How to Create and Leverage a Location-Based App For Your Business

HOW CAN YOUR BUSINESS BENEFIT FROM LOCATION-BASED SERVICES?

Apps with integrated location-based features are becoming more and more popular. Our mobile devices provide us with services we couldn't even dream about before. Applications help businesses use geographic data to enhance their performance, user experience, expand prospect outreach, and more.

If you are debating if you should have a build-in GIS feature in your app, this article will help you decide.

The app market is growing proportionally with mobile device development. In 2020 there are 2.2 million apps available for Apple users, and 2.8 million for Android. Mobile devices simplify the operational processes of retail, logistics, fitness, tourism businesses, and many others. Apps are also used as communication channels to develop interactive social networks, online dating, and many social media apps won't function without location services.

KEY LBS FEATURES

Location-based services can be utilized in many different ways. Let's take a closer look at seven primary features that firms actively use for business app development to unlock significant advantages for sellers and costumers, making the user experience more convenient.

Location tracking is available on every smartphone. Each device is connected to a Global Positioning System or a network of 30 operational satellites. These satellites orbit the Earth and provide radio signals to everyone all over the world. There are four GPS satellites that are visible and transmit regular signals to a particular position. The GPS chip on the smartphone intercepts the signals to provide information to the device and pinpoints the users location.

The location-based application structure has three main layers:

• GPS coordinates

• location tracking

• integrated map.

The geolocation apps are divided into real-time or non real-time. A real-time app provides constant tracking of users' current location.

Popular apps that utilize real time experience:

Non real-time geolocation apps do not require enabled location services or an internet connection, self-explanatorily location tracking is not viable for this app type.

Your business app can be developed as a map or location-based. With a map-based option, the smartphone is attached to a specific set of maps such as Google Maps or OpenStreetMap. Location-based applications are not attached to any particular maps provider as they target the user's specific location.

HOW TO CREATE A LOCATION-BASED APP

Like all other technology products, location-based applications need to be developed and programmed. The development process includes the following steps:

• Define Particular Geolocation Features

The step of your app development journey is the process of defining specific geolocation features. This includes the coordinates of the GPS, map integration, and location detecting.

• Select a Technology Stack for Your App

Another phase of the process is to select a technology stack for your app. It is important to select the right set of tools and features to meet your business requirements. Once you lay out the technology, you are halfway through the process.

• Create a Design and User Interface

It is important to remember that a location-based app is still part of a mobile application. Therefore it must contain an interface that is user friendly and is also protected by a backend database.

• Ensure Safety

This is important as data protection regulations are becoming stricter throughout the world. If your company operates globally, it is critical to consider the legal regulations of all of the countries that your app will serve. Location-based applications contain a lot of important data, therefore, it requires a reliable security framework.

• Estimate Costs

Engineering and testing an app can require a considerable financial investment. When building a location-based application, it is important to select a development team that is experienced, cost-efficient, and quality-oriented. The cost of app development varies depending on your country and requirements. Today, a location-based application will likely cost about $20,000 for a simple app and $150,000 for an app that is more complex.

MOST POPULAR LBS APPS

There are thousands of new geolocation apps that are being developed each year. The most successful apps with integrated location-based services are:

Uber, Google Maps, Snapchat, Tinder, TripAdvisor, and Instagram. All of these apps provide users with a way to either access information, communicate with others, or route transportation. These apps have become essential, people use them on a daily basis, and it is already hard to imagine our lives without them.

TOP LOCATION SERVICES PROVIDERS

LBS apps are built on GIS providing platforms. You can choose the one that suits your company's objectives the most.

Among other features, Google Maps and Apple Maps allow users to pinpoint their presence on a particular map.

Esri is great for enterprises and projects with bigger budgets, including software for government and the world's leading corporations.

There are also other GIS service providers such as Waze which offer users various options and add-ons.

With the development of location-based applications, businesses can now explorer the power of GIS data. The process of developing apps with LBS features differs from other applications, and it is important to hire developers that are certified and knowledgeable about these specific type of apps. With over 20 years of experience, Chetu has helped many businesses design, build and maintain location-based applications. With Chetu, you get the most comprehensive, knowledgeable, and cost-effective app development services available to build your location-based application to meet your business needs.