Progressive Web Apps (PWA)
The Option for Mobile Internet Engagement
Progressive Web Apps are already making their mark as the fastest, easiest, and best way to provide a winning mobile experience. And they’re on track to become not just an option, but the option for mobile internet engagement.
Introducing PWA's
Progressive Web Apps were officially born back in 2015. A term coined by Google’s Senior Staff Software Engineer, Alex Russell (who’s also responsible for the above quote*), PWAs can best be described as websites that behave like apps. If you imagine that an app and a website had a lovechild that inherited its parents’ best characteristics (and none of the worst), that would be exactly what a PWA is. From one parent (the website), the PWA inherits its easy discoverability (without having to be downloaded) and low maintenance upkeep; and from the other parent (the app), the PWA inherits its rich functionality, offline user interactivity, and engaging experience.
Like a website, a PWA is accessed directly from your web browser; and like an app, it can be installed on your mobile device’s home screen and send you notifications. Though PWAs have been around for a few years, they’re really starting to hit their stride now, so there’s no better time than now to get a new website with N-site Digital, or upgrade from what you have.
Understanding How PWA's Work
The magic behind PWAs are ‘secret helpers’ known as service workers. Service workers are JavaScript files that work in the browser’s background, separately from the browser. Service workers follow message commands sent to them by a server to execute tasks like intercepting network requests and enabling API functions such as push notifications, caching, and background syncs.
Since service workers operate in the browser’s background, they can connect to the internet and automatically update data –– as long as the user doesn’t quit the browser. And even if the PWA itself is not open, all loaded content will be updated and then cached automatically for offline access. The end result? An app that is always up to date meets a website that works offline. How progressive!
Features and Benefits of PWA's
Better Engagment
Visitors spend more time engaging with PWAs because they deliver an immersive experience on par with the best native apps, complete with offline availability.
IOS or ANDROIOD
You never have to worry about which OS to use for your PWAs. PWAs are supported on Google Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.
Increased Conversions
The longer your prospective customers spend on your site, the more prone they’ll be not only to return but also to fill out forms and make purchases.
Conserve Data
PWAs conserve data. PWAs don’t need to be downloaded, and once content is loaded on a PWA, it is accessible for offline use.
Faster Load Times
Your site visitors can always count on PWAs for lightning-fast content loading and swift responses to user interaction.
Built In Security
Since an SSL certificate is required for PWAs to work, encryption is a built-in function of PWAs.
No Downloading
Your or your customers won’t ever have to go through an app store or download anything to access their PWA. All they’ll have to do is add the PWA’s icon to their home screen and they’re good to go.
Competitive Edge
PWAs are a great way to set your website apart from the competition. Upgrade your existing website or wiht your NEW website and provide your customers and site visitors a top-notch mobile experience.
