Web apps get a very unfair reputation, whether it is on mobiles, tablets or smartphones. When it comes to technology, we are geared to believe that a program is much better than anything that runs off a web browser. But is that necessarily true?
Web Apps vs. Traditional Software
When it comes to computers, the difference is that a web app is opened on a browser and a program is installed. It is a similar concept on smartphones, where apps are installed onto the device.
A few years ago, the major factor in favor of traditional software was the fact that it could be used offline. But we are starting to see many changes in that regard. Many of the best web apps are very usable offline. While they do require internet for their full syncing features, the basic use is very much viable offline.
For instance, quality web based word processors and whiteboard apps will work just as well without an internet connection. There are no usage issues that would not be applicable to software in those circumstances.
Better Development
A big reason why web apps are getting so much better is because of the development process. It is a lot easier to design a web app and have it be compatible with all devices. They work through web browsers, which means none of the features are native to the device they are being accessed on.
It also means that if there is something wrong with the app, an easy fix can be released. The next time the web app is launched, the fix is immediately part of the application. The user is not expected to install a new version of the application or software.
Accessible Anywhere
The biggest positive in favor of web apps is that it is possible to access them anywhere. When a company is working through web apps, their employees can access those apps on any device. They just need to securely log into the company network and they can even access their files.
It is a lot more of a seamless experience as compared to the constant need to install, update and troubleshoot programs on devices. Companies lose so much time and money with those processes.
While there are still some issues with web apps, they are becoming far less apparent. Companies that perform basic tasks using word processing, spreadsheet, presentation or whiteboard applications can do those tasks on web apps. It is why the G Suite from Google is so popular.