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Web application development began shortly after the introduction of the internet. When the web apps were created at the beginning, they were static. Over time, audio, videos, and images were added. With the advent of Ajax into the web world in 2005, developers were able to build a faster, more interactive, and improved website.  

Microsoft Office, Facebook, and Basecamp are examples of web app development. These programs and suites are interactive, integrated with advanced features and tools, and are easy to use as web apps and native mobile apps. As part of the development process, these apps are hosted by a third party on servers, and server-side and client-side programming is used. With the use of programming and other unique technologies, developers can develop applications that can be accessed through the internet without the need of downloading every single time.

The Intricate Process of App Development

The entire process that is involved in app development is intricate and time intensive. A developer or a team of developers is responsible for a variety of steps that have to be followed for building a functional and user-friendly application. Let's look at the process now.

The inception of the idea

This is the first step towards web app development. Here, the developers collect data required for the application, determine the use of the app and what problems will it need to solve, basically the role or the goal of the web app. A well-drawn blueprint or idea is better for the developers to come up with the best possible features and skills to be inducted in the application.

That is why is the first and most important part in the development process followed by the main step, which is prototype development.

Prototype development

Here is where all the ideas, imagination and vision comes to life. The first step is to create a prototype to present their vision to the audience. The response from the audience and targeted users comes in the form of feedback or reviews which form the base for designing and development of the app which will incorporate the upgrades to suit the users. Mind you, these upgrades, technologies are added on the bases of the response received from the users.

The next step is the construction of the app. The developers are required to use appropriate front end and back end programming to maintain the functionality and appearance of the app. Frameworks like JavaScript, Angular JS, Node JS and others are deployed to create a sturdy and easy to use apps. Tthey also create user interaction between the server and user.

For the database, it is important to select the ideal data types that will work well with the type of app that is being developed. It increases the efficiency and space required for database storage in the application.

Testing

Testing is a crucial step in web app development. The team checks for various standards such as security,performance, versatility, compatibility, etc. While it helps in making sure that the app is meeting all the parameters, it is also helpful in assisting the professional in adding more upgrades and useful features to make the app more functional and efficient.

Launch and maintenance

After going through all the steps, it is finally time to launch the app in the market. But the work doesn’t stop because you have to consciously work on maintaining the working of the app. Constantly adding something new to it, and updating the installed feature enhances the capacity and efficiency of the app which is a must in today’s time and with constant technological evolutions.

How is Web Application Development Necessary for Business?

It is absolutely clear to all that web apps are an absolute need in the financial sector today. Not only from a business perspective but from the customer’s point of view as well. It is important to be aware of the various roles that web apps play in this industry.

They play an important role in terms of connecting the business with its customers. Since apps are run on the internet, there is no need for any download which is excellent for the customers since they can directly access the apps without going through any long process. This ensures high traffic and gives a boost to the business, all the while providing excellent customer service.  These apps are constantly being tested and new versions are launched frequently. This enhances their working capacity and users are able to get their tasks done quickly with much more precision.

Various other factors such as 24/7 availability, high security measures, cross-platform access, etc are all essential for a business to run smoothly and compete successfully in today's highly competitive marketplace.

Conclusion

Application or app development refers to the art of building apps for variou devices and platforms. There is web app development, mobile app development and hybrid app development, each have their own distinct characterstics making them equally important in tech world.

Hybrid App Development is a field which is perhaps most interesting because of its unique functions. Therefore, it is necessary to learn what are Hybrid Apps, and how are they made.  

What are the Hybrid Apps?

Joana Almeida defines Hybrid App Development as a “methodology that revolves around building an app with single project using a framework that can target all platforms”. 

The developers create one single code base that will be used for an app on all platforms and this makes it much easier to develop than the native apps which makes it a popular choice for the developers.

Hybrid App frameworks

Hybrid apps use many frameworks depending upon the requirements of the developer like Flutter, React Native, Unity and many more which are discussed in detail below.

React Native

It was released by Facebook and is a multiplatform development framework based on React. You can develop multi-user interface elements with JSX which are later linked to local code and transformed to Android or iOS local views.

Flutter

It is an open source framework by Google that uses its own programming language, Dart to give app to mobile, web plstforms and instilled devices.

Unity

Though it is mainly used for game development, it is a hybrid app development framework best suited for entertainment apps. It is one of the most flexible frameworks using which you can develop apps for Linux, Windows, iOS, Web, and Consoles.

Ionic

Ionic is used to develop mobile apps using HTML, CSS and JavaScript. It is easy to use, and sturdy and for  the front end it has built in AngularJS making it a much preffered option for front end developers. 

Benefits of Hybrid Apps

There are many benefits that come with this form of app development. Mixing technologies allows a developer more freedom to create apps suitable for all platforms and devices.

They are much more affordable than the native apps which is beneficial for any business. Not only on the monetary front but also from the performance point of view they are lightweight, and much more responsive.

Maintenance of codes has always been an issue that many have struggled with but with hybrid apps, a singular back end is able to power all of the apps and can also be updated quickly. This reduces the time and labor that was previously required to create separate back end for each platform that they supported.

Smooth and concurrent user experience is guaranteed in any hybrid app because users will experience same look and services of the brand on all platforms. This improves traffic and enhance the image of a brand.

How are Hybrid Apps developed?

The first step towards developing an app is selecting the right approach, tools, frameworks and technology stack.

Following this is the most crucial step that is development. It involves writing codes for Hybrid app, and it needs a cross platform tool like PhoneGap or Ionic to do this process. It includes UX/UI readiness, structure and function development.

Testing follows next. An app needs to be thoroughly tested before releasing in the market. At this stage the developers focus on erasing erros, adding more refined features and many other things before it is ready to be released.

Maintainance is an integral feature in this process. You need to continously evolve and upgrade the app as time passes by. Releasing new versions, keeping up with latest inventions and trends are all part and parcels Hybrid app development process.

Conclusion

Hybrid App Development has become more popular with advancement in app development. As there are more users who are using multiple devices to browse, it has created a need to develop applications which can be run onm multiplatforms with same performance quality and this is where Hybrid App Development comes into play.

Mobile App Development is the process by which applications are developed to run on smartphones and tablets or iPads. Some of the apps are pre-installed and others can be downloaded from the app stores on phones. Languages used for the development process are Java, C#, Swift, and HTML5.

Mobile apps are necessary in every field today. You have apps dedicated to engineering, medical sciences, corporates, government institutions, the banking sector, the IT industry, and so many others which highlights the rise in this industry. 

Recent studies have shown that business with mobile apps has more growth prospects than those that don't have any. It is necessary to remain at the top of the game, and the most important part is that it allows more customer interaction which is crucial for any business owner.

Frameworks for Mobile App Development

React Native

It is an open-source cross-platform app development framework created by Facebook. It is used to develop apps for iOS and Android platforms. Some of the important features of this framework are component-based GUI for front-end apps, third-party extension compatibility, fantastic performance, and reusable elements. 

Flutter

It is an open-source framework supported by Google with which you can create Android and iOS native apps. It is easy to integrate with multiple platforms, can be used to create mobile apps without having to write separate code for each platform, and most importantly is the only framework with mobile SDK that gives a “responsive style without using the JavaScript bridge”.

Apps like Google Ads, Google Assistant, My BMW, Toyota, eBay, etc are developed using Flutter.

Apache Cordova

This framework uses CSS, JavaScript, and HTML to develop web and mobile applications. It also has many different plugins that can be used to develop various applications for all kinds of platforms.

Benefits of Mobile App Development

Mobile app development gives you a lot of benefits such as-

Approachability

Mobile apps make it easier for a customer to approach the business in a more easy and effective manner which deepens its relationship with the customers. It is a platform where the users can get access to all the products, services, information, and other functions which they might have got in real-time. 

They also let you send regular updates and news about anything related to your business which makes it easier for the users to get acquainted with you and your business. Hence, it effectively increases the accessibility to the users.

Multiplatform Accessibility

As the title said, mobile app developers have access to almost all platforms. You are able to reach the buyer’s market through Google, Blueberry, Apple Play Store, and even social media. 

Global Outreach

Mobile apps give you the opportunity to broaden your business and reach the global market. It also helps in promoting your business and with a proper marketing strategy, you can get multiple growth opportunities.

Brand Awareness

Mobile apps are a great source of brand awareness. Interaction with customers, getting feedback, and providing excellent services, are all critical sources to increasing your brand awareness.

Social media incorporation

Adding social media handles on the mobile app is a gateway for users who can give their reviews and feedback on social media platforms. This is an effective strategy for increasing traffic and brand awareness.

Increase in sales

Since most people look at mobile apps, you can use this to increase customers and profits by designing an attractive and fully functional app that perfectly provides the user all they need to know about your brand.

Feedback

It is one of the most important assets of the business. Feedback gives you an insight into the customer's mind and you can know what improvements and updates can be done, which is why having a mobile app is crucial. It is through the app that a customer is able to communicate their requirements and reviews to the business owners.

Payment

Mobile apps are equipped with the latest technology enabling them to receive direct payments from customers and vice-versa. Having a secure mode of online payment leaves a positive impact on your business and maintains your online reputation.

Time-saving

It goes without saying that mobile apps save a lot of time and energy of both the users and the owners. They can browse through your products and services and immediately purchase what they want. This in turn allows quick transactions and customer satisfaction is guaranteed.

Final thoughts

YII is an open-source framework released under BSD license used to create robust and scalable web applications. It is built on MVC (Model View Control) composite pattern. It is an OOP framework, meaning a developer must have basic knowledge of the concept to use YII for web application development. YII creates web applications such as forums, CMS, e-commerce websites, portals, etc. 

It was founded by Qiang Xue in 2008 to control problems such as a slow response to complex pages, difficulty in customizing controls, steep learning curve, etc. Although relatively new as compared to other frameworks, it has successfully placed itself among the top most desired frameworks for web development.

YII has two versions- 1.1 and 2.0. Version 2.0 is a completely rewritten version of the older version equipped with current tools such as Composer, PSR, traits, etc.

Features of YII

MVC

Model View Controller is very popular in design. Its main goal is to segregate business logic from the user interface. This allows the developers freedom to change each part without affecting the other one.

DAO

YII (DAO) is created on top of the PHP Data Objects (PDO) extension which allows permission to different databases management systems (DBMS) in a single uniform interface.

All applications which use YII (DAO) are easily switchable to different DBMS without modifying the data access code.

Authorization

YII has a built-in and customizable authorization system. It has a central piece in the YII which is a pre-declared user application component. This component is representative of the current user. You can check whether the user is logged in or not using this component.

Error Handling

The Error Handling framework is based on PHP 5 exception mechanism. It is built in which eases the error-handling process. Some of the errors which are included are non dangerous errors and dangerous errors.

Testing

This is a major advantage that YII has. It has a built-in PHP testing framework called Codeception which simplifies tasks such as unit creation, and functional and acceptance tests of the applications.

Widgets

They are the “reusable building blocks” used in views to design intricate and programmable user interface features in an object-oriented manner. There are many widgets developed using YII namely active form, menu, Twitter Bootstrap, and j.Query UI widgets.

Why is YII so popular?

YII has a simple configuration making it easier for the developers to build applications on it. 

Social media is an integral part of businesses today. YII gives direct access to the APIs which develop logical integration of social media modules and as a result your business now has a global reach.

Installing YII is easy as you need to follow only two steps: first, downloading the framework, and second, opening the YII release file to the Web access directory.

YII has simple code composition which makes it easy to customize and edit allowing all the applications built on this platform to have the feature of easy customization and editing.

It has MVC (Model View Controller) allowing it to handle a huge amount of requests and queries at one time without slowing down and the caching power of YII is greater than other frameworks which improves the performance of the applications.

The framework is fully equipped with security features that are capable of handling security-related risks such as Cross-site Scripting Prevention, Cookie Attack Prevention, and client-side and server-side validation.

Another major advantage of YII is that it has a large community of experts and developers who provide guidance and help developers in case of any error handling, writing codes, or other issues. For a developer just starting with their career in YII, community assistance is a major benefit.

Where is YII used?

There are numerous industries that use YII for developing web applications, some of which are discussed here.

Skillshare

It is an online education platform that sponsors YII developers and uses their services.

Litnet

It is an online platform for writers available in many languages. Its technology stack includes the YII framework, RabbitMQ message broker, MySQL DBMS, and Memcached and Redis caching systems.

Sonic Electronix

It is a US-based eCommerce seller of electronics. The website uses the YII framework, jQuery library, and CoreJS framework.

Feniex

This is an American company manufacturing visual and acoustic devices. The website is developed using AngularJS for the front end, YII for the back end, and Microsoft Azure for storage.

Conclusion

Laravel is an open-source PHP framework used to build web applications. It was developed by Taylor Otwell in 2011 as an alternative to the CodeIgniter framework.  It uses a model-view-controller(MVC) design pattern. Functions in Laravel have basic PHP features- CodeIgniter, Yii, programming languages like Ruby on Rails, etc. If you have a little bit of knowledge of Core PHP and Advanced PHP, you can easily create your website in Laravel. It is both secure and less time-consuming.

Features of Laravel

Authentication

An authentication system is created to make sure that unauthorized users do not have access to the resources. Laravel simplifies the process of authorization logic and controls access to the resources.

Testing of software

It is extremely important to test the products for any errors or bugs or crashes. Handling the products has a deep impact on the user experience. Laravel is properly configured with exception handling and errors.

Routing

It is an important concept in Larvel. It allows routing all the application requests to their designated controller. Routes are defined in the app/Http/routes.php file.

Cookie Management

Cookies are the small bits of data stored in the web browser and are used to identify a user’s activity on the web browser. Laravel manages cookies and users can set, delete, and retrieve cookies easily.

Middleware

It is the interface that acts in coordination between request and response. It is another important part of Larvel and provides the method to filter HTTP requests that are entered into the project. This feature will let the user proceed further with the project after verifying the authenticity. Another middleware named CORS is responsible for adding headers to the requests.

MVC Architecture Support

Laravel uses MVC Architecture since it allows one programmer to work on the view and other to work on the controller to create business logic for web applications. It not only helps in a faster development process but also multiple views for a model. Another important feature of MVC Architecture is that it separates business logic from presentation logic, therefore there is no need for code duplication.

Artisan

This is the built-in tool for command-in-line provided by Laravel. Artisans can be used to develop skeletal code, database structure, their migration making it easier to manage of database. It also allows the developers to generate their commands and MVC files can be generated through the command line. 

Why is Laravel the best PHP framework?

Various factors make Laravel so popular among developers and programmers. It is hailed as the best PHP framework for web application development. Why? Let's find out.

Eloquent ORM

Techopedia defines ORM as a “programming technique in which a metadata descriptor is used to connect object code to a relational database”. Eloquent ORM is included by default in Laravel. It is responsible for interaction with database tables, providing object oriented approach to inserting, updating, and deleting database records, and also providing a streamlined interface for the execution of complex SQL queries. Eloquent ORM can also be used for multiple databases using Active Method. 

Object-oriented libraries

Object-oriented libraries are one of the chief features distinguishing Laravel from other PHP frameworks. It includes 20 in-built libraries and modules with each module having its own built-in Composer dependency management system which makes updating very easy. Functions include encryption, Cross-site Forgery protection, hashing, resetting of passwords, etc.

Another additional feature is that developers can segregate these functions into different units with advanced PHP principles for responsive and modular web application development. 

Database Migration

Migration of data is important for websites that are to be redesigned and redeveloped. Laravel houses an inbuilt migration system that enables the “programmers to migrate and re-migrate the data without remembering them”. The entire process is automatic and ensures secure database migration.

High Security

Laravel has the strongest security system in the PHP framework. All the data is protected by the hashed and salted password system. To prevent SQL injection attacks, encrypted passwords are generated through hashtag algorithms which ensure high security. Programmers can also create SQL statements to safeguard from SQL injection attacks.

Blade Templating Engine

A blade is a powerful tool in Laravel that allows easy use of the template engine and it makes syntax writing very easy. It has its structure like conditional statements and loops. It can be used to create a master template that can be extended by other files. All the blade templates are stored in the/resource/view directory. To create a blade template you have to create a view file that will be saved with a .blade.php extension instead of a .php extension.

Conclusion