Access with a URL

An “App URL Scheme” allows mobile users to access an app from other mobile applications, such as email or a browser, by simply clicking a URL link.

The App URL can be appended to include the server URL, vastly simplifying the mobile app deployment. IT departments can send an email with the App URL and server address all in one. Mobile users click the link to open the app with the server address pre-configured.

The general approach is to “issue” the application to a mobile device. This can mean:

  • Sending the URL by email to be viewed and selected in a mobile email client.
  • Posting the URL on an internal web page to be viewed and selected in a mobile browser.
  • Embedding the URL in a native launcher application.

Given the variety of mobile devices available today, there may be some variation in the end-user experience. Some approaches may work better than others.

URL to install the app

App installation can be accomplished by providing a link to the host system in the respective app stores. For example, for a "Workforce Dimensions" host:

  • Android:
  • https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kronos.dimensions.enterprise
  • iOS:
  • https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wf-dimensions/id1321967136?mt=8

URL to launch the app

The app can be launched by issuing a URL with the App URL Scheme. For example, a host named "Dimensions":

(dimensions://launch).

URL to launch the app to a specific server via URL

The App URL Scheme allows for the passing of configuration to the application on the URL, freeing the user from having to enter the server address in the app.

  • Parameter Name: server
  • Parameter Value: the URL of the server
    • Example: dimensions://launch?server=https://ABCcompany.myukg.com

Note that server URL will be updated every time the app is loaded in this manner. This accommodates changes to the server location.