Use web pages as powerfull business apps.
Have you ever wondered how you can transform web pages into powerful mobile business apps?
Wonder no more! In this case study we will show you how to increase productivity and compliance with a simple Progressive web app (PWA). PWAs are revolutionising mobile applications that offer cost-effective and high-performance solutions for transforming web pages into applications for your business.
What are Progressive Web Apps (PWA)?
"A progressive web app (PWA) is an app that's built using web platform technologies, but that provides a user experience like that of a platform-specific app. Like a website, a PWA can run on multiple platforms and devices from a single codebase. Like a platform-specific app, it can be installed on the device, can operate while offline and in the background, and can integrate with the device and with other installed apps."
https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Progressive_web_apps
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) offer several key benefits. They can be accessed through a straightforward URL, removing the need for traditional app stores or complex navigation through a web browser. Installation is easy, as they can be added directly to a device’s home screen without intricate processes. These features make PWAs a compelling choice for businesses aiming to enhance the mobile user experience.
For instance, in a work environment, employees can use a time and attendance web app. This type of app allows them to clock in and out directly from their mobile browser without needing to download a separate application from an app store. By adding the app to their home screen, access becomes quick and effortless, improving the efficiency of time tracking and attendance management within the company.
Additionally, some Mobile Device Management (MDM) software supports the deployment and oversight of PWAs in organizations. These tools enable the creation, customization, and approval of web applications, as well as their remote distribution and security, ensuring compliance with organizational security policies. Administrators can monitor PWA usage, ensuring that they are accessed only through approved, secure browsers.
Custom Software Development - Secure Watch, a case study.
Brandsplash was approached by one of our long-standing clients with a specific ask. The client wanted to monitor the security guard patrol rounds on their property. They had an old system in place but the hardware was inoperable.
We suggested replacing the hardware with a rugged mobile device with Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities. Our solution would consist of three components: A progressive web app installed on the mobile device, a management dashboard cloud-based web app and NFC tags placed around the property.
The security guards would log into the app at the start of their shift. They would then do their patrol rounds around the property and scan the NFC tags placed at different points within the property. On completion of the patrol route the patrol data would be synced with the web app. The data sent to the cloud would include the unique NFC tag ID number, the current logged-in user and the GPS location of the mobile device when the tag was scanned. This data would collectively show how many tags were scanned.
Managers can log into the cloud-based dashboard to check compliance and compliance reports can be generated. The PWA login functionality also doubles as a time and attendance module. It is also possible to send scheduled push notifications to the PWA to remind guards to do their rounds and other information from the management dashboard.
Progressive Web App
Cloud Based Management Dashboard Web App
Patrols List
Patrol details
Tag scan location
Attendance record list
In conclusion.
We have been running this system in production and have learned some lessons. Additionally, there are some more features we plan to introduce shortly, this includes:
- A torch function where the device torch can be accessed from the app directly.
- Incident reporting with image capture accessing the camera directly from the app.
- Tighter patrol controls for compliance and guard feedback.
- Scheduled email reporting on compliance.