Verify essential capabilities
List scenarios involving camera access, location, files, notifications and offline work. Browser capabilities vary by operating system and browser, so test uncertain features on target devices. If the task needs a mobile-friendly form and account area, a responsive site or PWA may solve it without a separate app-store release.
Compare delivery and updates
A web version updates on the server but remains subject to browser limits. Native and cross-platform apps require builds, signing, distribution and platform maintenance. Store review can affect releases. Identify developer account owners, update delivery and the oldest supported devices.
Prototype the technical risk
If the decision depends on offline behaviour, Bluetooth or background execution, validate that capability first. Test closing the app, revoking permissions and switching networks rather than a successful launch alone. Compare full support costs after this experiment and choose the smallest sufficient product.
Checklist
- List supported devices and OS versions.
- Test uncertain capabilities on devices.
- Define release and update distribution.
- Include maintenance in cost comparisons.
Project questions
Is a PWA always cheaper?
No. Complex offline requirements and browser workarounds can increase scope. Compare equivalent user scenarios rather than labels.