There's a lot of interest right now in weighing the pros and cons of Web applications. In an interview published just last week at
Dashboard Insight, for example, the first question I was asked concerned the differences between Web-based and desktop dashboards.
To see just how hot the topic has become, check out InfoWorld reporter Neil McAllister's "
The case against Web apps" and the responses it has generated. Rarely have I seen an editorial result in such a fury of opinion - and in the course of only a weekend!
Neil knocks Web apps because he says:
- They don't leverage client-side computing power
- Their UIs are a mess
- Browser technology is too limiting and is a security risk
- Web app deployment strategy is in the hands of the big browser players
- Perhaps not all employees should have Web access
While there is certainly truth to these criticisms, the reality is far from clear cut. The decision for or against Web apps depends on the business you're running and what your goals are.
Web-based applications, and desktop applications like Klipfolio Dashboard, both have their place. More often than not, Klipfolio Dashboard complements a Web-based solution. IT chooses the Web product for its accessibility, and ease of deployment and management. A desktop dashboard then leverages and extends the solution by increasing the visibility of its metrics and driving increased user adoption.
The use of Web apps will continue to grow. As an enterprise platform Web apps are still in their infancy, though. As the market matures, and as desktop applications integrate more effectively with networked content and become easier to deploy and manage, we'll see business taking a best-of-breed approach to deploying these solutions.
At the end of the day, both Web-based and desktop solutions are improving by leaps and bounds. Each has its sweet spots. And together, they can offer a solution that is better than either one alone.
What are your thoughts?
Allan
