Apps · · 2 min read
Website, app or both? How to choose what to build first
Before asking for a mobile app, it's worth answering a few questions. A good website often solves the same thing for less.
One of the questions I get most is whether it's worth building an app. My answer almost always starts with another question: what problem are you trying to solve?
When a website is enough
A well-built website works on any device, doesn't need installing and updates instantly for everyone. It's the best option when:
- You want people to find you on Google.
- Your customers visit occasionally, not every day.
- You need to show information or catalogues, or receive requests.
- You want to start quickly on a reasonable budget.
When an app makes sense
An installed app adds value when people use it often and need phone features:
- Notifications for important alerts.
- Working offline or with poor coverage.
- Heavy use of the camera, location or other sensors.
- A very smooth experience for tasks repeated every day.
The middle ground
There's an option that often goes unnoticed: progressive web apps. They're websites that can be installed on the home screen, partly work offline and can send notifications on many devices. For many businesses they're the perfect balance.
My recommendation
Start with the website. It lets you validate the idea, learn what your customers really use and, if you need an app later, you'll know exactly what it should do and have a foundation (data, design, server) to reuse.
If you're torn between the two, tell me about your case and I'll help you decide.