Should I get one or the other? Off the bat we would advise that you get them both as they each can bring major benefits to your organisation. However, there is some expenditure involved in having your cake and eating it. Having said that, while a mobile website is indeed a must have in this day and age you might be wondering if developing a Mobile App is worthwhile.
The only major con that could possibly prevent you from getting an app is cost. Development and maintenance of an app that works on all smart devices is more costly than a mobile website. Additionally, there could be a yearly maintenence fee that will be much higher than your annual hosting for your website. That aside below are a list of benefits.
Simpler to use than Mobile Websites: There is a reason why your two year old relative is better than you at using an iPad. Mobile apps are simple. As a result, apps make it easier for your users to access information on your services and products.
Helps build your Brand: Having your own branded mobile app says quite a bit for your company or organisation. It shouts loud and clear that you are on the ball when it comes to technology and more importantly customer service. It is like the sales rep that pulls up in the shiny new Merc. You are already impressed and more eager to do business. Moreover, once the app is installed on your customer’s device your logo is constantly in the his or her face even if they don’t open the app.
Push Notifications: With a Mobile App you can send notifications to all your customers in a manner that they have no choice but to read them. With fewer and fewer persons actually reading emails your organisation must look for more innovative ways of reaching your clients.
Location based information: Your app can take advantage of the device’s features and as such provide your customers with location based information and interactive directions to your place of business. For example, imagine that a customer is within a one mile radius of your store. Your app can detect her location and send a push notification alerting her to a 10% discount off the shoe she was looking at earlier in the week. You will be hardpressed to find anything more effective than location based real-time marketing.