Web Push Notification: Engage & Convert Users Effectively
What Is Web Push Notification
Web push notification is a technology that allows websites to send messages or notifications directly to a user's device, even when the user is not actively using the website.
These notifications can be sent to both desktop and mobile devices, and can include text, images, and links.
Web push notifications are different from traditional push notifications because they do not require a native app to be installed on the device; instead, they can be delivered directly to the web browser.
How Does Web Push Notification Work
In order to receive web push notifications, users must first opt-in to receive them from a website. Once subscribed, they will start receiving notifications automatically whenever new content is published, or an alert is triggered.
There are two main components to web push notification:
Push API
Notification API
The Push API allows websites to request permission from a user's browser to send notifications, and the Notification API allows the browser to display those notifications to the user.
When a website wants to send a web push notification, it first has to request permission from the user's browser. The browser will then display a prompt asking the user if they want to allow notifications from that website.
If the user allows notifications, the browser will generate a unique token that identifies that user and gives the website permission to send notifications to them. This token is then used by the website to send notifications directly to the user's device.
The Notification API allows browsers to display these notifications in a variety of ways, including as pop-ups or banners on the screen or as icons in the notification area.
Importance of Web Push Notification
Web push notifications are one of the most powerful marketing tools available to businesses today. By delivering timely, relevant information directly to users' devices, they can boost engagement and conversions like never before.
There are several key reasons why web push notifications are so effective:
They're highly visible. Unlike emails or other forms of marketing communications, web push notifications appear right on users' screens, ensuring that your message gets seen.
They're interactive. Users can click on web push notifications to get more information or take a desired action, such as visiting your website or making a purchase.
They're timely. Web push notifications can be delivered in real-time, meaning you can reach users with the most up-to-date information.
They're personalizable. You can segment your users and target them with personalized messages that are relevant to their interests.
They're cost-effective. Web push notifications are a relatively inexpensive way to reach a large number of users with your message.
Web push notifications can be an effective way to keep users engaged with your website or app, but it's important to use them sparingly and only send relevant and timely information.
If you overuse web push notifications or send irrelevant messages, you run the risk of annoying or even alienating your audience.
Limitations of Web Push Notification
There are several limitations to web push notifications that marketers should be aware of before implementing a strategy. Perhaps the most notable is that not all browsers support them.
Another key limitation is that web push notifications can only be used to deliver messages to users who have opted-in to receive them. This can be a challenge for some marketers as getting users to opt-in can be difficult. Once a user has opted out of receiving notifications from a website, it can be very difficult to get them to opt in again.
Finally, web push notifications are also limited in terms of the amount of information that can be conveyed. Unlike other channels such as email or SMS, web push notifications are restricted to a maximum of 90 characters. This can make it challenging to deliver complex messages or messages with a lot of detail.
Despite these limitations, web push notifications can be a valuable tool for marketers when used correctly. When considering using web push notifications as part of a marketing strategy, it is important to keep these limitations in mind.
Get a weekly roundup of Ninetailed updates, curated posts, and helpful insights about the digital experience, MACH, composable, and more right into your inbox