Website | Web Application | |
Semantics | Static | Dynamic |
Supporting Database | Storage of (user) data, such as interactive brochures | Real-time responses involving modifications in the user experience depending on user inputs, such as reservation sites |
User Interface | Users go from page to page, gathering information | Users interact with multiple entities and their properties, which is basically a replication of the app experience |
Programming Differences | Relatively simple programming required to serve information-oriented pages | Programming takes into account complex user-interaction scenarios and multipronged results |
Example | Website for a realtor may list their contact information and properties currently on offer | Web application will allow visitors to book viewing and counselling appointments, interact with the realtor, and connect with like-minded property-hunters (for example, users looking for roommates to rent out with) |