web application
noun
A web application is a program you use through a web browser to complete tasks or process data. Processing can take place partly in the browser and partly on a server.
The technicians complete their job sheets through a web application.
An ordering portal, online accounting tool or scheduling system can be a web application. You open a web address and use the software in your browser. You usually do not need to install a separate program on your computer.
How does a web application work?
The Glossary · In brieffrontendThe frontend is the part of a website or application that users see and operate, such as pages, buttons, forms and interactive screens.Read more displays screens and responds to actions. A Glossary · In briefbackendThe backend is the part of an application that processes data, applies business rules and communicates with other systems on the server. Users usually access it through a frontend or API.Read more can store data, run calculations and check what a user is allowed to do. Applications divide this work differently: some do much of it in the browser, while others send more requests to the server.
An internet connection is often needed, but an application can offer certain offline functions if they are designed for it. A Glossary · In briefprogressive web appA progressive web app (PWA) uses modern web technologies to offer an app-like experience. Users can install it from a compatible browser and use additional features supported by their device.Read more is one example.
Web application or website?
A website often focuses on presenting information. A web application lets you do something, such as placing an order or changing a schedule. The boundary is not strict: one website can contain both articles and an interactive customer area.