A Progressive Web Application is an application written in a web language like Javascript plus frameworks. Progressive web application development offers the simplest features of internet sites and applications. It offers easy and fast access from the search engine directly and does not need any additional installation and updates. It also offers the various benefits of native functions of an application like camera usage, pushes notifications, geolocation, and others.
Using PWAs the websites can use the full capacity of modern web browsers which include overall performance speed, optimization of load times, geolocation access, offline functionality, cameras, sensors, Bluetooth and so much more. Progressive Web Applications can also be installed on the user’s home screen which will allow them to access a website just as they do with other apps.
PWAs are being widely implemented nowadays and it is the next step in creating user-friendly websites that will allow everyone to access endless possibilities.
From the user’s perspective is it very useful as it works optimally well with slower internet connections and in offline mode as well by using the cached data from previous visits. It offers an enhanced user experience which is why more and more people are beginning to use web applications more. It doesn’t even take up space as a native application would usually do.
PWAs are being implemented and used by more and more companies due to the several benefits it offers.
Features of PWA which makes it stand out
Browser Support
PWAs can be operated from a browser. There is no need to download or install applications. They use the browser just like a normal website but give the feel and functionality of an application.
Can be installed on the Home Screen: The Progressive Web Applications can be installed on the home screens if the user wants. This allows users to use the PWA as an application without having to provide a lot of space on their devices.
Offline Functionality
PWAs offer this great feature of being able to be used with low or no internet connectivity. This comes in very handy in places where there isn’t any proper net connectivity. With service workers properly integrated, all contents are pre-loaded the first time you visit the PWA and are delivered afterward using Javascript, making PWA the new go-to approach for websites.
Secure
Just like native applications, PWAs are also pretty secure. They are delivered using HTTPS which prevents MITM and similar attacks.
Better Rankings
Unlike native mobile apps, PWAs can be searched and indexed on Search Engines. It can be used in Search Engine Optimization to get more traffic which eventually means more conversions and a better impact on the rankings.
Cross-Platform
PWAs are generally cross-platform which eliminates the need of having different codes for different devices, platforms, and operating systems. One PWA can work efficiently across multiple platforms and makes development a lot easier, faster, and cheaper.
Easy sharing
PWAs can be shared easily without having to ask anyone to download the applications or install them. PWAs can be shared by sharing the URL.
Speed
PWA loads a lot faster than usual websites due to the Service Workers technology. PWAs are fast initially loaded and even faster at second loads because it pre-catches the contents and delivers them whenever needed.
Doesn’t require publishing
In the case of native apps, publishing them on app stores can be a pain at times. There are a lot of factors that come into play before an app gets published. It can even get rejected on the first submission and in the case of some apps they may never get approval from the app stores. But in the case of PWAs, you do not need anybody’s approval for publishing. You can release the PWA which will not only satisfy users by giving them the feel of an app but also increase your reach and conversions.
Low development cost
As mentioned earlier, PWAs are cross-platform which reduces the cost of development significantly. It can be used across multiple devices and browsers which makes the development cost a lot less than that of native apps. Besides this, PWAs use technology and programming languages that are more commonly understood and have a considerably larger developer base.
Better performance
PWAs are generally known to offer better performance as they cache and serve images, text, and other content in an efficient manner which allows them to operate as a website and increase the speed significantly. Besides quick operation, impeccable performance is the other main attribute of PWAs which greatly impacts the user experience and conversion rates.
No need for updates
As PWAs are web applications, they have a functionality which allows them to update automatically without any notifications. Whenever a user visits a PWA, the apps update themselves eliminating the task of updating it manually which takes some time if not too much.
Push notifications
Just like native applications, PWAs can send push notifications as well. This is a great boost for companies as they can make the best use of content advertising through push notifications. According to statistics, most of the users allow progressive web applications to send them notifications, allowing companies to promote their products and services better. The notifications are displayed on the screens of mobile devices which is more likely to attract the attention of users as compared to emails and social media. The notifications are also likely to get a better response from users and also add to brand recognition.
As we can see there are several features of Progressive Web apps that can help businesses and companies with their websites. Not only do they become more attractive by acting as an app, but also enhance the functionality and speed. It’s the perfect combination of an application and a website.
We can say that Progressive web application development increases user experience whilst being fast, secure. Low costs and cross-platform functionality are a great boon for the companies.
They are the way of the future and more and more companies are therefore shifting to PWAs.
Final Words
If you are looking web development company for Progressive Web Application Development, get in touch with Knovator Technologies that can offer you the solutions and develop your PWA according to your needs and expectations.
