Progressive Web Apps: Key Aspects and Benefits for Business

Progressive Web App (PWA) is a type of web app that combines the functionality of websites and native mobile applications.  They provide users with quick access to content, the ability to work offline, high performance, and integration with device features such as push notifications or adding to the home screen. 

PWAs do not require a constant internet connection, unlike traditional web apps, and demonstrate better loading speeds due to data caching. Compared to native apps that are built for iOS and Android separately, the cost of developing a PWA is usually lower due to the single code for each platform. 

PWA technologies and standards

Service Workers

Scripts that run in the background and allow PWA to function offline, cache resources, and manage the network. They provide uninterrupted access to content and fast loading even when the Internet connection is unstable. Service Workers also allow you to implement push notifications and data synchronization in the background.

Web App Manifests

A JSON file that describes the basic properties of a PWA: icon, colors, screen orientation, and start URL. It allows the web app to look and function like a native application when added to the device's home screen. The manifest also provides the ability to customize the appearance of the PWA at startup.

HTTPS

PWAs require a secure connection over HTTPS to ensure the protection of user data. HTTPS ensures that the data is transmitted unaltered and cannot be intercepted or altered by third parties.

Cache API

Cache API allows you to store web app resources, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, in the browser cache. This provides quick access to content and the ability to work offline, as all data is loaded from the local cache. 

Responsive Design

PWAs use responsive design to display correctly on different types of devices and screen sizes. This enables users to interact with the application conveniently on both mobile phones and desktops.

IndexedDB

IndexedDB is an asynchronous database for storing structured data in the browser. You can store large amounts of data (objects, tables, indexes, etc.) that can be used by PWA to work offline.

PWA benefits for business

User experience

Fast loading reduces waiting time and positively affects the overall experience of interacting with the app. PWAs also automatically adapt to different screen sizes, ensuring a consistent experience across devices.

Cost reduction

Savings on development and maintenance are one of the main advantages of PWA. One solution covers all platforms, which avoids the cost of creating and maintaining separate versions of the application for different operating systems. 

Offline access

PWAs provide uninterrupted access to key features and content offline. This helps to maintain a high level of user engagement and loyalty, as they can continue to use the app even when the internet connection is unstable or absent.

Increase conversion rate

Due to the ability to send push notifications, PWAs can actively interact with the audience, inform about news, promotions, or updates. Also, PWAs provide a highly interactive and personalized experience that encourages users to use the app more often.

Progressive Web Apps provide fast loading, high performance, and the ability to work even with an unstable Internet connection. The main benefits for businesses are lower development and maintenance costs, high user engagement, and, as a result, increased conversion and customer loyalty.

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