<p>Mobile applications are an essential and necessary tool in almost every business. They positively affect the customer experience and the perception of the brand. Mobile apps can also help you gain new customers. At Softnauts we develop apps suitable to your business&rsquo; needs. With this article, you will learn, what hybrid mobile applications are, when they are a good choice and how they can help your business grow.</p>

<h2>What are mobile hybrid applications?</h2>

<p>This is a type of mobile application that combines the features of web and native apps. In order to better understand what they are, we will firstly explain how do the certain types of apps work, what are their advantages and disadvantages and when they are worth implementing.</p>

<h2>Native applications - a complex and functional tool</h2>

<p>Mobile native apps are developed specifically for a given platform, e.g. iOS and Android. They are created to make the cooperation between software and hardware as efficient as possible. This approach results in better compatibility with a particular device and allows developing more demanding and entertaining applications, such as mobile games.</p>

<p>Native apps can run both online and offline. Thanks to better cooperation with the hardware, they also allow unlimited possibilities of customizing UI components. This results in giving a full control over the appearance of the application to the clients and developers.</p>

<p>What is more, native apps also allow utilizing the specific tools of a given smartphone, such as the camera, GPS module or other sensors.</p>

<p>Their most significant disadvantage is that their development is a complex and time-consuming process. Every platform requires a separate team of developers. As a result, the cost of creating the application is much higher.</p>

<p>Also check out how we build hybrid apps:</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/platform-specific-code-in-flutter">Platform-specific code in Flutter</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/monetizing-the-flutter-app">Flutter app monetization</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/responsive-flutter-application-how-to-implement">Responsive Flutter app</a></li>
</ul>

<h2>Web apps - a versatile tool for less demanding tasks</h2>

<p>Web applications are a software that is accessed via a web browser. They are available on all platforms and there is no need to customize the code. Their other major benefit is that their distribution is much easier. Users do not need to download or install anything, and software providers do not have to rely on the platforms such as Google Play or AppStore.</p>

<p>One of their most significant advantages is also fast development time, which results in faster releasing product to the customer.&nbsp;<br />
As a simple tool, web apps have some limitations. They do not provide a possibility of unlimited editing and adjusting UI graphic elements and icons. That is why the development proceed depends on existing UI components.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Web apps do not allow fully customizable utilizing the smartphone&rsquo;s hardware components. Therefore, their performance is limited and more demanding elements, such as complex animations, will negatively affect the smooth performance of the app.</p>

<p>Web applications are worth considering, when your budget is smaller and the application will be rather simple. Web apps are a good choice when you want to for example launch your online store onto mobile devices.</p>

<h2>Hybrid apps - when are they worth considering?</h2>

<p>Now, with better understanding of the basics of the mobile app development, you will better understand how hybrid applications work.</p>

<p>Hybrid mobile apps are created just like websites, and web apps, but they are not accessed via a browser. Instead, they use a software that users install on their devices.</p>

<p>Unlike web solutions, hybrid apps can work offline. Unless uploading or downloading any type of data is needed, they and achieve full functionality and can utilize given smartphones&rsquo; components and capabilities.</p>

<p>Hybrid mobile applications make better use of the device&rsquo;s components than web apps. This means that your company&rsquo;s app will work better on your customers smartphones. It will allow them, e.g. to use advanced features, such as the camera and GPS module. This will allow your clients to find the most convenient way to your company&rsquo;s headquarters or to send a photo illustrating the issue to the company&rsquo;s support department. Access to such options will result in clients considering your company more modern and reliable</p>

<h2>Hybrid mobile application - why does your business need one?</h2>

<p>Introducing a hybrid mobile application for your business will result in building value for the customers. Results of the consumer preference surveys say that brands with dedicated websites and communication tools are considered more reliable by customers. <a href="https://blog.verisign.com/getting-online/verisign-2015-online-survey-97-percent-of-smbs-would-recommend-having-a-website-to-other-smbs/">64% of respondents buy products or use services from those companies they can contact online</a>.</p>

<p>Hybrid mobile applications will allow your company to get ahead of the competition and adapt to the realities of the market. Having a dedicated mobile app is now as necessary as having a website was a few years ago.</p>

<h2>Hybrid mobile application - a way to get ahead of the competition</h2>

<p>Nowadays, the size and location of a company are not the key factors from the customer&rsquo;s point of view. While choosing the right company, the availability and quality of offered services are the significant factors.</p>

<p>Transporting and delivering products and packages is currently easier and more convenient than ever before. This rule applies both to the domestic and international routes. It doesn&rsquo;t matter if the delivery route has a hundred miles or a thousand kilometers to travel, because - thanks to modern delivery systems - it will reach the customer within a few days or even faster.</p>

<p>Your company&rsquo;s dedicated application will help you gain advantage over your more developed competitors. It will neutralize the impact of the geographical barriers.</p>

<h2>Better optimization and user experience</h2>

<p>Websites are a good solution for customers using desktop browsers. However, they are not adjusted for mobile devices needs. The accumulation of small icons, the horizontal orientation of the website and the inability to rescale the displayed content can negatively affect the user experience. Sometimes poorly optimized websites can be inaccessible and unusable with use of a smartphone. So, how to avoid frustrating your customers and make them satisfied?</p>

<p>Hybrid mobile apps are a perfect solution. They allow optimizing the software for the capabilities of specific smartphones. With a mobile app, your customers will always enjoy an aesthetically pleasing, functional and clear interface.</p>

<p>Check out more information about application design: <a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/flutter-design-libraries-that-take-projects-to-another-level-vol-1">Flutter Libraries: UI (Design)</a> and <a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/flutter-libraries-design-a-new-dimension-of-design-vol-2">Flutter Libraries: Updates. Dynamic links. Notifications.</a>&nbsp;And if you are interested in what we have to offer, check out how we go about <a href="https://softnauts.com/services/mobile-app-development">developing multi-platform applications Flutter</a>.</p>

<h2>Hybrid mobile apps - fully customizable UX design</h2>

<p>UX design involves predicting and planning user&rsquo;s interaction with a website or application. Such actions require creating an intuitive navigation scheme between sections and arranging individual elements in such a way, that they are available when they are needed most.</p>

<p>The main purpose is UX design is to lead the user to the conclusion, that the application is helpful, clear and intuitive. This will make user more willing to return to the app more often. This may result in more positive perception of your brand by customers.</p>

<p>Hybrid mobile apps give UX designers more possibilities in the design process. Thanks to the advanced capabilities of mobile hybrid apps, our UI and UX design specialists can provide you with a complete product that meets your customer&rsquo;s expectations and responds to their needs.</p>

<p>More information about the role of UX in applications can be found in the article: <a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/color-psychology-in-ux-ui-why-are-certain-shades-of-blue-joyful-and-others-depressing">Color psychology in UX and UI</a></p>

<h2>Keeping the user focused is the key</h2>

<p>Hybrid mobile apps allow keeping users focused more than websites do. Websites contain plenty of distractions, which includes pop-up banners and the interface of the browser. With a mobile app, you can decide what type of content will reach to your user and eliminate the unnecessary interactions.<br />
Another important feature of the mobile application is the ability to send push notifications. These are alerts that are shown in the notification bar, usually combined with a vibration or a sound.</p>

<p>You can use push notifications to send messages about a personalized offer to the users or inform them about the progress in completing their order. They can encourage the customer to visit your company&rsquo;s app more often.</p>

<h2>Easy and intuitive content management system</h2>

<p>Hybrid mobile apps offer user-friendly and convenient content management system, so you can easily update the content displayed in your app at any given moment. They allow you to conveniently add or remove products, set up promotions and send push notifications to customers&rsquo; smartphones.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Data analysis - get to know your customers</h2>

<p>Hybrid mobile apps allow you to collect and analyze data related to the user activity in the app. This allows you to better understand your customers&rsquo; needs. Thanks to the advanced analysis, you will learn where users are most likely to quit. This will allow you to eliminate these factors that negatively affect the user experience.</p>

<p>Want to see how we develop hybrid applications in practice? Take a look at our range of services:</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/web-application-development">Web application development</a>,</li>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/mobile-app-development">Mobile application development</a>.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p>Cross-platform application development is the focus of the Flutter SDK. It is simple to create Android, iOS, and Web applications using a single codebase. You will not need to develop platform-specific code for simple projects. You may easily design your application using packages created by community developers.</p>

<p>But what should you do if your app needs a platform-specific code?</p>

<h2>Plugins</h2>

<p>For developers to use and build applications, there are countless plugins available at https://pub.dev/. Since a developer does not need to put in a lot of effort to utilize plugins to their maximum capacity, using them is simple and convenient.</p>

<p>You must include a plugin in the pubspec.yaml file in order to use it in your project, for example:<br />
share_plus: ^4.0.10</p>

<p>Make sure that a problem hasn&#39;t already been solved before you start working on a solution. Avoid creating something entirely new. With the help of the many plugins available on pub.dev, you can connect Bluetooth devices, utilize platform-specific features like sharing content via the share dialog, and more. Look through the available plugins to see if you can find what you require.</p>

<h2>Custom code</h2>

<p>Developers occasionally have to come up with solutions to issues that are either not currently addressed by plugins or call for unique approaches. Developers should use platform channels to add platform-specific implementations when they are necessary.</p>

<p>Messages are sent from the host (platform) to the client (UI) using platform channels. Messages and responses are exchanged asynchronously to keep the user interface responsive. MethodChannel enables client-side message that matches method calls. Platform-specific methods allow for receiving method calls and returning results.</p>

<p>Developers can send and accept values like booleans, integers, and Strings that are simple JSON-like values.</p>

<h2>How to create platform-specific code?</h2>

<p>You need to start by making a basic Flutter application or use a project that you are working on currently. The platform folder for which you want to implement the code should then be entered (/android, /ios/, etc.). For our example, we will use platform-specific code for Android.</p>

<ul>
	<li>Create a variable in the MainActivity.kt file to hold the name of your channel.</li>
	<li>Initiate a MethodChannel then use the setMethodCallHandler function inside the configureFlutterEngine method.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>There, native functionality can be implemented and call method names can be accessed to determine which method should be executed.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Once you&#39;ve obtained the required data, you can send it back by passing the argument to the result.success(data) function.</li>
	<li>You can use native functionality inside your Flutter application after implementing it.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Use the channel name you declared in MainActivity.kt to create MethodChannel.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Get results by using invokeMethod(name) on the MethodChannel that was previously constructed.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The name of the argument should be the same as the name of the platform-specific function that was implemented.</li>
</ul>

<p>The same processes are necessary for Windows and iOS as well as other platforms. For additional details, refer to the guidelines provided at <a href="https://docs.flutter.dev/development/platform-integration/platform-channels">https://docs.flutter.dev/development/platform-integration/platform-channels</a>.</p>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

<p>Developers are not constrained by Flutter&#39;s restrictions because it offers options to integrate native functionalities. PlatformChannels can be used to implement anything that can only be done on iOS or Android for Flutter.</p>

<p>Anything possible on native platforms can be included in the Flutter application.&nbsp;Don&#39;t believe it? Check out the possibilities of the services we offer:</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/web-application-development">Web application development</a>,</li>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/mobile-app-development">Flutter application development</a>.</li>
</ul>

<p>Managed Services is a form of service that has already established itself in many industries - from manufacturing to HR to IT. It owes its growing popularity to several advantages, allowing a secure and flexible approach to the development of individual company segments. Today we will discuss the phenomenon of MSP service and indicate how to make a wise decision to use this type of service.</p>

<h2>What are Managed Services?</h2>

<p>The term &quot;Managed Services&quot; refers to continuously provisioning a given process or service. The term is closely related to the concept of &quot;outsourcing,&quot; which we discussed more extensively in one of our previous posts: <a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/outsourcing-in-it-forms-of-cooperation-and-their-benefits">Outsourcing in IT</a></p>

<p>What exactly does MSP service consist of? A company reaching for this solution entrusts an external company - in our case, a software house - with the ongoing support of a specific process or service. Its scope may include an established creative framework or the entire project; this is defined in a document known as a Service Level Agreement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The goal of MSP service is to maintain the high quality of the product while reducing the effort and controlling the costs associated with its maintenance. It is a kind of fusion of offering technological solutions and new product management techniques. As a result, more and more Polish companies are opting for this model.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The correlation of its growing popularity with pandemic-related changes is quite clear. Analysts from Markets and Markets address this topic, concluding that this period has resulted in permanent changes in the business environment. This means that Managed Services have already become a permanent fixture in our market - and forecasts indicate that the share of this service type will become even more significant.</p>

<h2>Where is the popularity of Managed Services coming from?</h2>

<p>The IT industry is categorized as one of the global services - and these are still largely dominated by the most developed Western countries. Analysts at Precedence Research indicate optimistic forecasts for this branch of the market, which is expected to grow from a CAGR of $280 billion to $727.1 in 2030.</p>

<p>Compared to North American and Western European countries, Poland remains at the stage of popularization of such services. This is a result of the evolution of outsourcing services, which are gaining more and more adherents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Managed Services are a natural consequence of this phenomenon, offering a more advanced form of cooperation between companies. Polish entrepreneurs are increasingly willing to trust external providers of outsourcing services, reaching for increasingly sophisticated solutions of this type.</p>

<h2>Managed Services - when to implement?</h2>

<p>Entrepreneurs reach for MSP service solutions in virtually any situation that requires the support of the company&#39;s IT department. This model has a very broad application that can be implemented at virtually any point in a product&#39;s life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The perfect time to include this service in a project is during the implementation stage of a new IT system. The purpose of Managed Services is to delegate IT to care to the area of the project designated by the customer, which also involves maintaining the software in good condition - so that it is stable and functional.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Managed Services - benefits</h2>

<p>Each company opting for MSP service is characterized by peculiarities unique to it. This is influenced by several factors, including its industry, size, country, or international cross-section of employees.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, based on our experience in the field of IT outsourcing, we can highlight some advantages that are worth taking into account when considering using Managed Services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It all comes down to the nature of the application and your plans for its development or maintenance. Some applications - due to the nature of their functionality - require constant monitoring. For others, you may be planning to enhance them with additional functionality that will improve your business operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In either case, Managed Services are a good idea that bodes well for the future. So let&#39;s address the potential advantages of this solution. What can you count on when you decide to take this step? Well:</p>

<h3>Improved application efficiency...</h3>

<p>... as well as the internal IT department, which can devote its attention to development issues, thereby leaving the maintenance of the technology to an internal company.</p>

<h3>Scalability of resources</h3>

<p>The costs associated with maintaining applications in good condition can be expensive. Managed Services is a solution that will effectively dispose of your financial resources and help you keep your finger on the pulse in an ever-changing business environment.</p>

<h3>Maintaining business continuity</h3>

<p>Reliability is guaranteed to generate several benefits for your business. Aside from the prominent financial aspect, your services are reflected in your customers&#39; perception of your brand. By investing in Managed Services, you ensure the good name of your company and the continuity of the application functions you offer.</p>

<h3>Accurate cost planning</h3>

<p>The terms of cooperation in Managed Services so precisely defined by the provider in the SLA (Service Level Agreement). That means you pay for the service you need - without any unnecessary legal quibbles.</p>

<h2>How to implement Managed Services? 5 questions</h2>

<p>You may have had questions as you read this in connection with the possibility of implementing Managed Services. This may be the signal that pushes you to become more familiar with this topic - because, like any business model, it comes with certain risks and costs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Therefore, let&#39;s ask ourselves some questions and see if they correlate with the issues that came to mind. If they coincide with your thinking, this is an excellent signal to think about incorporating MSP services into the lifecycle of your application project.</p>

<ol>
	<li>Are your company&#39;s IT support costs under control?</li>
	<li>Do you want to optimize the distribution of internal IT maintenance tasks?</li>
	<li>Is there a periodic spike in the need for IT specialists in your company&#39;s life cycle?</li>
	<li>Is the IT system you use demanding in terms of maintenance and service quality monitoring?</li>
	<li>Is it difficult to maintain and requires a specific specialist with unusual competencies?</li>
</ol>

<p>MS Services will allow you to relieve the burden on your internal IT department. In addition, it will allow you to exercise tighter control over finances and human resources related to software implementation and maintenance. Last, but not least, you - as the customer - are also the one to identify critical parameters and, together with the service provider, construct the application suited to your needs.</p>

<p>Also check the cooperation model&nbsp;<a href="https://softnauts.com/blog/software-house-body-leasing-i-team-leasing">Software House body leasing &amp; team leasing</a></p>

<h2>Bet on IT outsourcing and Managed Services</h2>

<p>Managed Services do not represent a revolution in the IT market. However, it is a kind of consequence of the popularity of outsourcing services, which have been present on the market in Western countries for years. The advantages of this solution are undoubtedly prominent enough to make Polish entrepreneurs more and more willing to reach for MSP service and derive tangible benefits from it.</p>

<p>It all comes down to the flexibility of Managed Services. The service is almost tailor-made and can be implemented at virtually any stage of software maintenance. It is a solution that will relieve you of the burden of application functionality and allow you to take care of innovation, development, and the smoothest possible integration of IT systems.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Flexible Managed Services solutions are a source of constant inspiration for us. See how we are collaborating with other companies through <a href="https://softnauts.com/services/it-outsourcing">IT Outsourcing </a>solutions.</p>

<p>It doesn&rsquo;t matter what size your business is, or what market it&rsquo;s on, technologies can help take it to the next level. <a href="https://medium.com/javarevisited/11-essential-skills-to-become-software-developer-in-2020-c617e293e90e">Design and development </a>work demand skills such as:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Analytical skills</li>
	<li>Mastery among various programming languages</li>
	<li>Attention to detail</li>
	<li>Mathematical prowess</li>
	<li>Problem-solving skills</li>
</ul>

<p>At Softnauts, we understand and have all those and more! Based in Krakow, Poland, our company is the best when it comes to mobile web development, software development, and more. We are proud of many things, but for us, our clients come first!</p>

<p>It has come to our attention that we&rsquo;ve been recognized for the prestigious Clutch 2021 Leaders Award.</p>

<p>Clutch is a B2B review and market research site that covers the design, marketing, business services, and IT industries. A <a href="http://clutch.co/app-developers/social">recent report</a> from Clutch found that Softnauts is the top Polish social apps developer.</p>

<p>The fact that Clutch only recognizes the best overwhelms us. It is our honor for us to be celebrated for our works and all our clients&rsquo; satisfaction. To express our gratitude, here is a short statement from our esteemed chief executive officer:</p>

<blockquote>
<p>We are proud to be in Clutch! The award is the fruit of our hard work to earn the trust, happiness, and success of our clients.</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Speaking of clients, of course, we dedicate this recognition to them &mdash; without their amazing collaboration, we will not be able to hold this highly coveted title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aside from the Clutch award, Visual Objects also hailed us as the top web developer on their updated May 2021 agency shortlists. Visual Objects is a portfolio site that clients and services <a href="https://visualobjects.com/pl/software-development/location/krakow">visualize their projects</a> through their research and data-driven content.</p>

<p><strong>Want to finally bring your ideas to life? Let&rsquo;s work together! <a href="https://softnauts.com/contact">Get in touch with us</a>. We&rsquo;re stoked to hear more about you and your business needs.</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let us help your business enter the digital stage. How? See for yourself:</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/web-application-development">Web application development for companies</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/mobile-app-development">Mobile application development for companies</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://softnauts.com/services/it-outsourcing">IT outsourcing</a></li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

Clutch Leaders Award as Top Polish App Developers

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