Previously, web apps had fewer features to introduce a website’s motive and interact with the users. These days, the advancement in the web app development processes has given multiple ways to create more interactive online portals for various businesses.
“According to Forbes, a web application is more valuable than in the past, and apps will be a prevalent aspect in individuals’ lives in the coming decade.
Let us delve deeper and follow the guide to web application development for 2023.
Web Application: A perfect online portal
It is a computer program we can access using a web browser. A web application is typically a client-server program comprising a server and a client side. The users provide data and commands on the client side, and the server side stores that info for processing to reply to the user’s requests. A few most common examples are Facebook, Mailchimp, LinkedIn, etc.
The Working of a Web Application
We can access a web app by using a web browser. Hence, we do not need to download it as we do for mobile apps. It has three specific components: a web server, a database and an application server. The database stores information, an application server processes the requests, whereas the web server manages them.
Workflow of Web Application
- A user creates a request via a web browser.
- The web server taps on that request
- The web browser sends instructions to the application server for processing the request.
- The application server processes the request and performs the requested tasks for generating results.
- The requested result is then displayed on the screen.
Types of Web Applications
Now that we have understood the workflow of web apps, we can clearly define what a web app is. Let us discuss the different types of web apps.
- Static web app – It does not contain any interactive features and displays the intended data on the screen for users. This web app is built using HTML, JavaScript, CSS, etc.
- Dynamic web app – This app generates real-time data considering the user’s requests. It is more complex than static web apps and is built using PHP and Asp.Net.
- E-commerce web app – This app is developed for eCommerce or buying and selling portals.
- CMS web app – This type of app is used for a content management system (CMS) that allows the modification of a website’s content without technical knowledge.
- Portal web app – This type of web app is designed for authentication and authorized access to a data repository.
- Single page app – It is a dynamic web application that is easy to build and interact with the options provided.
- Multi-page app – This type contains multiple pages to display information and navigation. It provides vast information to users.
- Rich internet web app – Rich Internet Applications comprise many of the same features and appearances as desktop applications with multiple functionalities. It is more engaging and faster and can be used offline as well. Relying upon customer-side plugins, they are visually appealing and deliver an incredible user experience. YouTube and Google maps are famous examples of such applications.
- Progressive web app – This type of app contains the same features of mobile apps that use the latest APIs offering a native mobile application experience to the users.
Prime Difference between Web Apps and Websites
Web applications are websites. Users can access both via net browsers, and both need internet access. Web application development differs substantially from website development.
Difference between Web Apps and Mobile Apps
The prime difference between mobile and web apps is that the former is developed for handheld devices, whereas the latter is designed for web-browser using devices such as computers and laptops. Mobile apps can also work offline, whereas web apps need the internet.
A web application is dynamic and is designed for user engagement. A website basically contains static content.
Benefits of Web App Development
- It is a cost-effective method for developing an online presence.
- It is ideal for its cross-platform compatibility features.
- It is compatible with all kinds of browsers.
- Operation cost is reduced considerably.
- It is easier to update.
- Customisation is breezy.
- Online security is relatively high.
Steps for Web App Development
- Conceptualisation of the requirement
- Development of a prototype
- Testing and implementation
- Hosting the app and maintenance
In a Nutshell
As there are different aspects of web app development, it is wiser to hire an experienced web app development agency for specific business requirements. Understanding the various options and factors will be easier. It will lead to making a proper decision at every step.
Are you looking to embark on an application and dwell forward? Contact us to build customized Web, Cloud and Mobile applications across various industries.