In today’s digital-first world, having a strong online presence is essential for local governments. Many municipalities already have websites to provide residents with information and services. However, there’s a common misconception that if you have a website, you don’t need a mobile app.

The truth? Websites and mobile apps serve distinct purposes and work best when used together. A municipality branded mobile app can complement your website, offering features and functionality that a website simply can’t provide. Let’s bust this myth and explore why having both is a game-changer for municipalities.

1. Apps Are the Preferred Choice for Mobile Users

The way people access digital services has shifted dramatically in recent years. According to a 2023 study by eMarketer, over 90% of mobile internet time is spent on apps, not web browsers.

While a website may work well on desktops, navigating through menus and pages on a mobile browser can be cumbersome. Mobile apps provide a seamless, user-friendly experience tailored specifically for smaller screens. For residents on the go, an app is the clear choice for quick access to local government services and information.

2. Apps and Websites Work Together—Not Against Each Other

Think of big brands like Starbucks and McDonald’s. Both companies have robust websites, but they also offer apps because they understand that apps enhance convenience and engagement.

Similarly, a municipal app doesn’t need to replace your website—it can complement it. Apps can point users to specific sections of your website, such as:

• Bill payment portals
• Council meeting schedules
• Permit applications

This means you don’t have to rebuild or duplicate content. Instead, you can use the app as a hub for directing residents to the exact resources they need without forcing them to navigate a complex website menu.

3. Apps Simplify Information Access

Websites often need to house a lot of content, which can make it hard for residents to find what they’re looking for. A mobile app simplifies this experience by focusing on key information and services.

With an app, residents can:

• Quickly access essential updates like emergency alerts and road closures.
• Submit service requests (e.g., reporting potholes or damaged signs) without sifting through multiple web pages.
• Receive notifications tailored to their preferences, keeping them informed about topics that matter most.

By decluttering the experience, apps make it easier for residents to engage with your municipality.

4. Apps Offer Unique Features Websites Can’t Match

While websites are great for static information, apps provide dynamic, interactive features that websites simply can’t replicate:

• Push Notifications: Instantly send alerts about emergencies, weather updates, or event reminders directly to residents' phones.
• Geolocation: Allow residents to report issues like potholes or broken streetlights by pinpointing their exact location on a map.

These features create a more personalized and efficient experience for both residents and local government staff.

Real-World Impact: Combining Websites and Apps

Many municipalities are already benefiting from the synergy between websites and mobile apps. For example:

• Granville, Ohio, launched its "Go Granville" app to provide real-time updates and emergency notifications, directing users to relevant website pages when needed.
• Marco Island, Florida, uses its app to streamline service requests while maintaining a robust website for in-depth resources.

These communities demonstrate how apps and websites can work together to improve engagement and service delivery.

Busting the Myth

The idea that “if you have a website, you don’t need an app” is outdated. Apps offer unique advantages that websites alone can’t provide, including convenience, interactivity, and instant communication. For municipalities looking to better serve their residents and embrace modern technology, combining a mobile app with a website isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential.

Ready to see how a branded mobile app can transform your local government’s communication and services? Schedule a demo with GOGov today to discover the possibilities.

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