Progressive Web Applications (PWA) combine new technologies with established best practices for creating reliable, accessible, and engaging experiences. They give users a native-like experience with a user friendly opt-in installation flow.
Table of Contents
I- What are Progressive Web Applications
A progressive web application takes advantage of the latest technologies to combine the best of web and mobile apps. Think of it as a website built using web technologies but that acts and feels like an app. Recent advancements in the browser and in the availability of service workers and in the Cache and Push APIs have enabled web developers to allow users to install web apps to their home screen, receive push notifications and even work offline.
II- Properties of Progressive Web Applications
PWAs have plenty properties. They are:
1- Reliable
A PWA should launch and give users meaningful content regardless of network conditions. The level of offline functionality will depend on the application – some applications will be able to function completely offline. Others will display meaningful placeholder data informing the user that they are offline. In no case should the application break or become unresponsive.
2- Responsive
Progressive Web Applications should be able to adapt to different screen sizes and orientations. That will ensure that the user experience is great for all users. A good responsive design helps to ensure that your application will continue to work with new devices in the future.
3- Engaging
Traditionally, native applications have been much more engaging than web applications. Having an icon on the home screen makes it easy to get into the app. Push notifications can help alert the user of important information that requires their attention. With Progressive Web Applications, users can now get the same benefits with web apps.
4- Secure
Progressive Web Apps are secure by default. The technologies powering PWA require apps to be served over HTTPS to work.
III- Importance of building a PWA
For many companies, especially those building apps for internal use, the cost of developing, testing, and maintaining applications for several platforms is unreasonable. Gartner for example predicts that by next year, up to 20% of companies will abandon their native mobile applications. Instead, they believe that PWA will become a more viable alternative to them.
IV- Who is already using Progressive Web Applications?
Even though Progressive Web Apps build on new technologies, they are already widely in use in the industry. Some of the larger showcases for PWA are:
