The world is undergoing a significant transformation, and now is the perfect time to seize the opportunity and create your own delivery app.
With physical shopping restrictions in place, local businesses were in dire need of support. Grocery stores and restaurants used to transition to online platforms to survive. Some restaurants are quickly launching their own delivery services, while others are resorting to existing delivery apps like GrubHub, Instacart, and Postmates, albeit with associated fees.
Furthermore, the gig economy is gaining prominence as a vital source of employment for furloughed workers. Delivery drivers, warehouse staff, and logistics employees, such as truck drivers, are now seen in a new light.
Delivery services are more essential than ever, particularly for providing essential goods. This is the opportune moment to revamp your existing shop with a fresh delivery app or embark on a completely innovative delivery marketplace. Local food delivery companies have already sprung into action, with delivery drivers reporting increased hours despite the economic downturn. A delivery app can not only help struggling businesses sell excess inventory but also provide job opportunities for the unemployed. The world needs your delivery app now.
So, how can you ensure the success of your delivery app venture?
- Differentiate and carve out your niche: In these challenging times, it's crucial to address the specific needs of both individuals and businesses. Opportunities to create positive change and meet market demands are abundant. To stand out, consider focusing on a niche customer base. You can cater exclusively to your local community, offer unique products, or incorporate cutting-edge features. Alternatively, build a devoted community by aligning your mission with a transformative purpose. Untappd, for example, supports struggling breweries by delivering beer to customers stuck at home, while Facedrive disrupts the ride-sharing industry by allowing users to choose eco-friendly vehicles, promoting environmental sustainability and eliciting an emotional response.
- Prioritize the well-being of your gig workers: Remember to prioritize the satisfaction of your gig workers. Around the world, gig workers are advocating for their rights, striving for fair compensation and job security. To ensure their contentment and loyalty, provide them with the necessary resources. It may be wise to start small rather than attempting global coverage on your app's launch day. Begin with a manageable scope and expand gradually as sales and capital increase.
- Invest in robust software: The foundation of a successful delivery app lies in robust technology and a well-designed marketplace. You should consider making technology your differentiating factor rather than relying solely on marketing. Your delivery software should be capable of handling unlimited drivers and vendors, with scalability to accommodate your company's growth. It should also be customizable, allowing you to integrate new features as technology advances and consumer behaviors evolve.
- Build a delivery app that grows with your business: If your delivery app concept is relatively straightforward, an off-the-shelf solution might suffice. However, if you aspire to create a unique delivery marketplace, a custom-built enterprise delivery platform is essential. Your business logic, which operates behind the scenes, is crucial to the app's seamless functioning. For managing multiple independent stores or restaurants, robust multi-vendor capabilities are necessary. Each vendor should have the ability to easily manage orders, products, and menus. As the administrator, you need efficient vendor management tools at your disposal. Additionally, effective driver management is key. You can opt for traditional dispatching methods or allow drivers to pick up nearby orders. Equipping delivery drivers with their own app enables them to claim deliveries, handle orders and payments, and mark orders as complete while on the move.
By following these strategies and considerations, you can create a successful delivery app that meets the needs of businesses, gig workers, and customers alike. The world is ready for your innovative solution.
