What is a web app exactly?

[inzzane]

Ok, I'm not a complete moron,
.....but is the only difference between a "standard" app and a web app that it can send or receive data from/to the web?

Im trying to get a gereal idea of a web apps capabilities and limits compared to a "standard" app. Also trying to distingush what the difference in appearance is. Might be a crime here, but I'm a noob when it comes to building a program.

I keep hearing about people suggesting them for a project I'm working on but have not been able to "view" one. Everyone that has recommended a web app to me has stated "you usually cant see them" Not knowing exactly what these guys mean, either they guys are all trying to sell me the emperors new clothes, or it's hidden in something like the process a website takes to get information. Either that or there really isn't any type of "link" to be able to see them, but if not, then why the web in web app?arggh, so confused. (Do they have a smiley ripping its hair out?

I'm sure it's probably as simple as a the way a bank website works but want to make sure. I'd hate to hire someone and have
a horrible project to present. (or be standing there naked )

If I'm correct, a standard app is the basic grey box put data in and get data out type, while a web app could appear to be like a web page and can be used "on the net" as well as off.

Is this a good general description, or am I just staring at the walls lost?

[Steve R Jones]

Excel is a "standard" app. Excel could be run off a web site. It would look and feel pretty much the same. BUT, no web access NO access to the application.

[inzzane]

ok, so if Excel is a standard app, and it can be run off a website, but is not a web considered a web app, then what is everyone referring to when they say a "web app" is suggested?
Are there examples anywhere of what a "web app" is,does? what ones limits are or arent compared to a standard app?

I just find it odd that companies spend millions a year on having people design "web apps" for them, and I cant even find out what one is. (said as I slam my head into the wall repeatedly)

[vass0922]

Try web services

I think thats the more popular name for them...

[inzzane]

Thanks to Vass0922 once again. I never would have tried that. I thought "Web Services" were the advertisers that host your website.

Inzzane bows before the Google God

(And I thought I was good, hell I've been beat out by a man with his head up his arse )