Pivoting to a Progressive Web App as a Risk Mitigation Strategy

When a business faces External Platform Risk, particularly from mobile app stores like Apple's, developing a Progressive Web App (PWA) can be a powerful strategic pivot and risk mitigation strategy.

A PWA is a web application that looks and feels like a native mobile app but runs in a standard web browser.

Advantages of a PWA Strategy:

Platform Independence: PWAs are not subject to the approval processes, guidelines, or fees of any app store. This gives the business full control over its application and its relationship with the customer.
Bypasses Gatekeepers: It provides a direct channel to users, removing the dependency on a platform holder like Apple or Google.
Faster and Lighter: PWAs are often faster and require less storage space than native apps, as they don't require a large initial download.
Unified Codebase: A single PWA can serve all users, regardless of their device (iOS, Android, desktop), simplifying development and maintenance.
Plan B: Even if the primary strategy is to remain in the app stores, having a PWA builder in development provides a crucial backup plan in case of a dispute or policy change.

By investing in PWA technology, a company can hedge against the existential threat of being de-platformed and create a more resilient, independent business model.