Data Synchronization with a mobile cloud backend
The user-engagement model for a mobile app is different from a web app. Users are typically impatient and expect a swift response while interacting with the application. On the other hand, reliability issues with the networks pose a serious challenge to establish a robust communication channel with the back-end.
A nice workaround is to somehow cache the most frequently used data on the device itself. How is it done? One approach is for the app developer to create a mini-replica of the enterprise DB in SQLite that is packaged with the app. On app start-up or in response to notifications, the data can be synchronized with the device.
Once synchronized, end-users can continue using the application as if working with local data which makes the end-user experience delightful.
How can mBaaS help here?
A well-implemented mBaaS should provide enough hooks to facilitate data synchronization from the back-end to the device. These may include:
- Availability of the data synchronization APIs on the back-end
- SDKs for the app that provides a simplified, robust and efficient mechanism for the data synchronization process
- Ability to export the DB schema that can be initialized into an SQLite store
- Mechanisms to import and export the schema from the back-end or from the application
- Periodic data refreshment capability.
If you’re looking for the best mBaaS platform for your business, Data Synchronization is one key feature to consider. Having led the cloud-based mobile application platform development initiatives for a large enterprise, we can help you to decide the right strategy in moving to the cloud-based mobile platform in a cost-effective manner.
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