WEB APPLICATIONS

Definition

” A web application is a client–server computer software program that runs on a web server. That is stored on a remote server and delivered over the Internet through a browser interface. “

Following are explanations of each type:

Browser Based

• An application that runs within the Web browser. JavaScript instructions are contained within the Web page that is retrieved from a website. Combined with the HTML code that determines the visual layout and the CSS style sheet, the HTML, JavaScript, and CSS are executed via the browser.These applications are accessed through web pages and can be used by people who are prevented from downloading software applications by firewalls.

Client Based

• Web applications are also run sometimes without the browser. A client program, which is either installed on the user’s computer or mobile device or is downloaded each session, interacts with a server on the Web using standard Web protocols. A client-server application is a two-tier application. Just like browser-based applications, the data may be stored remotely or locally. See rich client, cloud computing, ASP, and SaaS.

Mobile Web App

• As a mobile device user, Countless mobile apps use the Web for additional information. few things are as frustrating and difficult to fat-finger-navigate as a poorly designed mobile web or native app. See native mobile app and native application.

How a Web Application Works

• A web application is usually coded in browser-supported languages such as JavaScript and HTML as these languages rely on the browser to render the program executable. Some of the applications are dynamic, requiring server-side processing. Other is completely static with no processing required at the server
• The web application requires a web server to manage requests from the client, an application requires a web server to perform the tasks requested, sometimes, a database to store the information. Application server technology ranges from ASP.NET and ColdFusion to PHP and JSP.

• Here’s what a typical web application flow looks like:

1. User triggers request to the web server uses of the Internet, either through a web browser or the application’s user interface.
2. Web application server sends results to the web server with the requested information or processed data.
3. Web application server processing the data – then generates the results of the requested data.
4. The web server responds back to the client with the requested information that then appears on the user’s display.
5. Web server forwards this request to the as web application server.

Publicity and branding

• It is no longer possible for the businesses to see a growth in their market share unless they have a proper web application. While bigger businesses may be able to afford their own development teams for such purposes, smaller companies outsource the work to web development companies to get the same advantage at a reduced cost.
• It helps organizations reach new customers and let them know about the organization and the services provided by it.

Customer support

• Web applications also provide options for an enhanced customer support. Good applications can become the first line of contact between suppose customers and the business. The beauty of such applications is that they can be accessed at any time.
• Even location is no longer a limitation with their help. Of course, only a high-quality web development company can ensure such a facility in their application.

Benefits of a Web Application

• Web applications run on many platforms regardless of OS or device as suitable as the browser is compatible.
• They reduce costs for both the business and end user as there are less support and maintenance required by the business and lower requirements for the end user’s computer
• They are not installed on the hard drive, then remove the space of limitations.
• They reduce software hijack in subscription-based web applications (i.e. Saas)
• All users are using the same version, eliminating any compatibility issues.

Future of Web Applications

• Most Web applications are based on the client-server architecture where the client enters information while the server stores and reget information. Internet mail is an example of this, with companies like Yahoo and MSN offering Web-based email clients.
• Web applications can provide the same functionality and gain the benefit of working across multiple platforms. For example, a Web application can act as a word processor, storing information and allowing you to ‘download’ the document onto your personal hard drive.

Conclusion

• Increased Internet usage among companies and individuals has influenced the way businesses are run. This has led to the widespread adoption of web applications as companies shift from traditional models to cloud-based and grid models. Web applications give businesses the ability to streamline their operations, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.
• These online apps such as email clients, word processors, spreadsheets, and other programs provide the same functionality as the desktop versions. However, they have an added advantage of working across multiple platforms, having a broader reach, and being easily accessible from anywhere.