Extract from SitePoint article"Should You Develop a Desktop or Web App?" by Laura Elizabeth
They said they’d be dead.
Gone from our docks and into our browsers.
The demise of the desktop apps has long been predicted in favor of browser-based models. But with services such as Slack, Sunrise and Quip all going desktop, can we stop writing the eulogies for native apps after all?
The demise of the native app
You don’t see a downfall in good technology for a reason. As many articles have pointed out, the tech industry has been ditching the native app in favor of the web app.
And if you’re wondering why, it turns out they have some pretty solid reasons. Here’s five.
1. Nothing to download. Nothing to install
It’s often far easier to convince people to use your app if they can get started right away. Downloading and installing feels like more of a commitment than having a play around right in your web browser. You’re effectively removing one big step in the on boarding process.
2. No more updates
Ok, since automatic updates were introduced this one isn’t the huge benefit it once was. Yet updating your app on the web does ensure that nobody is using an outdated version. This in turn eliminates most compatibility issues.
3. Lends itself better to a recurring pricing model
Downloadable apps are associated with one-off payments. You buy it, you own it.
Web apps seem to lend themselves better to the more profitable recurring payment structure.
It’s not to say that you can’t do this with desktop apps – think Dropbox and the controversial Creative Cloud. But people do seem more open to paying a subscription for a web app.
4. Access to analytics
From a business point of view, being able to see first hand how your users interact with your product can be a huge advantage. It can help you cut any usability issues and reassess features that nobody is engaging with.
5. Less expensive to develop
You want a native app that works on OS X, PC and Linux? Be prepared to shell out some big bucks.
Good programmers don’t come cheap and with all those versions to develop, it’s no wonder a lot of people are favoring browser based apps.
Looking at the above, it seems like a no-brainer to opt for a web app over a native. So why are companies still releasing the downloadable counterparts?