Year on year, globally, we can see a steady increase in mobile traffic to websites and its dominance over desktop (Allconnect, March 2024). More and more people are relying primarily on their smartphones and these are becoming the primary tool for using the internet. Changes in habits naturally affect the issue of technology standards. In order to meet users' expectations, many services are now being developed in such a way that they work like native apps. This type of approach is referred to as Progressive Web Apps.

Building Progressive Web Apps

Although PWAs work similarly to native applications, the development process is much simpler and consists of three components.

• Manifest file – responsible for various elements specific to the mobile versions, such as icons, how content is presented and how it looks on the device screen.
• Service worker – a script (or set of scripts) running in the background as an independent service, making it possible, for example, to send push notifications even when offline.
• App shell model – a framework for the entire application, created in one of the popular programming languages, which allows elements to be dynamically refreshed in selected areas, while maintaining a relatively constant structure and layout.

What attributes distinguish Progressive Web Apps?

In order for an application to be defined as progressive, it has to fulfil several points that make up the so-called PWA checklist.

• Responsiveness – adapting to all types of devices, so that the layout of the content looks correct whether it is displayed on a computer or a phone.
• Offline operation – using functionality without an internet connection, without affecting the way you work.
• Up-to-date – no need to manually update via the app shops (automatic download in the background by a service worker mechanism).
• Speed – progressive applications should load efficiently and respond to user actions (e.g. clicks) without lagging or loading.
• Security – use of HTTPS, protected by TLS, encrypting data and monitoring its integrity.
• Local installation – the essence of PWA technology is the option to write directly to the device's home screen, without having to go into the app shop to do so (thanks to the manifest file).
• Push notifications – are particularly useful for e-commerce, as they allow, for example, notification of offers or reminders to complete a previously taken action.

Advantages of PWA solutions

The benefits of progressive applications can be divided into three main categories. The first is the value from the developers' point of view:

• one common source code allows seamless operation on all types of devices and operating systems;
• with a manifest file that contains the full metadata, developers can easily optimise the user experience;
• updating the application merely involves publishing a new version on the server, eliminating the need for third-party intervention.

From a business perspective, the use of PWAs has the following advantages:

• there is no need to employ separate teams for different operating systems, which reduces costs;
• the application loads and runs faster, resulting in higher conversion rates;
• smooth adaptation to the needs of both mobile and desktop users;
• an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage through modern technologies, better adapted to the requirements of today's customers;
• easier integration with e-commerce platforms than with a traditional website;
• the ability to run campaigns using push notifications for more effective marketing communications.

In turn, from the point of view of the end user, the undoubted advantages are:

• independence from the speed and quality of the internet connection, as PWA applications can be viewed offline;
• no need to install the application on a computer or mobile device;
• the ability to use a unified interface on any device;
• the elimination of repetitive actions, such as filling in a form or adding products to a shopping cart, when the Internet connection is interrupted or the application is accidentally switched off.

Among the most popular PWAs, which have been available on the international market for years, are: Spotify, Uber, eBay, Trivago, OLX and Instagram.

Progressive Web Apps is a solution that redefines the mobile app experience by combining the benefits of native software and websites. Their key features, such as offline availability, the ability to install directly on the device and faster performance, make them an excellent choice for businesses looking to provide users with modern, efficient tools. With a simplified development and update process, PWAs are not only cost-effective, but also more accessible to a wide range of audiences, regardless of the hardware they use. With rapidly changing consumer expectations, it is safe to say that they are slowly becoming the future of application technology, and deploying them now, will be a strong bargaining chip for business.