Progressive Web App Development

A Progressive Web App, or PWA, is a modern web application that’s designed to deliver a seamless, app-like experience directly in your browser. Unlike traditional websites, PWAs can be installed on your device, allowing you to launch them from your home screen just like a native app. They’re built using standard web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, but they also incorporate advanced features like offline access, push notifications, and background updates. This means you get the best of both worlds: the broad reach and discoverability of the web, combined with the speed, reliability, and engagement of a mobile app. For businesses, PWAs offer a cost-effective way to provide users with a high-quality digital experience across all devices, without the need to develop separate apps for iOS and Android.

While both PWAs and native apps aim to provide a smooth, engaging user experience, there are some key differences. Native apps are built specifically for a particular operating system (like iOS or Android) and must be downloaded from an app store. PWAs, on the other hand, are accessed via a web browser but can also be installed on your device for quick access. Updates to a PWA happen automatically in the background, so users always have the latest version without needing to download anything new. PWAs are also more accessible, as they work on any device with a modern browser, and they’re easier to share – just send a link. For businesses, this means lower development and maintenance costs, faster time to market, and the ability to reach a wider audience without the hurdles of app store approval.

PWAs are an excellent fit for a wide range of businesses, especially those looking to improve user engagement, boost mobile conversions, or provide reliable access regardless of network conditions. If your customers expect fast load times, offline functionality, and a consistent experience across devices, a PWA is likely to deliver real value. They’re particularly effective for e-commerce, media, travel, and service-based platforms, but any organisation aiming to modernise its digital offering can benefit. PWAs are also highly discoverable via search engines, which can help drive organic traffic and improve your online visibility. If you’re unsure whether a PWA is right for your business, our team is happy to provide a tailored consultation based on your goals and audience.

Security is a top priority for PWAs. All progressive web apps must be served over HTTPS, which ensures that data transmitted between the user and the server is encrypted and protected from interception. This is the same level of security used by online banking and e-commerce platforms. In addition, PWAs use service workers to manage background processes and caching, which are isolated from the main application and can’t access sensitive data directly. Regular security audits, up-to-date libraries, and best practices in authentication and data handling further reduce risks. For businesses handling payments or personal information, PWAs can be made fully compliant with industry standards and regulations, giving both you and your users peace of mind.

Absolutely. One of the strengths of PWAs is their flexibility and ability to integrate with a wide range of existing business systems, such as CRMs, ERPs, payment gateways, and third-party APIs. Using modern web standards like REST and GraphQL, a PWA can exchange data in real time, automate workflows, and provide a unified experience for your users. Whether you’re looking to connect your app to inventory management, customer support, or marketing tools, our development team can ensure seamless integration. This approach not only streamlines operations but also helps future-proof your digital infrastructure as your business evolves.

The development timeline for a PWA depends on the complexity of your requirements, the number of integrations, and the level of custom design involved. For a straightforward project, you can expect a timeline of around 8 to 16 weeks from initial planning to launch. More complex solutions, such as those requiring bespoke features or deep system integrations, may take longer. Our process is transparent and collaborative: we start with a discovery phase to understand your needs, then move through design, development, testing, and deployment, keeping you informed at every step. This ensures your PWA is delivered on time, on budget, and ready to deliver value from day one.

Yes, one of the defining features of a PWA is its ability to function even when there’s no internet connection. This is achieved through service workers, which cache essential resources and data on the user’s device. As a result, users can continue to browse content, fill in forms, or interact with key features even if their connection drops. Once the device is back online, any changes or data are automatically synchronised with the server. This offline capability is especially valuable for businesses whose users are often on the move or in areas with patchy connectivity, ensuring a reliable and frustration-free experience at all times.

Getting started is simple. Just reach out to us via our website or connect with us on LinkedIn for a no-obligation consultation. We’ll discuss your business objectives, review your current digital setup, and advise on the best approach for your PWA project. Our team will then provide a tailored proposal, outlining the recommended features, timeline, and investment. From there, we’ll guide you through every stage of the process, from initial planning and design to development, launch, and ongoing support. Our goal is to make the transition to a progressive web app as smooth and beneficial as possible for your business.