In 2011, the number of smartphones sold exceeded the number of PCs sold. With the internet, email, and apps right in their pockets, people access the world from the palms of their hands. That’s why cities, parks and recreation departments, and other community organizations have built mobile apps to connect with visitors and customers and inspire activity. Here are five more mobile apps that inspire activity - from historical sites to parks and even pocket trainers. Check out these five apps when considering launching a mobile strategy for your own organization:
1. ArcGIS
This app allows users to discover and use maps on their phones. People can interactively search and find information in the area, measure distances, attach photos and movies, and share maps with others. If you have parks and facilities around town or a campus full of offerings, mobile maps could be an important piece to your mobile strategy. Check out this app to get some ideas.
2. My Parx
My Parx allows users to find and explore local, state, and national parks around the world. New parks are added all the time and users can make suggestions about new places to include. Park agencies can submit information, audio, video and picture tours to interactive maps that highlight their parks. If you manage a park, consider adding your park to this app.
3. Civil War Trust Battle Apps
The Civil War Trust has a number of mobile apps dedicated to battle sites of the Civil War. Each app offers a way for visitors/users tour the site with integrated maps, GPS, virtual signs, photos, facts, quizzes and more. If you manage historical sites, take a look at these apps for ideas and design inspiration.
4. YMCA of the Triangle
This YMCA network in North Carolina manages a number of facilities around the Raleigh and Durham areas. The mobile app is free and allows people to search for exercise schedules, read program information, find locations, and get updates about closings, etc.
5. Ocean City MD
Ocean City, Maryland offers an all-encompassing mobile application for citizens and visitors. Users can search for things to do around town from the beach to restaurants and daily/nightly events. On top of that, local deals can be viewed and purchased on the app.
Mobile is becoming more important for all types of organizations. Have you considered creating a mobile app or a mobile version of your website? Here's a place to start: check your website statistics to see what percentage of your visitors are viewing your site from their phones. How does your site look on the iPhone?
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