Do I need a mobile app or a website for my business?
Not every business needs an app. And not every business can do without a website. I explain when each is best and when you need both.
"I want an app for my business" is one of the phrases I hear most. But when I ask what they need it for, most describe something a website solves better at a fraction of the cost. I'm not saying apps are useless — I'm saying you need to understand when an app adds real value and when it's an unnecessary expense.
When a website is enough
If your goal is for people to find you, see your services, and contact you, a website is all you need. For restaurants, healthcare professionals, law firms, hair salons, real estate agencies, and most retail businesses, a well-made website covers all the bases: shows your info, receives inquiries, ranks on Google, and works on any device without the user installing anything.
When you need an app
An app makes sense when your business needs frequent user interaction (a delivery app, an appointment system used several times a week), when you need phone hardware access (camera, GPS, push notifications, sensors), or when offline experience matters. If your user will open your app daily or several times a week, a native app provides the best experience.
The cost difference is enormous
A professional website costs between $600,000 and $2,000,000 ARS. A mobile app for Android and iOS starts at $3,000,000 and can exceed $10,000,000 depending on complexity. Plus, an app has recurring costs: Google Play developer account ($25 USD one-time) and Apple ($99 USD annually), backend servers, OS update maintenance, and update publishing costs. If your budget is limited, the web gives you much more for less.
The middle option: Progressive Web App
A PWA (Progressive Web App) is a website that behaves like an app: it can be installed on the phone, works offline, and sends notifications. You don't need to publish it in app stores and it works on any device. For many businesses, a PWA is the perfect middle ground: the app experience with the cost and accessibility of a website.
My experience with both worlds
I develop both websites and mobile apps. I have 54+ designed websites and 6 apps published on Play Store. That experience allows me to honestly recommend what your business needs without trying to sell you something that doesn't serve you. The reality is that 80% of the businesses that consult me need a website, not an app.
Not sure what your business needs? Contact me for free advice. You can see my websites and mobile apps to get an idea of what I can do for your project.