Progressive web apps (PWAs) improve the digital user experience. How? Because PWAs become a single package that brings the best elements of mobile apps and web apps. For this reason, most businesses want to turn their websites into PWAs. That is how they elevate performance, accessibility, and engagement. We will devote this beginner’s guide to understanding how to convert a site into a PWA. Moreover, if you are not so confident about embarking on this project yourself, then take the services of a web development company.
Existing website analysis
Before you dive into the conversion process, assess the existing website’s performance and structure. You must also find out the areas requiring improvements, including mobile responsiveness, load times, and user interfaces. The initial assessment will empower you to create a full-fledged road map to converting your website into a PWA. If your business expertise is not web development, then we would recommend you get a suite of web development services in India or elsewhere on board for the project.
Comprehensive web app manifest
A web app manifest stores your PWA’s key information. This file conveys to the browser how the PWA should behave once it is installed on a user device. A web app manifest is a JSON file with the following properties:
- name: This section will list your PWA’s name.
- short_name: This section will show your PWA’s shorter name that will be used for display.
- start_url: This section provides details of where your PWA’s URL will start.
- icons: This section lists different icons and their sizes for your PWA.
- theme_color: This section provides details into the browser’s address bar’s color when the PWA is launched.
Service Workers deployment
Do you know the backbone of a PWA? It is Service Workers that enable faster load times and offline functionality. Think of Service Worker as a script that is executed in the background and intercepts different network requests with ease. You may also use Service Workers to cache resources and serve up content even when a user’s device is offline.
Fine-tune performance and other optimizations
Do you want to deliver a smooth user experience in your PWA? If so, you would want to optimize the app’s performance. For starters, you can deploy lazy loading for all images, bring down the number of HTTP requests, and minify JavaScript and CSS files. Additionally, you may also leverage tools, including Google Lighthouse, to review and enhance your PWA’s performance.
Testing and implementation
After deploying the required changes, you may comprehensively test your PWA on different browsers and several devices. This way, you will make sure the PWA will meet the defined requirements, including offline functionality, quick load times, and an app-like experience. Last but not least, deploy the PWA to your web server. Voilà! You have done it.
AK Technolabs is an ideal web development services provider
Are you planning to turn your website into a PWA? If so, you will need the support of a dependable web development company. That is where we, at AK Technolabs, come into the picture. We have years of experience in helping business websites turn into PWA powerhouses that amplify engagement and enhance user experience. Connect with our web developers to discuss your project and get a quote.
