Before you build an app answer these questions

Many business owners come to us and say we want an app.

We ask them one thing first. Why?

Sometimes the answer is very clear. Our customers order every week and they want to reorder fast. That is a good reason.

Sometimes the answer is that the competitor has an app. That is not a good reason. An app that nobody opens is money kept in a locked cupboard.

An app is a good idea only when the answers to a few questions are clear. If customers buy from you once in a year a good website is enough. If they order every week or book slots or track something then an app makes sense.

Spend on the thing your customers will really use.

Ask yourself

1. Will the same customer use it again and again? An app is for repeat use. For one time use a website is better.
2. What can they do in the app that WhatsApp cannot? If the answer is nothing then you do not need an app yet.
3. Who will look after it after launch? An app needs updates. The Play Store changes its rules every year.
4. What will it cost every year? Ask about the cost after launch. Server, updates and support.

Mistakes to avoid

• Copying every feature of a big company's app
• Launching the app without telling your existing customers
• Asking for too many permissions
• Forgetting that someone has to reply to reviews on the Play Store

A good way is to start with a website that works like an app. When you see that people are coming back again and again then build the app.

By then you will also know which features they really use.

What to do in the next 7 days

• Day 1: Count how many of your customers bought more than three times last year.
• Day 2: Ask ten of them what they would want in an app.
• Day 3: Write the one thing the app must do. Only one.
• Day 4 to 7: Ask for the full cost for three years before you decide.

Not sure which one you need? Tell us about your business and we will tell you honestly. Message us on WhatsApp

Website or app? Which one do you think your business needs first? Tell us why.