Mobile Web vs. Apps: Five Reasons Web Wins

August 4, 2012

As an event professional, you probably have a few tips and tricks to surviving a large amount of travel. My trick is to not leave home without my iPhone and iPad.

Basically, they’re the electronic Swiss army knife that can provide immediate information or entertain me while on a flight or in the taxi. There are plenty of hi-tech options to improve your traveling experience, but the question is – what’s better, Websites formatted for mobile devices or apps?

Here is my opinion on these simple and portable technologies:

Mobile sites are best for quick updates on information that changes on a regular basis such as the status of a flight, the London tube schedule, scores of my teams’ games that I can’t attend in real time or when empties will be returned.

Here are my top five mobile Web sites:

  1. Marriott - Easy for finding somewhere to stay for my last minute business trip.
  2.  
  3.  
  4. Restaurant Row - Great for finding somewhere to eat when you’re out of town. It also lets you leave a review.
  5.  
  6.  
  7. Answers-   I love being right and can look up great information while on the go. The mobile version lets Smartphone users input quick questions and read the answers.
  1. Twitter - I actually like this version better than the app, it runs smoother in real time.
  1. London Tube - Their live travel feed lets me know if there’s anything I should be avoiding.

Apps, on the other hand, are best for holding content that I want to review often and contain unique functionality such as a game or GPS feature.

My top five iPhone and iPad apps are:

  1. Facebook - I really don’t need to explain why.
  1. MLB – Did the Cardinals beat the Cubs again?
  1. USA TODAY -My solution to not cluttering the airplane seat bin.
  1. MotionX -GPS on your phone, no more rental car charges!
  1. Netflix -In case my kids are with me and need to catch an episode of SpongeBob.

Mobile Web is the clear winner.

Why?

1. Immediacy – Mobile Web is instantly available. Users don’t have to download anything.

2. Compatibility – Mobile Web is compatible across devices. All smart phones can take advantage of the site, not just Android or iPhone users.  What if an exhibitor needs to check their empty return notification or freight status on the go? They’ll be able to easily see that on our Expresso mobile Web site on any device soon.

3. Find-ability – Mobile sites can be found easier. Users of online engines will see mobile optimized sites in their search results first.

4. Upgrade-ability – Mobile sites can be updated instantly. It doesn’t require multiple updates and downloads by users.

5. Share-ability – Mobile sites can be shared easily between users by simply sharing a link.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.