Websites are great for a lot of things. They can be informative, they can be fun, and they can even help you stay organized. But when it comes to the website vs webapp argument, web apps are better than websites in almost every way imaginable.
I should know – I’ve been using both for years. A few years ago, I finally switched from website-based productivity tools to web app-based ones, which was the best decision I ever made. Here’s why.
Website vs Webapp
Website vs webapp: what’s the difference? A website is a group of web pages that can be viewed and read by users. It can contain 1 page, 2 pages, and as many as you want.
To visit websites, you must have a browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
There are many different types of websites, including blogs, archives, and community sites.
Examples of websites include a restaurant’s page where you can view the hours, menu, and location. A forum or a blog can also be considered a type of website.
A web application is a type of software that requires authorization. It’s made up of both server and client-side code. It relies on a web server to handle requests.
Examples of WebApps include Google, YouTube, and Amazon.
There are many similarities between websites and web applications. Many people would argue that progressive web applications are the next stage of evolution for websites.
When it comes to the web, there are two main types of technologies – websites and web applications. Although they may seem similar, there are some key differences in function, access, and complexity.
Websites are typically designed to provide information to the user, whereas web applications are designed to perform specific tasks.
Websites tend to be less complex than web applications, and as a result, they are generally easier and faster to develop. They also require less maintenance. Websites can be accessed by anyone with an internet connection, whereas web applications usually require a login and password.
Web applications also tend to be more secure than websites since they store data locally on the server rather than on the client’s computer.
From the user’s perspective, the main differences between a website and a web application are that websites inform and applications help.
A website is a collection of static landing pages that can be viewed, read, or listened to by users. On the other hand, a web application is a dynamic and interactive platform that allows users to view content and manipulate it.
Web applications allow users to manipulate data. A simple example of interactive web content is a form.
Anything that provides a service online is a web application.
Web applications are more complex than websites because they require backend services, varying user levels, and data processing capabilities. While websites have become more interactive due to modern web application development standards, they are still simpler to build in comparison.
Web applications require a more robust technology stack than websites. In addition to using common web technologies like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, web apps also need to utilize advanced programming languages such as PHP and frameworks.
Furthermore, since users actively interact with web applications, UX/UI design is crucial for information to create a positive UX.
However, web applications often restrict registered users’ access to certain features or content. Websites are designed for public consumption, while web applications are usually only accessible to registered users.
Web applications usually require some form of authentication because they offer services that are customized to the user’s needs. A good example of this can be seen in banking apps. Although all account holders are offered similar services online, each user has a unique experience based on their personal banking information.
How Web Apps and Websites Work Together
While a web application and website are technically different, sometimes it can be difficult to tell the difference.
In reality, there is a lot of overlap between websites and web applications. Many websites include web app elements and vice versa. For that reason, it’s not too important to focus on the differences between the two.
For example, WordPress can be used to run static websites, but its back end provides a highly customizable and extensive content management system (CMS).
Therefore, although the website might not contain any interactive elements, it’s managed using a web app.
A good example of this would be our website, which provides information about our services, but also provides a link to our online store.
You’re currently viewing our blog content, but you’ll also find numerous links to purchase our plugins and themes. By combining web apps and websites, we’re able to provide more functionality and a better overall experience for our users.
Web apps and websites are generally combined when a website owner wants to expand their website or web app.
If the owner of a Thai restaurant wanted to increase business, they might expand their site to include an online ordering system. This would enable customers to order food directly from the website, which would be more convenient and likely lead to more sales.
This would be a web application, although the features and core functionality would be the same.
Web Applications With Special Names
Google, Amazon, and Facebook. There are web applications with special names that you may already be familiar with.
A portal is an environment that allows users to access various applications and content in one place. It offers a personalized UX by enabling users to configure content according to their needs.
Consider a bank web portal as an example. It may provide links to account information, bill payments, and deposits.
Each of these web applications can be accessed from a central portal.
An e-store is an online store that allows customers to purchase items online.
To make the transaction secure, the user has to be authorized. One of the great features of online stores is the ability for users to pay online.
To do this, users simply need to input their credit card number and, in some cases, passport details, email, or telephone number. This makes transactions more secure and authorized.
Things to Consider Before Building a Website or Webapp
Before starting a web development project, there are many things you should consider.
A website is a useful tool when you want to provide information about your product or service. For example, let’s say you are launching a new mobile app, but you can create a basic webpage to promote it.
A web application is more interactive than a website, which can provide more opportunities for the user to interact with it.
If you want users to be more involved with your app, a web application may be the way to go.
Let’s take Google Apps as an example. Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Sheets are a dynamic and updatable set of products that let entire teams access files and make updates in real time.
Another example of a web application is a real estate app that lets people search for available apartments, save listings, schedule viewings, and meet with agents.
Websites offer a cheaper, quicker, and easier alternative to mobile apps. Since they’re static and purely informational, they require very little development time. Websites are built using simple style sheet languages – HTML, CSS, and maybe some JavaScript, or even some ready templates.
Therefore, it does not require much time or money to develop them.
Building web apps require a more in-depth process, including user research, user experience design, and front-end and back-end coding. To accomplish these tasks, many different coding languages can be used, such as Ruby, Python, or React.
Building web applications is a complex process that involves many professionals. A team that builds apps usually consists of project managers, front and back-end programmers, quality assurance specialists, and graphic designers.
What features do you envision for this product? How will it evolve?
Your answers to these questions will define your vision for this product and determine whether it should be a webapp or website.
Take these features into consideration when making a decision.
Complex calculations. If you want to process complicated computations, a web application is a better option. This is because a web application uses web servers to execute user commands.
Since users request calculations from the server, it’s able to easily complete these tasks.
As for a website that has to process all the numbers, the computations will be too intensive for a mobile device.
Push notifications. Both websites and web apps can have push notifications that appear on the screen. These messages are small and contain links that users can click.
While push notifications are more of an attribute of apps, websites can utilize them to increase user engagement without building an entire app.
Instant updating. Instant updates are only possible on web apps that use server-to-server communication. However, most static sites can also be instantly updated with an admin login.
Since web pages are dynamic, only web apps can provide the real-time information that you need.
Website developers vs. web application developers
When hiring a specialist, consider your business needs. A web design studio might be the right choice if you need a simple, static site.
A web design company can provide you with an excellent website professionally showcasing your company’s information. However, if you later decide to add web applications to your site, you may need to seek out more qualified assistance to ensure these features are implemented correctly.
If you need a web application, not just a website, it’s best to turn to web application developers. These specialists usually have extensive development skills and can implement a broader range of functions. This way, you can be sure that your web application will be of top-notch quality.
If you need an interactive web application that can integrate with other corporate systems, you should look for companies that offer web application development. These developers usually have the skills necessary to create a more comprehensive range of functions for your website.
If you’re not sure which type of developer you need, website or web application, keep in mind your business goals and the products or services you offer. Consider your customers and other factors as well. Make sure the specialists you choose have the required competence to tailor your online presence to your needs.
Is Facebook a website or web application?
Facebook is a web application. It is a platform that allows users to connect with friends and family, share photos and videos, and join groups and events. Facebook also allows businesses to create pages and advertise their products and services.
Why is a Web App Better Than a Website?
A web app is designed to work across multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers. A website is a collection of static HTML pages that are accessed through a web browser.
Web apps are typically more responsive and interactive than websites. They offer a richer UX and can be customized to the user’s specific needs.
Additionally, web apps can be designed to work offline, which is impossible with websites.
Conclusion
Website vs webapp which is the way to go? A web app is a way to go if you want a more interactive and engaging experience or a more customized user experience. Websites are great for some things, but when it comes to productivity and getting things done, web apps are better in just about every way.
