Overview

Web applications generally consist of an on-line database (or internal LAN based database) which allows access via a web site interface. In many cases two separate applications may exist, one for internal use and one for on-line customer access. The internal application would allow more in-depth usage of the information, while the on-line version may be limited to information useful by clients. One benefit of an application utilizing this design is the global access capabilities gained by the organizations employees.
Some examples of web applications might include:

On-line contact management application - allowing sales representatives to manage customer communications from anywhere in the world. Current clients might purchase products or services on-line and their sales representative would be immediately aware of this new purchase.

On-line "help desk" support systems - allowing customers to place service or support requests on-line; while support personnel may move from location to location without ever being disconnected. When coupled with a wireless application, support teams could check and update the status of user requests from a handheld digital device from anywhere in the building or the world.
see also wireless applications

Fully Interactive Web Sites - During the first visit, users would complete a profile and set preferences on the type of information they would like to see. On each visit the site pages would be automatically generated to reflect the preferences for the individual user. In addition, advertisements and links to new product information could be selected according to previous purchases.
example of a fully interactive web site

Multiple web applications could easily be merged into one system by sharing the data collected. This would mean that an Inventory application could track items in stock according to purchases made on-line. Accounting applications could bill automatically or update account details if changes are made to user profiles.