The Evolution of Web Applications: Trends that are Changing the Internet

Ever since the advent of the internet, web applications have played a significant role in personal and professional productivity. Initially, web applications were relatively simple, offering limited functionality and requiring a stable internet connection to function. However, with the advent of web 2.0, the emergence of complex software accessed through web browsers has transformed the way people work today. Moreover, the cost-effective and free online services have replaced the need for expensive office suites, collaboration tools, and graphics programs. Today, web applications have become an affordable alternative for millions globally.

In mid-2007, the team at Lifehack began compiling end-of-year lists of the best web 2.0 applications that emerged in the previous year, capturing the development of newer and more complex software. These applications have provided the increasingly nomadic workforce with “always-on” access to the data, documents, and tools they need to be productive. However, in 2009, there were few new web applications that truly stood out. Consequently, this article focuses on the trends that have led to the transformation of web applications into genuinely useful tools.

Export

In 2009, web developers realized that holding their customer’s data hostage was not the best way to build brand equity. As such, more and more services started providing easy ways for customers to extract their data from the applications. Additionally, they offered standard formats for data extraction, making it easier to switch to other applications, to share data with others using different tools, or to conduct a meaningful evaluation of a service. Google’s Data Liberation Front has prioritized this in Google, introducing Google Docs’ “Export All” function. This allows users to download their entire work history and select their preferred data format, setting the industry standard for data extraction.

Synchronization and Sharing

Previously, users had to access their data from different applications or access the same data in various places, such as adding events to multiple online calendars. The promise of RSS and other data feed standards like Atom and iCal was finally realized. Services like Twitvite provided one-click options for inserting events into online calendars. Additionally, various services released plugins or widgets to access their data from other online apps, such as Remember the Milk’s integration with Google Calendar. Furthermore, Facebook Connect or Sign in with Twitter centralized authorization for various services, allowing easy and secure transfer of data and login credentials between sites.

Maturity

The stability, security, and usability of apps that have been under development for two, three, or more years now have provided an effective counterbalance to the lack of new applications worth getting excited about. While it has become harder for new applications to break in as several applications in each area have come to dominate, existing applications have become better. Numerous companies behind these services have improved their business practices, for example, making acquisitions much smoother, handling data with greater care and availing privacy standards and protocols to protect their customers.

Hidden Technology

The technology used to create many online applications is increasingly invisible, which signifies the maturity of these applications. Developers are focusing more on designing functional interfaces that are immediately usable rather than frills like text boxes fading slowly out of view. This allows engineers to focus on creating applications that work better rather than showcasing glorified engineering.

Social

Social media is a core area of focus for web applications today. Every online application is designed to make sharing, collaboration, or integration with social tools like Twitter and Facebook seamless. Google Wave, for instance, which requires a social network, is the pinnacle of this trend. Furthermore, new applications like Aardvark help refine the process, allowing for greater control and selectivity over which parts of a user’s social network are most relevant to specific tasks.

Mobile Integration

Web-enabled phones may frequently access online applications directly through their web browsers. However, the small-screen experience may not be as satisfying since these applications are primarily designed to function better on widescreen desktop monitors. Consequently, every online application worth its salt is offering mobile apps for iPhones, Blackberries, Palms, and Android phones, with the best of them making excellent use of smartphones’ voice recorders, GPS, and photo and video capabilities.

Location-based Services

The ubiquity of Global Positioning System (GPS) and GPS-alike services that rely on cell tower triangulation has made location-sensitive search and other applications possible. Examples of such applications include services like FourSquare, which permits users to find nearby coffee shops and gas stations, among others. In a few years, GPS will likely become ubiquitous, making it possible to access location-based services using a range of devices, including media players and pens.

Conclusion

Web applications are becoming increasingly important tools for enhancing personal and professional productivity. The ease of use, affordability, and availability of web applications have made it possible for millions globally to access tools that they previously had no access to. As these applications continue to evolve, several trends are leading to the emergence of highly functional, highly integrated, and highly productive web applications. Some of these trends include exporting data, synchronization and sharing, maturity, hidden technology, social media integration, mobile application, and location-based technology. With these trends, the internet is becoming more than just a platform for entertainment and communication; it is becoming an essential utility for productivity.