Web applications – what they are and how they differ from websites?

When you hear the word application, you probably picture an icon on your phone – Messenger, Spotify, or your banking app. But there are also web applications (or internet applications) that don’t require installation because they run directly in a regular web browser.

And here’s where things get a little confusing. If both a website and a web app open in Chrome or Safari, what really makes them different? And more importantly – which one is better for your business: a website or a web application? The difference in cost, functionality, and possibilities can be huge.

In this article, I’ll explain in simple terms what a web application is, what its advantages and disadvantages are, and when it’s worth investing in one.

Let’s start from the very beginning. What is a web application (also called an internet application)? It’s a program that runs in your browser – without the need to install anything on your phone or computer. This means you access it via a URL. What does that mean for you? You don’t have to download or update anything – everything works “in the cloud,” and new features appear automatically.

Examples of web applications? Think Gmail, Facebook, Trello, Asana, Allegro. Each of them not only presents content but also allows the user to take action – send messages, manage projects, shop, or create content. To put it even more simply: web applications usually serve as tools for work and interaction, not just for browsing information.

By contrast, a website is most often a place where you present information (I wrote more about websites in my previous article)

It can be, for example:

• A blog.
• A company website.
• A catalog of services or products.
• A landing page for an advertising campaign.

A website usually offers a simple interface and basic functions such as a contact form, a blog, or a photo gallery. Its main purpose is to deliver content, not to handle complex processes.

Why do companies choose web applications? The answer is quite simple:

• Availability of web applications – laptop, tablet, phone – all you need is a browser.
• Process automation – bookings, orders, customer service, or reports run automatically.
• Time and cost savings – less manual work = faster customer service.
• Scalability – web applications are usually easy to expand with new features.
• Better user experience of a web application – the application’s user interface can be tailored to user needs.
• Integration of web applications – seamless collaboration with CRM, ERP, and online payment systems.
• Use cases of web applications – from online sales, through e-learning, to B2B platforms.

Although the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages, it’s still important to mention them:

• Higher initial cost – developing web applications is a bigger investment.
• Longer implementation time – designing, testing, and launching a web application can take months.
• Maintenance and development – applications require regular updates, and updates to web applications mean not only new features but also security fixes.
• Web application risks – cyberattacks, performance issues, and the need to ensure data security.
• Project complexity – the architecture of web applications includes integrations, support for a large number of users, web application performance, and back-end optimization.

Now that you know the basic differences, you’re probably wondering which option will be the best fit. Below I’ve prepared a simple “cheat sheet” to help you make the decision.

A website is a good choice if:

• You just want to establish an online presence.
• Your goal is to provide information and simple contact.
• You have a limited budget.

A web application will be better if:

• Your clients need to do something (e.g., order, book, manage).
• You want to automate processes.
• Web applications play an important operational role in your business.
• You need a tool with an interactive client interface.
• You plan to grow and want to easily expand features.

Many experts agree – the future of web applications means an even greater role in business.

• PWA (Progressive Web Apps) will increase the accessibility of applications.
• Serverless will allow companies to reduce costs.
• Digital web applications will play a key role in sales and customer service.
• Web application pages will increasingly be replaced by fully functional online systems.

What you should really take away from this article is that a website is a business card that presents your company, while a web application is a tool that lets the user take action – book, buy, manage, collaborate.

The decision on which to choose depends not only on you, but also on your business goals, budget, and the stage of your company’s growth.

If you’re still unsure – get in touch. I’ll advise you and propose a solution tailored to your needs.

Source: own elaboration, images: pixabay.com.