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How Mobile Apps aid in driving Digital Transformation

How Mobile Apps aid in driving Digital Transformation

Introduction

Smartphones have become very critical in our day to day lives. The growing number of smartphone users, 3.5 billion at present, proves this. This has also given birth to a new phenomenon called mobile apps. These gadgets are hollow devoid of mobile apps. There is a reason for the same as well. The apps make life easier for both customers as well as the companies. As far as companies or businesses are concerned, they can easily establish a connection with customers through messaging via apps. However, the message has to be relevant for the customers. This means that the information should pertain to offers, discounts etc. As for customers, apps make it convenient for them to find a product or a service they desire. This is possible only if the app is devised with customer satisfaction in mind. In order to develop such an app it is better to approach an experienced mobile app development company. Hence, the benefits of apps are endless for both the parties if they are properly designed.

Stats are an eye-opener

The statistics provided underneath makes it clear why businesses need mobile applications now more than ever:

  • 21% of Millennial open an app over 50 times daily
  • Mobile apps drive 57% of total digital media usage
  • It is being observed that a user with 80 apps is using up to 40 apps per month
  • Users are expected to download 258.2B mobile apps in 2022

These numbers prove that the popularity of app is soaring and going forward the figures are going to be phenomenal.

What is Digital transformation?

There is a misconception doing the rounds that digital transformation is a process of maximizing the use of technology in a company. The theory is based on the fact that increased use of technology will lead to improved experiences of employees, customers, and other stakeholders. This is nothing but a flawed theory. To be precise, digital transformation is a phenomenon that goes beyond extending the scope of technology. So, what is it? It is a wider cultural transition that aids organizations to adopt an innovative approach that refuses to accept the status quo, and prompts businesses to learn from failure. Digital transformation is not just about incorporating digitalization into diverse areas of your business. It, in fact, changes the way companies function apart from providing genuine value to customers.

How mobile apps are accelerating digital transformation?

A mobile app is very much instrumental in making digital transformation a success story. In the current scenario, apps have become crucial in time spent on mobile phones. From routine surfing to making purchases, everything is facilitated through mobile apps. Even for businesses these apps serve as an ideal platform to establish good relationships with their customers. Hence, mobile applications offer myriad scope to the businesses and bring every aspect of a business on a single platform.

Also Read : How To Develop World Class Android App ?

4 Ways in which apps are transforming business digitally

Providing customers easy access to your business

A mobile app provides your customers with easy and quick access to your team members anytime and anywhere. The app comes with a ‘chat’ feature which companies these days utilize for communication purposes. It has become easier for customers to send their queries to the company. Companies can then respond to these queries in line with the volume of queries and messages received. Businesses can either choose a real-time response at specific hours or 24/7customer service, depending upon what suits them the most. Hence, this is one way in which mobile apps have digitally transformed the business.

Merging AI technology to serve customers

Another way in which mobile app is leading the way in digital transformation of business is through Artificial intelligence (AI) tools. AI is a technology that mimics human traits and then performs functions like humans. The technology enables businesses to interact with their customers in a better way so as to know them really well. Majority of the companies are employing AI technology while creating mobile apps. Some of the AI technologies being used are Natural Language Generation, Natural Language Processing, Speech Recognition Technology, Chat Bots etc. For example, Chatbots communicate with the consumers and register their responses. Hence, it serves the purpose of a virtual assistant for your consumers.

Enhancing functionalities of app through IoT

Internet of Things is basically about taking the power of the internet beyond computers and smartphones to other things or processes. This has increased the functionality of mobile apps as well. Everything pertaining to our lives, be it homes or even toilets, can be accessed via mobile apps on our smartphones. You might have heard of ‘Smart Homes’, where all the home devices are linked to the internet and can be managed easily with an app installed on your phone. So, the apps are no longer just about showing products or providing information. It has become more advanced thanks to IoT. This is another way through which apps are successfully accelerating digital transformation.

Triggering loyalty via real-time app analytics

In the current scenario, businesses thrive on real-time analytics. The real-time analytics has the propensity to make or mar your business. Also these days usage of mobile apps has gone significantly higher. The apps are also enabling businesses to access useful insights pertaining to consumers such as buying pattern, frequency of purchase etc. Thus, the collection of the real-time analytics allows companies to devise appropriate strategies to deal with customers effectively. If utilized properly, the real time app analytics can be beneficial for both companies as well as the customers. For instance, if you are using real-time analytics and a customer happens to be in the vicinity of your outlet, notifications regarding offers or discounts on the products will be instantly dispatched to him or her. This kind of prompt and coordinated technology makes consumers realize their importance to the company and inculcate in them a sense of loyalty towards the business or brand.

Conclusion

So, it would be quite fair to say that mobile applications are critical in accelerating the process of digital transformation in businesses. In order for making a successful transition towards digitalization, companies need to give more importance to mobile app development. Hence, it can be safely concluded that mobile apps drive digital transformation of businesses and help companies gain significant edge over their competitors in a crowded marketplace.

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How to choose an ally for your app project?

Mobile app development has become an integral aspect of every business these days.

With startups across the globe wanting to excel these days, selecting the ideal development partner has become very significant. Hence, before doing research on the net for web and mobile app development companies, these critical aspects deserve your attention.

A peek into crucial stats

As per Statista, as of Q2 2020, Android users chose between 2.7 million apps, presenting Google as the major hub with a large number of mobile apps. Being not too far behind, Apple’s app store remains firm at second spot with roughly 1.82 million apps for iOS.


This clearly showcases the increased demand for mobile apps. Also, as per App Annie, an average mobile user takes recourse to nine apps every day and approximately 30% in a month. We devote 3 hours daily on our mobiles, out of which 90% of the time goes to apps. This proves that apps have become a significant part of our daily lives.

However, mobile apps have to win users’ hearts and minds by providing them a higher ROI (Return On Investment).


  • There are two demurs that make business owners wary:
  • Who happens to be the ideal developer for your project?
  • What will be the expenditure of Mobile app development?

As the financial aspect differs subject to the initial needs, technology stack, business requirements and awaited results, we want to assist you in analyzing the method of selecting the company that helps your business reach greater heights.

THINGS TO LOOK INTO PRIOR TO SELECTING AN APP DEVELOPMENT COMPANY?

  • The ideal quality you want in your partner
  • The money you wish to invest on the project
  • The deadline and timeline of the project,
  • The planning of working – “The Agile Methodology” to accomplish the project,
  • The technical help required from the firm,
  • The level of customer involvement.

While fixing the budget with the development company, you have to make sure that there are certain aspects that shape the cost to develop a mobile app.

These factors happen to be architecture and team strength, the platform for project development and whether a need to merge your app with third-party solutions will arise or not. In order to develop a mobile app, the majority of firms seek $25,000 for a normal app and $1,00,000 for a complex and tough app. However, a good app company will provide you with a project estimation free of cost instead of asking for a budget.


The cost and the size of the project also specify whether you need a firm or a freelancer. Of course, if it is a complex project then a seasoned and bigger team with requisite skills are required.


PLACE TO FIND AN IDEAL MOBILE APP DEVELOPMENT PARTNER

SEEK REFERRALS AND SUGGESTIONS

The appropriate app development company has to be your loyal partner. Therefore ensure that you work with talented and experienced professionals, make the right use of your professional network and don’t be reluctant to seek referrals and recommendations.


Talk to your friends and trusted business partners to get their experience and contacts for the respective firm. This is an ideal knowledge source but keep in mind that each project is different, so seek the details.


SIMPLY, GOOGLE IT!

This is an ideal process. Assuming that you have searched for the ideal mobile app development company in India, go through the websites of the firms thoroughly, closely watch their portfolio, verify their experience and referrals and then write down the companies you find appropriate.

TAKE HELP FROM B2B AND B2C PLATFORMS

The IT companies such as Clutch, Linkedin etc happen to be very trustworthy sources to find the right fit for your project. These websites provide a list of IT service providers. There are also other platforms where you can find freelancers, like UpWork. Verify the reviews of each firm and freelancers as well, check their portfolio, certification and awards won by them.

ASPECTS TO CONSIDER WHILE SELECTING AN APP DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY

There happen to be various procedures of developing mobile apps however, only a few platforms to build them. Every app development journey varies from the other and needs a unique skill set and technology stacks. You have the liberty to select from Native app development to cross-platform app development, based on your requirements. Therefore, to develop your own app, choose the partner with caution. Moreover, a mobile app development company is not just a service provider, but it offers consultation. In case you are in a limbo over the next step in your app development process, choose a company having good consultancy skills. Also see if it gives you seasoned designers, quality assurance specialists, and growth consultants.

TEAM STRENGTH AND MARKET SIZE

It is imperative to get an insight into the market capture of the company you are thinking of selecting as a partner for your project. Assess or seek their team size of designers, developers, testers, UX/UI professionals, QA experts working currently in the company.


Further, get clarity over their hiring plans – do they wish to expand or simply trying to save a ship from sinking.


EXPOSURE & PROFILE MATTER A LOT

Never have any reservation with regard to asking crucial questions about their recent projects. Kindly go through their portfolio and observe reviews and clients testimonials for the app built in the respective app stores. Also, ask the firm about their experiences.


Have they worked on similar projects earlier?

How did they tackle technical complexities in past projects?

Do they possess work experience regarding your business domain?

BE CLEAR ON THE ASPECT OF PRICING

The cost of the project is very critical, but it should not be the only criteria. Never fall for a chap option as it won’t serve any purpose for you. It is better to avoid a company during the initial stage itself than fixing problems with the app after the launch. 


Quality should be given high priority while choosing the app development company for your project. Quality goes a long way in expediting the development process and making it affordable going forward. So, do not forget to validate the payment methods and terms while talking about the project’s details. What is the method of calculating the price? Will it be a total payment upfront or scattered in installment.

CLEAR CUT COMMUNICATION

Clear and good communication is very essential for your mobile app development project to succeed. You should be in the know of each and every thing in the development process. For this to happen, you should seek the medium of communication while choosing your partner.


For example, you should have total project information constantly to monitor the progress efficiently. Talk to them regarding the tools they utilize to handle the way a project is moving: Asana, Slack, Jira etc. Also while choosing a firm, observe closely the regularity with which a firm responds to your queries, messages and phone calls.

TEAM STRENGTH

What really turns a project successful is team efforts and diligence. The skill matrix and personalities are very significant, to build a successful mobile app. Also, you should have a great rapport with your technological ally to leverage development procedures. Hence, don’t be reluctant to talk to the company’s representative and create good relations with them. The environment of the project’s team creates a durable impact in ensuring the success as well.

CLIENT’S TESTIMONIALS

Always seek references and client testimonials from prospective partners. The ideal development companies provide you with anything without any request from your side. If the firm does not have a letter of recommendation or client testimonials to showcase, then simply move away from them. Also, cross check the materials given and look for some references on your own.

ACHIEVEMENTS & REFERRALS

Experience has to be one of the criteria to factor in for you to choose an ideal company. Experience is usually showcased by various awards for top projects the company has undertaken, recognitions in the media, or the result of R&D projects published on platforms such as Dribble and Github. Mobile app development is not an easy task and it needs accuracy and experience, a holistic knowledge of the target audience, and, of course, creativity. These skill sets can be obtained with experience. Recent projects give a clear view of the way a trusted company plans and operates. If they have a solid profile of big, ambitious projects then the same reflects positively on their qualities.

QUALITY AND MAINTENANCE ARE VITAL

Do not forget the fact that launching your mobile app in the app store is simply the beginning. It is just the beginning of a long procedure of regularly launching updates, handling bugs and including new features to turn your app useful and keep it ahead of the competitors.


This means it’s a must to select the apt and skilled resources with a clear cut policy that follows app maintenance and support to the core. Prior to moving ahead, assess these policies:

The cost according to each new app launch

After the launch, long-term and ongoing assistance

Handling bugs and charging accordingly

To Conclude

It is in your best interest to jot down all aspects of the best mobile app development procedure to ensure every condition is met. By doing this you can eliminate the hiccups to a great extent and focus on the important facets of your mobile app and take the right call quickly. It must have been clear to you by now that the best app development company is the one having technical exposure, great communication skills, good portfolio of successful projects and the burning desire to excel. Finally, in order to achieve desired results from the app it is critical to hire app developers carefully. A wrong move can hurt you financially and spoils the growth of your company. So, it is ideal to get good developers on board for your app project to prosper.

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The future of cloud computing apps in the face of challenges

mobile app development company

The high penetration of smartphones and internet connection has facilitated app developers and consumers to save data and communicate with the same in several ways. The provision of unlimited storage and the infinite processing capacity via cloud has proved to be a boon for techies as well as non technical personnels. Despite many companies moving to the cloud computing domain there are some who are shying away from incorporating the cloud in their mobile app development process. Native apps had been the rule till now, but the latest innovations in app development have put focus on mobile cloud computing.

According to Cisco’s research, the popularity of mobile cloud apps is bound to peak in 2019. As per their Global Cloud Index, the company said that cloud apps would accelerate 92 percent of the worldwide mobile data traffic by the conclusion of the year.

With cloud technology increasing its footprints globally, companies can only succeed by integrating cloud computing with mobile apps.

As the majority of the mobile cloud computing or MCC conversations get cramped with technical jargon, we start by dealing with the critical terms in the mobile cloud apps universe.

What do you mean by Cloud Computing?

The concept of cloud computing is constantly evolving in line with its characteristics, offerings, service, and deployment models. Basically, cloud computing can be defined as an on-demand network access to a host of resources sans any communications with the service provider.

In simple terms, cloud computing assures swift and convenient availability of a portion of important resources to clients who have to pay according to the usage. The shared resources such as mobile apps, software, and other services are offered to smartphone and desktop users according to demand.

Also, cloud computing permits users to maneuver their calculating ability based on their needs for a particular task at a certain time. Users will not have to think about the processing power or storage and derive the desired results devoid of compromising upon the quality.

Cloud Mobile App

This happens to be a mobile application functioning and accessed via the cloud. Despite cloud apps and services having native attributes, a huge chunk of the processing happens on a remote cloud server.

Some well-known examples of cloud mobile apps are Dropbox, Asana, and Apple’s iCloud services.

How Cloud Computing impacts Mobile Apps?

The integration of cloud computing in mobile apps has facilitated developers to include innovative features in apps that would have been inconceivable a few years ago. Let us see in what ways cloud computing has impacted mobile apps.

1. Gels with every platform

Cloud computing technology brought down the requirement for creating separate apps for diverse OS platforms. Dissimilar to native apps, cloud mobile apps have high compatibility across several platforms, which cuts down development cost as well as time.

Cloud computing technology also enables developers to create a single app and launch it in one go across platforms such as Android and iOS. As the app is available on the cloud in place of a platform, users won’t have any access issues provided they have a good internet connection.

2. Cut down expenses

The development expenditure regarding a native mobile app differs as per the features, design, and whole complexity of the app. But it is not exactly a cost-effective affair.

Cloud apps, however, cut down the app development expenditure as you have to develop just a single app for various platforms. The usage of a sole codebase can be perfect for small businesses or startups who work on tight budgets and they can’t spend huge on a native mobile app for Android and iOS. Several inexperienced developers have the tendency to ignore the ongoing maintenance cost linked with the app. In order for an app to operate smoothly, it requires maintenance and updation to cut down bugs.

3. High scope for scalability

Scalability pertains to capacity of an application to expand its abity and functionalities to satisfy ever-evolving users’ demand.

With regard to native and hybrid apps, the scalability comes at a premium. It can be a bit too expensive even for well-established companies. However with cloud apps, the users will not have the need to instal new features to their device or update their apps regularly to effect changes to the app. This can be done on native apps as well, but the cost and complexity will be on the higher side than cloud mobile apps.

Additionally, the users would also come across several hitches if the developer has not tested the new features thoroughly for bugs. This would prompt users to either uninstall your app, shift to your competitor’s app, or worse, give a poor rating across app stores and social media platforms.

4. Storage Space in Smartphone not required

The data pertaining to a cloud-oriented app is found on a cloud server that is placed remotely and accessed easily via a device aided by an internet connection. Cloud apps also cut down the installation procedures as they operate from a browser.

So with cloud apps, you do not have to scratch your head for storage capacity on the smartphone. In case of a low storage space on a smartphone, the user will not have to make space on the phone to access a cloud-oriented app. Their operation is akin to web-based apps and accessed straight from the central server.

Problems plaguing Cloud Computing in Mobile Apps

The concept of cloud computing in mobile apps revolves around a mobile application in the cloud services by a cloud service provider and then giving it to the end-users having an internet connection. There are some challenges obstructing the usability of cloud-based apps. Here are some significant challenges:

1. Information Security

Security is a huge problem regarding cloud apps as they store and process users’ data. App developing entities have to collaborate with third-party cloud service providers to make sure that all the policies pertaining to user authentication, access control, and general communications security are complied with, and steps have been taken to enforce them.

2. Unstable Internet Access

To access a cloud app without any hiccups, users require a stable internet connection. But the sad reality is that the same is lacking at many places across the world.

Despite the internet services providers offering 4G/LTE services to deal with the connectivity issues, the problem still persists. Without good internet connection cloud services cannot be leveraged to the optimum.

3. Resource gap in Mobile Devices

Despite mobile devices offering the feature of mobility, the same comes at the expense of inferior processing power, memory, and network bandwidth. The gap in resources regarding smartphones is a major stumbling block in adopting cloud-based apps. The divide between desktops and mobile devices has to be narrowed down considerably to smoothly operate high powered cloud-based applications on smartphones.

Finally

The usage of cloud computing in mobile apps is going to get higher in the long run. Advantages such as expandability, compatibility, and commercial viability, give a significant edge to cloud-based mobile apps. But, technology is still taking baby steps.

So, the course it will take in future will only become apparent once companies tackle issues such as data security, confidentiality, and privacy.