It is estimated that there are more than 175,000 mobile apps and over 326,000 mobile websites available for those with smart mobile devices in their pocket. Users have all types of mobile applications available: games, utilities, social networking, news, weather, reference, travel, productivity tools and more. Users have come to expect having information available mobile style. And having information available mobile style is only expected to increase.

It is hard to deny, mobility increases the workforces’ productivity and it takes your business to the next level. However, for a business, weighing the options to go mobile app &/or mobile website is a big deal that needs careful consideration. Here are some major points to consider:

Mobile App

• Is developed for a specific mobile device, download and installation required.
• Updates, download and installation required.
• Development required for each mobile device platform.
• Your business will need a very large budget with a well-defined strategy to get top rankings to be found with the search engines.
• App store approvals may be required.
• Ability to use all GPS, camera, voice, RFID, address book, calendar capabilities.
• There can be publishing/certifications fees.
• Costs more to develop/maintain. Consider your businesses updates, plus updates as devices change.
• Sales revenues are shared with app store.
• User has full control and is seamlessly integrated with the mobile device.

Mobile Website

• Is developed specifically for mobile devices, no downloads or installation required.
• Updates automatically available.
• Runs on all web enabled mobile devices.
• A good SEO marketing strategy will increase your traffic volume.
• Anyone can access your mobile website.
• For security and privacy concerns access to address books/calendars are limited.
• No publishing/certification fees.
• Costs less to develop/maintain. Your developer has complete access for updates when requested.
• Sales revenues are the businesses.
• User experience depends on your mobile website design.

Understanding the who, what, and where of your user base will also be of great benefit to you. Even though mobile apps are all the rage in popularity and lots of fun, look at all your options to pick the best solution for your business to go mobile style.

Please choose your mobile style wisely. And remember to be a responsible mobile device user.

Cheers!