For most companies that ask for an app, a website appears to solve the problem better.
A website or web application is accessible via a link, works on any device and does not require installation. An app must be downloaded, built per platform and approved via an app store. An app is only worthwhile if it is used daily by a fixed group, or when you need deep access to the device.
NEXT TO EACH OTHER
The differences at a glance
| ASPECT | Website | App |
|---|---|---|
| Accessible | Via a link, directly | Download and install |
| Build | Once for all devices | iOS and Android separately |
| Updates | Instantly live | Through the store, with approval |
| Findable in Google | Yes | Hardly |
| Costs | From €2,950 for an application | Usually a multiple |
| Device access | Limited | Completely |
WHEN WHAT
When which
The question that decides everything: will someone use this every day and is he willing to install something for it? If not, your app will be downloaded and never opened.
For a one-off or incidental action, a link is always stronger than an installation. For a permanent group that works in it every day, an app can be useful: and often a PWA is still sufficient.
- Website for incidental use — no one installs anything for one action.
- Website if you want to be found — apps don't rank in Google.
- Website on a limited budget — one building instead of two.
- Web application for business use — browser is enough, and it works everywhere.
- App for daily use — a permanent group that always opens it.
- App in deep device access — camera, sensors, background processes.
- App for heavy graphic applications — where the browser falls short.
- Consider a PWA first — app convenience without an app store.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
More about the choice
Do you build apps?
No, not native apps for the app store. We build web applications and PWAs, and they cover most business questions. If you really need a native app, we will refer you.
My competitor has an app. Should I too?
Not automatically. See if that app is actually used: the number of downloads means little, the number of active users says everything. Many business apps sit unopened on phones.
Can a website also work offline?
Yes, as a PWA. Then it works without a connection and is on the home screen, without an app store. This is usually precise enough for on-site input.
CONTINUE READING
Of course, continue reading about this subject.
App or anyway a website?
Tell who will use it and how often. We honestly say which side fits, even if we don't build it.