Progressive Web Apps (also known as PWAs for sure) continue to gain traction and popularity in the world of eCommerce – specifically when it comes to mobile eCommerce, also known more affectionately as mCommerce.
PWAs are popular now for many reasons, not the least of which is their innovative and exciting ability to easily and consistently deliver high-quality, high-touch online user experiences.
PWA, You Say?
But just what are PWAs, exactly?
When it comes to PWAs, it’s best to think of them as a high-performing hybrid between websites and native mobile applications (or apps, for short). PWAs are delivered through the web and function much like apps. They combine everything we like about mobile apps (and boy, do we like our apps) with everything positive about a mobile site.
When it comes to mobile usage, we all know how pervasive, popular and even addicting apps are today. According to one study, 86 percent of the average person’s entire time on their mobile devices is now spent on apps. Yes, you read that right.
But where native apps must pass complicated and often rigorous approval rules to be accepted by the app stores before they can even begin to fight for eyeballs and market share in the increasingly crowded app marketplace, PWAs are quite easy to distribute. Since they’re website-based, they’re readily accessible, and can be found via organic and paid search – or through social media-based links. Users can also easily open PWAs in their web browser before deciding if they want to install them.
Talk about value and versatility. Then you’re talking about PWAs in today’s ever-evolving and always-expanding mCommerce circles.
The Many Values of PWAs
Again, there really are so many reasons to embrace the rising wave of PWA usage right now.
PWAs are fast, can work well in areas with poor connectivity, don’t eat up a lot of device storage space and are “device agnostic” – meaning they work across a wide range of many mobile devices and platforms.
They’re also the future of mobile retail, according to many industry forecasters and observers.
Thanks to the versatility and balance of PWAs, retailers no longer must decide between either creating an app that provides an amazing, immersive experience – or designing a website that’s likely to attract more traffic. No, with PWAs, you truly get the best of both worlds.
That’s why global brands like Twitter, Uber and Starbucks are already onboard with PWA technology and product offerings.
PWAs can be created by interested retailers right now, using existing web technologies, and then readily deployed to deliver a faster and even superior experience for mobile users – driving both enhanced engagement and amplified conversion rates. They’re also easier to deliver reach from and maintain than “traditional” apps often are.
Whether you’re a more traditional retailer or cutting edge “eTailer” looking to sustain and enhance success in our rapidly expanding and evolving mobile age, you owe it to yourself – and your customers – to explore the fast-developing world of PWAs.
Because who wouldn’t want more online and mobile traffic, conversions, sales and revenue?
IMG + PWA = YES!
If you want to integrate all the flexibility, reliability and power of PWAs into your online eCommerce and mCommerce operation, reach out and meet the dedicated and experienced experts at Imagination Media.
We’ve been in the eCommerce game since Day One, and all our passionate professionals are well-versed in PWAs and many more eCommerce development services and solutions.
We look forward to showing you how PWAs can power your business!
