Desktop apps built with web technology
A real application on your team''s computers, built with the same technology as your website. For work where the browser is just not quite right.
When a desktop app?
For most use cases a web application is the better choice. But sometimes you need a bit more:
- Working with local files and folders, for example processing drawings or photos
- A tool that lives in the taskbar and is always within reach
- Continuing to work without a stable internet connection
- Connecting to equipment or software on the workstation itself
With NativePHP we build such apps using the same Laravel technology as our web applications. One codebase, installed as a regular application on Windows or Mac.
Why Nettt?
We built a desktop order tool that processes files locally while staying connected to the company's online systems. For a natural stone supplier that app runs on the shop floor, in the menu bar on Mac and the system tray on Windows: paid webshop orders come in automatically and the work orders and cutting files (DXF) roll straight out of the printer. Nobody retypes anything.
To the team it feels like regular software; under the hood it is the same Laravel technology as their webshop, which keeps maintenance and further development affordable.
Torn between web and desktop? We usually recommend web; only when the points above really apply is desktop the better choice. We will tell you honestly. If the app needs to go out into the field on a phone or tablet instead, take a look at our PWAs and offline field apps.
Frequently asked questions
The app checks for new versions and updates itself, the way modern software should. No one has to distribute installers.
Often largely yes, because the foundation is Laravel. Together we decide which parts should also be available online.
Comparable to a web application of the same size, plus some extra for installation and updates. After a conversation you get a clear quote.