Is there an app for that?

Cell phones have come a long way; remember your first one? It probably wasn't laden with calendars, apps and multiple cameras. These days, we live by our smart phones. From scheduling our day to checking email and social media sites, no one leaves home without their phones.

This year, the Minnesota State Fair released its own app where attendees could search nearby food venues, activities and other fair events. Small businesses utilize apps to track accounting and finances. And we all know about the Angry Birds obsession, right?

If you've ever thought about creating an app for your own business (or just for fun), here are some resources to start the process:

• Think about what kind of app your users and consumers could benefit from. Some kind of sign-up service? A game that uses unique characters from your business? A money-saver calculator or price comparison? Ask around and see what customers want. There are so many times I hear, "Man, there should be an app for that." Take advantage of that when you hear it.
• Utilize a do-it-yourself service such as App Makr or Free Android App Maker. Just register for an account through any of these (typically, free) online services and you can start creating your own basic, custom app.
• Hire an app developer. You can do a simple Google search for app developers in the area or talk to others who have hired out app development. A few to get you started are DoApp Inc and CodeMorphic.

Lastly, Kim Komando of The Kim Komando Show also had the following tips for app creation in a recent USA Today post:

"Be careful when using development services that distribute apps for you. This makes it easier to get your app out there. However, it also means you don't control your app.

Make sure you can download the app's source code. You want it in your possession in case something happens to the service."

Now could be the time to add mobile marketing and app development to your communication plan. Take some time to do some app brainstorming. Think about the apps you use on a regular basis or things that you wish you could simplify for your own customers. Have fun with it and be creative!

Melissa Harrison is principal at Allée, a strategic communications consulting and design firm. Reach her by email or check out Allée's Facebook page for more business marketing tips and tricks.