Progressive Web App...?

Modified on Thu, 12 Oct, 2023 at 3:17 PM

What the HECK is a Progressive Web App?

Glad you asked...

A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a web app that turns a browser experience into the look and feel of an in-app experience.

According to an article on ionic, in order to be considered a progressive web app your PWA must include the following attributes:

Progressive - Work for every user, regardless of browser choice, because they are built with progressive enhancement as a core tenet.
Responsive - Fit any form factor, desktop, mobile, tablet, or whatever is next.
Connectivity independent - Enhanced with service workers to work offline or on low quality networks.
App-like - Use the app-shell model to provide app-style navigation and interactions.
Fresh - Always up-to-date thanks to the service worker update process.
Safe - Served via HTTPS to prevent snooping and ensure content has not been tampered with.
Discoverable - Are identifiable as “applications” thanks to W3C manifests and service worker registration scope allowing search engines to find them.
Re-engageable - Make re-engagement easy through features like push notifications.
Installable - Allow users to “keep” apps they find most useful on their home screen without the hassle of an app store.
Linkable - Easily share via URL and not require complex installation.

(https://ionicframework.com/docs/core-concepts/what-are-progressive-web-apps)

How does this impact fitDEGREE clients?

fitDEGREE is built as a progressive web app! This means that anyone using our software can view us on any mobile device via their web browser or app stores! The result of this is a cohesive experience, no matter what device a client is using! Clients that do not wish to download an app can still access the web app via their mobile device and bookmark it to their home screen, giving the same appearance and use of the downloaded app.

Why is this helpful?

As the industry continues to shift it is helpful to have a progressive web app because accessibility and ease of use are key. Not only this, but as a result of potential app store changes, the progressive web app plays a central role in fitDEGREE's response. Having a progressive web app allows fitDEGREE and their clients to remain in control of their business models and content.