Wednesday, August 17, 2011

What are Web Apps and What do They Mean for Web Development?

The term 'web app' is being thrown around a lot recently, but the definition of apps in a web development context is exasperatingly vague. Simply put, apps are not very different to traditional online sites, in that they use the same web development languages such as Javascript, CSS3 and HTML5 and are viewed through browsers.

Apps differ from traditional websites, however, because they represent the new, more interactive age of web development. Instead of just presenting information to be absorbed by the viewer, apps perform a specific function for the user, such as providing entertainment, aiding business analytics, providing new ways to explore online platforms and making social connections, all in a dynamic and interactive manner. Apps are also a more flexible form of development, largely because they can be used both online and off, and over multiple platforms, particularly on mobile devices.

So what do apps mean for the future of web development? Apps actually offer an exciting opportunity for developers, as they use the latest technology and appeal to the most technology-savvy customers. Many current development projects feature a more information-based, conventional website alongside a user-focused app that performs a specific function for the user. This multi-platform approach is often necessary to reach a wide audience of potential customers.

Web development for apps needs to consider factors such as interactivity, local storage, different viewing ports, liquid design and various other cutting edge online technologies. In return, apps offer new and unique avenues for web development. With the advent of apps, web development is moving towards building a more user-focused experience that aims to assist the user with a specific task, rather than simply dictating information to them.

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