A guide to progressive web apps (PWAs): Should your business invest in one?

The way businesses connect with their customers is evolving at an incredible pace. Mobile users expect fast, seamless, and engaging experiences, and companies that fail to meet these expectations risk being left behind. Progressive web apps (PWAs) have emerged as a powerful solution, offering the best of both worlds—combining the reach of the web with the functionality of native apps.

But what exactly are PWAs, and should your business invest in one? This guide explores everything you need to know, from the benefits and challenges to real-world applications and future potential. You can also explore why businesses are increasingly choosing progressive web apps over traditional web applications.

Understanding progressive web apps

How PWAs bridge the gap between websites and native apps

PWAs are web applications that function like native mobile apps but are accessible through a browser. Unlike traditional websites, they load instantly, work offline, and offer smooth, app-like interactions. This unique blend of capabilities allows businesses to provide a premium experience without the need for users to download an app from an app store. Learn more about the differences between web and mobile applications to understand where PWAs fit in.

Key characteristics that define a PWA

For an app to be considered a PWA, it must meet certain criteria:

• Reliable: Loads instantly, even in poor network conditions
• Fast: Provides a smooth, lag-free user experience
• Engaging: Feels like a native app with push notifications and home screen access
• Secure: Served over HTTPS to prevent security breaches
• Responsive: Adapts to different screen sizes and devices
• Linkable: Easily shared via URLs without requiring an app store download
• Progressive enhancement: Works for all users regardless of browser choice
• Installable: Allows users to add PWAs to their home screen for instant access

The technology behind PWAs: Service workers, manifests, and more

PWAs leverage modern web technologies to deliver a superior user experience:

• Service workers: Background scripts that enable offline functionality and caching
• Web app manifest: A JSON file that defines how the app appears on the user’s device
• HTTPS: Ensures secure connections, protecting user data
• Application shell architecture: Ensures fast load times and smooth user interactions
• IndexedDB and cache API: Allows PWAs to store data locally for enhanced offline experiences
• Lazy loading: Optimises performance by loading resources only when necessary

The benefits of PWAs for businesses

Speed and performance: Faster load times for better engagement

Speed is everything. Studies show that users abandon websites that take longer than three seconds to load. PWAs load almost instantly, thanks to advanced caching and efficient resource management, keeping users engaged and reducing bounce rates. Faster load times also improve SEO rankings, giving businesses a competitive edge in search visibility.

Mobile-first experience: Reaching users across devices

With more than half of global internet traffic coming from mobile devices, businesses must prioritise mobile-friendly solutions. PWAs deliver a seamless experience across desktops, tablets, and smartphones, ensuring consistency and accessibility for all users. Mobile-first indexing by search engines makes PWAs an even more attractive choice for businesses aiming to improve discoverability and engagement. Retail businesses can also explore the benefits of custom mobile apps for UK retailers in 2025 to determine the best approach for their digital transformation.

No app store hassle: Direct access without downloads

One of the biggest pain points of traditional mobile apps is the need to download them from an app store. PWAs eliminate this barrier—users can access them directly from their browser, saving storage space and reducing friction in the user journey. Furthermore, updates occur seamlessly in the background, meaning users always experience the latest version without any effort.

Cost efficiency: Lower development and maintenance costs

Developing a native app requires separate versions for iOS and Android, which increases costs. PWAs, on the other hand, are built once and work across all devices, significantly reducing development and maintenance expenses. Businesses can allocate more resources towards marketing, customer engagement, and feature improvements rather than maintaining multiple app versions.

Increased conversions and engagement rates

PWAs help businesses increase conversion rates by providing a frictionless user experience. Studies have shown that PWAs can lead to a 50% higher conversion rate compared to traditional mobile websites. Companies like Twitter and Pinterest have experienced improved engagement and decreased bounce rates by implementing PWAs.

Better user retention through push notifications

With push notifications, businesses can send timely updates, promotions, and personalised offers directly to users’ devices, keeping them engaged. Unlike email marketing, push notifications have higher open rates and immediate visibility, making them a powerful tool for customer retention.

Conclusion

PWAs offer an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to enhance user experience, reduce costs, and improve engagement. If your company values speed, accessibility, and cost efficiency, investing in a PWA could be a game-changing decision.

Now is the time to explore the potential of PWAs and take your digital presence to the next level. Embracing this innovative technology can help businesses stay competitive and cater to the ever-growing demands of modern digital users. Businesses that leverage PWAs effectively can benefit from better search rankings, higher conversion rates, and improved customer loyalty.

If you are considering implementing a PWA for your business, start by evaluating your specific needs, identifying your target audience, and consulting with experienced developers to create an optimised solution that drives real results. Visit Aecor Digital to learn more about how we can help your business embrace the power of PWAs.