart Pay.
#6. Higher Level of Security
With the recent increase in the rate of card frauds, more consumers are shifting to e-wallets and apps. These apps don’t need you to enter your financial details every time you want to make a payment. They lessen the user’s vulnerability to hacking and phishing. Businesses are now incorporating digital wallets on their platforms. Using apps combined with digital wallets helps to keep customer’s financial information secure.
#7. Adding Value for Customers
Businesses are able to create more value for customers through rewards programs. They promote in-app purchases with reward points for further in-app purchases. Loyalty programs like Starbucks Loyalty Program help with customer retention.
There are other ways mobile apps add value to a business as well. Here are a few:
- Ease of Use: mobile shopping apps make it convenient for consumers to browse and shop a variety of products
- Personalization: use of AI algorithms in apps are making the user experience more personalized. If you often search for rental listings in your area, you will start receiving alerts of similar new listings.
#8. Customer Support
Constant connectivity has made customers expect to be an active participant in a business. To cater to this growing demand, businesses have integrated in-app feedback forms. Feedback forms allow a direct link between a customer and the company. This allows for a more personal relationship with the customers.
Another benefit of in-app feedback is that it is more private. The feedback is direct to the company, rather than through say a social media application. This keeps the comment or complaint private and prevents unwanted negative hype.
Growth in demand to connect with consumers has changed the dynamics of business. It is necessary for a business these days to have a strong online presence. Internet providers have started offering plans, like the Frontier FiOS Internet, to cater to business needs. Businesses invest heavily in app-based technologies, to cater to the growing consumer demand.
