Build a Mobile App Consumers Will Love

NEW YORK (MainStreet) -- If it hasn't already done so, Apple's(AAPL) iPad 3 should have small-business owners rethinking how they run their businesses to incorporate mobile technology.

Apple is expected to announce its new iPad on Wednesday. With the revealing of what features the tablet will add, now may be the time for business owners to consider launching their own mobile app.

With the imminent revealing of the iPad3, it may be time for business owners to consider launching their own mobile app.

Phil Rampulla, founder of The Material Group, shares features that make for a good app and how to do it without spending a ton of money.

How can you tell a good app from a bad one?

Rampulla: Whether it be apps or social media or rich media, the first thing we always recommend is do the gut check. Make sure that you should be there -- you should have an app.

Second, what is it the app is going to do? Functionality needs to be of the utmost importance, and how is this app going to make the user's life better? Consumers will embrace the brand, but it has to do something for them.

For example, an auto insurance company. How do I sell my auto insurance? It might not be that the app itself sells more auto insurance but provides better driving instructions or is a full tool that goes along with their auto insurance. It's those kinds of things that help customers embrace the brand and have these tools at their disposal.

What are some good examples of apps?

Rampulla: Good apps fully embrace using those tools as devices.

Lose It: It is really well done and actually motivates you and encourages you to eat healthier by educating you on food.

Mint.com: You plug in all of your financial data and it identifies better opportunities for you.