We’re building something—but what?
Many companies come to us with a clear idea, sometimes even a complete vision. But when it comes to shaping the solution, an important question arises:
Shall we build an app or a website?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a way to think about it. Factors such as target audience, functionality, budget, usage frequency, and actual value all play a role. Here’s how we usually reason.
When is a web solution enough?
A web solution can be a fast, cost-effective, and flexible way to launch a digital service. You avoid distribution channels like the App Store or Google Play, allowing you to go from idea to launch much faster.
- No downloads required—the user clicks a link and starts immediately
- Works on all devices—mobile, tablet, or desktop
- Ideal for temporary users or broad audiences, for example in campaigns, support, or training
Responsive web solutions are particularly effective for internal tools, self-service flows, and information portals. They’re usually quicker to build, easier to maintain, and can be updated in real time—without the user needing to update anything.
Web solutions are also great when content needs to be searchable, accessible, and shareable—which can be critical for some services. Often, this is all you need. When technical requirements are modest and the user mainly needs to access or provide information, the web isn’t just an option—it’s often the smartest choice.
When is an app the right choice?
In the app vs. web comparison, apps often carry a bit more prestige. While the web can feel like a hygiene factor—something you must-have signals that this is something special. Something that deserves a place on your phone.
But it’s not just about perception. There are several technical and user-focused reasons to choose a native app:
- Access to mobile hardware—camera, GPS, sensors, and microphone
- Offline support and high performance—important for poor coverage or real-time data
- Better control over the user experience—notifications, animations, and speed
An app is unbeatable when the solution requires close interaction with the phone’s features. Think AR experiences that use the camera and gyroscope, or fitness apps that log movement in real time—even offline. A good example is UZIT, a buy-and-sell app we developed where the camera is combined with automatic image editing. Experiences like these are hard to deliver through a web solution.
For repeated use, where you want to build loyalty, offline access, or personal interaction—the app plays in a league of its own. It’s not just downloaded, it stays on the device. And that opens opportunities—both technically and business-wise.
When is a web solution enough?
In the app vs. web comparison, apps often carry a bit more prestige. While the web can feel like a hygiene factor—something you must-have signals that this is something special. Something that deserves a place on your phone.
But it’s not just about perception. There are several technical and user-focused reasons to choose a native app:
- Access to mobile hardware—camera, GPS, sensors, and microphone
- Offline support and high performance—important for poor coverage or real-time data
- Better control over the user experience—notifications, animations, and speed
Appen är oslagbar när lösningen kräver tätt samspel med telefonens funktioner. Tänk AR-upplevelser som använder kameran och gyroskopet, eller träningsappar som behöver logga rörelse i realtid – även utan uppkoppling. Vi tar köp- och säljappen UZIT som vi har utvecklat där kameran används tillsammans med automatisk friläggning av bilder. Den typen av användarupplevelse är svår att leverera i en webblösning.
For repeated use, where you want to build loyalty, offline access, or personal interaction—the app plays in a league of its own. It’s not just downloaded, it stays on the device. And that opens opportunities—both technically and business-wise.
How we guide our clients in choosing between app and web
We rarely start with technology. We start with needs. Often, clients come to us with a very clear idea. Sometimes, the initial phase is longer, and we work together to determine what will work best. We always ask questions like:
- What is the actual goal?
- Who will use the solution—and how often?
- Is access to mobile hardware needed?
- Should the service work offline?
- What is the budget and timeline?
The answers to these questions determine the direction. Sometimes it’s an app, sometimes a web solution. What matters is that we don’t build based on what seems high-tech or flashy—but on what provides real value to the user and the business.
Our job is to listen, challenge, and guide. To translate needs into long-lasting technical choices.
Summary
- An app is unbeatable when you need hardware access, offline functionality, and high performance.
- web solution is flexible, quick to launch, and easy to maintain.
- The most important thing is to make the right decision from the start—from a user and business perspective.
Want to discuss your next project with us?
Get in touch—we’ll help whether it’s a web or app solution. We find simple solutions to complex problems, future-proof your business, and make it more efficient. Contact us and let’s grab a coffee to brainstorm ideas!
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