Are you a business entrepreneur in search of new, innovative means of expanding your business brand? If that is the case, then this article is intended for you. In this, we explain various types of web applications and how each can be of benefit to your organization.
Eventually, any business understands the importance of a web application. Either you are looking for a bespoke solution with a specific implementation supporting your business or a pre-existing item you can fit into your requirements, this guide will assist you in determining the ideal solution for your requirements.
Table of Contents:
1. What Is a Web Application?
2. What Are Examples of Web Applications?
3. How Do Web Applications Function?
4. Benefits of Web Applications
5. Types of Web Applications
6. Conclusion
What Is a Web Application?
Most individuals tend to mistake web applications for websites. Whereas websites primarily disseminate information, web applications are interactive software or programs stored on distant servers and viewed via a web browser on any internet-accessible device. Most websites nowadays have web applications integrated to allow users to search, look at, or accomplish activities like online payment.
Simply put, a web application is any software that interacts to a network. This is a wide-ranging definition because web apps can do many things on the internet. While terms such as “client” and “server” apps are sometimes used for web apps, they are vague, most contemporary web applications have both client-side and server-side pieces.
Why web apps are so popular is because of their availability, anyone with access to the internet can use them. They also provide a lot of functionality, ranging from social networking sites and email to e-commerce and banking.
What Are Examples of Web Applications?
Common names such as Google Docs, Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, and Netflix are all web apps. Basically, any site that allows users to do something, use a service, or dynamically interact, beyond reading content, constitutes a web app.
How Do Web Applications Function?
In contrast to desktop applications that need to be downloaded and installed, web applications are directly accessed via a browser. They depend on two main elements: a web server to handle incoming client requests and an application server to perform tasks. A database is also usually employed to store pertinent data.
Client-side scripting is generally performed in JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS to create the visual layout and interaction of the app. Server-side scripting is, however, executed using Python, Java, or Ruby for the backend operations.
Benefits of Web Applications
Web apps offer a wide array of advantages, making them highly adaptable and useful. Some key benefits include:
- Accessible globally via any web browser.
- Developed using various programming technologies, offering flexibility.
- No installation needed, can run from a server or even locally.
- Support for both static and dynamic structures.
- Multiple users can access a single version simultaneously.
- Usable across different devices – desktops, laptops, or smartphones.
Let’s explore the different types of web applications available today:
Types of Web Applications
Static Web Application
Static web apps are among the most basic forms of web applications. They’re built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to deliver fixed content that doesn’t change unless manually edited.
These apps do not support user personalization and update only when the page reloads. While they can include visual elements like GIFs or videos, updating them often requires modifying the HTML source code. This makes maintenance less convenient for those without coding experience.
Static web apps are best suited for developers and administrators needing simple solutions. They also work well offline and don’t require any third-party installations for access.
Dynamic Web Application
Dynamic web apps deliver real-time content updates based on user inputs or interactions. They are more advanced than static apps and often include interactive features to promote services or engage users.
Such apps usually connect to databases that store user and admin data, enabling live updates and content personalization. Admins can easily modify content, while users benefit from a responsive and interactive experience. Languages commonly used for building dynamic apps include PHP and ASP.NET.
Examples:
- Netflix
E-commerce Web Application
An e-commerce web application enables companies to sell products or services directly online. Such sites do more than present products, products also come with product description tools, inventory tracking, payment interfaces, and processing online transactions. A user-friendly interface guides users through products and purchases with ease.
Examples:
- Amazon
- eBay
Content Management System Web Application
A content management system (CMS) is a system that enables users to create, edit, and publish digital content like text, images, videos, and so on, without requiring technical skills. The admin dashboard enables you to manage site content in an intuitive way, even without coding skills.
One-Page Web Application
Single-page applications (SPAs) load the whole site content in a single web page, providing better user experience through the removal of page reloads. All code is loaded initially, and interactions occur dynamically. SPAs are therefore much smoother and faster than conventional web apps.
Examples:
- Gmail
- PayPal
Multiple-Page Web Application
Multi-page web applications redraw the entire page every time a user goes to a different section. For example, in a webmail program, separate pages are employed to open, write, and send mail, although the user interface is experienced as continuous. Such applications present an organized user experience with multiple interaction paths.
Example:
- Google Docs
Portal Web Application
Portal web applications serve as centralized portals providing access to several resources or services via a single interface. They’re perfect for news websites, educational websites, or online shopping websites. After users log in, they’re given personalized content, and their activity is trackable by the service provider.
Examples:
- Coursera
- Udemy
Animated Web Application
Animated web applications employ interesting graphics and imagery to create a more interactive user experience. In entertainment, education, and e-commerce industries, these applications come alive with imaginative animation. Technologies such as HTML5, JavaScript, CSS, Flash, and SVG are normally employed for their development.
Example:
- Google’s Your Plan, Your Planet
Rich Internet Web Application
Rich Internet Applications (RIAs) provide functionality equivalent to ordinary desktop applications but run in a browser context. They are based on plugins for delivering high-level features and interactive interfaces, typically with improved responsiveness and graphics. Some RIAs include limited offline functionality.
Nonetheless, old plugins have the potential to cause functionality problems or act as security threats, so keeping them updated is critical.
Progressive Web Application
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) combine the best of web and native app experience. Using latest web technologies and browser APIs, they provide fast, reliable, and responsive experience even on low network conditions. PWAs are built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and can run on any platform without any problem.
Examples:
- Spotify
- Slack
Conclusion
So, what web application is best suited for your business? The best type is based on your objectives, budget, and user expectations. Now that you know the primary types of web applications, you’re in a better position to select one that suits your project requirements.
At Etelligens, we specialize in assisting businesses in creating high-quality, easy-to-use web applications. You may require a dynamic portal, a modern e-commerce platform, or a responsive PWA – our skilled team is here to assist you from conception to completion. Let’s bring your vision to life, contact us today!
