Why web applications are the better choice for canteen apps
In an increasingly digitalized world, it is crucial for companies and educational institutions to find efficient and user-friendly solutions. A modern solution is particularly in demand in the area of catering, for ordering and paying in canteens. This raises the question: should the ordering system be a native app or a web application? In this article, we explain the advantages of a web application and why the sizzly canteen app is deliberately based on a web application.
Accessibility via any end device and any browser
An outstanding advantage of web applications is their universal accessibility. The sizzly canteen app is deliberately based on a web application to enable access for all company employees. While native apps often only work on certain operating systems (e.g. iOS or Android), a web application is accessible via any end device - whether PC, tablet, smartphone or self-order terminal. Another advantage of the sizzly is particularly evident when it comes to self-order terminals: there is the greatest possible flexibility in the choice of hardware; in addition to tablets and touchscreens, laptops and desktop PCs can also be used as self-order terminals.
This universal access ensures maximum flexibility and guarantees that all employees or students can access the canteen app at any time and from any location. This provides greater flexibility and ensures that no users are excluded.
Inclusion and accessibility
Web applications offer a clear advantage in terms of inclusivity. While native apps are often dependent on smartphones, which not everyone has, web applications run on all devices. This device independence is particularly advantageous for external temporary workers, employees without a workplace PC or children from financially weaker families who do not have their own smartphone or tablet. In sensitive areas such as research and development, it may also be forbidden to bring personal devices into the workplace that could record images or sound.
These groups have the option of using self-order terminals, which are available in many facilities. Publicly accessible devices, such as school computers, library PCs or computers in common rooms, can also be used without any problems. These devices enable all users, regardless of their personal technical resources, to benefit from the advantages of the web application.
This barrier-free use is not only practical, but often also a requirement of works councils/school authorities or a requirement in public tenders to ensure a fair and inclusive solution for all employees or pupils/students.
Simple integration into existing systems
Many companies and educational institutions already have their own intranets or platforms that employees and pupils/students regularly access. A web application can be seamlessly integrated into these existing systems without the need to install a separate app. Companies can integrate the sizzly canteen app directly into their internal portals or applications so that users can access the canteen app immediately and without any detours. This is particularly beneficial for schools, as the web app can be easily integrated into learning platforms. This not only improves access, but also the efficiency of use.
No download or installation required
A clear advantage of web applications compared to native apps is that no downloads are required. The sizzly canteen app is maintained and updated on the server side. This means that all users automatically always have the latest version of the app - without having to install updates themselves. This saves time and reduces potential storage problems on users' devices and problems with app store restrictions.
Furthermore, web applications do not take up any storage space on users' private devices. While native apps can require a considerable amount of storage space - especially if they receive regular updates or store large amounts of data.
Save to the home screen: quick access like an app
An often underestimated but extremely practical feature of web applications is the ability to save the website directly to the home screen of laptops, tablets and smartphones. This means that users can simply call up the sizzly canteen app via an icon on their home screen or taskbar. There is no need to manually enter the URL or search through bookmarks. This makes accessing the app even faster and more convenient and facilitates daily use - similar to a native app, but without the initial installation effort.
It should be emphasized that saving web applications on the start screen is a general standard feature of various operating systems. It is NOT a specific sizzly function. However, experience shows that many users are often unaware of this feature on their devices. Therefore, information material and step-by-step instructions will be provided when the sizzly app is introduced. Registered users also have access to a comprehensive help center.
Easy customization and updates
A web application enables companies to manage changes and new features centrally. Instead of maintaining multiple app versions for different platforms (iOS, Android), companies can reach all users at the same time through updates on the server. This is particularly beneficial when it comes to making quick adjustments to the app, such as adding new menu options or changing payment methods. All changes are immediately available to all users without them having to manually download updates.
Security and data protection
Web applications generally offer a high standard of security, as web applications are hosted centrally on servers and not locally on users' end devices. In addition, security updates and protective measures can be implemented more quickly in order to protect user data. In contrast, native apps are often more susceptible to attacks as they run on different devices and operating systems and security vulnerabilities may occur in individual app versions. Web applications are accessed via a browser, which reduces the attack surface.
The sizzly canteen app uses modern encryption technologies such as SSL/TLS. This protects data from unauthorized access during transmission. Companies, organizations or educational institutions can be sure that their employee or user information is protected.
Conclusion: Web application instead of native app - the better choice for canteen solutions
The choice of a web application for the sizzly canteen app is no coincidence - it is the result of a clear focus on user-friendliness, flexibility and inclusion. It combines intuitive use, technical flexibility and digital participation for all employees and pupils or students. At the same time, companies and institutions benefit from centralized updates and the highest security standards that reliably protect sensitive user and payment data. The bottom line is a well thought-out solution that works for everyone - simple, secure and barrier-free.