Robust communication and citizen engagement are pivotal for local governments to foster cohesive communities. With the ubiquity of mobile technology, municipalities have a golden opportunity to harness the potential of mobile apps paired with push notifications to amplify communication channels and deliver pertinent information and services to residents. While text messaging services offer convenience, municipality-branded mobile apps provide an all-encompassing solution that transcends mere messaging, presenting a plethora of advantages for both local governments and citizens alike.

Advantages of Municipality-Branded Mobile Apps with Push Notifications

Expansive Communication Channels

According to Statista, mobile apps are the foremost digital communication channel globally, boasting over 3.5 billion smartphone users. In contrast, SMS texting services, while widespread, may fall short in terms of engagement or reach due to content and functionality constraints. A local government mobile app with push notifications can provide a more versatile and interactive platform for communication, allowing for greater engagement and outreach.

Elevated User Experience

Research by Apptentive elucidates that mobile app users spend 87% of their time on mobile devices within apps, underscoring the preference for app-centric engagement over text messaging services. This preference indicates heightened user engagement and satisfaction levels. Local government mobile apps offer a more integrated and user-friendly experience, making it easier for residents to access services and information.

Personalization and Branding

A survey by Localytics divulges that 76% of users anticipate mobile apps to mirror the brand's identity and design. With a municipality-branded mobile app, local governments can tailor the app's aesthetics, content, and functionalities to resonate with their distinct branding guidelines, nurturing trust and credibility among citizens. This personalized experience can enhance the perceived value and reliability of the communication coming from the local government.

Images and limitless characters

Cisco's report reveals that mobile video traffic constituted 60% of total mobile data traffic in 2020, a figure projected to soar to 79% by 2025. Mobile apps facilitate the incorporation of images and text options, fostering more engaging and immersive communication compared to SMS texting services. These multimedia capabilities can make notifications and updates more visually appealing and informative.

Service Requests and Issue Management

Mobile apps offer advanced functionalities for managing service requests and issues, vastly improving efficiency and responsiveness compared to SMS texting services. Here are some key advantages:

• Comprehensive Request Tracking: Mobile apps like GOGov's CRM/311 system enable residents to submit detailed service requests, track their status, and receive updates directly within the app. This transparency ensures citizens are informed and engaged throughout the process.
• Rich Form Capabilities: Unlike SMS, which is limited to text, mobile apps can incorporate rich forms that allow users to provide detailed information, attach photos, and pinpoint locations on maps. This comprehensive data collection helps local governments address issues more effectively and accurately.
• Automated Workflows: Mobile apps can integrate with municipal systems to automate workflows, assign tasks to the appropriate departments, and streamline resolution processes. This automation leads to quicker response times and more efficient resource allocation.
• Enhanced Reporting and Analytics: Mobile apps provide robust reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing local governments to identify trends, track performance metrics, and make data-driven decisions. These insights are invaluable for improving service delivery and planning future initiatives.
• GIS and Work Order Integrations: Pull parcel and map information into tickets. Two way sync with various work order systems.

Enhanced Security and Trust

In an age fraught with spam and phishing attacks, residents may exhibit wariness towards text messages emanating from unfamiliar numbers, resulting in diminished open rates and engagement levels. Conversely, mobile apps are recognized as official communication conduits from the local government, instilling confidence and assurance among residents. This trust can lead to higher engagement rates and more effective communication.

Disadvantages of Text Messaging Only Services vs Local Government Mobile Apps

Obtaining Phone Numbers

A prevalent challenge with SMS texting services is acquiring residents' phone numbers, necessitating additional outreach efforts and opt-in procedures. In contrast, mobile apps circumvent the need for phone numbers, providing a more accessible communication avenue for all residents. This can streamline the process of building a communication network and reduce barriers to entry for residents.

Text Message Costs

Despite their perceived cost-effectiveness, text messaging services may incur substantial expenses, particularly for extensive communication endeavors. Local governments may find themselves bearing the brunt of expenses for each text message dispatched, rendering it less viable for frequent or extensive communication compared to mobile apps with push notifications. Mobile apps typically offer more cost-effective and scalable communication solutions.

Limited Content and Functionality

SMS texting is inherently limited in terms of the content and functionality it can provide. Text messages are restricted to 160 characters and cannot include rich media or interactive elements. Mobile apps, on the other hand, can offer a wide range of functionalities such as service request submissions, interactive forms, multimedia content, and more. This expanded capability makes mobile apps a more versatile tool for citizen engagement.

Resident Distrust of Unknown Numbers

Residents are increasingly cautious about text messages from unknown numbers due to the prevalence of scams and spam. This can lead to lower open and response rates for SMS communications. In contrast, a municipality-branded mobile app is seen as a trusted source of information, increasing the likelihood that residents will engage with the content and take action on notifications.

Real-World Statistics Supporting Mobile Apps Over SMS

1. Higher Engagement Rates: According to eMarketer, push notifications from mobile apps have a 90% open rate, significantly higher than the 20-30% open rate typically seen with SMS messages. This means that notifications sent via a mobile app are more likely to be seen and acted upon.
2. User Preference: A study by Pew Research Center found that 97% of Americans use smartphones, and 85% prefer receiving updates via mobile apps over text messages. This indicates a strong user preference for app-based communication channels.
3. Service Request Efficiency: According to a GovTech survey, municipalities using mobile apps for service requests reported a 40% increase in resolution efficiency and a 50% decrease in response times. This highlights the significant operational benefits of mobile apps.
4. Cost Efficiency: Research by Localytics indicates that mobile app notifications can be sent at a fraction of the cost of SMS messages. This cost efficiency is crucial for local governments working within tight budgets.

Municipality Branded Mobile Apps Powered by GOGov

While text messaging only services can provide a convenient means of communication, municipality-branded mobile apps with push notifications offer a more comprehensive and versatile solution for local government communication needs. With features such as multi-channel communication, customization, rich media content, and system integration, mobile apps empower local governments to engage citizens effectively and build stronger, more connected communities.

Investing in a local government mobile app not only enhances the citizen engagement experience but also positions the municipality as a forward-thinking and technologically adept entity. This shift towards a more integrated and engaging communication platform can lead to higher citizen satisfaction, better service delivery, and a more cohesive community.

For local governments aiming to improve their communication strategies and foster stronger connections with their residents, transitioning from SMS texting solutions to a comprehensive mobile app with push notifications is a strategic move that promises significant benefits in terms of engagement, efficiency, and trust.

Learn more about how GOGov's local government-branded mobile apps can transform your municipality's communication efforts, schedule a demo with our team today.

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