There is often confusion between “website” and “web application”, but they refer to two very different things. A website is a collection of static pages displayed to users in their web browser. On the other hand, it is a dynamic and interactive application accessed through a web browser.
What is the difference, then? A website is generally used for informative purposes, while a web application is used to complete specific tasks. In addition, websites are often much simpler and quicker to create than web applications.
However, it is essential if we understand that right from the development stage, these two are not the same; they both have different purposes of creation and function in various ways to provide solutions. In addition, web applications offer several advantages over websites, such as connecting databases, processing data, and carrying out complex tasks. If you’re unsure of what you need, keep reading to learn more about the difference between a website and a web application.
Website
A website is a set of accessible related web pages that may contain images, videos, audio, write-ups, or other information/data that individuals can read or retrieve through the internet. A website is made up of web pages. It can be single or multiple pages.
Every website has a unique URL; for individuals/users to have access to a website, they must have/click its URL. An excellent example of a website URL is https://ravenandmacaw.com/
Websites are of different types. The six major types of websites include:
- Personal website
- Business Website
- E-commerce website
- Portfolio website
- Blog website
- Crowdfunding website.
Different websites are created for various purposes. The way every type function is entirely different from the other. However, with all their differences, they still answer the name of a website. So this means that they have some characteristics in common.
Features of a Website
Creating a website is one thing; chipping in the core features is different. There are five must-have features for every website.
Fast Load-time – before anything pops up, a website has to load after clicking its URL. The amount of time it takes to load is the load time. Nowadays, most people don’t have the patience to wait more than 5 seconds for a website to load. So, a good website should be able to load in not more than 5 seconds.
Page quality/Appearance – This key feature will dictate how long a visitor will stay on a website. First impression matters. The design, appearance, and how everything is well-arranged and nice looking.
Quality Content – the main reason everyone visits a website is to feed on its content. Whether videos, pictures, documents, or blogs, a good website contains quality content that either educates, entertains or benefits users.
User-Friendly and Easy to Navigate – when a website is user-friendly, visitors find it easy to access from different digital devices and quickly understand what the website is all about. A good website is easy for users to navigate from one page to another to find what they are looking for.
Is a Website Important?
Whether for personal or business purposes, a website has so many benefits, some of which include the following:
- A website makes a company looks more professional
- It increases customer trust and boosts engagement
- A website enables a business’s marketing
- It is easier to sell products with a website
- A website provides social proof
What Is A Web Application?
A web application is a software that is accessed through a web browser. These applications are designed computer programs that function and interact with specific elements, using scripts from both the server and client to provide meaningful information. Some suitable well-known web applications include Amazon, YouTube, and email programs.
Web applications can be customized to perform several functions. However, they are more complicated to build than websites.
Features of A Web Application
- Web applications can easily be tested vis automation
- They can be run across all Operating Systems
- Web applications are hosted on the cloud and can be scalable.
Is a Web Application Important?
Similar to a website, you may be thinking about how vital a web application is. Good news; many successful companies nowadays have a web application in addition to their company website. You wonder why? A web application is easy to maintain, customize, secure, and update. In addition, there is no request for any app store approval because they run on browsers.
Difference Between Websites And Web Applications
| WEBSITE | WEB APPLICATION |
| They have visual and text content that front-end users can only view and read. | A user can interact and make some manipulations to its content |
| Newsletters do not require authentication unless for regular websites | All forms of a web application must be authenticated with usernames and passwords |
| The entire public can easily access information | Registered individuals can only access most data. |
| A website can be built with basic knowledge of web technology. | It requires advanced knowledge due to its security and functions. |
| It is cost-effective. | It is a bit less cost-effective than a website because it involves using so many components. |
In conclusion, the difference between a website and a web application is that a website is typically static, while a web application is interactive. If you want to build a website for your business, contact Raven and Macaw to get started.
Keep reading our articles to learn how to manage a business in the digital space.
