The Next Wave: Rich Internet Applications

First of all, let’s define what a Rich Internet Application (RIA) is. A quick and easy definition is a cross between web-based applications and traditional desktop applications. In the age of the Internet, why would someone want to combine Internet applications with old school desktop apps? The simple answer is to combine the power of the two to create a hybrid application that is extremely practical, powerful and complete with a rich user experience. It is the next natural evolution of software; first desktop applications, then Internet-based applications and now the hybrid Rich Internet Application.

The benefits of RIAs include the ability for applications to be updated at any time. Whether it is content, specific functions or a new major release, the end user is certain to always have the most up-to-date product possible. This is accomplished by using the Internet to deliver the new data from a centralized source. Another benefit is through the user experience itself. Web-based applications typically have followed a “page” based model. Users wait for pages to refresh or load before they consume the next set of data. Although thanks to AJAX, even Internet applications are able to deliver information without having to refresh all the time. With a RIA, the experience is much more fluid, and user interactions are more varied with a wide set of controls. Another benefit is the ability to interact with the application without being connected to the Internet. This is possible by the user downloading the content and storing it on their computer where the application resides. Of course we can’t forget about the analytics of user interactions. Since RIAs communicate with centralized web servers, the user behavior can be logged and compiled in analytics packages. This measurability can lead to valuable market intelligence on which sound decisions can be made based on empirical data.

Fortunately, at my company we saw the wave coming and developed a proprietary technology around the RIA concept. It’s called Point-Click Technology, and we have been delivering applications for over 5 years using this method. Some other popular forms of RIAs are Widgets and Gadgets–small functional applications that reside on the desktop of Mac OSX or Windows Vista. Google and Yahoo also provide this type of application as well. iPhone apps are becoming the rage lately and deservedly so. They are functional, easy-to-use and just cool. One of my favorite iPhone apps is the Bloomberg app. It provides market news stories and current market conditions on equities, bonds, commodities and more. You can track your own portfolio as well as all your financial related info is accessible anywhere you go.

Rich Internet Applications are the next big wave. Investigate what’s out there, and maybe you might even come up with an idea of your own. Think about your customers. Is there an app you could provide them to make their life easier? The possibilities are endless. When you’re ready with an idea, consult with an expert and catch the next wave.