When a person oe business wnat to start a new website they can run into the website verses app dilemma. We are going to take a dive into this subject and give you the knoledge to move forward in the best way to serve your goals. Lets take look at the definitions first.
A website refers to a collection of interlinked web pages sharing a domain name and is publicly accessible. An individual, organization or business can own a website for a specific purpose. An app is a short form for a software application. One of its unique features is that it is downloaded into a smart device such as a phone or tablet. But can also be used on a desktop.
A website is where most new businesses start when looking for online opportunities. It makes a business credible and accessible to online shoppers.
The app is built primarily for mobile devices users. Since it is mobile-friendly and easier to use than a website, most people looking for products or services online prefer to use them. In addition, most businesses get an app as they advance technologically.
An app cannot replace a website, and a website cannot replace an app. A business requires a mobile-friendly website and app to maximize its online exposure. However, a website is the best starting point for new investors because of the following advantages over an app.
Table of Contents
Websites are cheaper than apps to create
A website is more affordable to create than an app. If a business has a tight budget and wants to reach its targeted online audience, a website will come in handy.
However, the business owner should make sure they have a mobile version that can reach those who use mobile gadgets to browse. Unlike an app, users do not need to download a website into their fine.
Besides, a website doesn’t consume much time to develop like an app. The greatest advantage is that apart from being affordable, a single website can be accessed across online gadgets as long as they have internet access.
Websites are easy to find through search
A website is quickly findable online. It is even better if search engines highly index a website because when online users search your products or services, it will appear on the first page of a search.
It also increases the chances of other people knowing your business if they are searching for services or products related to yours. This translates to sales opportunities and business growth.
The good thing is that mobile websites reach millions of people using smartphones and other mobile gadgets.
When a website is optimized correctly, you are guaranteed enhanced engagement as many people can view it and ask questions.
Websites are easy to link and share
Most people do not like downloading things to their phones. Unless someone knows a product and understands its benefits, and its uses, they will not risk having a new app on their phone.
Besides, most people will research an app to see what is available on the web regarding them. If a business has a website and an app, it makes it easy to trust the app.
Also, when sharing a website, people only share a URL link. Most people do not find this risky as long as they know the source.
In addition, it is an easy way for publishers to lead direct users from a blog to a mobile website, but this is not possible with an app.
Websites Are Easy To Upgrade
A website is flexible and updating your content takes a minute. For example, when you want to change content or the design of your site, all you have to do is publish the new content once, and you get the changes immediately.
But, updating an app requires the user to push updates and download them before updating the app for all types of devices.
Websites Work On All Devices and Not All Apps Do
Websites are highly compatible, which means you can use them on any website. This ensures one website reaches millions of people across the world using various devices.
On the other, an app requires the developer to have a specific version for each device type. Besides, website URLs can be integrated within mobile technologies like the QR Codes, SMS, and NFC or near field communication.
Websites Are Easy To Maintain and Update
The maintenance and updating of a website will not cost you much. However, it is essential to have an expert check your website regularly to ensure it’s functional throughout.
It is not costly because, most of the time, nothing needs to be changed. But when working with an app, support and maintenance services are required more often due to upgrades, compatibility issues, ongoing development, and testing.
Brand Identity
A website makes a brand stand out in a pack of wolves. Business owners with a website are likely to attract customers and sell to them more than those running their business without one.
In addition, people tend to think a company is more authentic if it has a website.
Competitive edge
Having a website automatically puts you ahead of your competitors. It is even better if it has a mobile version because you can reach everyone.
A significant percentage of online shoppers use mobile devices, and through a website, your products and services will get them. Just make sure you use the best online marketing ideas to keep you at the top of your competitors.
Great User Experience
Websites are made for everyone, including those using hand-held mobile devices. Users are not left out regardless of their device, which creates a positive impression on all users.
In addition, it is user-friendly, and navigating is straightforward.
Wide reach
With a website and an app, you are guaranteed a wider reach. A business gets exposure via two platforms. With Android and iOS operating systems competing for top positions across the globe, smartphone users’ number has increased.
Having an app and a website that can run on Android and iOS is an added advantage for every company.
Easy marketing
With an app and a website, you are guaranteed an extensive fan base. This makes marketing easier because there is no need to develop niche messages for a particular group.
You have the freedom to market your products or service using generalized statements.
Both the mobile app and website offer a seamless experience for desktop and mobile devices users. Though the app may take a little more time to set to work across different devices, the benefits are priceless once it’s done.
The app works like a speed-dial button, and navigating a website takes seconds. However, both of them must be built by experts to ensure safety and speed for users.
They work together to offer a consistent and smooth experience for users. There will be no need to switch from website to app when you integrate the two.
Redirects Traffic From Website To The App
Most websites direct their users to the app when browsing, especially on their mobile devices. The website may look 100% functional, but when you switch to their app, you experience the company’s full potential.
For example, Facebook appears more clearly and enjoyable via an app than on a mobile website version.
Replicate The Website’s Core Functionalities
The app should be a replicate of your website or better. So, when making an app, the colors, theme, and layout should be the same along with the functionalities and core features.
When you combine your website and app, none should eclipse the other. They should work seamlessly to give users a great experience.
Include app-specific features
An app has more power than a website, and by leveraging the potential of different features in various devices, one can achieve more in marketing a business.
Depending on the type of business one has, specific features can be included in an app. They should offer a good platform to share notes and thoughts, allowing interaction and a lot of engagement.
Provide seamless transition
When a pop-up requesting someone to download appears, most people are likely to follow it even if they are in the middle of a task.
Also, downloading an app is not time-consuming, it happens fast, and the majority of people do not mind the distraction. But a good app should take the user back to where they were.
The seamless transition saves the user’s time and prevents frustrations of finding where they had stopped.
Conclusion
The number of smartphone users has increased and grown at a fast pace over the past two decades. The rapid increase is attributed to affordable prices and easy availability.
According to research carried by NewZoo, in 2018, the mobile device app industry made revenue of $92.1 billion and was expected to increase up to $139.6 billion by 2021.
Today, there is a clearly visible surge in the use of mobile devices. As a result, businesses can take this opportunity to give their business maximum exposure using websites and mobile apps.
Both websites and apps are essential for every business. However, none of them is better than the other.
Each has unique features and the ability to reach a targeted audience and achieve business objectives. They allow better interaction and engagement plus efficient communication.