PWA for Online Sales with Next.js in E-Commerce

Introduction:

PWA (Progressive Web Apps) is gaining increasing popularity in the world of e-commerce, offering entrepreneurs new opportunities to reach customers. But why should you consider PWA when creating an application for an online store? And how can Next.js help in this process? If you want to learn more about Next.js, read our dedicated article titled "Next.js - what is this framework? Pros and cons of this technological solution".

Why is it worth having a mobile app for e-commerce?

Push notifications: A direct communication channel with customers is key to effective sales. Thanks to push notifications, we can inform customers about special promotions or sales, for example. Imagine a situation where a customer added a product to the basket but did not complete the purchase. With a notification, we can remind them of this product, offering an additional discount. Such actions can significantly increase conversion in the store, bringing additional revenue without incurring higher advertising costs. User engagement: Mobile apps allow for more frequent contact with the customer. Compared to a traditional website, an app is always "at hand" for the user. Thus, customers can browse new products while riding public transport or waiting at the doctor's office. Regular use of the app promotes customer loyalty, which in the long run can bring significant savings on the costs of acquiring a new customer. Integration with the web application: Thanks to integration, the customer can smoothly switch between different platforms. For example, if they start browsing products in the app on their phone during a break at work, they can continue shopping on their computer when they get home. Services like Allegro.pl make excellent use of this functionality, synchronizing the cart and the list of watched items between devices. This not only provides comfort for the user but also a greater chance of completing a purchase. Shopping by phone: According to a Statista study, shopping via smartphones accounts for an increasingly large share of all online transactions, amounting to as much as 60%. This trend cannot be ignored. For many people, shopping by phone is more convenient than using a computer. By optimizing the store for mobile devices, we can reach a wider group of customers. Additionally, since mobile shopping is more impulsive, shortening the purchasing process in the app can bring significant financial benefits.

Why consider PWA?

PWA, or Progressive Web Apps, are modern web applications that combine the benefits of traditional web applications with the functionality of mobile apps. One of the key advantages of PWA is the ability to work offline, which means that users can browse content even without access to the internet. This is an excellent solution for e-commerce, where uninterrupted shopping experience is key. Moreover, PWAs are characterized by fast loading, which translates into a better user experience and can lead to higher conversion. There is no need to install the app from a traditional app store, eliminating an entry barrier for many users. Introducing MVP (Minimal Viable Product) in the form of PWA is a strategic move. It allows companies to quickly release a product to the market, collect feedback from users, and adjust the functionality of the app in response to this feedback. Ultimately, it is a cost-effective way to test innovative ideas and adapt to the dynamically changing e-commerce market. You can read more about PWA in our article "PWA vs Cross-platform Apps - when and why to create a PWA?".

How to create a PWA for e-commerce?

To effectively create a PWA for e-commerce, it is worth applying a few key steps that will contribute to the success of the application: Functionality planning: Before you start creating an app, it is good to carefully consider what features will be key for you. For example, a product recommendation system based on purchase history can significantly improve user experience, while also increasing the average value of the shopping cart. Intuitive interface: In the case of e-commerce applications, simplicity and intuitiveness are important. The user should be able to easily find the product they are interested in, add it to the cart, and make a purchase. Well-thought-out design can increase conversions on the page by several percentage points, which can translate into large profits with a sufficiently large number of products. Using notifications: Push notifications are a powerful tool in e-commerce. They allow direct contact with the customer, informing them about special promotions, new offers, or reminding them of an unfinished order. This can significantly increase conversion and customer loyalty. Optimization for mobile devices: PWA should be optimized for various screen sizes and types of devices. This ensures smooth operation and an excellent shopping experience on every device.

How much does it cost?

The costs associated with introducing PWA can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the project and the chosen functionalities. However, since many e-commerce companies already have existing infrastructure, transitioning to PWA is often relatively quick and inexpensive. It is also worth noting that introducing PWA can be an excellent way to test a new sales channel without incurring large financial outlays. In the long run, this investment can bring significant benefits in terms of increased sales and customer loyalty.

Limitations of PWA - are they significant?

PWA, although innovative and effective in many aspects, is not without certain limitations. First and foremost, access to some advanced hardware features, such as various sensors or features specific to a particular operating system, may be limited in the case of PWA. Additionally, PWA may not be as smooth and fast as native apps, which can affect the user experience. Nevertheless, in many cases, these differences are so small that for many entrepreneurs, these limitations are simply acceptable, considering the benefits that PWA brings in terms of cost and speed of implementation.

Summary

In the dynamically developing world of e-commerce, the key to success is the use of appropriate tools that allow for effective customer engagement. PWA in combination with Next.js is an excellent response to contemporary market challenges, combining the advantages of websites with the functionalities of mobile applications. If you are thinking about the future of your business in a digital context, PWA may prove to be the key to success. To learn more about how PWA can benefit your business, we encourage you to take advantage of our free consultation. Our team of experts is ready to answer all your questions and help you choose the best solution. Fill out the contact form, and we will help you harness the full potential of your e-commerce! We guarantee a response within 24 hours.