Web-based applications have improved drastically over the last few years. Traditional applications can often be elevated by converting them to subscription-based web services on the cloud, also known as software as a service (SaaS).
In this blog post, we’ll cover the many benefits that come from creating custom web-based software applications instead of a standard website, desktop app, or mobile app, and why you should think about doing so for your own business if you haven’t already.
What is a web application and how is it different from a website?
A web application is a piece of software that runs on a web server and is accessed by users through a website. Many businesses use both web applications and websites in their operations, but it’s important to note the differences between the two
Websites are usually just collections of static content (like articles, videos, or pictures) along with links to other websites. A website on its own can’t be used to automate processes, store data, and send alerts. An application does all of these things.
Web applications are sometimes also referred to as “dynamic websites” because they’re powered by databases that allow you to perform more complex tasks, like changing and adding content on the fly or storing information on the computer of the user who is accessing it.
In short, websites are static, while web applications are dynamic.
What are the benefits of web app development?
How can your business benefit from a web application?
Web applications allow businesses to communicate more effectively and efficiently with their customers. They also make it easier to track and measure data, which is key when trying to improve your business operations and stay competitive.
Web applications provide tools that help you get real-time feedback from your customers, which allows you to identify trends and issues that are impacting their experience with your business. This gives you the opportunity to solve these issues quickly and more effectively.
Here are the 6 key benefits of a web application for your business:
1) Web apps are easy to use and always available
Web applications can provide an optimal user experience that is easy to navigate and always available with a reliable internet connection.
They can also provide a much better user experience compared to a static website. This is largely thanks to the fact that they can perform more complex tasks than a website can, making each user experience more dynamic.
Many businesses use web applications to allow their customers to access the same services that they would if they were visiting their store, including booking appointments and purchasing items. This is great for customers who do not live close to the store, as they can still get access to all of the same information and services.
Web applications make your business global
If you are looking to expand into different markets or get your product or service out to a wider audience, a web application is a great way to do this. Web apps can be accessed from anywhere in the world and allow people from any country to use the services that you provide.
This includes providing workplace access to a distributed workforce. Remote employees can use web apps to communicate and collaborate asynchronously.
2) Web apps streamline your business processes
Web-based systems make it easier to share data and collaborate on projects. Users can interact in the same environment because data is stored in the cloud.
Cloud-powered workflows and automation can replace manual or paper-based processes. These sorts of business process improvements can boost employee productivity and reduce costs.
If your business performs a lot of data-driven tasks, then it may be worth investing some time and effort into creating a web application to make the process even more efficient. With web apps, computing power is typically facilitated in the cloud, which reduces the need for on-site hardware.
Web applications provide data in real time for quick decision-making
Because information is so important, businesses often want real-time data so that they can make decisions as soon as the information becomes available. Web applications can provide data in real-time, meaning that data is processed as soon as it’s collected and then sent to whoever needs it.
You don’t have to wait hours to get the data you need and can make decisions as soon as information is available.
3) Web apps offer increased flexibility and scalability
Your software must keep pace with your business as it grows and changes, whether that is adding new locations or downsizing to meet efficiency demands.
Custom web applications allow for the easy addition of new features and functionality as well as integrations with other systems.
Cloud servers allow you to increase your computing capacity and storage as needed.
4) Web apps are easy to deploy, update, and maintain
It’s simple to deploy a web application. Once the software is installed on the host server, your users can access it via a URL.
With mobile applications, updates require every user to download and install the update. Updates to web applications are applied through the host server without requiring each device to be updated individually. All users access the same version at all times.
You will not only be able to implement new software more easily and quickly but your maintenance headaches will be gone as well. Your system remains consistent.
5) Web apps can provide customers with self-service options
One of the most important reasons to choose a web application over a website is that they offer the potential to offer self-service products to customers. This means that customers can use your application to complete tasks they would otherwise need to talk to a customer service representative to handle.
Let’s say that one of your products is a car insurance policy. While this is a product that most customers need assistance with, it’s also something that can be completed without any human interaction at all if your customers are using your application to manage their policy.
This is something that’s not really possible with a standard website and can be a huge benefit for large-scale companies that need to maintain a large customer service staff despite those customers being distributed all around the world.
6) Web apps can increase your customer loyalty
Finally, creating a web application gives customers a dynamic experience. This can be especially important for businesses that have a large number of customers and want to make sure each person feels valued.
A web application makes it easier to offer each person exactly what they need. It can be personalized to each person’s specific preferences and can offer each person the information they want in a way that they can easily understand.
What is the difference between a desktop app, a mobile app, and a website app?
Traditional desktop applications are programs that you download onto your computer and run from there. They can be used for a variety of different tasks, from running a business to playing games. Desktop apps can be available for different operating systems, like Windows and Mac computers, and can be installed on a server so that multiple people can use it from anywhere.
Mobile apps are applications that are downloaded and used on a smartphone or tablet device, usually downloaded through the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Web apps are designed to be used with a website and accessible through a web browser. Web apps don’t need to be downloaded or installed. Because of this, whether you use Windows, Linux, Apple, or Android, whether you are on a desktop, tablet, or mobile phone, you can still run a web app.
Final Thoughts
Web applications have become a standard across a variety of industries. From healthcare and financial services to HR tech and communications, these tools can be integrated into your business operations and create a better experience for your customers.
With these applications, you are able to create a more streamlined flow of communication. This leads to a more effective workflow, reduced costs associated with customer service, and the capability for deeper insights into customer preferences and behavior. They allows you to communicate more effectively and efficiently with your customers.
We’ve explored just a few of the potential advantages that can come from developing a web-based application. It’s important to consider all of these factors whenever choosing how to build your business and choosing what medium to use for your product.
HatchWorks builds web apps that your customers will love
We empower you to build what matters. Our customer-focused approach and commitment to continuous discovery and delivery give you control over the scope of your project as it evolves.
