Websites offer different apps that aim to enhance user experience. But what if it does the exact opposite? Then, you might need to develop progressive web applications (PWAs).
A PWA is a type of web application that combines the best features of traditional websites and native mobile apps. It’s a platform that combines the best of both worlds: the reach and flexibility of the web with the functionality and engagement of native apps.
But what makes a progressive web app beneficial to your business? Let’s explore the key advantages below.
Advantage 1: Cost-Efficient and Scalable App Development
Developing and maintaining native apps for various platforms can be a hefty investment. PWAs offer a cost-effective alternative. Being web-based apps, the development process for these tools is often streamlined and requires less platform-specific coding.
Progressive website applications are also built on open web standards, ensuring they remain compatible with future advancements in web technologies. Meaning, you’re not locked into a specific platform and can enjoy the PWA benefits for years.
While relatively cheaper to build compared to native apps, a business has to gauge the impact of PWAs to optimize it. The metrics and key performance indicators will depend on every business’s specific goals. Besides aiming for wider adoption, it’s crucial to determine the app’s technical performance, user engagement metrics, and revenue generation potential, including conversion rates.
Advantage 2: Faster Speeds, Smoother User Experience
Ever get stuck staring at a spinning loading wheel? Traditional web apps can be clunky, especially on slow connections. PWAs are built differently. They leverage service workers and clever scripts that pre-cache essential website elements. This means the content you need loads instantly, even if you have a spotty internet connection.
Faster loading times, even during peak seasons or network issues, allow you to gain a growing number of satisfied visitors. This reduces your customer acquisition costs while minimizing your app development spending. In other words, PWAs offer a range of benefits to site owners and users.
Advantage 3: Offline Functionality
Progressive web apps benefit people who are often traveling or are stuck in a dead zone. They can store essential data and functionalities for offline use. This means you can browse previously viewed content, manage saved items, or even play games—even with spotty Wi-Fi or no connection at all.
Advantage 4: Installation Process Made Easy
Installing from app stores can be overwhelming, with endless options and a lengthy download process. For instance, there were almost five million gaming and non-gaming apps on one of the more popular marketplaces, as of July 2023. These platforms don’t have to be downloaded from app stores. They’re installed directly from the browser once you click the “Add to Home Screen” prompt.
Advantage 5: Automatic Updates and Notifications
Progressive web applications automatically update themselves in the background, ensuring you always have the latest version without lifting a finger. Targeted notifications that keep you informed about important updates, exclusive offers, or personalized recommendations. It’s all about providing valuable information and not filling your notification bar with clutter.
Advantage 6: Enhanced Online Discoverability
Unlike native apps confined to app store algorithms, PWAs leverage the power of search engines. They’re built with search engine optimization (SEO) in mind, making them more discoverable through web searches. This means you’re not limited to app store browsing – you can find the perfect PWA by simply searching the web for what you need.
These platforms can be shared via a simple URL link, which means your PWA has a better chance of being discovered by potential users, increasing your reach and visibility.
Advantage 7: Increased User Engagement and Conversion
PWAs offer features that go beyond basic web browsing. They can utilize push notifications, background sync, and, with user permission, access device features like cameras or geolocation. Add these to the PWA benefits above, and you get to keep a highly engaged customer base. Put simply, PWAs make it easier for users to interact with your brand, leading to higher customer satisfaction and potentially higher sales.
Advantage 8: Universal Compatibility
Gone are the days of struggling with compatibility issues. PWAs are built with responsive design principles, ensuring they adapt seamlessly to any device – smartphones, tablets, laptops, you name it. This eliminates the need for separate apps for different devices, offering a unified and convenient experience across the board. It’s no wonder they’re considered one of the main web development components.
Advantage 9: Built-In Security
Security is crucial when dealing with online transactions or personal information. PWAs leverage hypertext transfer protocol secure (HTTPS), a secure communication framework that encrypts data transfer. With this, users are assured of extra protection, giving them peace of mind when using PWAs for online tasks.
Conclusion
Progressive web apps are redefining the way businesses interact with their audiences. They offer several advantages, namely, speed, convenience, and functionality for users, website owners, and developers. But the PWA benefits don’t end there. These tools have evolving capabilities, allowing businesses and website builders to adjust to customers’ changing needs and preferences. It’s a win-win solution for everyone.