When was the last time you used your phone to check the day’s temperature? If you’re like most people, chances are you’re already using a weather app to better plan your day. From daily temperature and air quality updates to hyper-local weather information – modern weather apps provide you with a wealth of data.
Most consumers use weather forecasts from these apps to better plan their day and schedule important outdoor activities. But here’s the thing – the utility of weather-related data isn’t just limited to regular consumers.
Every business, irrespective of its size, scale, and niche, can use weather forecasts to optimize business operations and amplify revenue. Whether you’re running a local cafe or a construction firm – reliable weather data can help you protect your organization’s physical and digital assets, as well as human resources.
Does Your Business Depend on the Weather?
It’s a common notion to believe that only businesses in certain industries are susceptible to extreme weather conditions. Traditionally, the weather has affected various industries, such as:
- Agriculture
- Aviation
- Transportation
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Insurance
- Event management
- Outdoor sports
However, in today’s day and age, the weather affects all types of online and offline business. Even if you’re running a local convenience store, seasonal changes in the weather are going to affect your business.
Likewise, if you own an e-commerce store, adverse weather conditions could affect your shipping and delivery schedule. Anticipating these changes in advance will help you notify your customers and modify your shipping policies.
The need for accurate weather forecasts has become particularly crucial because of global climate change. It has resulted in erratic weather patterns and various weather-related catastrophes, including cyclones, hurricanes, forest fires, etc.
Like it or not, changing weather conditions are going to affect your business operation and revenue. The good news is that weather technology has significantly improved from the good old days of television weather forecasts.
Today, you can use a plethora of reliable weather apps and websites that provide you with hyper-accurate data and predictions, as well as intelligent insights. Whether you’re using a site for weather forecast or a mobile app, you’ll get access to plenty of useful data, such as:
- Temperature
- Air quality index
- Visibility index
- Precipitation levels
- Humidity levels
Some weather apps even provide you with information about seasonal allergies, flu outbreaks, and COVID-19 cases in your locality.
Are you still wondering whether your business needs to use a weather app or website? In the following sections, we’ll highlight a few key benefits of using weather data in your day-to-day business operations. Let’s get started.
Improved Business Resilience
Did you know that the global cost of climate disasters escalated to $650 billion between 2016 and 2019? Whether you own a brick and mortar store or an e-commerce business, extreme weather conditions are going to halt routine business operations.
This is where weather data steps into the picture. With accurate weather predictions, you can easily anticipate natural calamities, such as cyclones and tornadoes. This, in turn, will help you outline a disaster management plan in advance.
Also, you’ll get plenty of time to train your employees and help them prepare for adverse weather conditions. This, in turn, will go a long way to help you continue uninterrupted business operations in the face of a weather catastrophe.
For instance, you can provide your employees with the right tools and support to continue working from home until the weather goes back to normal. Moreover, when you have access to reliable weather data, you’ll be better prepared to protect your business assets.
Increased Employee Safety & Productivity
In the event of adverse weather, ensuring the health and safety of your employees should be of the utmost importance. This is particularly crucial for businesses in specific industries, such as aviation, transportation, and construction.
The good news is that you can use weather forecasting apps to notify your employees about adverse weather conditions and impending calamities. You can even send them real-time weather alerts tailored to their geographic location.
Apart from ensuring your employees’ safety, it’ll make them feel valued and cared for. This, in turn, can be instrumental in boosting employee productivity and will, ultimately, positively impact your business operations.
Optimized Marketing Campaigns
Let’s say you’re running a local cafe. Wouldn’t it be great if you could find out exactly when your target customers are likely to crave a cup of hot chocolate? Tracking weather and seasonal changes will help you better understand consumer behavior and correctly time your marketing strategy.
This, in turn, will help you improve the overall ROI of your campaigns. It’s particularly essential when you know your customers’ preferences and purchasing habits vary according to seasonal changes.
Enhanced Revenue
Needless to say, maintaining seamless business operations and optimally timing your marketing campaigns will have a positive impact on your revenue. Also, weather apps and websites help you cut down the cost of damages to your business assets.
Are you using any weather app for your business? Share your experience in the comments section below.
