What is a web application? Types, examples, and benefits for businesses

A web application is software that runs through a browser and allows users to perform specific actions, manage information, or use various features without needing to install a program on their computer. Unlike a traditional corporate website, a web application can offer far more advanced functionality and be tailored to a company’s specific needs. Web applications are currently used by all kinds of businesses to manage clients, bookings, orders, documents, internal processes, users, and many other tasks.

How does a web application work?

A web application runs via a browser such as Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Safari, or Firefox. The user accesses a web address and, depending on the application, can log in and use various features. Information and operational logic are typically managed from a server, while the user interacts with the application via the browser. For example, a company might have a web application that employees access using a username and password to look up clients, manage projects, enter data, or consult documents. This way, there is no need to install the software individually on each computer.

What is the difference between a website and a web application?

Although a website and a web application can use the same technologies and run in a browser, their purpose is different. A website is primarily designed to display information. For example, a corporate website might include information about a company, its services, projects, contact details, and a form. A web application, on the other hand, allows the user to interact with the system and perform specific actions. Some of these actions may include:

• Creating and managing users.
• Viewing and modifying information.
• Managing clients and contacts.
• Making reservations or placing orders.
• Generating quotes or documents.
• Managing projects and tasks.
• Querying information stored in a database.

Examples of web applications for businesses

Web applications can be used to address a wide range of business needs. There is no single type of web application. Development can be tailored to the specific operations and processes of each company. Some examples include:

• Applications for managing clients and contacts.
• Online booking systems.
• Project management platforms.
• Private client portals.
• Employee intranets.
• Document management systems.
• Order management applications.
• Online training platforms.
• Quoting and invoicing systems.
• Internal tools for process automation.

For example, a company that receives a large number of quote requests can develop a web application that centralizes these requests, allows them to be assigned to different employees, and facilitates the tracking of each sales opportunity.

What are the benefits of a web application for a company?

One of the main advantages of a web application is that it can be tailored to a company’s specific needs. Instead of using various standalone tools, a company can centralize certain processes within a single system. Its main advantages include:

• It can be accessed from various devices with an Internet connection.
• There is no need to install software on each computer.
• It allows for the centralization of information and processes.
• It can be adapted to the company’s specific processes.
• It simplifies user and permission management.
• It can be integrated with other tools and services.
• It enables the automation of repetitive tasks.
• It can grow and evolve alongside the company.

This can be particularly interesting for companies that have started using various tools and need a solution better tailored to their way of working.

Web app vs. mobile app

A web app and a mobile app are not exactly the same thing. A mobile app is specifically designed to run on devices such as smartphones and tablets and is usually distributed through stores like Google Play or the App Store. A web app runs directly from a browser. For certain projects, a web application may be sufficient to provide a good experience across computers, tablets, and mobile phones, without the need to develop a separate application for each operating system. The choice depends on the project’s requirements, the target user, and the features to be developed.

When does a company need a custom web application?

Not all companies need to develop a web application. A corporate website may suffice when the primary goal is to present the company and its services and to facilitate contact with potential clients. However, a web application can be a valuable option when there are processes requiring management, interaction, or automation. Some examples include:

• The company uses many spreadsheets to manage information.
• There are time-consuming manual processes.
• Employees need to access information from different locations.
• Clients need a private area.
• Large amounts of information need to be managed.
• Existing tools do not fit the company’s way of working.
• Different systems need to be connected.

In such cases, developing a custom web application can enable the creation of a tool specifically tailored to the business’s needs.

Can a web application integrate with other systems?

Yes. A web application can integrate with various external tools and services. Depending on the project, you can connect to management systems, payment platforms, email services, marketing tools, databases, APIs, and other systems used by the company. For example, a company might use a web application that connects customer information with its management system and automates specific tasks. These integrations help reduce manual data entry and improve the efficiency of certain processes.

Can a web application be developed using WordPress?

WordPress is primarily known as a content management system for creating websites, but it can also serve as a foundation for projects requiring advanced functionality. Depending on requirements, custom features, private areas, management systems, and various types of tools can be developed using WordPress. However, not all projects are suitable for WordPress. When an application requires a specific architecture, complex functionality, or a high level of customization, it may be more appropriate to use other development technologies. For this reason, the technology should be chosen based on the project’s needs, not the other way around.

How much does it cost to develop a web application?

The price of a web application depends primarily on its complexity and the features that need to be developed. Creating a simple internal tool is very different from developing a platform with multiple user types, payment systems, integrations, and automated processes. Factors that can influence the cost include:

• Number and complexity of features.
• Design and user experience.
• Number of users and profiles.
• Database and information management.
• Integrations with other systems.
• Automations.
• Security systems and permissions.
• Maintenance and future development.

Therefore, before setting a budget, it is important to analyze the problem the application needs to solve and determine which features are truly necessary.

Why develop a custom web application?

Standard solutions can be useful for certain needs, but they do not always fit a company’s processes perfectly. A custom-developed application allows features to be designed around the way the business operates. This can be particularly useful when a company has specific processes that cannot be effectively handled by off-the-shelf tools. Furthermore, a custom web application can evolve over time, incorporating new features as the company’s needs change.

Web applications for businesses

Web applications can become a strategic tool for improving specific business processes. From a small internal tool to a comprehensive platform for clients, suppliers, or employees, development can be tailored to the size and needs of each organization. Before developing an application, it is advisable to analyze the process to be improved, identify user needs, and determine which features truly add value. This way, a technological solution can be created that is useful, scalable, and aligned with the company’s goals.

Conclusion

A web application is a software tool that runs in a browser, enabling users to perform actions and manage information online. Unlike a traditional corporate website, a web application can offer interactive features and adapt to a company’s specific processes. From booking systems and private portals to management and automation tools, the possibilities are vast. When existing solutions do not meet a business’s needs, web application development can be an alternative for creating a specialized tool designed to evolve alongside the company.