Developing web applications is the task of building and customising interactive web-based programs. This encompass designing and coding the applications, as well as performing comprehensive testing to ensure reliable performance for public use. Typically hosted on remote servers, web applications can be accessed from any device that has a web browser, as long as the application is supported.
The design of web applications should prioritize adaptability, scalability, and responsiveness, to make them functional on any internet-connected device, spanning from smartphones to desktops. Equally important, is prioritizing factors like security, speed, and adaptability, to ensure a high-quality and seamless user experience.
Discover the world of web application development with the help of this book, which offers a comprehensive introduction to the basics and resources needed in order to create your own web app. With this book, readers can feel confident beginning their journey and exploring the intricate and dynamic field of web applications.
Defining Online Applications
To an end user, a web application is a software tool that allows for two-way communication between the user and a computer. Meanwhile, from the perspective of a web developer, a web application is a client-server software system where the user inputs data and the server provides results in a quick and interactive manner.
Types of Web-Based Software
Web application development encompasses a range of methods, each tailored to meet particular user needs. Here are just a few examples:
- Static Web-Based Program
- Dynamic Web-Based Software
- Retailing Software through a Service Model
- Web-Based Software Portals
- Content Management Software
- Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)
Developing Web Applications
Developing web applications involves creating software systems that provide compelling online experiences for users. This necessitates a merging of the application’s front-end and back-end elements.
Before creating a web application, it’s necessary to have a clear idea of what to build. Once this is established, the process of designing and implementing the application can begin. A solid grasp of the necessary technologies, including frameworks, programming languages, and other tools, is fundamental to starting the development process.
The web application development process begins with an idea for a new app that addresses a problem. This is followed by design, selection of a web application framework, coding, testing, and ultimately deployment.
Advantages of Developing Web Applications
- Web apps only need to function on a user’s preferred browser, unlike native apps.
- Web apps are standardised, so everyone uses the same version.
- Web apps do not require installation, so they take up less space on the hard drive compared to traditional programs.
- Maintaining and updating a web app demands less effort.
- Developing web applications is cost-effective because they require lower maintenance costs.
Technologies and Frameworks used to Develop Web Applications
1. Foundational Technologies
Various technologies are utilised to create backend functionalities, comprising of databases, server-side scripting, web servers, and application programming interfaces.
Key Languages and Frameworks for Backend Development:
| Framework | Programming Language |
|---|---|
| Django | Python |
| Laravel | PHP |
| Ruby on Rails | Ruby |
| ExpressJS | NodeJS |
| CakePHP | PHP |
Databases:
- This is the Oracle framework.
- MySQL
- Query Access Management System (MS SQL)
- PostgreSQL
- MongoDB
2. Frontend Technologies
The backend of a web application consists of a database, server and related code needed for computation. On the other hand, the frontend is the visible part of the web application that enables user interaction and is the main area of focus for design.
Top Frontend Tools for Application and Website Development
1. Text Editor
- Choose from Atom, Sublime Text, or Visual Studio Code as per your preference.
2. Version Control System (VCS)
- Apache Subversion and Git are popular options for VCS.
3. Frontend Resources
- Using Google’s typefaces and the Unsplash – a free image hosting service.
4. Frontend Frameworks
- Bootstrap, Semantic UI and Tailwind are some popular CSS Frameworks.
5. Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) Preprocessors
- Sass and Less are commonly used CSS preprocessors.
6. JavaScript Resources
- jQuery and ReactJS are two popular choices for JavaScript.
7. Developer Resources
- Firefox Page Inspector, Chrome Dev Tools, Safari Web Inspector and Microsoft Edge Developer Tools are some of the commonly used developer tools.
8. Code Validators
- The WAVE Evaluation Tool is a popular option for Web Accessibility compliance.
What to Consider for Web-Based Application Development Projects
Coming up with innovative ideas is crucial in software development. This article delves into five inspiring ideas for web applications, which can help you evaluate your current skills and abilities for the task, especially for those starting out in the field.
1. Understanding Web Page Structure
Having a good understanding of HTML and CSS can significantly help in creating visually appealing web pages with great designs and layouts. This web application development project is relatively easy to accomplish.2. Developing a Website Homepage
After completing the layout for a single page, you can proceed to the next stage.
With the skills you have learned, you can now create a website with engaging features such as buttons, forms, tables, posts, and many others.
The first step is to choose a page type. If the page is linked to a specific service, it should include the corresponding phone number and an easy-to-use access point. Alternatively, you can select a homepage that links to relevant sub-pages such as ‘About’ and ‘Services’.
3. Creating an Online Task Management System
For those who have previously developed web applications, this scenario might seem familiar. With an online task manager, you can simplify your task lists while working on your application. Moreover, your application can be linked to a database, allowing easy storage, access, and updates for your task list.
Guidelines for Developing Web-Based Applications
To help businesses sell their products and services to customers around the world, web developers are responsible for creating websites that are visually appealing and engaging. For those who are new to the field and want to learn the language for career advancement, we suggest taking the following courses.
- The Khan Academy: Programming Basics
- The Python Programming Language: A Beginner’s Introduction
- The Mozilla Foundation Recommends: Learning Web Design
- JavaScript Data Structures and Algorithms: freeCodeCamp’s Course
- A Quick Computing Crash Course for Beginners
- HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: A Guide for Web Designers
- Web Development Course for Aspiring Developers in 2023
- An Introduction to Current HTML & CSS Trends
The Top Ten Programming Languages for Web Application Development
- Java
- PHP
- Python
- JavaScript
- Swift
- Kotlin
- Ruby
- TypeScript
- Perl
- C#
Companies that Develop Web Applications
Creating software for the internet is a profitable venture. Every day, new websites and web applications are being developed. Some of them are outstanding, while others fall short. If you have a web app idea and detailed requirements, try reaching out to one of the companies mentioned above. When designing a web app, there are many factors to consider, including interface design, colour schemes, and content display.
It is common knowledge that having an appealing website is crucial for any organization to attract and keep a steady stream of new customers. Regrettably, this awareness is not always put into action. To ensure that new visitors are familiar with the products and services of various businesses, staying well-informed is crucial.
This section will solely focus on businesses. Information on web development services will be provided in a later section.
Works
Using Works, you can find independent contractors online to hire, completely free of charge. Those with expertise in web application development can access freelance software development jobs from any location worldwide.
Works recently introduced a network of remote freelancers who specialize in developing cutting-edge technologies like the Metaverse, Cybersecurity, Internet of Things, Machine Learning, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, etc. This is an addition to the company’s web development services.
For anyone looking for a pleasant work environment, Works is an excellent choice.
- Solulab
- MojoLab
- CygnisMedia
- Selleo
- RapidOps
- WillowTree
Website Application Programming
The following is a list of some of the most popular web application services. Having a basic knowledge of these services is critical if you are just starting out. Many companies worldwide provide this service.
- Creation of Software as a Service Applications
- Front End Software Design and Development
- Companies Offering Progressive Web Application Design and Development
- Expertise in Developing Web Applications for E-Commerce
- Development of Custom Business-Oriented Web Applications
Conclusion
Developing a web application requires specialized skills. As a web app developer, it is vital to evaluate which web app model best suits a company’s needs. Building a portfolio using a single-page web app is a feasible goal, and in today’s business climate, creating an online storefront is crucial. Understanding the differences between TypeScript and JavaScript is also important.
To stay competitive in the field of web app development, it is crucial to continually upgrade your skills and knowledge. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to make a lasting impact as a web app developer, keeping up with the latest advancements is essential.
