Let's assume you've successfully convinced your company's management to design a corporate application. The next phase of your project is to find a reputable application developer and design company. It seems like people are speaking a completely different language! Their conversations involve concepts like cloud, hybrid, native, and terms such as UI, UX, B2B, and B2C. You're unsure what exactly you need and how to ensure the developer and designer can meet your requirements.
When designing an application, it's crucial to know whether you need a Business-to-Business (B2B – selling a product or service from one company to another) or a Business-to-Consumer (B2C – selling a product or service from a company to the end customer) application. Depending on your choice, core elements in application design, such as features and User Interface (UI) design, will differ.
What is B2C App Design?
B2C applications are perhaps the best-known type, commonly found in places like app stores. B2C applications come in several forms:
Loyalty Programs – Customer loyalty apps and customer club apps fall under the umbrella of B2C applications.
E-commerce Apps – All retail stores offering products or services through an app fall into the B2C category.
Standalone Apps – Standalone apps are also technically considered B2C applications. For example, a game app or social media apps.
Implementing and designing B2C apps is usually time-consuming and expensive. These apps require regular debugging and updates to address user feedback and performance issues. The User Interface (UI) design needs constant review due to high daily usage. We must strive for a flawless User Experience (UX). A satisfying user experience plays a crucial role in app success.
Competition among B2C apps is fierce, often relying on product sales or in-app purchases, necessitating frequent updates and upgrades.
What is B2B App Design?
Companies use B2B apps to connect with other companies, clients, or internal employees. Some B2B apps may be publicly accessible, while others are used exclusively within a company. Many apps in this category are enterprise apps designed for specific needs like inventory management and project management.
B2B apps are typically used as a functional tool. For example, a wholesaler might have a B2B app to receive customer orders. Similarly, a land surveying company might use a mobile app to schedule and locate site visits for its experts, who then input their data into the app.
Types of B2B Applications
There are two main types of B2B applications, categorized by user access and download.
One type allows app downloads via the company website or app stores, but users (like clients, partners, or employees) need usernames and passwords to access app data and content.
Another type is only accessible to specific company employees, with download access restricted and typically requiring login. Enterprise applications usually fall into this category.
Knowing which app type you need is essential, as the programmer may make the choice for you. Also, consider whether to release the app privately (e.g., for B2B apps) or publicly (like B2C apps). If you choose the latter, listing it on major app stores increases visibility. However, app store usage necessitates adhering to specific standards and guidelines that can be restrictive. If unsure about listing your app on Google Play and Apple Store App, discuss it with your developer.
If you need help designing a B2B app for your company or want to design a B2C app, the experienced Rahkarpouya team is here to assist. We provide comprehensive app development services, including market analysis and forecasting, app testing, creative UI/UX services, and more. Contact us today to build a unique app tailored to your needs.
