Are you planning to establish a mobile presence of your existing online business? Well, if yes then, the primary question that tends to come up in the mind of the business owners is -

Whether to go ahead with mobile website development or a mobile application development, or both at once!

Well, mobile website and applications (apps) might portray a similar look at the first glance; however, the need of the hour rests with determining what caters to your business interest at best. Now, determining your need depends upon multiple factors, which includes -

• The purpose
  
• The budget
  
• The features
  
• The audience

Understanding the Concept of Mobile Website

Prior to finding out the benefits of a mobile website development in relation to mobile apps, it is essential that you develop a clear conception about the same. A mobile website functions like a standard website where images, data, content, and video can be accessed at a go.
Additionally, a mobile website also lets you have an access to mobile specific features like location-based mapping, click - to-call, etc. A mobile website development is specifically focused on touch-screen interface, and smaller display on handheld devices.

A look at some impressive statistics - According to Mashable.com

• Mobile browser is used by 73% users for shopping against 27% using mobile apps
  
• 63% users depend on mobile browsers for conducting a search in contrast to 37% users using mobile apps
  
• Mobile browser is used by 60% users for entertainment purpose against 40% using mobile apps

Mobile browsers hold a wider reach than mobile apps

Benefits of Mobile Website Development

When your end business goal is primarily driven towards public communication, developing a mobile website always comes up to be the first choice. The reason stands with the underlined benefits of a mobile website -

• Wider reach
  
• Instant availability
  
• Easy upgradation
  
• Easy share option
  
• Easier and affordable
  
• Functionality like apps
  
• Compatibility on all devices
  
• Offers support and sustainability

A look at mobile apps!

Mobile apps actually refer to applications that offer an easy download and installation option on specific mobile devices. Users usually need to visit the specific portal for a particular device for finding and downloading the specific application on your device. At times, it allows downloading the content offering an easy access without the Internet.
When a Mobile Application Development Might Come Useful?

While, mobile website development is surely the trend of the age, a number of mobile application scenarios still come up to be a primary choice among few. Here is a look at some of the business interest, where mobile application might come of help -

1. Gaming/Interactive
   
2. Native Functionality
   
3. Reporting/Calculations
   
4. Offline Content Access
   
5. Personalization/Regular Use

With mobile usability dominating the age, the debate over 'websites or apps' will continue to trend among businesses serious about establishing a presence on mobile devices. Well, the determinant factor lays with the end business goals of a particular business. A mobile website development always works for business organizations eying shareability of content and search engine visibility, while mobile apps suits the need of interactive engagement at best.