Progressive Web App (PWA)
Installable, offline and multi-platform
What is a PWA?
A Progressive Web App is a web application that combines the best of websites and native apps. Work Sampling is a complete PWA that offers:
- ✅ Installable: Added to the home screen like an app
- ✅ Offline: Works without internet connection
- ✅ Fast: Instant loading thanks to caching
- ✅ Updatable: You always have the latest version automatically
- ✅ Secure: Encrypted HTTPS connection
No App Store or Play Store
Install directly from the browser. No waiting, no approvals, no heavy downloads.
How to Install the App
On Android (Chrome)
- 1Open the app in Chrome
Navigate to the application URL
- 2Tap the install banner
Or the menu ⋮ → "Install app"
- 3Confirm "Install"
The app will be added to your home screen
On iPhone/iPad (Safari)
- 1Open the app in Safari
It's important to use Safari, not Chrome or another browser
- 2Tap the share button
The square with an up arrow
- 3Select "Add to Home Screen"
You may need to scroll to find it
- 4Confirm "Add"
The app will appear on your home screen
On Windows/Mac (Chrome/Edge)
- 1Open the app in the browser
Chrome, Edge or any compatible browser
- 2Look for the install icon
A + or monitor icon will appear in the address bar
- 3Click "Install"
The app will install as a desktop application
Offline Operation
One of the most important features for industrial use is offline operation. In production plants, warehouses or remote areas, WiFi connectivity can be limited.
What works offline?
✅ Works without connection
- • View existing studies
- • Register new observations
- • View the observation plan
- • Check cached reports
- • Edit observations
- • Receive scheduled notifications
⚠️ Requires connection
- • Create new studies
- • Sync with the cloud
- • Sign in for the first time
- • Download app updates
Automatic Sync
When you work offline, data is saved locally on your device. When connection is restored:
- The app automatically detects the connection
- Local data syncs with Firebase
- Changes from other devices are downloaded
- Everything stays synced and backed up
🔄 Data persistence
Data is stored in IndexedDB, a browser database that persists even if you close the app or turn off the device. Your observations are not lost even if you are offline for days.
PWA Advantages
vs. Native App
| Feature | PWA | Native App |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | ✅ One click, no App Store | Wait for store approval |
| Size | ✅ ~5 MB | 50-200 MB typical |
| Updates | ✅ Automatic and instant | Requires manual download |
| Development | ✅ One code for all platforms | Separate iOS/Android code |
| Cost | ✅ Lower maintenance cost | Higher cost per platform |
vs. Regular Web
| Feature | PWA | Regular Web |
|---|---|---|
| Offline | ✅ Works without internet | ❌ Requires connection |
| Installable | ✅ Home screen icon | ❌ Only in browser |
| Notifications | ✅ Native push | ❌ Not available |
| Performance | ✅ Aggressive cache, fast loading | Depends on the network |
Technical Requirements
- Compatible browser: Chrome 90+, Firefox 88+, Safari 14+, Edge 90+
- HTTPS: The app only works on a secure connection
- JavaScript: Must be enabled
- Storage: ~50 MB available for local data
Multi-Device Support
By using Firebase as the backend, your data is synced across all your devices:
- Sign in on your phone and on your computer
- Observations registered on one appear on the other
- Work on whichever device is most convenient at any moment
💡 Pro tip
Install the app on your phone for plant observations, and use the desktop version to configure studies, review reports and export data.