We should add more details to the web app manifest file

[jbampton]

https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Manifest

Most web browsers show the "application" tab with a panel for the "manifest".
Currently the site shows like this in Firefox:

https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Manifest/background_color
https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Manifest/short_name

And in the homepage HTML markup we have

<meta name="theme-color" content="#282661">

https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Manifest/theme_color

For reference

https://web.dev/add-manifest/

[bproffitt]

@jbampton What's the benefit of this? Genuinely asking. Also, do you have suggestions on what to add?

[dave2wave]

@jbampton do you want to close this or respond to @bproffitt ?

[jbampton]

A web app manifest enhances a website by enabling it to behave like a native app, allowing users to install it on their device's home screen and access it without needing to open a browser. This creates a more app-like experience, improves user engagement, and provides a central location for metadata like name, icons, and preferred URL.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the benefits:

Enhanced User Experience:

Installability:
The manifest allows users to "install" a website on their home screen, making it easily accessible like a native app.

Native App Look and Feel:
With features like splash screens, custom icons, and full-screen display modes, the website can mimic the appearance and behavior of a native application.
Offline Access:
PWAs (Progressive Web Apps), which rely on manifests, can be designed to work offline, improving user experience in areas with limited connectivity.

Improved User Engagement:

Increased Engagement:
Studies have shown that PWAs can lead to significant increases in user engagement, as evidenced by increased app usage and conversions.

Push Notifications:
PWAs can send push notifications, keeping users informed and engaged with the latest updates and content.
Reduced Bounce Rate:
By offering a seamless and engaging experience, PWAs can help reduce bounce rates and keep users on the site longer.

Centralized Metadata and Discovery:

Metadata Management:
The manifest provides a single file to manage crucial information about the web app, such as its name, icons, and description.

App Store Discovery:
This metadata can be utilized by app stores and search engines, improving the discoverability of the web application.
Deep Linking:
The manifest's scope property allows for deep linking, enabling users to access specific sections of the web app directly from other applications or platforms.

Cost-Effectiveness and Maintainability:

Reduced Development Costs:
PWAs can be developed using web technologies, reducing the need for separate native app development for different platforms.

Simplified Updates:
PWAs are automatically updated, eliminating the need for users to manually update the app.
Cross-Platform Compatibility:
PWAs can be accessed on various devices and operating systems, simplifying development and maintenance.

https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Progressive_web_apps/Manifest

https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/Progressive_web_apps

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progressive_web_app

[bproffitt]

Noted. If someone wants to create the code for this, I have no objections, as long as it meshes with our existing roadmap.