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Insight

Maximising sales in a mobile-first world

Photo of Anthony Main

Anthony Main

founder

January 26, 2024

published

Remember when life was ‘disconnected’? The prevalence of mobile devices in our daily lives is undeniable. They’re everywhere. Everyone has one in their pocket and every business knows it.

This year, businesses made $2.2 trillion in global online sales, a substantial chunk of which occurs on mobile devices. There’s money to be made, so if you’re ready to get ahead of the action, discover how these little devices can keep you connected with customers and take your business success to the next level:

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The rise of mobile-first culture

Mobile devices have become an integral part of our lives and their widespread use is undeniable. These devices are incredibly convenient and have seamlessly integrated into our daily routines, making us more productive, connected and efficient.

They’ve practically reshaped the way we interact with the world around us. With the ability to access information, communicate with others and perform a variety of tasks from virtually anywhere, mobile devices have revolutionised the way we live and work.

When it comes to businesses, if you think computers are still taking the lead when it comes to digital sales, think again. Mobiles actually now make up 60 percent of all e-commerce sales around the world.

Mobile apps: Meeting business needs

What is everyone doing on their phones, then? An unsurprising 88% of mobile time is spent on apps. Mostly spent planning modern life, from communication, work, entertainment and navigation, we’d be lost without them.

These handy little devices are not just for checking the latest memes or streaming your favourite TV shows; they play a pivotal role in how businesses operate, communicate and thrive. Here’s how:

  • Direct engagement and personalised marketing

    Your customers live on their phones. By leveraging user data, you can tailor communications and services to match the unique preferences of each customer. This kind of targeted engagement not only boosts customer loyalty but also increases conversion rates.

  • Data-driven decision making

    The insights you can get from mobile app data are invaluable for businesses looking to gain a deeper understanding of their audience. By carefully analysing this information, companies can make informed choices that lead to innovation and expansion. It’s not just about having a lot of data but rather using the right data to inform your business decisions.

  • Broader market penetration

    A mobile app can break down geographical barriers and open up new markets. It’s an efficient tool for reaching beyond your local customer base and engaging with users worldwide. In an era where convenience is king, a mobile app places your business in the global marketplace.

  • Sustainable competitive edge

    An app is not simply an add-on to your service; it’s a necessity for staying competitive. Businesses that leverage mobile technology effectively can outpace competitors by providing a superior user experience. Often achieved by launching new features and services rapidly.

  • Operational efficiency and productivity

    Mobile apps are more than just platforms for your customers to interact with. They have the potential to transform internal operations by streamlining workflows, facilitating communication among staff and providing on-the-go access to critical business systems.

    From simplifying task management to enabling remote work, mobile apps are powerful tools that can drive productivity to new heights.

Challenges of mobile security and privacy

While mobile apps offer tremendous opportunities, they still come with their fair share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles for businesses looking to get ahead with the small screen advantage is data security. With the increasing amount of data handled by mobile apps, ensuring the security of user information is critical. Businesses must know how to implement strong encryption, secure authentication methods and regular security audits to safeguard sensitive data.

In the same vein, privacy regulations are another big challenge. To stay safe, you must know and comply with data protection regulations like General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

Additionally, cyber security threats are on the rise. You have to stay current on the latest security threats and vulnerabilities and be ready to respond swiftly to any potential breaches.

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This all leads to user trust, as ultimately, earning and maintaining the trust of your app users is paramount. You must be transparent about your data practices and allow users to control their privacy settings. This usually involves educating your users about the importance of good security practices, such as using strong passwords and keeping their apps up-to-date.

 
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Looking ahead: the future of the mobile-first world

The future of mobile development is promising and demands agility and foresight from businesses looking to capitalise on the mobile-first shift.

By staying informed about trends and technologies, like:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI ) and Machine Learning (ML)
  • 5G technology
  • Voice search and voice-activated assistants
  • Mobile wallets and payment solutions
  • Inclusive design

Companies looking to stay ahead can design their mobile strategy to not only adapt to the future but to actively shape it. In a world where change is the only constant, preparing for these advancements will ensure your business doesn’t just survive the mobile revolution but thrive in it.

 

Preparing for the future: go the distance

Leverage the power of mobile apps with The Distance. We’re a trusted mobile app development agency that enables you to navigate this exciting and dynamic frontier.

Maximise your ability to use mobile to take your vision further. Our team specialises in delivering the potential of digital products, ensuring your business remains efficient and relevant.

Our focus is creating business efficiency and service optimisation so you can be with your customers when it matters most: when they need you. 

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