Why are Web Applications useful?

Web Applications are a part of software engineering and a product of web designing. They are applications which are accessed by the user through a web browser (Safari, Opera, etc.) over networks like the internet or an intranet. Computer software applications could also be hosted in environments that are monitored by the browser. Since web browsers are omnipresent, web applications are popular too, specially because of their capability to be updated without distribution of any kind of software to thousands of clients or computers. Moreover, they provide cross-platform compatibility. Some examples of web applications include webmail, online retail sales, online auctions, wikis, etc.

Software as service – SAS

Software as a service or SAS in common terminology, is a method of software distribution or deployment. This involves two parties: a provider who makes the application available and a consumer who wants to use the service or application. The provider licenses the specific application to the user for a certain period after which it is disabled. The SAS provider hosts the application on his own dedicated web server and controls its distribution to various consumers through a limited period contract. A characteristic of SAS is the management of activities from centralized locations rather than each customer’s site. Also SAS is very helpful being a one-to-many model unlike one-to-one models. Hence, it incorporates centralized feature updating which eliminates the need for the users to download any patches or upgrades making it very convenient for them to use.

Web development for intranet and extranets

Intranet or Extranet is a website that is not meant for the general public; it is for use by a specific user group or staff. In technical terms, it is a website that can be accessed with the existing network of a business, i.e., within a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN). It is useful for businesses with desk-based jobs where communication is a matter of prime importance. Some features typical to the intranet or extranet include Email ‘blasts’ and SMSes, training modules, examinations, membership, Internal online auctions, messaging forums, blogs, etc.

Web development for e-commerce websites

With the advent of the WWW, the most cost effective way of showcasing ones business’ products and services is through online websites; this is called e-Commerce. Such websites help companies in reaching out to prospective customers worldwide directly through the internet. As an added advantage, these websites also promote a faster order processing method as orders are placed almost instantly and can be distributed at the earliest which is a much faster method than the conventional business routine of physically going to a business vendor’s outlet.

Web development for presentational websites

As the name indicates, Presentational Websites are meant for presentations. Architects, Industrialists, Interior designers, Artists and a wide variety of other people engaged in different operations require presentational websites for showcasing their products or services through images, slideshows and videos. Graphical representation has always been more pleasing to the eye rather than textual representation. Even e-commerce sites like amazon.com, bestbuy.com are presentational websites showcasing videos and photos of the different products on sale.

Web development for online communities and social networks

In recent times, social networking has become a necessity for business owners. The Internet economy relies highly on social networking between the customers and business owners. They help in bringing people together to form online communities facilitating business collaborations. Such social networks help people worldwide to get to know your business as millions of people are surfing the Internet round the clock.