Definition
Web application is an application that runs on a web server, unlike computer-based software programs that are run locally on the operating system (OS) of the device.
Overview
Many of the businesses use the web as an economic communications channel. It allows them to exchange information and data with their targeted market and makes swift, fast, secure transactions. However, effective engagement is merely possible when the business is in a position to capture and store all the required data, and have a way of processing this information and presenting the results to the user.
Web applications combine server-side scripts (PHP and ASP) to store and acquire knowledge, and client-side scripts (JavaScript and HTML) to present information to the user. This allows users to interact with the company via online forms, content management systems, shopping carts, and more. Additionally, the applications allow employees to make documents, share information, collaborate on projects, and work on common documents no matter location or device.
How an internet application works
These applications are developed in languages supported by browsers such as JavaScript and HTML. This is because these languages rely on the browser to make the program executable. A number of applications are dynamic, requiring server-side processing. Others are completely static and do not require any processing on the server.
A web application requires an internet server to manage requests from clients, an application server to perform requested tasks, and possibly a database to store knowledge. Application server technologies range from ASP.NET, ASP, ColdFusion to PHP and JSP.
Let’s have a look at a typical web application flow :
1. The user initiates an invitation to an online server via the web through an internet browser or application user interface.
2. The web server sends this request to an acceptable web application server
3. The web application server performs the requested task (such as information-based queries and processing of data) and then produces the results of the requested data
4. These application server then sends the output to the online server along with the requested information or processed data.
5. The web server returns the requested information to the client. This information is displayed on the user’s display.
Example of an internet application
Web applications include file conversion and scanning, video editing and photo editing, online forms, eCommerce, word processors, spreadsheets, and email programs like Gmail, Yahoo, and AOL. Most popular applications include Google Apps and Microsoft 365.
Google Apps for Work includes Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, online storage, and more. A further feature is the online release of documents and calendars. This lets all team members access an equivalent version of a document simultaneously.
Benefits of a web application
- Web applications run on multiple platforms, despite of different OS or device as long as it is browser compatible
- All users access an equivalent version, eliminating any compatibility issues
- They’re not installed on the disk drive, thus eliminating space limitations
- Reduce software piracy in subscription-based web applications (such as SaaS)
- They reduce costs for both the business and user as there’s less support and maintenance required by the business and lower requirements for the top user’s computer.
Conclusion
Increasing use of the Internet by businesses and individuals is affecting how businesses operate. This has led to widespread adoption of web applications as enterprises move from traditional models to cloud and grid models. Web applications provide enterprises with the opportunity to optimize processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.
These online apps like email clients, word processors, spreadsheets, and other programs provide an equivalent functionality because of the desktop versions. However, they need another advantage of working across multiple platforms, having a broader reach, and being easily accessible from anywhere in the world.