Online First
Online First is a software development methodology that prioritizes building and deploying a functional online version of an application before focusing on offline capabilities. It emphasizes creating a web-based or cloud-native solution that is accessible from any device with an internet connection, ensuring core features work seamlessly online. This approach often involves progressive enhancement to add offline support later, rather than starting with a fully offline application.
Developers should use Online First when building applications where constant internet connectivity is assumed, such as SaaS products, collaborative tools, or real-time data dashboards, to deliver immediate value and reduce initial complexity. It is particularly beneficial for projects targeting modern web and mobile users who expect always-online experiences, as it allows for rapid iteration and deployment without the overhead of managing offline data synchronization from the start. This methodology helps teams focus on core functionality and user experience before tackling the complexities of offline modes.