What is a Web Application and What are its Types?

What is a Web Application and What are its Types?

WePro

What is a Web Application and What are its Types?

With how frequently we use online tools and technologies in today’s digital-focused world, web applications have become a pivotal part of daily life and business operations – even if we don’t always realize what they are. From social media to document sharing, content management, and even online shopping, web apps are an essential part of how we communicate, spend our time, and, ultimately, how businesses are run.

 

But you might still be wondering what exactly a web app is and how having a custom one can be beneficial for your business. To help give you a better understanding, let’s break down the definition of web apps, how they work, and the most common types.

 

What is a web app?

At its core, a web app is a software that is run through a web browser – so rather than requiring you to download and install it on a device to use, you can access it through a web browser. Because of this, they can be accessed on any type of device – desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone – that can connect to the internet through a compatible browser. And they are developed with a responsive design so no matter what screen size they’re on, they will look the way they are intended to, with the user in mind.

 

Web apps are particularly beneficial in the workplace because they allow for more interactive, remote work from employees. Since they can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, companies aren’t locked into having employees in an office all day to connect to a physical server in the office. Employees can login, access important documents, and work collaboratively in real-time with teammates to get the job done.

Also, learn more about website development services by WePro Solutions.

 

How do web apps work?

Unlike a static website or web-page, web apps are based on interactions between the user and the server. Users will make a request, then the server processes it and responds back to the user through the browser – all of which happens almost instantaneously.

 

Common examples of this process include:

 

  • Logging in to a portal
  • Purchasing an item online
  • Making changes to a document
  • Viewing a streaming service

Because web apps are run through a server, the maintenance process tends to be easier than a normal app as well. The update happens on the server, so users don’t have to manually update or re-install the app anytime improvements or changes are made in the backend.

 

Types of web apps

While there are many different types of web apps – all with different purposes and primary audiences – there are a few that are more common than others. Here is a breakdown of the eight most prevalent types – static, dynamic, single page, multi-page, progressive, enterprise, e-commerce, and content management system.

 

Static

A static web application displays information in a fixed manner, meaning the content does not change based on users’ actions, and only happens if it is done so manually through the backend.

 

  • Pros: simplest to build, works well offline
  • Cons: less interactive and customizable
  • Common Example: blogs and portfolio websites

Dynamic

A dynamic web application is focused on user interaction, meaning based on what the user inputs, data is pulled from the back-end and the content is updated accordingly in real time.

 

  • Pros: live updates, more interactive
  • Cons: possible slower loading times
  • Common Example: some social media sites

Single Page

A single-page web application loads a page dynamically, then as a user interacts with it, the content is updated without the full-page reloading or redirecting them somewhere else.

 

  • Pros: faster load times after user interaction
  • Cons: initial load time can be longer
  • Common Example: streaming sites

Multi-Page

With a multi-page web application, each page represents a different part of the app. These are a more common approach to a website, where a new page is reloaded when a user navigates to a new section or page of the site.

 

  • Pros: scalability, SEO capabilities
  • Cons: slower load times
  • Common Example: company websites and news platforms

Progressive

Progress web applications are similar to a typical app – they have the same responsiveness (including sending notifications) and work online and offline, but they don’t need to be downloaded or installed to work.

 

  • Pros: easily accessible, ability to work offline
  • Cons: limited to device capabilities and compatibilities
  • Common Example: Pinterest

Enterprise

Enterprise web applications are used by businesses for workflow operations or to provide services to customers. They tend to be large and more complex than other types because they are tailored to meet the needs of multiple departments of a company.

 

  • Pros: customized for business needs, streamlines operations
  • Cons: lengthy development timeline, maintenance and updates
  • Common Example: customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, human resource management (HRM)

E-commerce

Similar to an online store, an e-commerce web application promotes and sells products and services to customers through a single location.

  • Pros: ability to sell products globally, provides inventory management, supports multiple payment options
  • Cons: requires security updates (especially for payments), complex to build
  • Common Example: Amazon

Content Management System (CMS)

A content management system web application is a platform that allows real-time creating, editing, and organizing of content. They are designed to easily manage and publish content in a collaborative environment.

 

  • Pros: easy to use, flexible and scalable
  • Cons: customization limits
  • Common Example: WordPress

Each type of web application serves a different purpose for users and businesses, all coming with their own pros and cons. Depending on your company’s needs, target audience, and overall goals, a custom web application can help boost business and streamline your workflow.

 

How We Can Help

At WePro, we know first-hand how beneficial web apps can be for businesses and individuals alike. Because of this, we offer custom web application development services that will drive efficiency, improve user engagement, and streamline your business operations. Whether you’re looking to build a brand-new web app or enhance an existing one, our team of experienced developers is here to help you every step of the way. Learn more about our web application development services here and send us a message to start the conversation!

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