Web application development is the process of creating a web application. It is more concerned with interacting with the browser than with traditional engineering processes. Most cases of web application development will involve defining the problem, mocking up a solution, engaging with users, selecting a framework/tool, and finally building and testing the web application – iteratively with users in most cases.
Web applications vs website
The key distinction is how we interact with one another. Web applications are defined by their input – within a web application, we create, read, update, and delete data. Websites are defined by their output – we read news, marketing information, and FAQs on them.
Progressive web applications
Progressive web applications are a newer type of web application that behaves similarly to and frequently outperforms native applications. They are web applications that use a slightly different methodology and include additional technologies such as service workers, manifests, and push notifications. Progressive web applications can be downloaded to your device and stored on your homescreen, making them more accessible and ‘native-like,’ and unlike web applications, they can be accessed and used offline.
Web application development process
Building a web application entails a number of different processes. I’ve summarised the various steps involved in the web application development process below.
If you want to learn how to build a web application in greater depth, I recommend you read this incredibly informative post – How to build a web app.
Here are the eight steps to creating a web application.
1. Define the problem you are solving
It is critical to define the problem. It serves as your North Star and guides you. Your problem inspires your solution.
2. Plan the workflow of your web application
Once you’ve decided on a solution, sketch out a plan for how it will work. What must occur within your web application in order for it to solve the problem?
3. Wireframe/prototype your web application
Create a wireframe of your workflow. Your wireframe is merely a tool for communicating your solution to your intended audience.
- Receive Validation
Show potential users of your new web application your wireframe. Keep track of feedback and iterate on the design until you and your potential users are satisfied.
5. Choose your firepower
To create your web application, you will use a variety of tools/platforms/frameworks. It is critical to select a tool that is appropriate for the job (in this case, your web application) rather than what is popular. For example, Django combined with React may be overkill for a simple to-do app.
6. Build your web application
The database
Determine what data you will need to store in your database, as well as the data types. Then create your database.
Front end
You will most likely build both the frontend and the backend at the same time. Your frontend will be based on the wireframe/prototype that you validated earlier. The frontend is made up of HTML, CSS, and JS, similar to one of our frontend frameworks listed below.
The backend
Building your backend is one of the most difficult aspects of web application development. The backend’s primary functions are to provide HTTP endpoints for your frontend (remember CRUD! ), authenticate users, authorise users, and serve the frontend.
7. Test your web application
Testing your web application is an ongoing process that occurs both during and after the development phase. You can either automate or perform manual testing. You should try to cover functionality, usability, compatibility, security, and performance testing during the testing phase.
