Key Features of an Effective Employee Mobile App

Function as the launching pad or one-stop-shop for all company resources.

Resources such as payroll, ben admin and learning management systems; 401(k), FSA/HSA and benefit carrier portals; and other programs such as telemedicine and disease management solutions. This reduces the number of apps employees must remember to use, and increases utilization of your company app. According to a 2021 study by Sapient Insights Group, the number of HR solutions the average organization uses is more than 16.¹

Act as the omni-channel source of all company news.

Workforce composition continues to shift towards generations accustomed to receiving communications on their phones via text, social media, and push notifications rather than email.  According to data from Statista, 70% of Gen Zers regularly consume news via social media.²  As a result, it is critical that the mobile app selected includes interactive features such as social media styled messaging boards to improve utilization. Choosing a solution that is omni-channel (computer, tablet, mobile phone, etc) is essential in making your app effective as the primary source of communication, regardless of employee demographics.

Promote employee recognition, appreciation, and wellness.

According to a survey by StudyFinds, 63% of workers feel unappreciated, 46% have left a job because they felt unappreciated, and 65% admit they’d work harder if they felt appreciated on a daily basis.³  Therefore, incorporating employee recognition and appreciation into your employee app is a critical aspect of improving employee morale and productivity. Additionally, apps with features such as wellness and healthy eating challenges provide ways to improve employee engagement and company culture.

Deliver automated and targeted communications.

The ability to send messages to specific groups of employees helps prevent app fatigue and improves read rates. Automated messages that celebrate life events such as birthdays and anniversaries improve employee retention. According to a survey by Workhuman, 43% of employees are more likely to be highly engaged if their organization celebrates life events.⁴

Provide analytics.

This feature is crucial in gauging the effectiveness of your communication strategy and facilitates the ability to make strategic adjustments.