If you’ve been hanging in the digital world, you may have found yourself listening to some of these words : SaaS (Software as a Service), web applications, and app development. But what are they, exactly? What’s the difference between them? In this post, we’re going to demystify these concepts with plain, straightforward language that even a non-technical person could follow along.
What is SaaS?
We’ll begin with SaaS, or Software as a Service. SaaS is one of three main categories of cloud computing, alongside IaaS (infrastructure as a service) and PaaS (platform as a service). You don’t have to download and install the software on your device you use it via a browser.
Consider some popular ones, like Google Drive, Dropbox and Netflix. These are all SaaS platforms. You can use them in return for a subscription fee, and you can have access to them from anywhere, provided you have an internet connection.
Key Benefits of SaaS:
Accessibility: Software is accessible from any internet-enabled device.
Affordable: You don’t have to keep buying expensive hardware or software, or pay for staff to install and maintain it. You subscribe to watch instead.
Automatic Updates: The software is updated automatically by the service provider so you don’t have to do it yourself.
Common Examples of SaaS:
Salesforce (Customer Relationship Management)
Microsoft Office 365 (Productivity Suite)
Slack (Team Communication)
What is a Web Application?
A web app is an application that is hosted on a web server, as opposed to being installed on the user’s computer. It is a web application and no matter how many download its “software” it is still an online tool. For example, when you log into Facebook that is a web application.
Web apps tend to make life easier for its user-base by providing a clean, simple interface that works fluidly on many types of devices. They’re great for things like sending emails, managing projects or yes, buying stuff online.
Web Applications vs. SaaS:
Although both web applications and SaaS are internet-related services, SaaS will commonly imply to a family of subscription-based software that is hosted and maintained by the vendor-60. A web application, on the other hand, is simply how the software operates and connects with a user online.
Take this for example: Google Docs is a web application and SaaS product at the same time, where you receive services in form of subscription and it is accessible from your browser too.
Key Benefits of Web Applications:
Nothing to Install: You needn’t install anything on your own computer.
Cross-Platform: Web-based apps are available across all devices that have a browser, including PCs and smartphones.
Simple collaboration: Many web apps let several users collaborate in real time.
Common Examples of Web Applications:
Trello (Project Management)
Gmail (Email)
Spotify (Music Streaming)
App Development: What Is It?
When we talk about app development, we are talking about the process of actually creating a piece of software to run on certain platforms such as a phone, desktop, or tablet (i.e. mobile vs desktop apps).
Apps are not the same as SaaS or web apps in this regard it’s not about using them, but building them: creating and designing the app; actually coding, testing, releasing to production.
Apps breaking down into three main categories:
Native Apps: These are developed for one platform (e.g. iOS or Android). This is because they get to use the hardware and features of the device.
Hybrid Apps – These are a cross between native and web apps, they can work over multiple platforms using the same code.
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): These are native-like apps that can be downloaded through a web browser.
Key Benefits of App Development:
Customisation: Exclusive apps may serve your particular business or personal needs.
Performance: Furthermore, ‘native’ apps do generally run faster and are able to leverage device-specific functionalities.
Offline Access: Unlike web apps, native apps can be accessed offline once downloaded.
Common Examples of App Development:
Instagram (Native Mobile App)
WhatsApp (Native Mobile App)
Skype (Desktop App)
Choosing Between These Options, How?
Before diving into the decision between SaaS, web and app development, it is important to clarify your objectives.
If you’re in a hurry and don’t feel like worrying about infrastructure and mundane maintenance, SaaS is your best bet.
If you have a more custom app and would like an app which is easy to share with your client where the experience is interactive than, web application probably is right choice.
However, if the aim is to build a custom mobile or desktop app for business or personal purpose, the way ahead would be through app development.
Conclusion:
This article demonstrates how SaaS differs from web apps and app development, so that you can make sound decisions for your business or personal project. Whether you are deciding on a software solution that will assist your team, want to build a new app or just looking at how save time in the workflow: each option has it’s own benefits and weigh-ins.
SaaS applications and web apps are especially great for businesses wanting to offer easy-to-access, low-cost yet reliable tools. However, in app development you have more control, customization and performance.
More Info:
Understanding SaaS and Stand-Alone Applications
Custom Website Development
