App Boutiques

Do your customers use iPhones?

Stores that already have an audience browsing on iPhones are more likely to grow if they have a native iPhone app. Before you invest in an app, be certain that your audience visits your site on mobile. Check your analytics. In Google Analytics, you can find what devices your customers are using under the "Audience" section.

Does your store look great on the iPhone?

This is where you can make a mistake by investing in a native mobile app too early. If your store already works well on the iPhone's Safari browser, you know your analytics for iPhone use are good. If your store makes your iPhone customers cry, then you should invest in your store's mobile web interface before you worry about a native iPhone app.

Do you sell uniquely designed or crafted goods?

If you specialize in unique or handcrafted items, you will have a better chance of making profit by investing in an app. If your store doesn't have a unique offering, the user is less likely to install an app. If your focus is on lower prices, or a large selection, you aren't a good fit for a mobile app. There are already plenty of mobile apps addressing that space at razor-thin profit margins.

Are your customers salivating for your next product?

Stores with a rabid following can get more selling opportunities with a native app. Loyal followers will have a natural craving for an app from you. A native app lets your fanatics see what you're up to at the slightest impulse. Push notifications let you give your followers updates no matter where they are. Even more importantly, a native app lets loyal followers buy with minimal hassle.

Are you already successful?

Mobile apps are magical, not magic. Apps accelerate your business. If your money is sliding into the abyss, an app will only make the sinkhole larger. If you're not profitable on the web, hold off on the app. Focus on the web. Improve your copy, try new advertising media. Ask your customers what they want more of and what they want less of. Experiment with new product offerings. I don't work with unprofitable stores.