Google Play store is home to 3.5 million apps, and the Apple Store got over 2.2 million apps, today every business needs a mobile app.  Now every business, even small, local businesses need their own app. An app that gains you traction with customers is a significant way to boost business. There is a solid number of active users that the app brings, adding to the overall value of your business.

TechCrunch recently states that an average consumer in the United States spends five hours a day on mobile devices and 92 percent of that time is spent using mobile apps. This means that only 8 percent of their time is devoted to the web browser. Despite this fact, many small businesses don't employ mobile app. If you’re one of them, consider devoting your attention to developing a mobile app.

Nowadays, developing an app is easier and more cost-effective than ever, thanks to platforms like Firebase and BuildFire. But, it requires a significant investment of resources in terms of maintenance and updates.

Analyze your competitors’ apps
The first step, check the statistics of your competitor's app available from the relevant app stores. The number of downloads and user reviews will give you valuable insight into how your competitor’s app is being received by consumers. Based on your analysis, offer your customers an app with similar or improved functionality.

Your app should be user-friendly
Your app should offer an additional functionality or convenience as compared to your mobile-optimized website to gain traction with consumers. Think of the pain points your customer’s face and resolve them with your mobile app. Aim for a wow factor when developing a feature set for your mobile app.

Offer a customer loyalty program
Loyalty program ran through a mobile app helps you to easily to ditch the punch cards. It also makes it easy for businesses to reward customers with targeted discounts, coupons, and other incentives.

Branding Opportunity
When consumers download your app, they’re giving you a valuable chance to brand yourself on their mobile device. Your logo on your customers’ home screens will help you to keep your brand on top of their minds.

Utilize user-generated content for marketing purpose
Build functionality that allows customers to share content, such as photos and video, featuring your products across social media platforms. Apps that engage users through mobile devices, a camera, are particularly popular. This offers a user experience that a website can’t match.

If you’re a small-business owner, it may well be time to build a dedicated mobile app for your business. Focus on delivering tangible benefits to your customers through your mobile app to boost your sales with time.