The ecommerce world is convoluted enough with niches, algorithms, authentication methods and so on. Add PWAs, native apps and custom web pages to the mix, and it doesn’t get more complicated than that. This is why we embarked on a written mission to help out on this topic and clarify the differences between the three mediums. Why consider a PWA instead of a mobile app? When should you contract the expertise of a web developer for a custom-made platform? It can be difficult to iron out all these differences, which is why we analysed the Pros and Cons for each option so that you don’t have to.
Native apps: what you need to know
In order to access mobile apps, you need a reference store ( Google Play would be an example). With such a high demand for mobile apps, there are now millions of them available to purchase. It is important to keep in mind that not all mobile apps are native apps; instead, the latter is a denomination of the former. Native apps are targeted toward a particular mobile platform. In other words, Apple and Android devices cannot swap native apps, as those only run on the platform they were created for. In fact, the main purpose of native apps is to secure best performance but only for a specific platform.
Therefore you might wonder: why choose a native app in the detriment of a PWA? Native apps are great in situations where high performance and speed are required for the app to succeed on a particular platform. Also, it can be helpful when the business depends on cost per download and / or IAP (In App Purchase), or when you decide to integrate other third-party apps.
PWAs: how they benefit you
PWAs are capsules of native apps that do not run into compatibility issues. Unlike native apps, PWAs work for every user. If you are in a pickle and don’t know which way to sway, here are what we consider to be the main reasons PWAs outweigh native apps:
- You are interested in mass distribution of your business as quickly as possible;
- You are pressed for time and and need the fastest shortcut to a live platform;
- You need a budget-friendly option;
- You depend on cross-platform compatibility;
- You need a simple installation process.
PWAs are installed and/or accessed in a matter of seconds. Load page, download to home screen (if you prefer), open app. While the customization process is not as complex for a PWA as it is for a native app, the time it takes to go live with a PWA compensates for that aspect. A turn key solution that is wallet-friendly but doesn’t cut back on any performance stats - that is exactly how we envisioned 2 Cart.
For an in-depth look at some of the most well-known PWA solutions, please visit our previous article.
Ecommerce platform from scratch
Of course, you can always choose to devise and implement an online store solution that is fully customizable and can adapt to any requirement you might have. Being a team of web developers at heart, we recognize the importance of a fully thought-out solution that leaves no page unturned. However, this project category has certain prerequisites, including a higher budget and a more lenient deadline that can accommodate creative consultations and revisions.
Such an ambitious project requires time and resources in order to create visual and written content, design the brand’s identity, integrate different payment and billing options, remarket using Google Ads and Facebook, and the list can continue. If this is not an option for you, then a PWA solution might be the key to your problem.
Surely, including a PWA solution in your business strategy seems very tentative and economical. If you are convinced your target audience would respond well to a web app, then don’t wait up too long… Ask us for a free demo!