Web applications are web-based software often consisting of forms and presentation markup (such as data grids). Forms allow the user to enter and edit content, and grids display data. Although companies typically understand the need for a website, they may not see the need for a web application. But anyone currently using spreadsheets, FAXs or email to distribute, collaborate and manage data could benefit by taking their work online. Web applications offer better data handling, security and efficiency and can be built at a fraction of the cost of traditional software development.

What's in an Interface?

Although the "engine" of the app is critical, the interface can make all the difference in whether a web application is successfully adopted. A well designed graphic user interface ("GUI") can give the impression of power, security and usability. In recent years, many Web 2.0 coding standards and frameworks were introduced to simplify GUI creation. Here are some examples of the type of functionality available: