WhatsApp being the most used application nowadays, whether for personal communication or for business. Below are few of the most important pros and cons that you should know before deciding to use WhatsApp Business. 

As we know that WhatsApp recently announced about latest updates in its privacy policy. This news has raised so many questions about the privacy of user data and how the platform is going to use it which led to people to consider other communication options such as Signal and Telegram.  

Why consider WhatsApp Business? 

• Popularity 

WhatsApp is one of the well-established platforms that has over 2 billion active users and around 50 million users on its Business account. Considering the popularity of WhatsApp, it’s a plus point for all businesses who are considering choosing WhatsApp Business, as your users are already familiar with this platform. Hence, it will save a lot of time and will give hassle free experience to your users. 

• User friendly interface 

WhatsApp Business also have user friendly interface just like the normal WhatsApp which menas that it will be a lot easier to handle it. Apart from this, the platform is intuitive, which means fewer mishaps for your business.  

• Virtual phone number 

Android and iPhone allow you to use WhatsApp Business with a virtual number; ideally for those who have concerns while sharing their number with WhatsApp.  

• Free 

Considering WhatsApp’s global reach, it is a little surprising that both WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business are still free. Even though it also offers additional features such as voice recordings and video calls. 

Why should you think twice before using WhatsApp Business? 

• Security and privacy concerns 

Many companies across the world are using WhatsApp Business even though there are several restrictions, responsibilities and risks involved, especially for larger organizations because of privacy regulations or other regulatory requirements in their specific industry. 

Especially with its recent update now you’ll agree to the terms that your information will be shared across Facebook, “not possible to opt out of these data practices.”  

• You cannot use WhatsApp Business in regulated industries 

According to WhatsApp Business’ Terms of Service “we make no representations or warranties that our Business Services meet the needs of entities regulated by laws and regulations with heightened confidentiality requirements for personal data, such as healthcare, financial, or legal service entities.” 

• WhatsApp Business cannot be used within or across organizations 

WhatsApp Business can only be used as a potential sales tool or as a medium of communication between a business and its customers.  

• A lack of work/life divide 

Now we have all learned to work remotely, the work/life balance is a real struggle without a daily commute and change of scenery to help us have a balance in our lives. Communications channels don’t offer this, and any one given business might use multiple mediums such as phone calls, email, Slack, video call, and WhatsApp to communicate between teams.  

Now it feels like the perfect time for messaging apps to lead by example and offer communication mediums that caters to user’s privacy concerns and are eager to provide accountable solutions, in policy and in practice.