As a business, you’re likely going to need to decide between a dedicated mobile app or a responsive web design that works well on mobile and across all devices. This decision will likely be tough. But both options are viable and have their own benefits.
This article discusses both options in more detail, helping you decide which is best for you and your business.
So, let’s get to it, beginning with a description of each.
What is a dedicated mobile app?
A dedicated mobile app is specifically designed for operating systems such as IOS and Android. These cannot be accessed via an internet browser, and instead, are downloaded from the respective Google Play and App Store. A dedicated mobile app has several benefits, including an improved user experience, increased professionality, and often a faster and more interactive viewing experience. Other benefits of a mobile app include:- Ability to develop trust with your audience
- Increased accessibility
- Seamless experience
- A faster viewing experience
Ability to develop trust with your audience
A dedicated mobile app allows you to develop trust with your audience like never before. With fewer distractions and an immersive experience, you can offer loyalty programs, exclusive access to products or pages, and generally, can provide a user-centred design and experience that is not possible via a responsive web design.Increased accessibility
Second, a dedicated mobile app increases accessibility, both for the user/customer and the business themselves. For instance, the app can be accessed either offline or online and provides greater access for the business to interact with their customers (exclusive deals, tailored messages, a dedicated support system, etc).Seamless experience
Third, expect an unrivalled and seamless experience. Keeping your user in one place increases engagement, allowing your consumer to read and engage with your content much easier and quicker. This seamless experience further builds trust, especially if you implement personalised content (e.g. user’s interests, behaviour, location, or culture).A faster viewing experience
Finally, there’s no denying that a dedicated mobile app provides a faster viewing experience as opposed to a responsive web design. In fact, some apps can even be accessed without access to the internet, streamlining and improving the user experience. The quicker your loading times and smoother your app, the more likely they are to return and recommend this to others.What is a responsive web design?
A responsive web design does not include a dedicated mobile app. Instead, the website is created and optimised to be as mobile-friendly as possible. This is generally the more cost-effective option, as you’re saving money by not needing to develop an app, but are still able to provide your audience with a supported platform. Choosing this option means all users, whether using a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or desktop computer, can view your site in the most user-friendly way. The display and orientation of the website changes dependant on the device, optimising for the smoothest experience. Depending on the viewing device, image sizes and text will change and pop-ups may be limited. The main benefit of choosing a responsive web design is how any user or customer can access your website regardless of which device they are on. All they need is an internet connection, and they can view your products, services, or get in touch to request more information. Nonetheless, further benefits of a responsive design include:- Cost-effective
- Optimised for each device
- Easier to maintain
- Ability to attract a wider audience