What You Need to Know About Web Application Development
Custom web applications can provide incredible tools for organizations to enable their stakeholders to get the information they need, be more productive or just pay for stuff more easily. As open source technologies have opened up the possibilities for web app functionality, organizations aren't looking for cookie cutter software solutions (along with licensing fees) -- technology is a secondary consideration to how web apps are supposed to further business goals. Proper planning before development begins is essential.
What can web apps really do? The possibilities for web apps are infinite. Home reno stores allow users to populate a virtual living space with furniture, changing styles and colors according to what is offered in the store. Insurance companies have web applications to calculate the risk of certain activities and lifestyles and match them with an appropriate package. Travel agents host review sites where you can post your review (or read others' submissions). And of course, checkout web apps are ubiquitous.
But after you've decided you need a web app custom-developed, you'll want to consider some key factors that shouldn't just be left to the web app developer to decide. The web application developer can handle the technology side of things, working with a particular platform (Windows, Unix, Red Hat, etc), language (PHP, SQL, Jscript), database and other technologies to deliver your app, which is essentially a business solution.
Without proper planning before development begins, the cost of development can go up by 50 per cent. If all you've got is a rough concept, initial development will be followed by many changes in the backend, often caused by "feature creep". Working with the developer before any actual programming takes place, your organization needs to go through a requirements gathering process.
The first part of the requiremtents gathering process is defining what is the purpose of the web application. How will it improve the overall functionality of your existing website or online presence? How will it help your customers?
You'll also want to think about how the web application will be integrated with your existing website (or whether it will stand alone at its own domain). If it is to be situated on your website, where should it go? Does it make sense to put the application on your primary landing page, or does it make more sense in your archives or checkout page? Where on the page should it go? Or should it be on every page? Should it be share-able?
These are just some of the considerations that need to be looked at in the web app roadmap.
One other consideration that even some companies that specialize in web application development may overlook is security. But this is actually a critical consideration before the first bit of web app code gets formulated. How will security be built into the web app to ensure that end users and the host organization don't get hacked? Security can't just be something to think about after the app is already built, since it could be vulnerable the moment it goes "live". Ask your developer how they plan to ensure your organization and users will be protected.
To contact PCIS to learn more about custom web application development for your organization, email info@pcis.com or for more information
Look forward to news and opinions about the latest tech trends, online and network security, identity management and other important issues in the tech sector from the Pacific Coast Informer.
Other ways to stay connected
How to Subscribe/Unsubscribe to the Pacific Coast Informer
SUBSCRIBE: To subscribe to the Pacific Coast Informer, send a blank email message with subject line "SUBSCRIBE-PCINFORMER" to informer@pcis.com
UNSUBSCRIBE: If you do not wish to receive future issues of the Pacific Coast Informer, send a blank email with subject line "UNSUBSCRIBE-PCINFORMER" to:informer@pcis.com and we will promptly remove you from our distribution list.
WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK Our purpose for providing this free service is to keep our clients and business contacts informed of technology developments. This information can help them resolve common problems and achieve their full potential by strengthening their business processes and infrastructure. Your input is important to us and we welcome your ideas for new features and how we can continue to improve our service to you. Send your comments and suggestions to informer@pcis.com or contact us directly at 604.844.7558
|
