Step 1: Set up your Knack project
Progressier can enhance your Knack web app with additional features such as push notifications and the ability to be installed as a Progressive Web App (PWA). You can incorporate Progressier into your project when your app is live and accessible at a custom domain.
Before you start, also ensure your Knack app can be embedded in an iframe. While this is optional and there is an alternative way to wrap your app with the functionality, the iframe method is the solution that provides the best user experience — provided that your app doesn't require cookies.
Step 2: Create a new Progressier account
Progressier is a web toolkit that allows you to easily add new capabilities to your Knack app (and apps from hosting providers as well) using little to no code at all.
Create your Progressier account . Progressier comes with a 14-day free trial that allows you to integrate it into your Knack app risk-free. You only enter your payment information once everything is working to your liking.
Step 3: Make your Knack project a PWA
Next, create your Knack app in Progressier. Go to New PWA, then select Knack in the first dropdown menu. Give your app a name and paste the URL of your Knack project in the third field.
Step 4: Finish your installation
We'll show you a series of tasks. These tasks are easy and shouldn't take you more than a few minutes to complete. If you run any bottlenecks, reach out to us using the Intercom widget at the bottom-right corner of the page.
Step 5: Allow push notifications
Because Knack has some additional limitations compared to other no-code builders, Progressier doesn't directly augment your existing Knack domain with push notifications. Instead, we create a wrapper around your app with the installation and push functionality. This wrapper is available at a custom domain created specifically for your app.
Open your newly-created custom domain. You should see a Floating Action Button at the bottom-right corner. Click on it and then tap Get notifications. The browser will prompt you to allow notifications. Click Allow
Step 6: Let's send a push notification
Go to our Push Composer (login required) to compose your first push notification. By default, it will be sent to all your subscribers, but you can target a specific group of users in the Recipients section of the Targeting tab.
Once you've clicked Send now, Progressier will automatically dispatch your notifications and notify each device that has authorized push notifications on your domain. Notifications are typically received within a few seconds.
How can push notifications enhance your Knack app
Push notifications can help keep users coming back to the app by providing them with valuable and interesting content. For example, if you have a fitness app, you can send push notifications with daily workout tips or challenges to keep users motivated and engaged.
Also, push notifications can provide a more convenient way for users to receive updates and information from your app, improving the overall user experience. For example, if you have a weather app, you can send push notifications with real-time weather updates to help users plan their day.
The challenges of implementing push notifications in web apps
Use notifications with restraint as some users find them intrusive and/or annoying. Also, instead of using push notifications as a marketing tool, consider using them to provide value to your users. For example, you could use push notifications to alert users to new features or updates or to remind them of important tasks or deadlines. This can help build trust and engagement with your users.
What are the best push services for Knack apps?
Here are some popular examples of push services Knack app owners like to use:
- Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM): The free push messaging solution developed by Google. It's completely free to use but is fairly limited when it comes to sending personalized push notifications
- OneSignal: This is a cross-platform messaging service that supports Android, iOS, and web platforms. It offers a range of features, including segmentation, A/B testing, and support for multiple languages.
- Progressier: Progressier is a PWA toolkit that allows developers and no-code makers to effortlessly send push notifications for marketing or targeted messaging purposes. It is built specifically for web apps and may not be the best option for websites or native apps.
- PushEngage: Another popular option for push notifications on the web.
Creating your own push service
Knack is not quite the right platform for creating a push service, especially if you plan to handle scale. Creating a push service definitely requires writing code. Going with an existing push service will save you time and money.
Which devices and browsers are capable of receiving push notifications?
- Windows/Chrome
- Windows/Edge
- Windows/Firefox
- Windows/Opera
- macOS/Firefox
- macOS/Chrome
- macOS/Edge
- macOS/Opera
- Android/Chrome
- Android/Samsung Internet
- macOS/Safari
- iOS/Safari
