Posted by Jarrod Miller-Dean

Uploaded 15 days ago

Does Your Plumbing Business Need A Mobile APP?

As technology advances, consumers have come to expect instant responses, fast services, and convenience from all businesses — it’s not just for shopping and ride sharing any more. But, are mobile apps right for the home service and plumbing industries? Home service companies are unique in that the majority of services are need based, so will an app help to meet emergency needs?  

While there are differing opinions, one thing is clear — the purpose of the app is crucial. 

Why Build And Promote A Mobile App Now?

With any new technology or business strategy, there has to be a purpose. Convenience in scheduling for homeowners has already been answered with online booking platforms, such as Housecall Pro offers, and booking online is easy through an actual company website. So why would anyone need an app, when you can achieve the same results directly with the website? 

Though opinions differ on who might use the mobile app, it is unfair to limit the need, or even desire, to a generational argument, however. Mobile app usage is about context and meeting a need. Plumbing is an on demand service, and the question is will users turn to an app when they are experiencing a flood or other plumbing emergency? Maybe. But it will take an investment in delivering something truly unique and solving a customer pain point to be successful.  

Mobile apps for plumbers will need to be worth the space they take up on the phone by providing fast solutions, especially in emergency situations. They can be successful when they provide accurate tracking, convenient scheduling and follow up, as well as offers and personalized services. 

While plumbing companies may not need a mobile app to survive in a highly competitive market, it may only be a matter of time before customers expect the benefits a mobile app can provide: immediate answers, scheduling, technician tracking, payment and more all without picking up the phone!  

Final Thoughts

Having a mobile app may be worth the investment now as part of an overall business strategy. As companies build out services offered and add convenience, it may not be the biggest generator of digital revenue, but it will put them ahead of the curve as consumer behavior continues to shift towards a digital world. Provide an easy way to download and use the app, as well as incentives like technician tracking and special offers to keep customers engaged for a truly successful result.