In 1991, the internet became publicly available, and in 1997, the world saw its first functioning video sharing platform - ShareYourWorld.

Since then, a little over twenty-five years have passed. Now, even the average teenager can have a fully functioning website, online channel/video sharing platform or mobile application accessible to them anywhere in the world. 

Well, if there is wifi at least.

However, for a long time, websites were the stars of the internet, giving owners complete control over their commercial or personal use. 

But now, since technology has been on an upward trend and we have seen the creation of website's more accessible counterpart - mobile apps - the question now becomes, will websites become obsolete?

To answer that, let's look at a few pros and cons to see just how well websites stack up against the times.

Pros for Apps

It's easy. 

Easy for the user to install. Easy for the user to navigate. Easy for the user to update. Easy, easy, easy! Having this ease of use allows for a smoother user experience. 

It's convenient. 

Being accessed easily by any smart device, apps are always available in the palm of your hand. Due to offline functionality, users can continue to use your app almost anywhere, even without Internet connectivity. 

It gives businesses more branding opportunities.

Having your app downloaded on a user's mobile device with your logo and branding constantly on their home screen gives your business' branding constant exposure. 

Pros for Websites

It's cost-effective. 

Having a website will save you from spending tons on developing an app. If you don't have a website already, there are several ways to build a free website on platforms such as WordPress easily. 

It's easier to find. 

Your website can be found at the click of a button without much research from the user, and It's much easier to make your brand visible online than on an app by implementing SEO strategies. 

Less costly to maintain.

Running updates, fixing bugs and doing a general website audit is really simple as you're not concerned with multiple operating systems. Changes can be done efficiently and can be seen immediately.

Cons for Apps

It's expensive.

Developing an app is expensive, end of story. Not only is there an initial expense, but it's also costly and time-consuming to fix any issues and do updates.

It needs many versions. 

Building an app requires different versions for different operating systems. You are essentially building more than one app. iOS, Android, and Microsoft require different specs and versions to work. 

Cons for Websites

It needs a connection.

The biggest downfall is that you need a stable internet connection to operate at its full potential.  

It can't leverage offline functions.

Unlike apps, most websites can't leverage offline functions, making it less convenient when trying to complete a task.

Final thoughts!

Well, in our opinion, websites are here to stay. 

The internet itself is an amalgamation of near-infinite websites, but the biggest reason is cost. If a website can do most of what apps can while being cost-effective, it's safe to say that it will be the first choice for many.

Are you considering a website for your business?

LucraLux is launching a new website development plan suitable for small businesses and startups. It'll be budget-friendly and professional, so you don't have to worry about compromising quality for the price!

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