WHAT IS A MOBILE APPLICATION?
A mobile application (app) is a computer software that is downloaded on a mobile device such as a phone, tablet, or watch.
WHAT IS A WEBSITE
A website is a collection of web pages that can include text, images, videos, etc. that is identified by a common domain name that is managed by a domain name system.
Advantages of Using Mobile Apps
- Made to be downloaded to smart devices
- Provides a better user experience
- Loads content faster than websites
- Content is already downloaded to the device
- Can work without internet access (if content is already downloaded)
- Offers functionalities that websites cannot
- Designed for the smaller screens on mobile devices
- Users can receive notifications
Disadvantages of Using Mobile Apps
- Will only work on specific platforms
- More expensive to build than a website
Advantages of Using Websites
- Can be accessed from any device as long as the internet is available
- Do not need to be downloaded
- Free to use
- Users do not have to update
- Less expensive to build than applications (this is an advantage of organization, not the user)
Disadvantages of Using Websites
- Not all websites will respond to different screen sizes well
- Slower to load content than a mobile app
- Requires internet access to work
- Cannot provide as much functionality as a mobile apps
- Cannot send user notifications
The chart above provides a breakdown of advantages and disadvantages of using mobile applications and websites.
Security
One of the most important topics when using website or mobile applications is security. Security is not mentioned above because it is ultimately the responsibility of the developer or organization. Mobile applications receive periodic software updates that can include improved functionality or features and, more importantly, security updates. Mobile applications require the user to approve the update to the application.
Organizations who use websites instead of applications are also responsible for ensuring that the websites are secure. Most of the security is not visible to the users but one thing that they can check is to ensure that HTTPS is used to deliver the website. HTTPS is secured method to transport data.
Most social media platforms, e-commerce sites, or your favorite streaming channel build their applications and websites with the needs of their users in mind to allow them the freedom to choose the option that works best for them, their devices, and access to the internet. With the similarities that can exist for an app or website, some things to consider when deciding which method to access a platform are listed below.
- Are there functionalities that is only available on the app?
- What type of device will you be using to access the platform?
- Do you have regular access to the Internet?
The decision to download an application or access it on a website can vary depending on personal preference and comfort level of downloading applications. My husband, for example, does not like downloading applications and will access an application through the cell phone network or the internet. Myself, on the other hand, prefer the ease and accessibility of having an application downloaded and available even when I’m not connected to a network. There is no right or wrong answer – there is simply needed functionality and personal preferences.
Tasha Penwell is a digital marketing specialist and educator. She provides services in web development, social media marketing, customized Snapchat filters, and content writing.
She lives in Ohio with her husband and enjoys photography, exploring new technologies and is an active presenter for conferences and workshops.