Web Apps Beat Mobile

Dharmesh Shah shares his perspective on web-based applications versus mobile apps, particularly through the lens of his son's learning experience and his own product development philosophy.

• Strong Preference for Web Applications:

  • Immediate deployment without approval processes
  • No need to wait for app store reviews
  • Direct access for users without downloads

• Personal Experience with Son:

  • Son was learning Flutter (mobile app framework)
  • Son questioned why build mobile apps when web apps are more accessible
  • "Why would I ever want to build a mobile app that's something people have to download?"

• Key Advantages of Web Apps:

  • Instant publishing capability
  • No intermediary gatekeepers
  • Faster iteration cycles
  • More control over the product

• Development Philosophy:

  • Values low friction experiences
  • Prefers immediate user access
  • Focuses on rapid deployment and iteration
  • Believes in reducing barriers between product and user

• Business Perspective:

  • Web apps allow for quicker market testing
  • Easier to make changes and updates
  • More direct relationship with users
  • Greater control over the product experience

This perspective aligns with his broader philosophy of rapid iteration and reducing friction in product development, emphasizing immediate value delivery over platform-specific advantages.