We all known that mobile use has been exploding and the world is going mobile. With the rising number of web-enabled mobile devices hitting the market, there has been a roaring increase in the population who access the internet through mobiles. 

Implications of Mobile Growth

• Mobile is growing faster than the internet did, with more internet users on mobile than desktop in LESS THAN 5 years.

• That's where people expect you to be!

• It's changing the desires and expectations of your audience

• It's changing where, when and how often your audience wants to connect with you

• 81% browse the Internet on their smartphone

• Mobile users are 67% more likely to promote you, your message and brand from their mobile web device than their desktop. 

For Auto Dealers the mobile platform is the biggest opportunity. In today's Mobile World, customers are turning to mobile technologies and smartphones instead of PCs. Auto dealers and groups must first create a mobile website. That is the foundation of your mobile strategy. Google says mobile search is growing - so having a mobile optimized website is critical. Apart from answering all the basic questions users might have - Directions, Timings, Contact Information, Deals, etc auto dealerships must integrate their inventory to the mobile website. Customers must have all the dealer inventory in the palm of their hands.

The second step is Mobile Apps. Mobile apps are everywhere today and this presents a powerful engagement and connection strategy. Let us look at a Mobile App case study to drive home the message .

Take a look at "Sunridge Nissan Case Study"

Source: http://sunridgenissan.com/section/secondary/Mobile_Applications

Sunridge Nissan is a Nissan Dealer, Serving the Calgary area including Airdrie, Chestermere and Okotoks in Alberta, Canada. They are able to meet all customer needs and offer a full range of services: New, Used, Finance, In-house Leasing, Parts, and Service. Sunridge Nissan utilizes social networking and other new media to make it as easy as possible for their customers to find the information they are looking for and to connect with them. "Sunridge Nissan is using the power of mobile apps to connect and serve customers on the go."

Here are some things Sunridge Nissan app does 

• All the apps feature a full vehicle inventory integration. 

• You will be able to browse or search our entire inventory without ever seeing a slow mobile website and save the ones you like as a favourite!

• Check out the Post board for new messages, coupons, and specials straight from us to your mobile device! You can even reply to these messages directly. 

• Keep track of all your own personal vehicles in My Garage section. 

• A service history is also available for each vehicle in My Garage. 

• The Toolkit contains very useful tools for you to use every day, which includes: calling roadside assistance, one-touch service scheduling, finding local gas prices, parking assistance with GPS locator and metre timer, and a flashlight. 

• Our Twitter feed and Facebook wall is parsed right onto the application, making it super easy and convenient to check out what we are talking about. 

• One touch Service Appointment Scheduling! 

• See our Links section for Local Gas Prices 

• Call any department or GM roadside assistance with the touch of a button 

• Find directions using the built in Maps Application (with GPS on your phone) 

• Find info for each department, including hours, phone #'s and special deals 

• 'Get a Quote' on a New or Pre-Owned vehicle 

• Request a 'Service Appointment' through the Service department 

• 'Order a Part' through Parts department

Now, not only Sunridge Nissan but also other big brands are using mobile apps. 

Clearly the mobile channel offers a competitive advantage and the possibilities are unlimited. In addition to a seamless experience across all channels– serving mobile customers anywhere and anytime is important.