Web App vs Desktop App
Which Application is Right for You?
Desktop Applications
If your users are all internal employees and have high-speed access to your network, a desktop application may be the best and most cost-effective fit.
Web Applications
When you have customers, vendors, and employees outside of your own network who need access to your database, a web application is definitely the way to go.
Access + SQL Server Desktop Application
Pros:
- Less expensive initial development (can be half or less than web development)
- Application can be used on a PC with no internet connection if database is hosted locally
- Higher “functional density” – more information can be fit onto one screen, with independent scrolling lists
- Zero or lower ongoing costs (depending on Office licensing and database hosting choices)
Cons:
- Users must have Windows and Access (or Access Runtime) installed
- Users must be on a Windows PC inside a LAN, or using a very fast internet connection if the database is hosted elsewhere
- Access application code will not be reusable if app is rebuilt for the web later
- Multiple permission levels are more difficult to enforce
- Lower security, since Access requires a direct connection to the SQL Server database
- Backups must be configured and tested if database is hosted within the company
- Application is susceptible to problems when Office upgrades occur
ASP.NET + SQL Server Web Application
Pros:
- Users may use any modern PC or tablet browser, or even a phone if Responsive design is included
- Application runs on any modern browser with a decent internet connection, and is less susceptible to compatibility problems.
- Modern web technology lends itself to later expansion
- Multiple permissions and capabilities can be configured by user
- Much better security, since the user has no direct connection to the SQL Server database
- Backups are automatically provided by data center or cloud service
Cons:
- More expensive initial development (can be 2x-3x Access development)
- Ongoing hosting costs for web application and database (usually $30-300/month depending on size and features)
- Users must have an internet connection
- Lower “functional density” – usually less information per page, requiring more clicking and scrolling to see all the information
If you’re still not sure which one to choose, don’t worry. Once we understand what you need to accomplish we can make a recommendation.