Mobile phone technology has come a long way in the last few years, and thanks to smartphones, we no longer think of our mobiles as just gadgets for texting and calling. A large part of this popularity is down to apps, a word that is short for application and basically means a piece of software that can be downloaded directly to a users phone. Whether they be fun, practical, or silly, we just can’t seem to get enough of them, and in 2012, Apple reported that their users had downloaded 20 billion apps that year and that’s just through one online store. Apps have many practical features, and here are five ways they can be used to promote your business.
1. Showcasing your product range
Many businesses use apps with online catalogues which then link to their website, and some of them even allow customers to shop through the app, making it easier for people to make purchases on the go. Apps should be colourful, engaging, and easy to navigate, and it’s always helpful to have plenty of pictures and information on your products. Keep your content fresh with relevant seasonal information and up-to-date promotions, and you’ll ensure clients use your app over and over.
2. Bringing clients to your physical location
Apps aren’t only useful for leading people to your website, they can also be useful for bringing customers to your shop or office. Consider adding features for people to find their local branch, or use maps to find their way to your location. Some apps even allow for consumers to check stock and reserve items at their local store, meaning they can pick items up when needed.
3. Getting in touch
If clients are out and about, they may not have your contact details to hand. They could look them up online, but this depends on how good their mobile broadband is. Although it may be easy to find information when browsing your site on Toshiba laptops and other larger devices, it may not look so great when the screen is only a couple of inches wide. However, if they have your app installed, it’s just a case of opening it up and browsing the simplified pages. You can even provide a link to your phone number and e-mail, so clients can instantly contact you.
4. Making your brand fun
An app doesn’t have to just be information about your company and products, you can draw in people with games, quizzes, or competitions, showing the fun side of your business. A good developer will be able to create an app that balances the silly and serious, ensuring that people spend as much time thinking about your brand as possible.
5. A great advertising opportunity
As well as creating your own app, your company could choose to advertise on other apps, linking clients to your company’s mobile site or a relevant page. This could be in the form of a banner ad, or perhaps a pop-up on a free game, either way it means great exposure for your brand and could generate a lot of traffic.
The great thing about apps is their limitless creative potential, and the more exciting and interesting you can make an app, the more likely it is to be enjoyed and shared around. With the right professional team, you can create something that integrates seamlessly with your brand, and can create the right buzz in your target market.
About the Author:
This article has been sent in by Toshiba. Toshiba is a company that is known for providing a wide array of computer and consumer electronics such as Toshiba laptops, camcorders, and DVD players.
