MobileSmith Files IPO Prospectus: No-Code Platform Empowers Healthcare Organizations to Build Custom Apps
How to Build an App Without Coding or Programming Skills? No worries. Today, numerous technology companies both in China and abroad can transform individuals with little technical knowledge into tech-savvy users, enabling them to easily generate customized apps while significantly reducing corporate expenditures. Headquartered in North Carolina, USA, MobileSmith is an industry-leading company. Founded in 1993, it evolved into an innovative app development platform in 2010. It helps clients accelerate the app development process by leveraging cutting-edge mobile technologies, allowing businesses to rapidly create, deploy, and manage their own apps.
MobileSmith’s development scope encompasses iOS and Android systems for smartphones and tablets. Its open-source code enables even non-programmers to get started with ease, allowing it to provide diverse mobile solutions for healthcare enterprises, government agencies, and other organizations. The platform’s open-source model also welcomes mobile app development enthusiasts, aiming to collaborate with distinguished professionals to jointly shape the future of mobile applications.
Brand-New MobileSmith 4.0 Version
The MobileSmith platform has been upgraded to version 4.0, featuring robust capabilities that enable apps to connect seamlessly with its proprietary REST services and OAuth 2.0 authentication. With an aesthetically pleasing interface, the platform delivers an exceptional user experience. Its key advantage lies in the ability to link any data resource to RESTful services within minutes, integrate user security authentication via OAuth, and develop powerful enterprise-grade applications within days, all while allowing for flexible adjustments to meet evolving business needs.
Key Features of the Newly Launched MobileSmith 4.0 Platform:
1 On-demand, simple and fast REST API integration
REST services enable apps to connect to any data source within minutes; by using JSON, which conforms to mobile industry standards, data can be exchanged on demand between backend systems and app interfaces. With REST services, legacy data can be easily and flexibly imported into internal or front-end systems, establishing comprehensive and seamless connectivity between customers and employees.
2 Easy Access to App Interfaces with OAuth 2.0 User Authentication
OAuth enables users to leverage existing authentication services within mobile apps. By eliminating the need for cumbersome re-authentication in each app, users can log in via social media or other portals. This approach not only ensures data security but also facilitates rapid integration of local data with enterprise systems.
3. Provide a rapidly improving user interface for app development
The goal is to enable non-programmers to fully adapt to feature-rich apps on the platform, covering both iOS and Android systems. The workflow and user interface design have been updated to enhance app navigation within the canvas and introduce other intuitive features.
MobileSmith’s robust capabilities have long earned a strong reputation in the industry, garnering repeated media coverage. For instance, in October, it partnered with Kansas Athletics to develop an educational nutrition app for student-athletes, enabling them to easily look up and select appropriate dietary options, ultimately enhancing their physical fitness and on-field performance.
Additionally, Integra Service Connect reported that the iConnect app, developed by MobileSmith, increased employee efficiency by more than two-fold. The app enables secure user login and generates daily patient check-in lists, allowing for the stratification of patient data by location and demographics, as well as data retrieval and modification. Ultimately, the time employees spent on data entry and editing was reduced by nearly half compared to previous workflows.
On October 5, 2015, MobileSmith was named a finalist for the Most Innovative Company award by the North Carolina Technology Association (NC Tech), receiving nominations in two categories: the Industry Advancement Company Award and the New Media Company Award. Since 2013, its user-facing app has accumulated a total of 18 distinct mHealth awards.
The naming of MobileSmith carries profound significance, with each letter representing a different meaning:
Which Apps Does MobileSmith Generate?
What Exactly Is MobileSmith’s Product Workflow? First and foremost, anyone with one or several app ideas can generate apps for iPads or smartphones without writing a single line of code. Users maintain full control over the app development process; after submitting an app development request, the app becomes available on app stores within a few weeks.
After generating the app, the platform also features seamless integration with other apps and data sources. Since apps require content updates and sustained interactivity, MobileSmith offers flexible app data integration capabilities that reliably publish data content without compromising performance:
1. Direct XML integration
Scope of Application: Content that is dynamically updated and frequently changes, such as news feeds, inventory, and work orders. In most cases, this integration does not require bidirectional communication, although the platform supports it.
Data flows are established directly between the backend system servers and mobile devices, bypassing the MobileSmith server. MobileSmith provides a simple set of instructions to help users transmit XML-formatted data required by the app. During app configuration, AppBlock interfaces with the user’s system via a fixed URL link to directly extract data from the backend server. AppBlock serves as a customized carrier that imports data directly into mobile devices for display on the front-end interface, all tailored to meet specific user requirements.
2 API-Based Integration
Applicable Scope: Static or infrequently updated content. For example, store locations, employee lists, catalogs, etc.
MobileSmith provides secure and reliable SOAP/REST connectors to web-based or legacy systems. Leveraging the MobileSmith platform, its modular adapters utilize existing APIs to rapidly access data and transform it into XML format. Users can configure the MobileSmith Content Management System (CMS) to automatically refresh data at specified intervals (e.g., daily, weekly) or manually refresh content within MobileSmith AppOffice™ (the cloud-based CMS) as needed.
MobileSmith provides tailored solutions for various industries:
For the healthcare industry:
1. Launch advanced mobile solutions to promote the brand while serving patients;
2. Rapidly customize pre-built apps and quickly launch them;
3. Leverage a technically proficient UI design team to rapidly modify prototype app templates;
4. Use a secure, role-based CMS to manage all applications and content, and push notifications.
For Government Agencies:
1. Designed with humanity and inclusivity in mind for all citizens, compatible with all iPhone, iPad, and Android smartphones;
2 Enable employees to seamlessly integrate critical task systems;
3. Launch and manage cloud security for all mobile solutions;
4. Implement a reliable user authentication scheme.
For conference and event categories:
1. Fast startup, cost savings, and a superior user experience;
2. Customized client APP to promote private labels and convey unique value;
3. Help participants track the day’s event schedule, find their way, and facilitate networking;
4 is a decentralized, cost-effective, multi-functional app;
5. Ideal for cloning and reuse, with no programming required.
Specifically, MobileSmith offers a wide variety of apps, with diverse versions available for users to choose from.
Category 1: Medical Apps
1 Emergency APP
Key Feature: Dynamic Wait Time Updates—Scheduling Multiple Emergency Department Slots to Linearize Wait Times
Finding the Nearest Emergency Center—Location-Based Search on Mobile Devices
Contact Information and Directions – One-Click Display of All Property Locations: Maps, Directions, Contacts, Insurance Information, etc.
News and Information—Extending Brand Reach to Patient Communities
Push Notifications – Delivering Important Announcements and Health Tips via the App
2 Wayfinding App
Key Features: Geofencing—Pushes useful information and map entries, such as parking lots.
Information Signage—Utilizing Bluetooth Information Signage to Provide Indoor Reminders and Warnings
2D and 3D Maps—Pop-up maps displaying the user's geographic location and directions to major landmarks
Location-Based Alerts—Any information regarding promotions, vaccinations, or other important updates
Quick Contact—Install the Wayfinding APP to establish timely connections via GPS, phone calls, etc.
3 Pregnancy and Childbirth App
Key Feature: Pregnancy Tracking Curve — Monitor fetal development with weekly tips and animations
Labor and Delivery — Comprehensive Childbirth Guidance with Contraction Timer
Postpartum Care – Healthcare and Health Guidance for New Mothers
Newborn Care – Everything You Need to Know About Caring for Your Newborn Baby
4 Hospital App
Key Features: Comprehensive Information—Maps and Directions, Insurance, Phone Numbers, and Calling Function
Service — Directly contact service teams and experts via email and calling features
Virtual Guidance – 360° Room Overview, Including Interactive Medical Devices and Maps, Demonstrating Surgical Procedures and Patient Guidance
Emergency Department Wait Times — Linearized Dynamic Wait Times
Interactive Applications—Enabling Patients to Engage with Streaming Media and Other Social Features
5 Outpatient Treatment/Cancer Care APP
Key Features: Treatment Tracking — Pain and Treatment Monitoring, Progress Analysis
Medical Team – Select and Save Customized Medical Care Team Compositions
Patient Network – Share stories, ask questions, and offer support to other cancer patients and peer support groups
Experimental Results—Securely Input Information to Receive Experimental Results
Virtual Wig Gallery—Upload a photo to try on different wigs tailored to your face shape and more
6 Physician Reference Tool Apps
Key Feature: Physician Information – One-click access to physician profiles, including photos, certifications, and publications.
Address & Directions – Easily Find Addresses or Locate Healthcare Facilities and Hospitals
Doctor Search – Search for doctors by zip code, gender, medical specialty, insurance provider, and other criteria
Request Appointment – Submit Appointment Request from Doctor Profile
7 Health App
Key Feature: Health Tracker — Personalized date settings, specific goal determination, and daily progress tracking
Group Practice Schedule—Daily and Weekly Class Times,
Health Reward Points—Redeem points to select items and services from professional stores
Directional and Panoramic Browsing – One-Click View of Surrounding Panorama
Health Tips—Develop content on diet and lifestyle to educate and motivate your patients
8 Medication Tracking App
Key Features: Dosage Monitoring and Intervals—Enter Information and Upload Photos to Track Medication Adherence
Medication and Appointment Reminders – Set Up Automatic Alerts in the App
Dietary and Eating Habit Record — Interactive Tracking Map
Emotion Tracking—Record Your Medication Responses and Track Improvements in Adherence
Category 2: Wayfinding Apps
Features: Enables enterprises to rapidly source cost-effective apps that deliver location-based information and services, facilitating indoor and outdoor navigation, reverse parking assistance, check-in procedures, and more. By alleviating user burden and integrating personalized services, it enhances customer experience and strengthens brand presence within the app through the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies.
How is the Xunlu APP operated?
MobileSmith has partnered with Gimbal, a market leader in beacon and geofencing technologies, to integrate their solutions into MobileSmith’s app development platform. With these cutting-edge tools, users can:
1 Deploy personalized beacons and map geofences
2. Easily customize information and push the app to users in specific geographic locations
3. Push notifications to specific application pages: maps, parking instructions, check-in services, and tracking of the duration visitors and staff spend at various geographic locations, including relevant announcements, special offers, etc.
4. Rapidly prototype the app and test it on real devices
5. The ability to add pathfinding and nearby facility search functionality can be integrated into any app, regardless of its category.
Category 3: Government Agency Apps
1. App for Citizens
Provide comprehensive information and news in a structured format to facilitate timely updates within the content management system;
Connection with Institutions – Enabling Convenient Connectivity and Feedback Mechanisms;
Gallery and Video — Upload media to create an interactive virtual gallery;
Maps, GPS, and cameras—leverage the advanced capabilities of all devices using local app modules;
Social Media Plugins – Connecting the Public Through Social Channels;
Geofencing and Beacons – Delivering state-of-the-art proximity-based information search;
2 App for Civil Servants
Provide secure real-time access via mobile devices;
Enable interactive functionality between different devices;
Secure remote interaction between mobile data and internal data;
Enable customizable alerts for signals and various events;
Timely dissemination of intelligence to enable government decision-making anytime, anywhere;
Update data in real time for new intelligence;
Geographic Location: Assists out-of-region entities in navigating unfamiliar domains, addressing real-time security mapping issues and data coverage.
Implement a reliable user authentication scheme in the app;
Category 4: Project Activity Apps
Implemented features are as follows:
Publish event schedules and send instant notifications;
Upload List: Streamlined Content;
Interactive room map, featuring speakers and sponsors;
Including attendee registration;
Enable content interaction;
Integrated Environmental Management System;
Publish an interactive photo gallery;
Encourage social sharing among users, including contests and rewards;
APP videos are characterized by features;
MobileSmith’s services include providing world-class consulting to help users map out product roadmaps and build a successful future in mobile health. The company primarily follows a five-step standard methodology to meet customization requirements. This process begins with understanding the enterprise’s specific objectives and concludes with successful strategic planning, covering: business objectives (what the app aims to achieve), target audience (who will download the app), estimated time and cost for app development, app strategy (positioning the app as part of the future product portfolio), and key tactics (secrets to enhancing user engagement).
Additionally, Mobilesmith has established its own streamlined system encompassing the entire process from app generation to market sales:
Creative Concept — Personalized Customization — Integrated Data and Security — Testing and Deployment Phase — App Management
App Store Optimization — Helping with User Recommendations — Optimizing Peripheral and Ancillary Products — Promoting in Design Media.
Examples of apps generated by MobileSmith are as follows:
All generated apps are as follows:
MobileSmith's Market Competitiveness
According to publicly available information, MobileSmith’s annual profits have been rising significantly. A comparison of its revenue for the fourth quarter of 2014 and the first and second quarters of 2015 is as follows:
The main competitors in the industry are KonyOne and Capriza. Although both companies have more employees than MobileSmith, their annual profits have not surpassed those of MobileSmith, which has only 27 employees. Therefore, MobileSmith’s high return on investment and its employees’ high efficiency constitute its greatest competitive advantage.
MobileSmith has also distilled several golden rules to guide users in avoiding the creation of useless “zombie apps”:
The so-called “zombie apps” are those ranked third or fourth in app store charts. A survey indicates that nearly 83% of these apps are stagnant, meaning they receive little to no user engagement. Therefore, adopting a flexible development strategy is crucial. The following are key measures to ensure apps remain active:
Four Key Principles——
1. Decentralization: This means that anyone can participate in app design. Unlike outsourcing app development, any project manager, graphic designer, sales representative, or even the chief financial officer within the company can generate innovative ideas and control the entire production process.
2. Rapid and Effortless Development Process: Leverage the no-code MobileSmith development workflow to generate apps in just 3–5 days. Eliminate the need for additional expenditure on hiring developers. Apps can be edited directly and easily on the platform.
3. No Compromises: Users do not want to compromise on functionality. For enterprises, pushing messages to users is critical. By leveraging the OAuth authentication system, authorized users can easily log in to custom-designed applications.
4. High cost-effectiveness: Saves businesses the cost of hiring developers.
For example—
1. Dictionary-style – If you are tired of searching for information for your team and clients, use REST services to quickly retrieve data from any source on demand and display it in your own app.
2. Wayfinding - Beacon technology is suitable for large buildings or landmarks, so it is very helpful for outdoor wayfinding and can even locate fences.
3. Appointment Reminders – Appointment reminders are the most suitable feature for engaging customers and making them aware of their scheduled appointments.
Three Major Steps to Acquire and Develop Your Exclusive Application——
1. Select a case study or app idea.
2. Once a basic app model is established, the next step is to refine and enhance its performance. Additional features can be incorporated, such as navigation, hospital services, event management, or enterprise internal-use modules.
3 Start the design. Begin by drawing a simple wireframe sketch; buttons can be placed anywhere on the screen, without being constrained by templates.
Therefore, the benefits of using MobileSmith include its exceptional flexibility, instant push notifications for reminders or alerts, and the ability to create fully customized native mobile applications.
Excellent companies naturally boast exceptional leaders, and Amir Elbaz serves as the company’s CEO. Amir joined the board of directors in January 2010 and became Chairman in November 2012. In April 2013, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MobileSmith. With extensive experience in managing technology companies, Amir excels at leveraging his professional expertise during critical periods to introduce innovative concepts and products into the organization.
In 2005, Amir advised the company on its corporate strategy, business restructuring, and development. Throughout his career, he has held positions including Chief Financial Officer (CFO), as well as roles in marketing and business development. Prior to transitioning into management roles, Amir worked at investment funds in the United States and Europe, focusing on investments in the high-tech sector. Amir holds a bachelor’s degree and an MBA in Finance and Investment. Despite holding numerous professional positions, he enjoys running and sports, traveling with his family to exotic destinations, and building bridges and connections among business professionals worldwide.
Bob Dieterle serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the company and is the Chief Innovator of the MobileSmith platform. Bob believes it is essential to provide enterprises with mobile solutions that enable ideas to be rapidly and conveniently transformed into personalized apps. He brings over 20 years of experience from his tenure at IBM and Lenovo to MobileSmith, establishing himself as a global thought leader in the commercial adoption of emerging technologies at both user and enterprise levels. Bob holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from North Carolina State University and an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.
So, which companies in China offer similar functionalities? VCBeat has compiled a preliminary list; these platforms all provide convenient, user-friendly, no-code APP generation tools.