I can’t tell you how many times small businesses I talk to ask the question, “Is it really worth it to build a mobile app?” Spoiler alert: the answer is YES, absolutely! Whether you’re running a golf course, a craft brewery, a performing arts organization, an independent music venue, an independent grocery market, or so many other industries, a custom mobile app can supercharge your business, boost customer engagement, build fierce loyalty, and create new revenue streams. Plus, you can customize it to fit your unique vibe.
So, let’s dive in and break down why having a mobile app is a total game-changer, how much it’ll set you back, and the key advantages. Ready? Let’s go!
Is It Worth It to Build a Mobile App for Your Business?
You bet it is! With everyone glued to their smartphones, a mobile app lets you connect with customers in a way that feels personal and immediate. Imagine this: you run a golf course, and your app lets players book tee times (reducing phone calls to the shop), check in for those tee times in a snap, and even order snacks from the 9th hole. Your customers will love it—and keep coming back.
Craft breweries can get in on the action, too. An app can notify customers when new beers drop, showcase events, and reward loyal drinkers with sweet perks. Performing arts venues? Use apps to push ticket sales, share upcoming shows, or even offer digital playbills (how cool is that?). And independent music venues can hook superfans up with pre-sale tickets and exclusive “locals only” memberships, making them feel like VIPs.
Do I Need an App for My Small Business?
Ask yourself these questions: Do you want to be closer to your customers, build stronger relationships, and make it super easy for them to engage with your business? If yes, then yes, you need an app! Do you want to cut through the clutter of the thousands of emails most of your customers have to sift through each month? If yes, then yes, you need an app!
Take golf courses as an example. A mobile app can notify golfers about last minute tee times and fill your tee sheet in moments, allow them access to real-time tournament leaderboards, or generate exclusive offers for your best customers. It turns a round of golf into a more interactive, personalized experience, making customers feel like they're in on something special. So, if you’re all about customer loyalty and keeping your audience engaged, a mobile app is your new best friend.
How Much Does It Cost to Create an App for a Small Business?
Ah, the million-dollar question—except it’s not going to cost you anywhere near that! The price tag for building a small business app may vary based on your specific needs. If you are looking to hire a developer to build an app from scratch, you will easily cross the $10k threshold at a minimum, but more realistically into six figures.
The important thing to recognize is an app is not a one time expense. Apple and Google continually make changes to their operating systems, introduce new requirements, and new devices are released each year. Don’t fall for any offer to build an app quickly for a one time low fee. I can guarantee you’ll regret that option.
Gallus made a large investment to build a sophisticated and flexible platform that allows golf courses to launch the most robust app on the market for roughly the cost of a family phone plan. That’s peanuts when you consider how much extra business the app can drive by improving customer experience and loyalty! Similar solutions do this for industries like breweries, independent music venues, and performing arts organizations with equally tailored solutions to fit their budget and needs.
What Are the Advantages of Having an App for Your Business?
What Are the Advantages of Having an App for Your Business?
What Are the Advantages of Having an App for Your Business?
More Effective Customer Communication
Want to chat directly with your customers? An app lets you ping them with updates, promotions, or event invites. Gallus Golf’s messaging feature does exactly that, keeping your audience in the loop with real-time notifications. Forget emails—they often get lost—apps are where it’s at!
Boost Customer Loyalty
Nothing keeps customers coming back like rewards and perks. Whether it’s a loyalty program, exclusive discounts, or early access to events, a mobile app helps you stay top-of-mind. Check out how Gallus Golf’s loyalty system keeps golfers hooked—your business can do the same!
Easy Customization
Apps aren’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is your business. With simple customization options, you can make your app uniquely yours, from branding to the features you offer. Whether you're a brewery or a venue, you’ll stand out from the crowd!
Recurring Revenue
Apps make generating recurring revenue a breeze. Whether it’s a monthly beer subscription for your regulars or a discounted membership for frequent golfers, you can make subscriptions super easy to manage. Who doesn’t love predictable, steady income?
From Print to Digital
Say goodbye to paper and hello to digital! Industries that rely on printed materials—like performing arts centers—can use apps to go fully digital. With platforms like InstantEncore, you can offer digital playbills, freeing up budget and reducing waste. Plus, it looks super sleek!
Conclusion
So, is it worth it to build an app for your small business? Absolutely! Whether you’re running a golf course, craft brewery, performing arts venue, or indie music space, a mobile app can transform your customer experience, boost loyalty, and open up new revenue streams. Sure, there are costs and maintenance to consider, but the long-term payoff is more than worth it.
If you want to create an unforgettable experience for your customers and keep them coming back, now’s the time to go mobile. Your business—and your customers—will thank you!
