Unit 3: Computer Software

3.7 Mobile Applications

Introduction

In an era dominated by smartphones, mobile applications, commonly known as ‘apps’, have evolved from simple conveniences to powerful business tools. A mobile application is a software program designed to run on a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet. For modern businesses, mobile apps are no longer an option but a strategic necessity. They serve as a direct channel for communication, sales, and service delivery, reaching customers wherever they are. More importantly, their utility extends beyond customer interaction to streamline internal processes across all business functions, from finance to human resources, making them a cornerstone of digital transformation.

Types of Mobile Applications

Understanding the different types of mobile applications is crucial for businesses to make informed decisions about their mobile strategy. The choice of app type impacts cost, performance, features, and development time.

1. Native Applications

A native app is developed specifically for a single mobile operating system (OS). This means an app built for Apple’s iOS will not work on Google’s Android, and vice versa. They are built using programming languages and tools specific to that platform (e.g., Swift or Objective-C for iOS; Kotlin or Java for Android).

  • Advantages:
    • High Performance: They are fast and responsive as they are optimized for a specific platform.
    • Superior User Experience (UX): They follow the specific UI/UX guidelines of the OS, making them feel familiar and intuitive to the user.
    • Full Access to Device Features: Can directly access and utilize device hardware like the GPS, camera, microphone, and contact list.
    • Offline Functionality: Can be designed to work effectively without an internet connection.
  • Disadvantages:
    • High Cost: Requires separate development teams and codebases for each platform (iOS and Android), significantly increasing costs.
    • Longer Development Time: Building and maintaining two separate apps takes more time.

Business Context: Best for applications where performance and user experience are critical, such as high-end games, photo editing software, or complex financial applications like mobile banking.

2. Web Applications (and Progressive Web Apps - PWAs)

A web application is not a true app but a mobile-optimized website that behaves like an app. It runs in a web browser (like Chrome or Safari) on the device. A Progressive Web App (PWA) is an advanced web app that offers more app-like features, such as the ability to be ‘installed’ on the home screen, work offline, and send push notifications.

  • Advantages:
    • Cross-Platform: A single version works on any device with a web browser, regardless of the OS.
    • Lower Cost & Faster Development: One codebase significantly reduces cost and time.
    • No App Store Approval: Bypasses the often lengthy and strict approval processes of the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Limited Device Access: Cannot access all of the device’s hardware and features.
    • Internet Dependency: Most features require an active internet connection.
    • Performance: Can be slower and less responsive than native apps.

Business Context: Ideal for businesses that need a simple online presence, content delivery platforms, or basic e-commerce sites where a native app’s complexity isn’t required.

3. Hybrid Applications

A hybrid app combines elements of both native and web applications. They are built using standard web technologies (like HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript) and then enclosed in a native ‘shell’ or container. This allows them to be installed like a native app and distributed through app stores.

  • Advantages:
    • Single Codebase: Write the code once and deploy it on both iOS and Android, saving time and money.
    • Faster Development: Quicker to build and launch than two separate native apps.
    • Access to Device Features: Can access most device features through plugins and APIs.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Performance Issues: May not be as fast or smooth as a purely native app, especially for graphically intensive tasks.
    • Compromised User Experience: The look and feel might not perfectly match the native UI of the device.

Business Context: A very popular choice for many businesses as it offers a practical balance between cost, development speed, and performance. Suitable for most e-commerce, social media, and business utility apps.

The Role of Mobile Apps in Business Functions

Mobile apps are versatile tools that enhance efficiency and create value across every department of an organization.

Finance & Accounting

  • Mobile Banking: Banks in Nepal like Nabil Bank (Nabil SmartBank) and NIC ASIA Bank (NIC ASIA MOBANK) allow customers to check balances, transfer funds, and pay bills from their phones.
  • Digital Wallets: Apps like eSewa and Khalti facilitate seamless digital payments for businesses and consumers, reducing cash handling and simplifying transaction records.
  • Expense Management: Employees can use apps to photograph receipts and submit expense reports on the go, accelerating reimbursement cycles.

Marketing & Sales

  • E-commerce: The Daraz app is a primary sales channel, allowing customers to browse, purchase, and track orders directly.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Sales teams can use mobile CRM apps to access customer data, log interactions, and manage sales pipelines while in the field.
  • Loyalty Programs: Businesses can offer digital loyalty cards, points, and personalized discounts through an app to encourage repeat business.
  • Direct Communication: Push notifications allow businesses to send targeted promotions, updates, and reminders directly to a user’s phone.

Human Resources (HR)

  • Employee Self-Service (ESS): Apps allow employees to request leave, view payslips, and update their personal information without needing to contact HR directly.
  • Recruitment: Job seekers can browse and apply for positions through a company’s mobile app.
  • Internal Communication & Collaboration: Apps like Microsoft Teams or Slack enable real-time communication and project collaboration among employees, regardless of their location.

Operations & Supply Chain

  • Inventory Management: Warehouse staff can use smartphones to scan barcodes, update stock levels, and process orders in real-time.
  • Fleet Tracking: Logistics companies use apps with GPS to monitor the location of their delivery vehicles, optimize routes, and provide customers with accurate delivery times.
  • Service Delivery: Companies like Pathao and Foodmandu have business models that are entirely dependent on mobile apps to connect drivers/riders with customers and manage the entire operational workflow.

Real-World Examples from Nepal

Case Study 1: eSewa - Transforming Digital Payments (Finance)

eSewa is Nepal’s first and most prominent digital wallet. Initially a platform for utility bill payments, it has expanded to become a comprehensive payment ecosystem.

  • Business Application: For businesses, eSewa acts as a payment gateway, allowing them to accept digital payments online and at physical stores via QR codes. This reduces the risk and cost associated with handling cash. It also provides businesses with a platform for promotions and direct engagement with a large user base. For users, it’s a one-stop solution for paying bills, booking tickets, transferring money, and more. This directly impacts the financial operations of thousands of businesses in Nepal.

Case Study 2: Daraz - An E-commerce Powerhouse (Marketing & Operations)

Daraz, an online marketplace, relies heavily on its mobile app as its primary customer touchpoint.

  • Business Application: The app is a powerful marketing tool, using push notifications for flash sales and personalized recommendations. Operationally, the Daraz seller app empowers vendors to manage their entire business from their phone—they can list products, track inventory, process orders, and communicate with customers. This integration of marketing, sales, and backend operations into a single mobile platform is key to its success and efficiency.

Case Study 3: Foodmandu - Revolutionizing Food Delivery (Operations)

Foodmandu pioneered the food delivery industry in Nepal, and its business model is built around its mobile application.

  • Business Application: The app serves as the operational hub connecting three key stakeholders: customers, restaurants, and delivery riders. Customers place orders through the app, which are then transmitted to the restaurant. Once the food is ready, the app’s logistics system assigns the nearest rider for pickup and delivery. The entire process, from order placement to payment and real-time tracking, is managed through the mobile platform, showcasing a perfect example of an operations-centric mobile application.

Key Takeaways

  • Mobile applications are essential software for modern businesses, impacting both customer-facing activities and internal operations.
  • The three main types of apps are Native (best performance, highest cost), Web/PWA (cross-platform, lowest cost), and Hybrid (a balance of cost, speed, and performance).
  • Apps provide tangible benefits across all business functions: streamlining payments in Finance, enabling e-commerce in Marketing, simplifying tasks in HR, and optimizing logistics in Operations.
  • Successful Nepali companies like eSewa, Daraz, and Foodmandu demonstrate how a well-designed mobile strategy can create new markets and drive business success.
  • Choosing the right type of app is a strategic decision that depends on a company’s budget, target audience, and functional requirements.

Review Questions

  1. Explain the core differences between a native app and a hybrid app. Provide a business scenario where you would recommend using a native app.
  2. Describe how a mobile application can improve efficiency in the Human Resources (HR) department of a company.
  3. Using the example of Daraz, explain how a single mobile app can serve both Marketing and Operations functions.
  4. Why are digital wallets like Khalti or eSewa considered critical infrastructure for modern businesses in Nepal?