What is needed to create web applications

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What is a web application and how is it different from a website
A web application consists of 2 parts:
1. Client or frontend.  Users interact with it through an interface that is displayed in the browser

2. Server part or backend.  At the user's command, the request is sent to the server via the Internet, processed and returned to the client

Schematically it looks like this:

A website is most often a set of pages with informational content: text, photos, videos, audio. Interaction with it is limited: if you can manipulate data in a web application, then a website only allows you to view it.

In simple terms, websites provide information, while web applications allow users to perform certain tasks or functions.  

But sometimes the boundaries are blurred, and social media marketing service websites can include web applications. For example, a banking website with a personal account.

Web Applications: Examples

Benefits of Web Applications for Business
Creating even the simplest web application is justified when the project involves complex business logic, user authorization, and working with large amounts of data. However, with proper planning, all costs will pay off, and the product will significantly expand its audience. Among other advantages:


There is no need to download it to your device and therefore it does not take up much space.

Does not require updating - the user always works with the most current version in the browser.

Can be used on any device with a browser.  

It does not depend on the operating system, which means it cannot be removed like a mobile application.


What types of web applications are there?
There are several ways to classify web applications: by site construction template, purpose, and development method. Here are the most common ones:

Single Page Application — a single-page application. The principle of operation is as follows: SPA loads a single HTML page and dynamically updates the content using JavaScript. The application provides a seamless user experience, as it does not require page refreshes and can be faster than traditional multi-page applications. An example is Gmail.

Multi Page Application  is a web application that consists of several HTML pages. Unlike SPA, where all content is loaded at once and dynamically changes without reloading the page, in MPA each page is reloaded when the user clicks on a link or performs certain actions. MPA is suitable for online stores, marketplaces. An example is Ozon.

Progressive Web Application  — progressive web applications. Something between a mobile application and a website. The interface in PWA looks the same as in a mobile application, but works through a browser. It can be installed on the main screen of a smartphone, bypassing application stores. PWA is used by online stores, banks, and media.

Portal web applications.  They provide a single gateway to various resources: news, email and social networks. Often used as corporate intranet portals.

Web services.  A program on the Internet that provides a service or responds to a specific user requirement. An example is acquiring or a service for managing applications for banking products.

Ways to Develop Web Applications
No-code editors or web application builders.  Adalo, Bubble and Directual. They help to assemble an application like LEGO: take a template and adapt it to your needs. The functionality of the solution is limited and is suitable for simple tasks of a small business or testing hypotheses.