Responsive Website Application VS Mobile App: Which is Better for Your Business

Posted by: Admin
DEC 18, 2020
IT Services

If you are looking forward to make your business more substantial with a good mobile presence, you need to be specific in your choice to build a web application or mobile application, or both. Web applications and mobile applications sometimes look similar at first glance; however, there is a number of factors present to make your business stand out with one of these applications.

From the development process to functionalities, there are certain differences that can either hinder your progress or make you move forward swiftly. The key to the success of any business is to focus on their audience and how they are availing of your services. In both cases, there are some pros and cons to operating your business online.

First, take a look at the differences between Web applications and mobile applications.

What are the difference between Web applications and Mobile applications?

● In terms of features, both can run very well if they are developed with advanced technology. Moreover, with all the guidelines of proper UX design, customers can experience seamless performance. However, regarding connectivity, there are certain restrictions.
● A web application cannot be operated without any internet connection active. In comparison, a mobile application can be operated if offline systems are integrated.
● Users do require to install a web application from any platform; instead, they can simply find your application with a URL from a search engine. In case of the mobile applications, the users will have to install an application from app stores before they operate.
● The web application can perform similarly in devices (desktop, mobile) and all platforms (Android, iOS). On the other hand, native applications need to build separately to support a particular platform.
● As a web application can perform on all platforms and devices, developers can focus on building the application within your time and budget. In comparison to the former time and capital, enterprises need to invest more as it requires separate code for android and iOS.

(Even though open source UI software like Flutter can be used for native performance applications for both iOS and Android platforms, many organizations choose to build a robust application from scratch.)

From these differences, the following benefits can be helpful for you to take the vital decision:

Web application

● A website is often less expensive than a mobile application.
● The web application works on all devices with equal performance.
● A web application is easier to share than a mobile app.

Mobile application

● An application can attract new customers through app stores.
● It can also provide a unique experience and can be operated remotely.
● In terms of performance, native applications are way more advanced than a website.

Taking a vital decision from the overview would be a bit risky when the future of your business is concerned. Thus, you need to know a detailed evaluation of any web application and mobile application now.

Features of responsive web application

❖ It uses HTML pages that can be accessed with all browsers. However, the performance might vary if the application is not mobile responsive. A mobile responsive website is specially designed to appear on small screens.
❖ A responsive site requires structured UX and UI design based on CSS. It also allows the content to fit into all screens, large and small. However, a bit of imperfection can hinder user experience that will impact your business negatively.
❖ One mobile website happens to be available for all the users. Regardless of the operating system, one can easily operate a responsive website on their smartphone.
❖ Websites are easy for supporting, updating, as well as bug fixing. The best part of the web application is users do not require to install the new version to avail the updated features and functions. They can simply enjoy the renewed product.
❖ Web applications are relatively inexpensive than a native application. Thus, for small businesses, it is an ideal choice to consolidate online presence with a web application. In addition, it makes the maintenance costs lower and also compatible with SEO technicalities.
❖ A responsive web application may not serve all your business requirements; still, you have to pay for domain and hosting.

Features of Mobile application

❖ Mobile applications works efficiently and seamlessly. Even though it requires a separate building process, time and money are worth investing in.
❖ A mobile application is exceptionally good if a business needs to complete a certain goal. A well-designed application provides uncountable opportunities.
❖ With features like push notification, navigability users experience refined customer service and can operate the functions without an active internet connection.
❖ The mobile application focuses on specific features and functions to meet a particular business goal. These highly-advanced features might not be covered through a web application.
❖ When customer experience is concerned, nothing can replace the highly-scalable performance of the mobile application. Mobile applications tend to be more resistant to a variety of screens with proper resolutions.
❖ Mobile applications complement hardware sensors of a mobile device like microphone, camera, GPS, etc. Users can take advantage of AI-integrated system more conveniently.

Final Take

Both these applications have their individual pros and cons. When you have to choose either of them first, you have to decide the purpose of your product or services and the targeted customers you have. As per the reports of Statista, If a website can reduce the load time from 8 sec to 2 sec, the conversion rate will go up to 74%. Around 92% of small business’ web application becomes completely mobile free. With web application, enterprises can witness the following benefits:

● A website is often less expensive than a mobile application.
● The web application works on all devices with equal performance.
● A web application is easier to share than a mobile app.
● It does not require any approval of the app store to reach your targeted audience.

As per the device compatibility range and the availability of features, a web application is more in demand, especially for a cost-effective and quick solution. Build your web application to excel your business and present your brand before the global audience.