Seven Methods for Making A Business More Mobile-Friendly

In 2011, Microsoft Tag proposed that within three years, mobile browsing would exceed the use of desktop computers for accessing data on the Web. While not entirely accurate, mobile browsing is on the rise. The way businesses offer information and protect relevant work data is therefore changing.

At the end of 2013, the increase in mobile browsing reached its highest levels: 63% of cell phone users were accessing the Internet with their handheld devices. The number of people using mobile phones for Internet access has increased as much as 21%; it is clear such numbers will continue to rise.

To address the needs of mobile device users, businesses should begin offering mobile-friendly solutions by implementing the following strategic measures:

Offer Mobile and Cloud Apps

At one time, a business could operate by using industry-oriented software platforms, e-mail, and an Office suite.  Today, there are mobile apps for near everything including invoicing, inventory tracking, project collaboration and management, and appointment scheduling. A reliance on Cloud-based applications will allow a small business a leg up when competing with corporate entities.

As businesses change the devices used for connectivity, many will start moving data to the Cloud. The benefits of Cloud services are myriad, as the apps are third party supported and the fees are typically low: Such is the case with Office 365. Reliance on Cloud supported services leads to reduced dependency on software developers and IT professionals as well.

Bring Your Own Technology (BOYT) Security

BOYT Security, also known as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), is necessary for those looking to protect important information from potential intrusion. Businesses are turning to the use of encryption and remote wipe technologies for mobile devices, and virtual work area protection. If employees can access encrypted data, business owners should establish a policy for keeping data protected.  

Continuous Connectivity

Through cell phone use, workers have better work availability. Instantaneous Web connectivity means employees are easier to reach. Conversely, when employers begin demanding increased availability, there will also be a need for increased compromise when employees need time off. The downside to constant Internet access is that workers may end up working too many hours, and being on call will cut into personal time.

Brick and Mortar Mobile Usage

Physical businesses are deriving advantages by providing tablets to floor personnel. The tablets increase the speed of point of sales transactions, minimize waiting times for check out, and help in locating the products or wares consumers are seeking. Mobile point-of-sale operations improve checkout solutions.

Mobile Marketing & Wallets

Google has made some changes to how it deals with mobile searches with the innovation of the Hummingbird algorithm. The search engine giant is allowing its search engine to seek out answers to questions instead of searching for keyword matches. Thus, businesses will need to stray from keyword rich content and instead start addressing the most common questions a consumer will have in relation to the business in question.  

Mobile Wallets allows for a business to give a consumer rewards via an easy-to-use app. Reliance on reward apps gains a business increased exposure, particularly when using an app like Shopkick Local. The mobile wallet trend allows consumers to use trusted transaction processors like PayPal at stores all over the nation as well.

The use of mobile devices will continue to increase: This will provide employees the ability to work from any place at any time. More consumers will turn to mobile browsing solutions, and the shift in Internet accessing methods will lead to modifications or marketing strategies used by small businesses and corporations alike. Ultimately, business owners have to make adjustments in how they reach consumers and how they conduct business in the workplace.