What is an application?
An application (app) is software designed for a specific purpose. Mobile apps run on phones, desktop apps on computers, web apps in browsers. Each type solves the same problem in a different environment - giving users a tool to get something done.
How it works in online booking
Your business offers a mobile app where clients browse the weekly schedule, book appointments, and get push notifications about new openings. You use a separate admin app to manage bookings, check the daily lineup, and message clients. Push notifications hit 90% of app users - email barely reaches 20%. You can also build a mobile-friendly booking page with the website builder, or give your team the employee scheduling app for on-the-go management.
Benefits
- Push notifications reach clients instantly - 90% delivery rate vs. 20% for email
- 3-tap booking from the phone without opening a browser
- The app icon on the home screen keeps your business visible every day
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a small business need its own booking app?
Not necessarily. A responsive booking website handles most use cases and costs nothing extra. A dedicated app makes sense once you have 100+ regulars who book weekly - it sits on their phone and booking becomes a habit. Start with the web, add the app when demand justifies it.
What is the difference between a web app and a mobile app?
A web app runs in a browser - no install needed. A mobile app downloads from the App Store or Google Play and runs natively. Mobile apps are faster, support push notifications, and work offline. Web apps are simpler to maintain and run on anything with a browser.
