What are the main differences between enterprise software development and web development?

1 Enterprise software definition

Enterprise software, also known as enterprise application software (EAS), is software that is designed to meet the complex and specific needs of large organizations, such as corporations, governments, or universities. Enterprise software typically integrates multiple functions, such as accounting, inventory, human resources, customer relationship management, and business intelligence, into a single system that can handle large volumes of data and transactions. Enterprise software is usually deployed on-premise, in the cloud, or in a hybrid model, and requires high levels of security, reliability, scalability, and performance.

2 Web development definition

Web development, on the other hand, is software development that focuses on creating websites and web applications that run on the internet or intranet. Web development can involve both front-end development, which deals with the user interface and interaction, and back-end development, which handles the logic, data, and communication with other services. Web development can use various technologies, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, Python, and Node.js, to create dynamic and responsive web pages that can be accessed by any device with a web browser.

3 Differences in scope and complexity

One of the main differences between enterprise software development and web development is the scope and complexity of the projects. Enterprise software development often involves large-scale, long-term, and multidisciplinary projects that require extensive planning, analysis, design, testing, deployment, and maintenance. Enterprise software development also has to deal with complex business processes, workflows, rules, and regulations that vary across different domains and industries. Web development, in contrast, can range from simple, short-term, and individual projects to complex, long-term, and collaborative projects, depending on the type and size of the website or web application. Web development also has to cope with the diversity and evolution of web standards, browsers, devices, and user expectations.

4 Differences in skills and tools

Another difference between enterprise software development and web development is the skills and tools required for each field. Enterprise software development usually requires strong knowledge and experience in programming languages, frameworks, databases, architectures, and design patterns that are suitable for enterprise-level systems. Enterprise software developers also need to have good communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, as they often work in large teams with multiple stakeholders and dependencies. Web development, meanwhile, requires proficiency in web technologies, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various libraries and frameworks that enable web functionality and interactivity. Web developers also need to have creative, analytical, and user-centric skills, as they often work on the front-end or back-end of web projects with diverse and changing requirements.

5 Differences in career paths and opportunities

The final difference between enterprise software development and web development is the career paths and opportunities available for each field. Enterprise software development can offer stable, secure, and well-paid jobs in established and reputable organizations that have high demand for enterprise software solutions. Enterprise software developers can also advance their careers by gaining expertise in specific domains, industries, or technologies, or by taking on managerial or leadership roles. Web development, on the other hand, can offer flexible, creative, and diverse jobs in various sectors and niches that have high demand for web presence and innovation. Web developers can also advance their careers by learning new skills, tools, and trends, or by becoming freelancers, entrepreneurs, or consultants.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?