I think it’s appropriate to begin my App Blog on this topic because it sets the foundation for future posts around extending your business into the mobile space.  I have worked with many clients who have successfully launched apps for their business.  This process has produced a lot of learnings.  The goal of this blog is to highlight and discuss mobile app development for your business including benefits, challenges, and how ultimately to be successful.  

So does your business need an app?  No, maybe, YES!  Full disclosure we develop apps internally for sale in the various apps stores and for external clients.  Our bias is native app development.  This said organizations and businesses of all sizes can significantly benefit from developing a Blackberry, Android, or iPhone app.   Over the last year we have developed apps for political candidates, business to business media companies, and business to consumer companies.  These individuals and organizations have greatly benefited from extending their brand in to the mobile space.

When you see an iPhone ad on TV doesn’t a small part of you think it would be COOL TO HAVE YOUR OWN APP?  So how do you determine if an app is right for your business?

Would your customers benefit from being able to call or locate you right from your custom app?  Do you produce rich Web Content or RSS feeds?  Do you produce a Blog, Facebook Post, Great Tweets, or You Tube Videos?   Would you like to connect with your customers where ever they are, at any time?  If you answer YES to any of these questions then a mobile app is probably right for you.  

How about an example!  This past spring we developed and produced an app for Scott Walker a gubernatorial candidate in Wisconsin.  It was the first mobile app in history of Wisconsin Politics.  Build into the app is Scott’s Tweets, YouTube Videos, FaceBook posts, Bio, and Stance on the issues.  Additionally the app allows supporters the ability to contribute, get involved, and request additional information.  The app allows Scott’s campaign to connect with voters in a unique and innovative way.  Lastly Scott’s app icon is a brown paper bag the cornerstone of his campaign and a unique way to brand the app.  

Our Next Post:  What type of App should my Business Have?  How do you leverage your existing business and port to the mobile space?