Not every URL you click is a website— you may use a website or a website application, and for your personal needs, you’d likely use the latter. This may throw you off initially; if that’s the case, then this is information you need to be aware of (especially as a business owner). You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you have one while the other might’ve been a better fit. 

The concepts of Websites and Web Applications may seem similar but they are very different. Leaders must know the difference to decide which best fits their organization and the needs of their users. The first difference to be considered is the capabilities of each and how that’s going to play a role in the user experience.

A website is meant to provide the information that the creator inputs which makes the content static. Whereas a website application displays information based on the user's input, making the content dynamic. Online banking or your Gmail are examples of Web Apps as they perform a service based on the user's input.

The simple consideration you’ll need to take when determining which is best for you is whether your platform is providing a service or information. Additionally, it needs to be considered if users are providing information that requires privacy and security. For example, an E-Commerce store that has users' shipping addresses and credit card information would use Web Application software to protect that. 

There’s a lot to consider when finding the right fit for your business, only you know the true experience you envision for your customers. With that being said, here is some information to consider when planning your platforms:

Components of a Good Website

• Informational: Your website is your company's digital resume that is going to be the directory for people to learn about you. You will highlight your services, past work you’ve done, and contact information. Ideally, this will function as a funnel for visitors to want to get in contact with a sales representative.

• Static Content: It’s common knowledge that what you put on your website is all that users have to interact with. This is why you want to be strategic with what users see when they first click your URL. A bland website with no experience for the user is sure to get clicked out by curious visitors. Whereas having sections such as “testimonials” “products” “our team” and videos about the company starts to form a rapport with the visitor.

• Consistent Voice: To be able to nurture your leads through your website, you want to be precise with the way you present yourself online. Since your website will be where customers run to get help or potential customers go to learn more, your brand should have a personality. For example, how would your messaging be directed at your audience if you are a car insurance provider? Since the needs you fill are something everyone who drives a car must have, you ideally would be speaking from a position of care (example: “keeping you safe while giving you freedom”).

 Components of a Good Website Application

• Software: Most Web Apps are typically written in HTML 5, JavaScript, or Cascading Style Sheets. Web Apps need a stable network to operate in their browser. What this means is that while native programs run on the software of a device, Web Apps rely on the World Wide Web. 

• Interactive: Web Apps can track and store data that are useful to users and keep them coming back. A Web App should be something that users will visit often (for example online banking). This requires the software to have a UI/UX design, which allows users to understand how to use the platform and makes for a well-rounded experience.

• Platform Flexibility: Since a Web App is only accessible through a web browser and will require users to have downloaded the necessary software, the performance should always be consistent. Whether someone is accessing it from a computer, mobile phone, or tablet and whether it’s IOS, Windows, or Android, it will run smoothly for all. 

• Potential For an App: A website application itself cannot be downloaded from an app store. However, businesses can mimic the Web App through an IOS and Android-compatible application that can be directly downloaded. What’s especially great about this is that it further expands your users' access to your services.

Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

A PWA is an alternative to a Web Application. At its core, a PWA is meant to look and feel like a native app in the form of a website. A PWA is a great middle man for businesses especially as they are not typically as costly as Web Apps. In terms of user experience, PWA’s are highly responsive, they don’t need to be downloaded and can even function without a stable internet connection. One of their biggest draws is the speed at which they function and their ability to conform to any device. 

Which to Use For Your Business

Websites and Web Apps are both extremely useful tools for your audience to engage with you. A Web App creates a constant interaction between businesses and consumers while a website is a good place to show your audience who you are as an organization. Ultimately, you will decide whether your services are best accessed through a web app or by being directed to a representative. 

What’s Next?

One of the most important components of a business is having a well-rounded source of engagement for current and potential clients. Your website or Web App should be helpful, particularly in the senses of support and directory. 

Written By Ben Brown

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