Consumers are spending more time on mobile devices than ever before.  Much of that mobile use is in apps.  ComScore reports that 77% of all time spent on digital media is now spent on smartphone and tablet apps and its use is growing at almost twice the rate of overall digital media growth at 90% since 2013.

Yet local businesses looking to get in front of consumers will find it difficult to get substantial return from a standalone app dedicated to the business.  Users of apps spend virtually all their time on a relatively small number of the most popular applications.

Fortunately, many of the top used apps accommodate ways that local businesses can utilize to communicate with and reach out to users.  For example, directory apps such as YP, GrubHub, and Yellowbook incorporate ecommerce functions such as reservations, bookings and directions that local businesses must adapt to take full advantage of those listings.

Using data from ComScore, in my Search Engine Land column this month I take a look at some of the most used apps on which local businesses can establish a presence and ways that they can take advantage of consumer time spent on them to engage with customers and generate leads for new business.

Check out my article to see which apps are best for local businesses and for some tips on how to leverage them to help drive business.