Technology continues to evolve as we find new, more innovative ways to get things done faster and with more flair than before. In the world of technology, not many areas feature as much innovation as the landscape of web development. Each year this ecosystem changes, dictating new direction for web developers. And it is not only the big names such as Apple or Google who implement progressive web applications, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). It’s imperative for every business to employ the same tech changes in order to stay in the game.
So, what are the top trends projected to dominate the market of web development in 2021? Let’s take a deep dive.
PWA
According to the Top 30 PWAs report, Progressive Web App development have 36% higher conversion rates than native apps. This trend is set to continue in 2021 as well. PWA brings a wide range of striking advantages. They can operate offline, send push notifications, create a user experience that is similar to native apps while being much faster to download. Compared to native applications, PWAs are also less challenging. Developers in this arena only have to monitor only the codebase. Once the app is ready, all you have to do is upload it to the server. You don’t have to buy a license for the app stores.
Many known corporations such as Pinterest, Forbes, and Starbucks have built PWAs to provide a more responsive experience to their customers.
Dark themed UI
While this feature has been more prevalent in applications, we see a rise in websites too. One of its advantages is that the night or dark themed user interfaces are better for the eyes. It not only reduces excessive eye strains but because saves the battery life with the increased number of black pixels used. Furthermore, dark themed UI offers a rather stylish touch while augmenting the end user experience.
Many companies have already jumped on this bandwagon such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Apple. This trend is likely to continue in 2021.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
While processing large amount of customer data, AI enables web developers to infuse a great level of personalization in the web development process. AI shows customers only the most relevant information while omitting the rest. It makes use of the customer’s previous purchases, search history, top category pages, number of visits to the website, and much more. With every customer visit, AI platforms collect a vast amount of data about individual customers. This leads to more accurate recommendations, and at the same time, accelerating the conversion rate. AI empowers businesses to serve their customers in a better manner.
Chatbots
The global chatbot market size stood at $430.9 million in 2020. This number is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.9% from 2021 to 2028.1
The past few years have seen an increasing integration of chatbots into websites. This demand for automated communication solutions will just rise for 2021 as well. Chatbots can respond to the queries provided by users in real-time without any downtime, eliminating the need for human assistance. Chatbots can take care many of the basic queries, provide solutions for the same, and later pass on the issue to a higher authority if needed. This technology can help enterprises to save a big amount of costs by replacing the majority of customer service professionals.
Voice search
According to UK-based Juniper Research, there will 8 billion digital voice assistants in use by 2023.2
The Voice Search Technology is gaining popularity day by day. Users want ease when they are on the web. Instead of spending time pressing buttons and typing, they want the ease to just speak what they require, and the results of the search can be displayed on their screens. Voice search can augment user experience by making search engines faster and more convenient.
Single-page application
Single-page application works inside a browser and does not require page reloading while being used. One of its main advantages is that the UX provides the user with a maximally natural environment. Unlike traditional web apps, SPAs load a page only at the first request. How is this beneficial? SPA allows a consumer to browse with ease without any interruptions. These applications can also effectively cache any local data. So, it ensures convenience even with low internet connection.
Cybersecurity
In 2020, Germany’s second-largest software vendor Software AG suffered a malware attack where the hackers demanded a staggering $20 million. In an increasingly connected world, cybersecurity is of prime importance. Conduct a vulnerability assessment test to examine the robustness of your website.
API-first approach
There are a number of benefits of infusing an API-first design with web development. You can easily recycle the code between the projects, leading to lower development costs. It also increases the speed to market since you don’t have to redesign API architecture in order to add new features.
Motion UI
Motion UI essentially involves the use of visual cues in web applications to create a more fluid experience for users. It can liven up your user interface with the latest front-end technologies. With Motion UI integrated to your web application, you can expect more users staying on it.
Cloud computing
The benefits of cloud computing in web app development is something that cannot be neglected. Besides analytics and data management, cloud computing can infuse flexibility, scalability, and mobility. This can enable you to perform better business with your customers.
In conclusion
The rapidly changing business environment has accelerated technologies, pushing businesses to better serve its customers in the digital world. These trends will drive this momentum further in 2021.