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LOS ANGELES— There is a growing number ofapplications that can be downloaded ontomobile devices that offer a wide range of on-demand services to make life more convenient.From finding a ride, to getting an in-homemassage, just one button on a phone can makeit all happen. Los Angeles is the home to many of the companies developing on-demand apps.
Samuel Davis came to Los Angeles for a shot at showbiz. When he’s not on stage, he’s in histruck.
“I’m really into improv and comedy and acting whatnot, so whenever I’m not doing that I wantto try and make some extra money in my spare time," said Davis.
The extra money comes from being a driver for a business called Buddytruk. It’s a mobileapplication that connects a user to a local driver or “buddy” who owns a truck nearby to helpthe user move something. On average, the truck will be at the designated location in less thanhalf an hour, says founder Brian Foley.
“We’ve grown over 1000% year to date. 2000% since we launched so we’re really excited," saidFoley.
Buddytruk is one of a growing number of mobile apps that offer on-demand services. Theyrange from ride-sharing services and food deliveries to home massages, like Soothe. After itsinception in 2013, the massage company spread to 13 cities in less than 12 months.
“I think it’s about accessibility and the ability to get something and be instantly gratified. Uberkind of set the trend in that direction and it’s become the new expected norm," said Kauffman.
“You press a button and the money is taken care of. The transportation is taken care of, andthe delivery is taken care of and then an hour later, less than an hour, you receive whateveryou want," said Hammond.
Technology management expert Terry Kramer says globally more people have smart phonesthan ever before.
“We’re in this perfect storm for this dramatic growth in on-demand apps," said Kramer.
He says people be more willing to share information for services, along with new technologiesdeveloped for mobile apps make on-demand services possible.
While the industry is still in its early stages, Kramer says on-demand apps are disruptingbusiness for traditional brick and mortar stores. He predicts two possible outcomes.
“There’s a clever way to incorporate these offerings into more traditional offerings. Thesecond one can be disaster, which is brick and mortar can eventually go away," he said.
Entrepreneurs say mobile apps offering on demand services will continue to provide morechoices for consumers, giving people more time to do what they want.
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