Choosing between a white label event app and a container app is one of the first major logistical decisions when setting up an event app. Don’t let it become a sticking point. Both have their own strengths and weaknesses, so use your event’s priorities to nguide the decision. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a white label event app?
White label event apps are custom designed at a company’s request. They are entirely customizable; anything the developer can put in an app can be integrated into a white label event app. That’s a bonus when it comes to monetization, since there are more ways for event sponsors to be seen within the app.
Branding is another advantage of white label event apps. Everything from the app icon to interior design and colors is on brand. There are no competing visuals to pull attendees’ attention from the event. Customers simply search for the event by name, download the app, and are within the event when they register.
Customization and brand visibility do come with a higher price tag than container apps. The other drawback is that Apple requires every company to have their own Apple Developer Program (ADP) account to publish in the Apple Store. That means a six week wait if your company doesn’t already have one.
How is a container app different?
Container apps are housed within an event hosting app. Imagine a single umbrella app that hosts multiple events under it. Instead of going directly to your event in the app store, users download the host app, then search a list of events to find yours.
Costs are lower with a container app because some of the structure is already in place. Plus, you can expect faster development (in part because the app is being published under the host’s ADP account).
Because a container app opens within the host app, there is a tradeoff when it comes to branding. Generally the interior event will have your branding while the app icon and external areas (like login screen and event search functions) show the host’s brand. There are still plenty of customization options, though what’s available depends on the host.
That loss of control is the main drawback of container apps. They’re less expensive and faster to build, but at the cost of less branding and monetization opportunities. Sometimes it’s also a concern that a container app’s performance and availability is dependent on the host.
 Making the call
A lot of factors play into this decision, but it essentially boils down to two questions:
- What’s your budget like?Â
- How important are brand presence and customization?
If a white label app is in the budget, it does provide a high quality experience. The brand is front and center, you have plenty of options for sponsor advertising or special features, and you have more control over the app in general.Â
Intense brand awareness and detailed control aren’t always priorities, though. Sometimes your audience is already very familiar with your brand and your event needs are simple. If that’s your situation, container apps are a fast, budget-friendly option that still delivers good customer experience.
Still not sure what you need? FanHero offers both white label event apps and container apps. Our focus is always on your business goals instead of steering you towards a specific product. Tell us where you want the event to take you, and we’ll help you get there!
