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Is an app builder for e-commerce a good idea?

It’s time to get a mobile app! But where to start? With numerous businesses looking to tap into the mobile market, a pressing question emerges: Should they use an app builder for e-commerce or seek an alternative?

What is an app builder?

At the most basic level, an app builder is a tool that allows you to create a mobile app using drag-and-drop functionality, often without the need to code. Many platforms have popularized this approach, offering e-commerce businesses a seemingly straightforward way to go mobile.

Pros and cons of app builder for e-commerce

Many e-commerce business owners are looking at app builders as a way to take their online store mobile easily. On the surface, app builders seem like a golden ticket to the app market, promising rapid deployment at a fraction of the cost. But as with most things in life, the real story is a bit more nuanced. Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you understand if an app builder is the right choice for e-commerce. 

Pros of an app builder for e-commerce

Cost-efficiency

There’s no denying it – one of the most significant draws to app builders is the initial cost savings. Especially for smaller businesses or those just starting, minimizing upfront expenses can be very appealing. With app builders, you often pay a monthly fee, and in return, you can start building your app immediately without significant capital expenditure.

Quick turnaround

Time is money. If you’re racing against the clock to get your e-commerce store on mobile platforms, app builders can be a way to go. They are designed to be intuitive, allowing for rapid conversion of your existing online store into a functional mobile app.

Beginner-friendly

No coding skills? No problem! App builders pride themselves on user-friendly interfaces.

Their drag-and-drop functionalities mean even someone without any tech background can put together a mobile app. This democratization of app development can empower business owners to craft their mobile presence.

However, while app builders can be an excellent starting point, they might not be the best long-term solution for all e-commerce businesses. 

This is an animated GIF showing a man sitting at an outdoor table, smiling as he looks at his smartphone. The image suggests a relaxed, positive experience, potentially representing the ease and convenience of using a mobile app.

Cons of an app builder for e-commerce

Uniformity

Browse through some of the apps created, and you’ll soon see a recurring design theme. The distinct identity your brand deserves might get lost in the shuffle.

Customization restraints

While app builders come packed with features, they’re limited to what’s on offer. You might find yourself constrained when you wish to implement something specific or unique to your brand.

Scalability concerns

As your business grows, you might outgrow the capabilities of your app builder.

Dependency

Being tied to a particular platform can be limiting. Any changes they make can directly impact your app, often without much notice.

Introducing OmniShop e-commerce mobile app solution

Given the limitations mentioned, there’s room in the market for a solution that offers more. That’s where our e-commerce mobile app solution steps in. We bridge the gap between expensive custom apps and generic app builder solutions. With OmniShop, you get a tailored app experience without the high price tag and faster.

From updates to tech support, we’ve got your back. This means you can focus on running your e-commerce business and don’t think about building a mobile app with app builders.

And no matter how big your business is or how many products you have, our apps are designed with growth in mind. As your business expands, your app can evolve alongside it.

Click here to learn more about the OmniShop mobile app.

App builders vs. OmniShop

We created our mobile app solution so that e-commerce brands can have the best of both worlds: high-quality as a custom-developed app and affordable and easy installation as app builders.

Pricing: Our approach is competitive, ensuring you get ‘more bang for your buck’.

Functionality & flexibility: While app builders offer a predefined set of functions, our solution gives you a wider playing field, accommodating bespoke features and integrations.

Long-term investment: Think about the future. An adaptable app can offer higher returns in the long run, especially as your e-commerce store evolves and grows.

Animated GIF showing a man sitting at an outdoor table, smiling as he looks at his smartphone. The image suggests a relaxed, positive experience, potentially representing the ease and convenience of using a mobile app and getting an app with OmniShop. The text that goes is: You want a mobile app for your store? Get it easy and fast.

Conclusion

As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, making the right technological choices is more crucial than ever. While app builders serve a purpose and meet specific needs, our e-commerce mobile app solution promises a unique blend of customization, affordability, and growth potential. It’s a long-term investment, designed to align with your business’s ambitions.

Ready to step up your mobile game?

Let’s book a 30-min mobile strategy session and give your shop a boost.

Ready to step up your mobile game?

Let’s book a 30-min mobile strategy session and give your shop a boost.