A web application (or “web app”) is an interactive, multi-media app that users can access from their browser that is built using the typical front and back-end web development technologies. Web app development creates web-based client-server programs that perform and function like a mobile app. The user enters data through the front-end (client-side), while the back-end (server-side) of the app will process and store the data. Content management systems, online forms, and shopping carts are some examples of web applications.
Types of Web Applications
Static Web Application
Just like the name suggests, a static web application does not involve any interaction between the server and the user and is simple and easy to manage. It directly displays content to the user’s browser that does not involve data from the back-end. Static web apps are built using simple JavaScript (JS), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and HyperText Markup Language (HTML). In some cases, videos, animations, and GIFs are also used to attract and increase user engagement. A company’s website is the perfect example of a static web application.
Client-Side Web Apps
Client-side web apps are dominant in front-end development. These apps prioritize high-performance and user experience (UX), which means the user interface is the key focus. Any business logic or data that a client-side web app may require is loaded during start-up. Due to client-side rendering, there is no buffering time when loading a page. This method speeds up user interactions with content which will make the page overall more responsive.
Dynamic Web Application
A web application that users interact with and generate real-time data is called a dynamic web application. In these apps, there are different interactive functions and elements that users engage with to take their input. What sets these dynamic web applications apart from other types of web apps is their intricate and complex design. Different programming languages and technologies are used to build a dynamic web application, ASP.NET and PHP are two of the most common examples. A great example of a dynamic web application is Facebook, where users can login and interact with family and friends through posts or messages in real-time.
eCommerce Web Application
An e-Commerce web application is a web application platform with shops and stores that provides the core functionality for users to buy or sell online. An e-Commerce web application involves incorporating features like transaction integration, electronic payment integration, a personal cabinet for users, and an effective management panel for administrators for updating, listing, managing orders, and deleting products. This kind of web application is built around technologies such as mobile commerce, inventory management systems, supply chain management, internet markets, and payment gateways. Walmart, Amazon, Zomato, and eBay are some examples of e-commerce web applications.
Single-Page Application
A single-page application (SPA) is a dynamic application that enables users to interact within a browser and request new information without refreshing or loading a new page. Visitor requests and responses occur constructively and faster than traditional web applications. The SPA executes logic on the internet browser rather than the server which speeds up the user interactions. SPAs are simple and easy to build and debug while deploying. Netflix, Google Maps, PayPal, Gmail, and Twitter are some platforms that utilize single-page applications.
Web App or Website, what is the difference?
Often the terms web app and website will get confused due to both require internet access and a web browser to access them.
|
Web Application
|
Website
|
|
It is dynamic and is designed for user interaction
|
Contains static content
|
|
Require authentication
|
Authentication is not required for websites with information
|
|
Integration with other software is complex
|
Integration is hassle-free
|
|
It is interactive and responds to user input
|
One-way informational content, and does not allow visitor’s engagement
|
Traditional websites have the users scroll or click to consume information, they may be able to provide their email address or personal information for online purchases. Web apps are designed to be as interactive as possible, whereas a website’s key role is to give information. A web app provides an enhanced user experience so users can engage more and must be dynamically updated to handle every sort of interaction.
The web development industry is an evolving industry that is defined by trends and changes in the digital world. Therefore, it is important for web developers to stay up to date with any major changes or new trends within the industry.
