8 Reasons Why Progressive Web Apps are Beneficial for Start-ups 

Progressive Web Applications offer the best of both worlds to start-ups to combine the most useful features of the web and mobile. Users can use all the functions and features of a native app without downloading it. They’re hosted on secure web servers and can work across multiple devices even with less Internet speed. PWAs are widely successful for all kinds of companies, whether they be in e-commerce, online booking, hotel and hospitality, news media, fashion houses, or trip planning. Some popular examples are MakeMyTrip, Pinterest, Starbucks, Spotify, Flipboard, Twitter Lite, Flipkart, Alibaba, among others. Start-ups can especially benefit from PWAs as they are quick to build and deploy; they allow for cheap and fast development. 

The bounce rate of PWAs is only 42.86% as opposed to the mobile bounce rate of 60% and 90% lighter than native apps. (Source: Beezer.com).

Let’s explore the world of features offered by progressive web applications for start-ups.

Native-like experience

A user of PWAs can get an experience similar to native app, which includes an offline option, push notifications, deep linking, self-updates, browser compatibility, app-like interface, store local data, and have a launch button. They look and feel like a native app and can also enable one-click payment, use camera and microphone, installation, full screen launch, real time loading, Google indexing, smooth UX, audio/video/animation capabilities.

Larger target audience

PWAs are platform agnostic. They work seamlessly on diverse browsers, platforms (Android and iOS), and computer operating systems. This enables start-ups to get access to a wide range of users and build a bigger audience base. Because PWAs act and feel like native apps are fast, reliable, and smooth, more users are interested in using them instead of downloading countless apps on their phones.

Fast and responsive

PWAs load content fast, and users don’t have to download everything at once. Instead, content is accessed through URLs. They work just as well in unstable network connectivity. Besides, they can be just as responsive as native apps. Essentially, PWAs are the next step after responsive website design. They are designed to work on any device the customer is using.

Better user experience through customisation

Personalization is one of the key factors that drive user engagement and experience. Gartner has predicted that by 2020, PWAs will replace “50% of general-purpose, consumer-facing mobile applications 2020.” The user experience is made easy at the start, i.e., the user doesn’t have to go through the hassle of installing heavy apps needing mobile data usage. As soon as they find it, they can start using it. This gives start-ups an edge over the competition and even established players in the market as they’re offering quick access with easy sign-up. 

More leads and conversions

Start-ups are concerned with acquiring more customers, monetising their product, and generating revenues. The friction-free user experience offered by PWAs helps retain and convert more visitors. According to Beezer.com, PWAs have 36% higher conversion rates than native apps. Even big names like Twitter and Pinterest have seen more conversions with PWAs. They also provide an in-depth user experience, leading to affordable customer acquisition. The user doesn’t have to search for and install the app. They can simply share and link the PWA on the web like any other native app. 

Lower development and maintenance costs

Coding, deployment, and testing of web apps are relatively simpler than a website or an app. Its cross-functionality can allow for testing at one go. Only one version is needed, which is hosted on web servers. Progressive web apps are not required to follow Play Store or App Store guidelines, so it becomes easier for developers to experiment and not stringently follow compliance rules and other specifications. PWAs don’t take up too much storage space on the user’s phone. Developers don’t have to go through the hurdle of getting the updates approved from the app marketplace. They can directly update the PWA on the user’s device. Start-ups can especially benefit from lower investment costs in the entire development process and decrease their time to market instead of spending time in the lengthy process of app development.

Easy discoverability

PWAs are highly discoverable on the web. They allow SEO engines to identify them due to the PWA manifest that enables search engines to categorize them and make them discoverable easily. They allow for push notifications, thus making re-engaging the customer and increasing conversions. This helps start-ups to achieve brand recognition easily if all their other marketing endeavours are planned well.

Added security

PWAs use native APIs and service workers, while browsers are responsible for security. Start-ups can enhance the security of user’s data through several measures.  Multi-factor authentication can further enhance security, and navigation outside of a given place can also be restricted. 

PWAs are touted as the future of quick development and better customer experience. Start-ups must explore them after studying the pros and cons of their particular product/service.