Web Applications: What are they and What Benefits do they offer?

Ever since the advent of the internet, several offline commercial activities and applications have found their way to the web. With the internet being an all-pervasive force, businesses and entrepreneurs increasingly rely on the internet to offer their services. And how do they offer these? Via Web-based Applications!

Web applications refer to programs that are designed to run on the browser. Unlike static websites, these have a dynamic framework that communicates with the server for information and processing. Some of the most common web apps one might come across include, emails, online social networking sites, eCommerce platforms, etc. All of these applications run out of servers and are usually written using languages such as PHP, Dotnet, and HTML5.

What are the advantages offered by Web Applications?

• Availability of both open-source and closed-source languages for flexible development of apps.
• A convenient mode of offering services to customers around the globe with an easy-to-use interface for end-users.
• Data storage and maintenance is easy thanks to the availability of servers which store all the data in a centralized and remote location.
• The same internet browser can be used to offer multiple applications by multiple providers, thereby making it a one-stop interface for a variety of activities, ranging from Social Networking to eCommerce.
• Web apps can be made responsive, i.e., they can be accessed from both desktops and smartphones.
• As the apps run on browsers, they offer platform independence. This means that applications no longer have to be developed for individual operating systems.

Building a web-based application is simple and requires a basic understanding of the languages. However, when building apps for business or an industry-grade purpose, it is important that the promoters opt for a professional with immense experience in web application development. 

If you don't know where to start looking for one, then reach out to Openwave Computing, a leading web application development company in New York. With a global team of developers, the company develops pioneering web applications in languages such as PHP and Dotnet!

Benefits offered by developing a Dedicated Website for your services

Are you a retailer? Is your business predominantly dependent on offline sales? In the information era, consumers are increasingly dependent on Websites to navigate the abundant product choices that are offered and gauge the efficacy of a service based on the online presence of the brand.

If you don’t have a website yet, then your business is likely to run into obscurity! While we don’t mean to sound alarm bells, the market is definitely progressing towards the domain of online commerce and so should you.

If you are a Business and you intend to build a website, here are all the benefits that you stand to enjoy:

1. Boost the customer bases: 

The internet is a vast market with billions of users. With a website, this entire audience can be now targeted as the customer base has no geographical limitations. 

2. Trims down expenditure:

By offering services through websites, several overhead costs can be eliminated and the operations can be made lean.

3. Optimized Marketing:

With Google Adsense and targeted campaigns, the marketing spends can be optimized for different demographics and better RoI can be enjoyed.

4. Better Accessibility:

The best advantage offered by websites is their accessibility. This make it easy for consumers to know more about the services offered and make informed choices.

5. Increased Engagement:

It is easier to improve customer engagement as web pages can be kept dynamic and be filled with interactive content.

6. Stronger Sales:

Compared to conventional retail, online stores have far fewer bottlenecks when it comes to making sales. By optimizing the checkout process, retailers can post stronger sales.

7. Customer Loyalty:

Websites are the best way to retain regular customers. By offering them both choice and luxury in making purchases, brands can ensure they can be retained in the long run.

8. Easier to pivot:

The effort required to revamp a website and push the brand into a different vertical is very easy in online commerce compared to offline retail. This can help businesses adapt themselves to the changing market dynamics.

If you are looking to hire developers who can assist you with building a full-fledged website and fit your bill with much room to spare, get in touch with Openwave Computing, a leading web development services provider company in New York with a significant presence in North America. To avail our exceptional services, call our sales team today!

Reasons why you should invest in PHP Web Application Development

With most businesses today seeking to have an online presence, it is quite a competitive market. As more and more consumers chose eCommerce as their preferred mode of interaction with the market, a functional web service is more than a mere business tool as it adds brand value. With this being the case, the demand for developing web applications with platforms such as PHP is on an upward trend.

Here are the reasons why it is considered advantageous over the rest:

• Open source and re-usable: It is an open-source language. This makes it easy for developers to source various free plug-ins and integrate them easily into the app. This reduces development time drastically and benefits both the developers and the clients. Also, code reusability is a major benefit that is offered by the platform. 

• Cross-platform operability and Easy Deployment: The major benefit offered by PHP is that it is highly compatible and can run on all leading operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. Thanks to its compatibility with prominent web servers such as Apache and IIS, PHP websites are easily deployable on most servers and also enjoy the support of several players in the market who offer services for the same. 

• Durable performance and Robust Security: It is a reliable web language that incorporates several features that are aimed at maintaining security. It is highly scalable and can be used to write applications that can receive large traffic. Several free security plug-ins are available in the market which makes it easy for the developers to add layers of security atop the PHP application. 

• Ease of development: PHP utilizes its own memory space. This reduces loading time and server workload immensely thereby leading to high processing speeds that are required for critical applications such as CRM, CMS, and eCommerce. This is why some of the world’s most popular websites are built using it. 

If you are looking to adopt an internet-based business model, then you reach a reliable web experts. Openwave Computing, a leading PHP web application development company in New York you can contact the team to receive world-class services for free quote at info@openwavecomp.com

Developing .NET applications? Follow these 9 practices meticulously

Businesses across the globe today prefer to offer their services through the internet thanks to its widespread usage - and .NET Applications, due to their robust security and interoperability are preferred over other development options. While ease of development is a vital aspect of .net frameworks development, developers should also pay attention to the process itself as following the right guidelines is vital for an efficient final product.

Some of the Guidelines to be followed:

1. Traditional Coding practices: It is advisable to maintain consistency while writing code. Using a standardized layout and choice of variables can help with error detection and ease the cleanup.


2. Measure Performance: The performance of codes should be monitored and measured using several performance analyzers that are available on the market. This can help fine-tune performance.


3. Security parameters: Security is a major concern for any business application. Developers should always take precaution such as using SQL parameters instead of concatenating strings while building SQL queries.


4. Using "string.format" method: Developers should pay attention and ensure that the string length is set to 0. Also, variable checks should be used to measure string length instead of constructors.


5. Architecture of the framework: Using an appropriate architecture or pattern such as MVC while using the .NET framework is recommended as it helps in keeping the platform efficient.


6. Increased Use of Inheritance: Inheritance features allow code use and reuse. Using this in .NET development can help reduce coding and testing efforts.


7. Avoiding round trips: Incorporating Ajax UI is recommended as it helps incorporate client-side validation without needing for a postback or page refresh.


8. Dispose/Close: Developers should ensure that Close/Dispose methods need to be incorporated wherever possible. This helps use connections as and when required and keeps the process efficient.


9. DataReader: Wherever cached data are not necessary, using a DataReader is more efficient and helps with efficient data binding.

The best way to ensure that all stipulated rules are adhered to is to hire a dedicated .NET developer who is immensely experienced and can guide the project to a successful completion. Team up with Openwave Computing to hire dedicated .NET web application experts.

Magento considered the ideal platform for eCommerce development. Know why?

In the age of the free market economy, companies are increasingly trying methods to streamline their processes and increase their reach across the planet. With this being the case, eCommerce is the one medium all firms are increasingly looking up as it offers a great scope for scaling up. And world over, large-scale enterprises and startups alike use Magento as the staple platform for eCommerce development.

So, what makes it ideal for eCommerce applications? The following reasons throw light on its usefulness:

1. Open Source platform: Being an open source platform, it is highly lucrative for small and mid-sized businesses as they operate on a modest budget with no additional funds to purchase dedicated frameworks. Also, the large community keeps reforming the add-ons and packages thereby allowing to bring onboard a lot of cutting-edge features at almost free of cost.


2. Coder-friendly: Yet another benefit of being open source is that codes from a limitless number of third-party developers can be integrated into the platform at relatively no costs. This makes adding codes as simple as plug-and-play.


3. Efficient data handling: Magento’s stores are characterized by the fact that they are fast and can handle any amount of traffic thanks to their robust architecture. It’s also built to handle large volumes of data, fitting enough for an eCommerce organization with thousands of products on the catalog.


4. Scalability: As an eCommerce enterprise grows, it needs to be capable of handling diverse products and maintain a track on their order information. Magento’s strong point lies in the fact that it allows great functionality at the back-end when it comes to inventory management. Easy inventory management coupled with automation make it easy for reordering goods.


5. Content Management System: Content management also becomes easier as Magento offers flexibility in site development and allows the hosting of vibrant web pages that boost desirability and bring in better sales.

If you are a business looking to develop the best eCommerce platform, then Magento should be your choice. We, Openwave Computing, offer superior quality Magento web development services in New York. Drop an inquiry to know more about our ecommerce solutions at info@openwavecomp.com

Why invest in Web Development for better Business Performance?

Almost three decades after the advent of the World Wide Web, we are still dependent on websites and their broad reach as a means to showcase our businesses. Even in the year 2017, websites have only grown in the number, with the tagline being "If it's important, there's already a website for it". Such is the influence websites have on our cultures.

However, not all businesses across the globe embrace web development the way they need to. Several large B2B and B2C firms use web pages only as an online directory that has their contact information and their portfolio. On the contrary, these businesses need to adopt a model where their services can be accessed online as well.

Here's why websites should invest in web development as a part of their customer outreach: 

1. Online presence

Having a website helps businesses increase their online presence. This directly translates into brand recall and consumers usually gauge the efficacy of a business by the standard of their website. By developing a website that is elegant and trendy, businesses can score brownie points. Important features such as customer service can also be integrated into these websites.

2. Marketing

Websites act like online directories that convey all the information about a business. By utilizing the website as a landing page for all digital marketing and social media marketing promotions, businesses can bring several leads to the website and get the best ROI on their marketing investments.

3. Sales & Revenues

With the new generation of consumers embracing eCommerce in a big way, it is imperative that businesses find a way to deliver their services partly or in whole through the online route. Not only does this increase the sales, in the long run, it also improves the brand image to one of being "trendy" and "futuristic". 

4. Cost-effectiveness

An eCommerce-enabled website can help keep your business costs low and help you transfer the benefits to your customers by means of competitive pricing. This, in turn, helps increase the sales volume.

If you are a business who is yet to be initiated into the world of web development, Openwave Compuitng LLC can help you. We offer superior web development services in New York and help businesses hire web developers with technical proficiency for their requirements.

5 Best Apps that Could be Used on Rooted Android Devices

Modern Android devices come equipped with extensive customization, which has made rooting the device inessential. However, there are still plenty of reasons why you would want to root your phone. Rooting your device gives you complete power and full access to the system directory, entrusting you with the ability to set up functionality that un-rooted devices just can’t have.

Here’s our pick of the top mobile apps for Android that you can use on your rooted device:

#1: AdBlock Plus

Grabbing the number one spot is AdBlock Plus. As the name suggests, it removes annoying ads from your device. A highly configurable app, many users swear by it and find that it enhances their device user experience as it completely shuts out any adverts.

#2: Link2SD

A few phones do not come with the ‘Move to SD card’ option. With Link2SD, users can now move files to the external storage space. However, the moved mobile apps load more slowly, but it’s a small compromise for all the space you clear up in your internal storage.

#3: Magisk

Magisk is a must-have root mobile app and is a powerful tool that allows you to hide root effectively. It includes a host of other modules that let you add functionality. Currently unavailable on Play Store, the APK could be obtained from XDA-developers.

#4: Servicely

This is an app that controls background services. For instance, if you want to prevent the WhatsApp app from running when the screen is off, this app can make that happen. It can stop rogue apps, and improve phone performance and battery.

#5: SuperSU

There can’t be a discussion on Android rooting without mentioning SuperSU, right? Most users already have this app installed because it comes by default after rooting. It has a ton of features and gives you immense power. You can fully unroot your device, maintain logs, view a complete list of apps requesting root and more.

Notable Mentions:

•    Titanium Backup

•    Viper4Android

•    Wakelock Detector

•    Solid Explorer

•    Rom Toolbox

•    Quick Reboot

•    Flashify

Try these apps out and find out how it could transform your Android device. Have we missed anything? Do let us know your personal favorite and what the best Android application is, in the comments below!

App optimization: How to Rank in Mobile Search Engine Results?

You’ve built an app with all the elements necessary for success. It could be the next-big-thing, the viral sensation that grips users across the world. However, there might be something amiss – and that’s mobile app optimization. No matter how well-built your application is, it won’t get noticed by users, unless Google notices it.

Getting into the App Pack

Google includes an ‘app pack’ that displays on top of mobile search results. It includes around one to six apps that match a user search query with details such as reviews, downloads and a short info about each application. Getting your application into the pack requires extensive optimization and a well-devised SEO strategy.

Here are a few proven tips that will help it attain a good ranking:

#1: Use the Right Keywords

The first rule of SEO is to ensure that the right keywords are used. Start your optimization by analyzing what keywords fit your product. Instead of basing your keyword research on the function of your app, base it on its definition. For instance, if you’ve built an event planner, users are likely to search ‘Event planner’ than ‘planning events.'

#2: Title and Description

Once your basic keyword research is taken care of, it’s now time to move on to the next most vital part – using them. Your title and description don’t just convey what your application is about, but is also what drives Google to recognize you. Use the keywords wisely. There are restrictions on the character limit, so you need to get creative on ways to develop impactful content.

#3: Get it Reviewed

The star rating and reviews will affect how your application ranks. Make sure you prompt users to add reviews once they’ve used it. You can also entice them into adding a rating by offering rewards or points in exchange. The better your ratings, the more your chances are of getting noticed by Google.

#4: Add App-Specific Keywords

This is vital, yet an often ignored aspect. If you’re trying to rank your application, why not use the word ‘app’ in your title and description? People who look for applications via search engines are highly likely to include the term as part of their search query. Optimize for it, and you’ll notice a remarkable difference.

With the right optimization techniques and a focused SEO strategy, you can push your mobile application to the top. If you don’t know how and need expert insight, Openwave is one of the best mobile app development companies in the US with a huge team of mobile application developers, SEO experts, marketing specialists and more.

Why is it Essential to Include Offline Capabilities in Your Mobile App?

Mobile users are on the move, and expecting them to be constantly connected to the internet is a long-shot. However, most developers ignore this fact and design apps, expecting users to be always online. The result? Frustration hits users when an action they were performing gets interrupted due to poor connectivity and the app just refuses to work. That’s why you need to embrace offline capabilities, allowing app users to run the application, regardless of whether or not they’re connected.

Building offline mobile apps is a smart move. Here are five tips that can help you add this feature to your app:

#1 Caching

Caching data can allow data retrieval even when the user is not connected. It should often be refreshed to load up with the most recent data. For instance, data that is subject to change such as news can frequently be updated when compared to images, locations or other information.

#2: Local Storage

For apps to function in offline environments, they must be enabled with access to the local storage, so that the information can be retrieved locally instead of waiting for the online connection to establish. However, make sure only required files are stored to prevent taking up too much space.

#3 Data Synchronization

When the connection in live, the updates must be synchronized with data stored in the back-end. This is made possible as soon as the signal is available, upon launching the application, or at predefined intervals.

#4: API Support

To avail the total benefit of caching, your mobile application developer can employ server-side caching support. The servers can indicate which information to cache, the duration as well as control the amount of data transfer. Networking libraries usually have inbuilt support for this.

#5: Queuing Operations

When the app receives no connectivity, any newly added operations are collected in a queue and processed when the app goes online. The user continues to see the unprocessed information and can use the app normally.

Getting your application to work under offline mode involves a lot of technical complexity. To achieve superior results, it’s better to hire mobile application developers in NewYork who know how to work with various instruments and technologies to build a robust mobile app that can function without an active internet connection.

Android Apps are driving Business across a Variety of Industries: Find out

With the number of mobile users worldwide expected to hit 3 billion by 2020, businesses are turning to using Android apps in an attempt to engage modern day customers. Customers think more positively about companies that are mobile friendly and are more likely to do business with them. Smartphone business apps aren’t just about marketing and branding – they also help businesses improve productivity and revenue generation.

Here are some top industries that have benefited greatly because of Android apps:

Real estate

• Engage faster with customers through notifications and messages
• Preference tracking enables buyers to find properties at preferred location
• Notify users when a property they might like is on sale
• Virtual tours of properties is possible through AR and VR

Healthcare

• Easy access to a patient’s medical history
• Sell medicines with in-app purchases
• Provide services and consultations remotely
• Build long lasting relationships with patients

Restaurants

• Find new customers for the business
• Inform users about new items on the menu
• Discounts and promotions rewarding existing customers
• Personalized services like online ordering and fast bill payments

Travel and Tourism

• Help travelers develop an itinerary automatically
• Provide best deals to help them make savings
• Create travel packages for sale inside the app
• Hotel and cab booking services can help them save a lot of time and money

Education

• Provide world class education to students
• Keep track of individual scores
• Grade faster and more accurately
• Virtual classrooms promote a fun and entertaining learning atmosphere

Banking and Finance

• Remote services like phone banking lets customers handle their money online,
• Budget management services allow customers to keep track of their spending
• Build loyalty by providing a host of personalized services
• Grow money for your clients and institution by promoting money management

Do you need a custom Android app made for your niche market affordably? You can outsource the development to a team of qualified, dedicated Android app developers and build a great app on time and under budget.

Google I/O 2017 Conference: Five New Announcements that Impact the App World

Google unveiled its plans for the future in the recent Google I/O 2017 conference. The corporation came out with multiple huge announcements, from the availability of Instant Apps for the development community to many new tools that improve the programming experience. Below are some of the most important aspects outlined in the conference.

Improved Tools For Development

One of the most significant developments underscored at the event was the introduction of new tools that would help developers in this platform. Many of them were showcased at the event, such as the Google Play Protect, a system aimed at boosting security. It helps to improve privacy and data safety by conducting extensive scans on devices. Along with this, there are new tools such as the Google Play Console, designed to assist programmers with multiple stages of the development and publishing process. The Android platform has also been enhanced with new tools such as the Android Studio Profilers which replaces the Android Monitor system.

Release of Android Instant Apps

This was a project announced at the same event the previous year. However, Google had restricted the availability of this platform to a very select group of customers. In this conference, the corporation announced that this system was now available for all developers, who could download and install it. Instant Apps is meant to provide a more enhanced experience of mobile apps with better performance and a lack of the need for installation.

Android Go – An improved version of the Android

This is a new version of the Android that is aimed at devices of the entry-level stage. The platform is also designed especially for data-restricted environments. This platform is suitable for devices with RAM as minimal as 521 MB or even less. Google aims to attract more customers and reach the milestone of a billion users with the aid of this new system.

TensorFlow Lite
The company announced the launch of TensorFlow Lite, a version of the TensorFlow software library oriented towards mobile apps. It has been built on the old platform and is aimed at aiding developers in the coding process on multiple fronts, from visual reality to augmented reality and more. The new platform will work side by side with a new ASIC chip, the Tensor Processing Unit.

These are the major changes announced by the company, which are sure to have a massive impact in the entire mobile app space. If you’re looking to understand more about Android, mobile apps or to build one for your business, then Openwave can give you the tools. We have twenty years of experience and a solid, dedicated team that has armed countless companies with world class applications.