PWAs are mobile-friendly websites that can do almost everything a native app can. They are installable and accessible from the home screen, and you do not need to download them to your phone storage. It can be simply explained as," a progressive web app is a website that feels like a native mobile app."
It feels like it, but it isn’t a mobile app. The PWA aims to make a native-like experience for users of all platforms and all devices. At the same moment, it allows users to skip app store browsing and installation. Technically this is just another tab in your browser, but it has fast access right from the home screen and smooth app-like interactions. And it can work without an internet connection!.
PWA vs NATIVE APP
PWAs, in a lot of ways, behave like Native Apps. But there are some key differences.
PWAs don’t require an app store, which gives more freedom concerning creating different types of apps. Also, PWAs are progressive, meaning that they work for every user, regardless of their browser choice or device, and fit desktop, mobile, and tablet screens.
Progressive Web Apps are connectivity independent, so they can work offline or on low-quality networks and are very easy to install. The PWA icon will be displayed on the user’s home screen without having to deal with app stores.
It’s also important to note that writing a website is much quicker, and therefore more cost-effective — building a PWA is like making a website and app at the same time! The developers can create one version of the app that’ll display the same way, and seamlessly, on all devices.
Finally, PWAs are far more lightweight, meaning that they take up less space on your user’s devices, but also allow your users to consume fewer data.
BENEFITS OF PROGRESSIVE WEB APPS
- PWA trumps native applications and other web applications because it’s not necessary to install them. Unlike native apps, you can use PWA in any browser like Chrome, Opera, UC, etc. and they will behave just like your native apps to suit the modern web requirements. This has advantages.
- Firstly, unlike native apps, web developers don’t have to design progressive web apps for every OS or suit.
- Secondly, eCommerce merchants who are short on capital, don’t have to invest in native apps that have different frameworks for different OS.
- Thirdly, users don’t necessarily have to visit the app store to install the apps externally. It saves their money as well because they might have to buy some native apps.
- Plus PWA doesn’t need to be updated each time, unlike Native Apps.
- PWA is reliable. It won’t leave users hanging in uncertain conditions like a slow internet connection. This feature benefits eCommerce merchants greatly.
CHALLENGES OF PROGRESSIVE WEB APPS
Though PWA seems to be a very interesting concept there are certain challenges one might face while developing these apps. To avail PWA benefits understanding and overcoming challenges in the way is inevitable. Some of the major challenges are stated below.
- The need for expert developers: First of all you will need developers who have a strong grip on the “React” framework.
- Developing progressive web apps is a tedious process. PWA is not actually a website but a large-scale app that has the liquidity to fit on every screen size. It also is compatible with every OS or suit. Additionally, PWAs have a robust frame. It doesn’t crash down while supporting multi-vendor eCommerce marketplaces.
- Lack of omnichannel vendors: While you may be on the lookout for an omnichannel service provider who can handle front-end and back-end development work, it might be hard for you to find one.
- Not having an omnichannel service provider: Not having an omnichannel service provider for developing a progressive web app and getting services from multiple service providers will create a problem for you in keeping a track of the work done by all.
- Absence of open source frame: No matter which framework you choose, “Angular” or “React” they both are merely libraries for the User Interface. You can implement them but can’t customize them.
- What and what not to cache: It is very difficult to keep a track of what you can and what you can’t cache. Regular caching is necessary hence you will have to be more cautious while caching any data in PWA.
- Maintaining updates is a tough job: Native apps are updated in short time intervals and the process is continuous. On the contrary progressive web apps can’t be updated. At least not as frequently as native apps. Getting full insurance for changes that may take place in the future in any OS for a PWA is impossible.
- Time-Consuming Integration: The process of integration can be very time-consuming in regards to the progressive web app. However, at CedCommerce we have got you covered with certified integration for PWA.
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