What are the different types of web apps?

By now, it’s likely that you’ve heard of websites and phone applications, but don’t get these confused with web apps. This powerful tool is far from a website, and in fact, a web app is a program that is stored on a remote server but runs in a web browser. In a nutshell, it’s a website that performs specific functions for its user. Where websites are primarily informal, and users can generally access a collection of documents by way of a browser, web apps allow users to manage materials and documents, with the ability to run on any browser.

If you’re curious about how web applications can impact your business, we’re here to show you the ropes and offer some concrete information!

The different types of web applications

1. Static web applications

This is the most basic type of web application and has little content or room for movement. These web applications are often created using CSS and HTML and can handle animated content such as GIFS and videos. Modifying the content included on static web applications can be tricky, and in order to make any serious changes, you’ll need to download the HTML code, as well as modify and upload it to the server. Further, if the app wasn’t designed by yourself or your company alone, you will likely need to seek out the person who planned and designed the static web application.

A common example of static web apps includes an online portfolio or digital curriculums. In the same vein, you could think of a landing page as a static web application, with the contact and relative information displayed.

2. Dynamic web applications

This style web app is more technically complex in comparison with the aforementioned static application. In the case of dynamic web applications, they are in place to hold databases or forums with a constant ability to update or change the available information. This is usually as a result of a CMS or Content Management System.

A CMS will generally accompany a dynamic web app so that administrators or users can easily update or edit the content that is included. Many different web languages can be used with dynamic web applications. However, PHP and ASP are the most common, as they are the easiest to understand when it comes to structuring content.

Editing the content is easier with dynamic web applications and upgrading the content itself can be fairly simple. However, the backend or programming part can be more complex depending on the server and other factors. With this said, design elements can easily be modified to match your personal preferences.

Looking for a web app developer?

Contact us so we can refer you to specialists in our network

3- E-commerce apps

If you’ve ever bought something online, you’re likely familiar with one of the most common web applications, and that’s e-commerce. If a web application is in the form of a store or shop, this type of development is classified as e-commerce. This app development process is more complex than the two aforementioned, as it requires a way to collect electronic payments. Orders, payments as well as posting and deleting items will need to be maintained by way of a management panel coded into the website by a developer. Also, in many cases, a mobile application of equivalence will need to be considered.

4- Portal web application

A portal web application simply refers to an application in which many different sections or categories as accessible by way of a home page. This type of page can range from forums, chats, emails, a browser page and so on.

5- Animated web application

For web applications to be animated, they must be compatible with FLASH technology. This can be complicated for those without any experience with these technologies. However, if you’re looking for a web application with fairly modern capabilities or any movement whatsoever, then working with FLASH is essential.

Unfortunately, there are a few drawbacks involved when with this technology, as it will not work with SEO optimization as well as web positioning since Google and other search engines are unable to read its information properly. So, if you’re just starting out with your business website or developing a landing page, it may be important to wait for the later stages.

6- Content management systems

We have mentioned content management systems in a few of the above web applications, so the concept should be fresh in your mind. Essentially, this means that an interface which can be accessed and updated, and a CMS is necessary if you’re looking for your web application to be in a process of constant development. These systems are very popular for personal blogs, corporate blogs, media sources and so on. There are some common content management systems, and they are:

WordPress: This blogging platform is widely popular and trusted among individuals and professionals alike, and that is likely due to its intuitive interface and the amount of available online tutorials.

Joomla: this platform is popular and comes next in line to WordPress as an open source content management system for managing websites and blogs. Since this interface isn’t as popular as WordPress and therefore, does not have as big a community. However, the interface is still equally as intuitive.