In March 2020, we at tapio took the step into the world of a then still rather unconventional web technology with the launch of our tool management system twinio, gathering initial experience in the development of web apps and have been enthusiastic about the numerous advantages since. These experiences have significantly contributed to a fundamental change in our technology selection. However, before delving deeper into the reasons for this, let's take a brief look at the history of web apps.

Rising from the Ashes

The Rise of Web Apps

The idea of web apps is anything but new. As early as 2007, Steve Jobs presented the basic idea when introducing the then iPhone - developing apps based on Web 2.0 and AJAX. However, the idea was soon forgotten until it was revived in 2015 by Alex Russell and Frances Berriman. The two combined the accessibility of web browsers with the advantages of native apps, i.e. applications specifically developed for certain operating systems such as iOS or Android and can be downloaded via platform stores such as the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

This created a new technology - installable web apps that allow web applications to be used similarly to native apps on mobile devices. The technology, initially introduced in Chrome, was quickly adopted by other browsers. At that time, there wasn't even a fixed name for this web technology.

Today, web apps are ubiquitous. Giants like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft rely on the advantages of web apps - just like we do at tapio.

Why We Are Embracing Web Apps

The Technology Choice Today

Since the introduction of twinio, we have completely shifted our focus to the development of web apps. We go so far as to replace our existing native app, ServiceBoard, with the newly developed ServiceBoard web app from the ground up. This decision may initially seem surprising, especially considering that the native app works and is used. One might wonder, then, why the additional development effort? However, behind this innovation is a clear vision that consistently focuses on the needs and individual use cases of our users. Our goal is to further optimize the user experience and application flexibility through targeted development of web apps.

More information about the change

Why the Switch?

From Native to Web Apps

tapio's app world is continuously growing, and it's crucial to keep the users and their use cases in focus. To find unified and simple solutions for these use cases, it is necessary for our applications to work seamlessly, regardless of the platform or device. The goal of our applications is to support users in their work processes without creating additional effort in usage. Web apps play a central role in this, as they not only operate independently of platforms but also offer numerous other advantages that only become apparent upon closer examination.

Lower Resource Consumption: Focus on Efficiency

In comparison to extensive native apps, which often require considerable storage space and processing power, web apps stand out for their efficiency. Especially in the case of growing digital assistants that enable you to create and expand your database yourself, the resource-efficient technology unfolds its full potential. Capacity and performance always remain at an optimal level.

Anytime, Anywhere! Cross-Platform Availability

With web apps, the possibility of unrestricted freedom arises. Regardless of whether you are on the go with your tablet, smartphone, or laptop - the web app is always accessible via your browser. Seamless usage across different devices and operating systems creates a new dimension of user-friendliness.

Time Saving: No Installation Required

Time is precious, and web apps respect that. The tedious installation is eliminated. In the corporate context, where permissions may need to be requested for each individual installation, this represents a significant time saving. Even in the event of a device change or a reset of the existing device, you save valuable minutes. The additional storage space on your device is a significant advantage, especially in the digital daily routine. But...

Here Comes the Big “But”

Nevertheless, web apps offer the option to integrate with your applications on the homescreen. If you prefer the convenience of app icons on your homescreen, you can simply link the web app. The decision is entirely up to you. Flexibility is the focus here - further evidence that web apps prioritize the needs of users.

Maximizing the Potential of Our Web Apps

We would like to explain the big “but” to you in more detail. Installing web apps does not mean that they become native apps. Rather, linking to the homescreen ensures that the web app looks and behaves like a native app. The installation requires only a little storage space and is more of a link than a classic installation.

It’s as Easy as This to “Install”

The advantage is clearly the quick accessibility of the homescreen or desktop shortcuts. Above all, you save a lot of space, especially on mobile devices, which is taken up by browser-related elements.

To illustrate how much space, we have prepared a small example with two views of our web app twinio on a mobile device for comparison. Once as an installed web app and once directly opened in the browser. The red areas clarify again how much space is lost for browser elements.

For installation instructions for mobile and desktop

Currently, the support for desktop applications is initially limited to these two browsers. However, on mobile devices, there is a wide range of browsers that support the installation of web apps on your homescreen. To see if your browser supports the installation of a web app, check the list we have compiled for you:

BrowserWeb-App Installation

Internet Explorer❌

Microsoft Edge✔️

Google Chrome✔️

Apple Safari❌

Firefox❌

Android Browser✔️

Safari on iOS✔️

Google Chrome on Android✔️

Google Chrome on iOS✔️

Firefox on Android✔️

Samsung Internet✔️

(As of 05.12.2023)

Need Help with Setup?

Feel free to contact us. Together with you, we will set up your digital workshop and show you how easy it is to use our web apps.

You can reach our tapio service from: Monday - Friday / 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (CET) at +49 7445 8379 949 or send us a message to service@tapio.one