What Is A PWA? (Progressive Web Application)

With the increasing advancements in technology, web application developers are putting more and more emphasis on user interaction. App users want everything packed handy and in place right from the time they interact and use to the time they leave a website regardless of the device they use.

This means app developers must accommodate the needs of their target app users. This is what precisely what prompted Google in late 2015 to go public and come up with a new approach in app development.

They announced a move from traditionally limited functionality and locked-platform mentality that was rampant in the industry. They came up with a new trick popularly known as Progressive Web App.

What Is A Progressive Web Application?

A Progressive Web Application is a web-based app that utilizes modern Internet functionalities to provide an exclusive user experience. It is a concept that promises an entirely new experience by combining great web qualities with various native apps.

Initially, the mobile web used to be the trending term that promised better internet browsing for mobile users. The challenge, however, was that it didn’t involve any native apps. PWA apps are indexed by search engines and deployed to various servers that can be accessed through links. Among the top attributes of a PWA include responsiveness, connection independence, safety, originality, user-friendliness, installation, re-engagement, discoverability, and linkability.

• Progressivity and responsiveness imply the app should work irrespective of the type of device or browser one is using. PWA, therefore, should be designed to fit any device ranging from desktops and laptops to smartphones and tablets.
• Connectivity independence of a PWA means it should provide better service to users and should work offline or seamlessly even on areas with a poor network connection.
• PWAs are required to be identifiable as applications. The service worker registration and W3C manifests make PWAs easy to find on search engines thus the discoverability factor.
• PWAs need to be original and fresh. Alongside being transparent, they should be up-to-date.
• Easy navigation and flawless user interaction.
• To prevent snooping, PWAs are served through TLS and HTTPS. This helps to improve user security.
• Re-engagement is all about the ability to provide push notifications.
• Upon installation, users should access PWAs on their home screens without necessarily visiting the app store. Service workers enable PWA to load and launch quickly right from the user’s home screen. It should not be dependent on the network strength whatsoever.
• Linkability implies apart from being functional, users can share them.

A Closer Look At PWAs

PWAs are largely based on the fact that the Internet has evolved along with the massive adoption of HTML 5 and other related web development languages. The main goal of PWAs is to provide not just better functionality but to deliver a greater user interface like that of the best traditional native apps. This is an experience that was initially hard to get.

The introduction of PWAs has led to several benefits particularly when compared to native apps. The benefits target both individuals and organizations that seek to develop apps for their users.

Benefits Of PWAs Compared To Native Apps

One of the biggest features of PWA is that a developer doesn’t have to design various apps to suit different platforms, devices and more. This has resulted in massive savings in both time and effort when it comes to the app development process. Whether one is developing an app for iOS or Android, the ability to design a single application that works seamlessly on all platforms is worth commending.

Among other advantages of PWAs include:

Fewer Clicks

A PWA doesn’t require one to install before using. This makes it different from a native app. It has eliminated the hustle of having to incur additional clicks to get the app functioning. This usually leads to reduced user satisfaction rate. This is what often keeps off most potential users from having to download an app from the store.

Improved Reach

For businesses and organizations seeking to maximize their reach, PWA is a game-changer. It lets them reach users in multiple platforms with little effort which is beneficial for those seeking to get an edge over the competition.

Better In-App Experience

Progressive Web Apps combine the best of both worlds. One doesn’t have to install the app to enjoy certain features or functionalities of a web. For instance, being able to open a message via a link and enjoy full cross-functionality of an app is the most convenient thing that any user would appreciate. It means one is capable of switching from one app to another without having to follow the traditional complicated procedures. This also makes sharing to the next level thus reducing related frustrations and intrusion issues.

Better Speed

Speed is key and should be a priority when developing any application. It is what defines user retention, conversion rates, and user experience. Users don’t expect delays and if it happens, then they are more likely to get pissed off. They want meaningful interaction right from the time they open an app to the time they exit. Even if it may vary based on conditions such as connection quality, type of device used and other factors, it should not come with too much variation.

More Engagement Than Never Before

PWAs are installable and accessible from the device home screen. This is the best convenience that any user would appreciate. For better engagement, PWAs provide web push notifications which help to improve both user control and interaction. This means users can spend more time on the app.

Greater Conversion Rate

Due to the ability to deliver exciting user experience, PWAs help businesses to improve their conversion rates for users in different platforms. When users are engaged, they are more likely to become loyal customers.

App Developers, whether freelance or ones which you hire would benefit much from learning about this new technology.

If you would like to read more about this technology visit this website.

Progressive Web App approach promises a couple of benefits to app developers, businesses and app users alike. Although it may not mean an end to native apps, it is the future of app development. Businesses seeking to develop apps can consider this approach to help reduce development lead time, enjoy simple updates, improve user engagement and bring a cohesive customer experience. This is quite opportune keeping in mind that user demands keep changing day in out. They are looking for a more streamlined experience.