It can be said that apps have changed our lives. Applications have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. We are all familiar with mobile applications because we use them regularly. But web applications are equally present and equally important.

Web applications include many online services and features. This includes some of the most commonly used programs, including word processing and spreadsheets. Even something as simple as filling out a contact form on a website will involve using a web application. They are so common and important.

At the very beginning, we need to clarify what web applications are, what they do, and how they work. In this blog, we will try to shed some light on this topic. We’ll start by explaining more about what a web application is, and then we’ll list some of the key benefits they offer and how it works in general.

We hope that by the time you finish reading, you will have a thorough understanding of what application programs are and which ones might be most appropriate for your business. It is clear that web applications are used for a massive number of different purposes. Applications are increasingly important for the maintenance and operation of companies.

What is a web application?

A web application is a type of computer program. It uses online technology (including search engines) to perform a large number of different tasks. Many applications are used for online retail, as we have already said briefly. However, they can serve a variety of purposes, from ordering food to takeaway to booking accommodation. Also, a web application can be something as simple as a contact form on a website or an online calculator.

Web applications download and store information using server-side scripts (in scripting languages such as PHP and ASP), while client-side scripts (in JavaScript and HTML5) represent relevant information on the user interface. This information can take countless forms. Common types of web applications include shopping carts, content management systems, and online forms, as we have already mentioned.

Because they are so diverse, web applications allow people to perform a variety of different functions. For consumers, this includes ordering, creating wish lists, and asking inquiries about products or services, all through websites. The applications also allow employees to share documents, communicate with each other, edit files and collaborate on joint projects. In the new age of telecommuting, this is vital.

We are often inclined to connect web applications with mobile e-commerce applications, but in the former, there is much more than just the latter. We have already mentioned that word processing programs, spreadsheet programs, and other similar software can be considered web applications. They may also include customer relationship management (CRM) and content management systems.

Types of applications?

Mobile applications

In particular, mobile applications (also known as native applications) are very popular. Native applications are software applications developed for use on a specific platform or device, such as Android or iOS. They are made in a specific programming language for that purpose. Users usually download them through app stores and install them directly on the devices in question.

Mobile applications can perform a huge number of functions, either to help us find directions to selected destinations or to stream video content on a mobile device.

Hybrid Applications – Progressive Web Applications (PWA)

There are also hybrid applications, which – as the name suggests – combine elements of mobile applications and web applications. At first glance, hybrid applications look like all native applications. They are made using programming languages such as Ruby, JavaScript, HTML5, and Cascading Styles (CSS). Hybrid applications are installed on the mobile device, as well as the original applications, and they look the same to the end-user. However, they are essentially web applications with a control panel like a frontend.

What are the benefits of web applications?

There are countless benefits to web applications. They especially help reduce costs for businesses and individual users. This is because they require less maintenance and may have lower requirements for user computers (in terms of processing power and so on). This is because processing takes place effectively elsewhere. They can run on web browsers like Mozilla, Safari, and Google Chrome, making them more accessible.

Subscription-based web applications, such as software as a service (SaaS), also help reduce software piracy online, which can create major problems. SaaS is usable only through the cloud, so users can access it only after paying for it. Such applications do not need to be installed on the hard disk because they can be accessed completely over the Internet. As a result, users can save space and avoid the hassle of uninstalling and reinstalling programs when they run out of space. There are also no compatibility issues as all users access the same version.

In addition, web applications can run on multiple platforms provided search engines are compatible. This allows colleagues (and sometimes clients) to collaborate on different operating systems or devices. Finally, another advantage of using web applications is that updates are automatic and since they are applied centrally, all users should work with the same version.

Advantages and disadvantages of the web application

Native and hybrid applications have their advantages. Both mobile and hybrid applications can run offline (despite the latter’s internal similarity to web applications). They also have access to the resources of the device on which they are installed. This means they can use features such as cameras and GPS. This is in contrast to web applications, which must be accessed via a web browser; as a result, web applications cannot be accessed when users are offline.

However, there are also drawbacks compared to web applications. First, mobile and source applications must be downloaded and installed from the application store. They need to be installed on the device itself, which means they take up storage space, which can run out, forcing users to delete other applications to make room for new ones. Mobile applications may also have support for browser add-ons.

Then there is the update problem. Mobile and hybrid apps may require users to download updates themselves; this means that people may use different versions of the same application, which can make teamwork more difficult. Web applications, on the other hand, are updated centrally and automatically. Users are not required to do anything on their own, which saves them time and facilitates more efficient collaboration.

Ad-Kraft’s first web application

The Ad-Kraft team had the opportunity to build a web application for a client. The TokTV web application is designed so that users can navigate the application very easily.

With this application, the citizens of Banja Luka, as well as all those who want to know what is happening in the Banja Luka region, can now easily check it.

It is important to us that the application is fast, simple and functional, so that its users can use the application without any problems.

We listened carefully to the requests and needs of the client for whom we were building the app, and with the expertise and knowledge of our team, we created a great app!

Now you too can have your own application for your business! Contact us and our team will design the perfect application for your needs!