When It’s Time for a Mobile App (and When It’s Not)

Mobile apps are all around us — from banks and stores to salons and local services. Many entrepreneurs believe they need an ‘app’ just because it’s trendy. However, an app isn’t always a smart investment. The right decision depends on what you want to achieve and how often users actually interact with your business.

📱 When It’s Time for a Mobile App

1️⃣ When you have regular users — If clients frequently use your services (fitness, delivery, reservations, memberships), an app makes their experience easier. For example, a salon with regular customers can have an app for quick booking without calls or messages.

2️⃣ When you need notifications — If you want users to receive reminders, discount alerts, order status updates, or personalized messages, an app does this better than the web. Push notifications are up to 10x more effective than emails in grabbing attention.

3️⃣ When the system requires functions the web can’t provide — For example, using GPS, the camera, sensors, offline access, or activity tracking. This is common for logistics companies, field services, sports, and educational apps.

4️⃣ When you have a strong base of loyal users — If your community interacts frequently with your brand (e.g., a school, club, or online community), an app can be a direct interaction space, independent of social media.

5️⃣ When the web is no longer enough — If over 80% of your users are on mobile and your website doesn’t offer a fast or simple experience, an app becomes the natural next step. The web brings new users; the app keeps existing ones engaged.

🚫 When a Mobile App Is Not Needed

1️⃣ If your goal is simply online presence — For most local businesses, a modern website (fast, responsive, SEO-optimized) is more than enough. Clients don’t want to install an app just to see a price list or send an inquiry.

2️⃣ If you don’t have regular users — An app only makes sense when users have a reason to open it several times a month. If your service is used occasionally (e.g., repairs, one-time services), the app is an unnecessary expense.

3️⃣ If you lack resources for maintenance — A mobile app requires regular updates, support for different devices, and testing. Without a planned budget and technical support, it quickly becomes outdated and a burden.

4️⃣ If everything can be solved via web + integrations — Today’s web apps can do almost everything mobile apps can: send notifications, store offline data, and even install on a phone as a ‘web app’. It’s a much cheaper and faster option (PWA – Progressive Web App).

💡 When to Start Thinking About an App
If you have a stable user base, regular visits, and well-defined processes, an app can be the next step for growth. But if you’re not yet digitally stable (no CRM, analytics, automation), focus first on the basics — website, SEO, and communication channels.

📈 Real-World Example:
A fitness center first had a website with online bookings. When they saw that 80% of clients were on mobile and many returned, they built a simple app version. Today, 70% of bookings come through the app, and client no-shows dropped by 40% thanks to reminders.

🧩 KOD Approach:
We first analyze existing digital channels and user behavior. If there’s justified traffic, we create a plan — often a combination of a Next.js web app and an Expo React Native mobile version. This allows shared code and keeps costs low. We build apps with purpose — not just for the sake of having one.

Conclusion: a mobile app is a powerful tool, but only if it brings real value to users. If it’s used often, simplifies processes, and increases loyalty — yes, it’s time for an app. If not, you’re better off focusing on a fast, effective website that delivers results.