Do you remember the last time you visited a website to buy groceries, a pair of sneakers, or any other product? Today, we have many ecommerce apps at our fingertips. They offer the convenience of shopping for everything from the comfort of our homes.
You only need a smartphone with an internet connection to browse and make purchases. The power of mobile phones has changed our lives. These small yet mighty devices have seamlessly integrated into our daily routines, capturing our hearts and minds. Hundreds of digital marketing agencies offer e-commerce services in the USA, claiming to bring your brick-and-mortar business online. If you own a retail store or sell your service, of course, you are lagging and losing a great chunk of your business since your business is not online. I mean that you are not selling your products on mobile phones.
This massive adoption of mobile phones has opened the doors to limitless business opportunities. As mobile phone users grow, companies have a higher chance of efficiently approaching their target market.
Tekversify is here to guide you every step of the way. Transform your e-commerce website into a mobile commerce app. Get started with us today!
The Main Differences Between E-commerce and M-Commerce
Mobility
E-commerce works well for shopping on personal computers and tablets. You can’t take these with you all the time.
M-commerce, on the other hand, is created for mobile devices. It allows consumers to conduct purchases from anywhere and at any time. The payment applications help to transfer smoothly.
Location Tracking
Not all desktop computers are skilled at tracking actual locations. M-commerce applications scan real-time positions using GPS. They provide consumers with customized tips/ advice. The app displays local deals and quicker shipping choices.
Security
Security is also a main problem for consumers who use online payment. Smartphones now offer two-factor authentication, fingerprint, and facial recognition to lock applications and keep them secure.
Why Do Companies Switch to Mobile Apps?
Skyrocketed Conversion Rates
When you transform your online commerce website into a mobile app, you're tapping into the world of higher conversion rates.
With more people using smartphones, mobile apps offer a smart and interactive user experience.
The apps have advanced features like
- Multiple payment gateways
- Social media interaction
- Virtual trial rooms
Marketing Communication
eCommerce apps are your secret weapon for improving marketing communication. Send your users exciting deals, discounts, and coupons directly, and watch your sales soar.
Don't stop there—utilize push notifications and gamification to bring users back to the app. It creates endless chances for sales.
Instant Accessibility
No more typing in URLs or navigating through web browsers! Your mobile app is just a tap away, offering outstanding accessibility. This user experience is simply unbeatable.
Boosted User Engagement and Loyalty
Turn your eCommerce website into an app, and watch user engagement and loyalty soar. By tapping into a smartphone's camera, contact list, GPS, and other features, you'll create an immersive user experience. Satisfied customers become loyal customers—watch your brand thrive!
Elevate Your Brand Image
Your loyal mobile app is your ticket to a stronger brand identity and reputation. With mobile apps, you have powerful marketing tools at your disposal.
There are various ways to engage customers, such as
- Push notifications
- In-app advertisements
- Loyalty programs
- Promotions
Take advantage of these opportunities to grow your business and reach a wider audience. Ensure that your spelling, grammar, and punctuation are correct.
Competitive Edge
Gain a competitive edge by making a mobile app packed with features. Consumers may use it easily. It is the secret to making your brand unique and attracting more customers.
By embracing this technology trend, you will not just remain competitive, but you will also mount beyond your competition.
Developing Your M-Commerce App Tools and Technologies
When developing a successful M-commerce app, choosing tools and technologies is vital. Here's what you need to know.
Choosing the Right Development Platform
Selecting the appropriate platform for your M-Commerce app is the first step. Options include.
- Native Apps: Built specifically for iOS (using Swift or Objective-C) or Android (using Java or Kotlin). These provide the best performance and user experience but may require separate development for each platform.
- Cross-Platform Apps: Frameworks like React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin enable cross-platform development, letting developers note code once and run it on multiple media. However, this approach may have limitations in terms of performance and access to native features.
- Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): Web apps with a native app-like experience, accessible through web browsers. PWAs are versatile, cost-effective, and can work across different devices and platforms.
Backend Development
Your M-Commerce app's backend is where the magic happens. Key considerations include.
- Server-Side Technologies: Choose a backend language and framework like Node.js, Ruby on Rails, or Django for Python to handle data, authentication, and business logic.
- API Integration: Integrate with payment gateways, third-party services, and APIs to enhance your app's functionality.
Database Management
A well-structured database is essential for storing and retrieving data efficiently. Options include.
- Relational Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, or Microsoft SQL Server for structured data.
- NoSQL Databases: MongoDB, Cassandra, or Firebase for flexible and scalable data storage.
User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX)
Creating an appealing and user-friendly interface is paramount.
- Design Tools: Utilize design software like Adobe XD, Sketch, or Figma to craft wireframes and prototypes.
- Frontend Development: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript (or relevant frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js) are the building blocks for your app's front end.
Testing and Quality Assurance
Before launching your app, rigorous testing is essential.
- Manual Testing: Conduct thorough testing to identify and fix bugs.
- Automated Testing: Implement testing tools and frameworks like Appium or Selenium for efficient and repeatable testing.
Deployment and Hosting
Choose a hosting environment and deployment strategy.
- Cloud Services: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), or Microsoft Azure offer scalability and reliability.
- App Stores: Prepare your app for submission to app stores (e.g., Apple App Store and Google Play Store).
Performance Optimization
Optimize your app for speed and efficiency.
- Caching: Implement caching mechanisms to reduce load times.
- Content Delivery Networks (CDNs): Use CDNs to distribute content globally and enhance loading speeds.
Key Features for Turning an E-commerce Website Into a Mobile App
- To make a successful mobile app, you need some important features.
- Fast Loading: The app should open quickly, or people might leave.
- High-Quality Images: Use nice, clear pictures to get more people to use your app.
- Works on Different Devices: Your app should work on different phones, like iPhones, Androids, and Windows.
- Keeps Info Safe: Ensure people's Info is safe on your app.
- User Verification: When people sign in, send a code to their phone to ensure it is them.
- Feedback Option: Let people share their thoughts and opinions through the app.
- Connects to Social Media: People like to share what they buy online, so let them connect to social media through your app.
- Easy Contact: Make it simple for people to call you with just one click.
Step-By-Step Guide to Convert Your E-commerce Website Into an M-Commerce App
Creating a new m-commerce app for small businesses and startups can be costly.
But fear not. Tekversify is here to help you in this regard. Here's a step-by-step guide on transitioning your e-commerce website into a user-friendly m-commerce app.
Identify Your Website's Platform
Suppose you have an online store built using a platform like Magento, OpenCart, or WooCommerce plugin for WordPress.
First, find out which platform your website is based on to start making a mobile app. It will help you take the next steps towards building your m-commerce app.
Maintain Visual Consistency
Maintaining a visual identity across your website and the app is crucial. Visual consistency is key to providing the best user experience.
Your app's user interface should mirror your website's, stopping unfamiliarity for users transitioning between the two media.
Consistency in themes and colors is vital for effective visual branding. Inconsistencies could lead to poor user experience. It can distract your audience.
Define Key Features
Before delving into the development process, it's vital to outline the key features of the m-commerce app. Make sure your app has these essential functionalities.
- Verification: Users should verify their identity through an email address or mobile number before buying the app.
- Push Notifications: This feature will inform users about offers, discounts, and incentives, encouraging them to finish their purchases.
- Catalog and Categories: Organize all items into distinct categories for easy navigation.
- Payment Methods: Support a variety of payment options, including net banking, credit/debit cards, PayPal, and cash on delivery.
- Item Tracking: Help users to track their orders and monitor order status.
- Customer Support: Provide multiple channels for customer queries, such as chat, email, or phone, to handle problems promptly.
Develop APIs
Content management methods like WordPress and Magento have integrated software parts that simplify website development.
However, mobile apps require a distinct approach. To boost data exchange between the app's details and the database, API (Application Programming Interface) development is required.
Integrate APIs with the App
The APIs need smooth integration for an app to work well. APIs are like messengers that carry static and dynamic Info from your website and app. When they combine, any updates you make to active information on your site show right away on the app.
For example, if you alter the price of a product on your website, the app will show the new price, too. This API integration ensures that the pricing and data are the same on your website and app.
Comprehensive Testing
Testing every aspect of an app during the development phase is crucial. Before releasing the app to end-users, test all features and functionalities. Compliance with legal requirements and privacy regulations is of the utmost importance. Address identified glitches promptly to ensure a smooth user experience.
Launch Your M-Commerce App
Once you have finished testing your m-commerce app, it's time for the big reveal. Launched it on app stores to get maximum visibility and reach your target audience. Users can readily download the app and start using it.
Consider exploring third-party app stores as another distribution option. Once you have finished testing your m-commerce app, it's time for the big reveal. It would help if you launched it on app stores such as Google Play Store and Apple App Store to achieve full visibility and reach the audience.
Future Trends and Innovations in M-Commerce Apps
The world of shopping on our phones is changing. Here are some simple ideas about what's coming next.
- Talking to Your Phone: Soon, you might speak to your phone to buy things. It's like having a conversation to shop.
- Trying Things with Your Phone: Your phone can show you how clothes or furniture look in your house before you buy them. It's like stretching before you buy.
- Smart Suggestions: Your phone will learn what you like and suggest things you want to buy. It's like having a helper who knows your taste.
- Mobile Wallets: We're using less cash. With mobile wallets, your phone becomes your wallet for paying.
- Speedy Checkout: You won't need to wait in long lines. Checking out with your phone will be quick and safe.
- Green Shopping: More people want eco-friendly products. Apps will help you find and buy things that are good for the environment.
- Contactless and Curbside Pickup: You can shop without touching things or bring your items to your car—safer and more convenient.
- Shopping on Social Media: Instagram and Facebook will let you shop without leaving the app.
- Faster Internet: Better, faster internet (5G) will make shopping on your phone smoother and faster.
Conclusion
Smartphone interfaces offer many advantages over active websites. Most popular e-commerce firms have their smartphone applications and generate most of their sales through them.
It's time to convert your website into an app and maximize your e-commerce revenue. Tekversify builds products and teams and manages services consisting of top IT talent in the USA. In recent years, numerous businesses worldwide have taken advantage of the enormous growth of e-commerce and m-commerce. Take advantage of potential revenue from m-commerce.
Contact Tekversify today to learn how we can transform your e-commerce website into a m-commerce app.
