---
title: "Cloud-Based Application Development: An Ultimate Guide"
url: "https://www.spaceo.ca/guide/cloud-based-application-development/"
date: "2020-12-16T04:45:01-07:00"
modified: "2025-06-27T05:40:45-07:00"
author: "Rakesh Patel"
word_count: 3231
reading_time: "17 min read"
summary: "Cloud-based application development architecture, examples &amp; advantages. Guide to build modern cloud-based software. Cloud App vs. Web App difference."
description: "Cloud-based application development architecture, examples &amp; advantages. Guide to build modern cloud-based software. Cloud App vs. Web App difference."
keywords: "Cloud-based Application Development"
language: "en"
schema_type: "WebPage"
---

# Cloud-Based Application Development: An Ultimate Guide

_Published: December 16, 2020_  
_Author: Rakesh Patel_  

![Cloud-Based Application Development_ An Ultimate Guide](https://wp.spaceo.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Cloud-Based-Application-Development_-An-Ultimate-Guide-1024x541.jpg)

> Cloud-based application development architecture, examples &amp; advantages. Guide to build modern cloud-based software. Cloud App vs. Web App difference.

Application development is the present and will be the future, but **cloud-based application development** is going to dominate the world! Want proofs? According to the [survey](https://leftronic.com/blog/cloud-computing-statistics/), 90% of companies in the world use some type of cloud service, and 83% of enterprise workloads are going to be on the cloud on a primary basis! It makes digital processes more organized and gives tremendous flexibility than desktop and web applications. So why not switch to cloud-based solutions right now?

But what to consider and what to avoid when developing cloud solutions? Keep reading to learn everything in detail.

<div class="blog_index_cover">Table of Contents

1. [What is a Cloud-Based Application?](#link1)
2. [Types of Cloud Application](#link2)
    1. [SaaS – Software as Service](#link2-1)
    2. [IaaS – Infrastructure as a Service](#link2-2)
    3. [PaaS – Platform as a Service](#link2-3)
3. [How Do Cloud Applications Work?](#link3)
4. [7 Benefits of Cloud-Based Software Development](#link4)
    1. [Low Cost](#link4-1)
    2. [Elevated Scalability](#link4-2)
    3. [Great Security Over Information](#link4-3)
    4. [Flexible At Work](#link4-4)
    5. [Different Models](#link4-5)
    6. [Business Consistency](#link4-6)
    7. [Portable Apps](#link4-7)
5. [How to Build Cloud-Based Applications?](#link5)
    1. [Step 1. Analyze the Market](#link5-1)
    2. [Step 2. Collaborate With Cloud-App Developers](#link5-2)
    3. [Step 3. Design App](#link5-3)
    4. [Step 4. Decoupling Data And Develop](#link5-4)
    5. [Step 5. Test and Launch](#link5-5)
6. [Tools to Build Cloud-Based Apps](#link6)
    1. [CircleCI For SaaS](#link6-1)
    2. [AWS CodeDeploy For PaaS](#link6-2)
    3. [Google App Engine For IaaS](#link6-3)
7. [Cloud-Based Apps Architecture](#link7)
8. [Cloud-Based Application Development Challenges to Avoid](#link8)
    1. [Interoperability](#link8-1)
    2. [Performance](#link8-2)
    3. [Loosely Coupled Design](#link8-3)
    4. [Reliability](#link8-4)
    5. [Security](#link8-5)
9. [5 Tips to Ease Cloud Application Development](#link9)
10. [Cloud App vs. Web App: Defining the Difference](#link10)
11. [FAQs](#faq)
    1. [What is cloud-based technology?](#question1)
    2. [How cloud technology is beneficial for app development?](#question2)
    3. [What are the types of cloud services?](#question3)
    4. [Why is cloud computing important for developers?](#question4)
    5. [How do you develop cloud-based applications?](#question5)
    6. [What’s the difference between the web app and the cloud app?](#question6)
12. [Conclusion](#conclusion)

</div>## What is a Cloud-Based Application?

**Cloud-Based Application** is <span class="text-highlight">a software solution that runs the computational processing logic and data storage for two separate structures like client-side and server-side.</span>

Want to make it simpler? As you know every app has a client-side and server-side, so it is processed by the remote server in cloud-based solutions as opposed to mobile applications that are performed by smartphones, local machines, and computer processors. Since the app’s data is stored in cloud infrastructure, the remote server makes cloud applications more profitable.

## Types of Cloud Application

Before you begin with application development, you have to determine what sort of cloud application development the company wants. So, we’ve mentioned specifics for each form. Take a peek.

1. ### SaaS – Software as Service

    This is a widely used and popular cloud application form. It provides customers with a mobile application, including all of the corresponding IT technologies and services via a third-party over the internet. SaaS is operated from a single location so that organizations do not have to think about holding it on their own.


    - Ideal for short-term ventures.
    - Example – Google Drive
2. ### IaaS – Infrastructure as a Service

    This is a form of product that needs middleware and app support from the client. The owner of IaaS offers a complex infrastructure and more assistance to its client, and the client needs to build application programming interfaces between the cloud framework and its operating system.


    - Ideal for small to medium-sized organizations looking for a cost-effective IT solution.
    - Example – Microsoft Azure
3. ### PaaS – Platform as a Service

    Usually, such cloud technologies development needs only the application code on the client’s side. PaaS providers make it easy for clients to use their hardware (including storage) and applications for simple software development.


    - Ideal for several developers working on a single project.
    - Example – Google App Engine

## How Do Cloud Applications Work?

A cloud application is a cloud server where cloud-based and local elements operate together. Data is stored and machine cycles are created in a remote data center that is usually run by a third-party business. A back end guarantees uptime, security, integration, and supports different methods of entry.

Cloud applications have fast responsiveness and do not have to remain on the local computer indefinitely. They can work offline, but online they can be changed. The cloud application often avoids using computing storage space on a server or networking system while they are under continuous supervision. Given a reasonably quick internet connection, a well-written cloud application, along with the portability of a web application, has all the interactivity of a desktop application.

<div class="newcta_callout_newbox"><div class="left-part">Want to Develop a Cloud-based Application?

Let’s discuss your mobile app requirements. We are a leading mobile app development agency in Canada, having experience in 300+ custom solutions.

<div class="sec-btn"><button class="sf-button accent default mt0 mb0 open-qouteform appcost_btn" data-medium="B_1">Schedule Your Free Consultation </button></div></div><div class="right-part"><figure>![Cta Image](https://wp.spaceo.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/CTA-Image.png)</figure></div></div>Still in a doubt? Read below cloud-based development benefits for your business needs.

## 7 Benefits of Cloud-Based Software Development

<figure class="wp-block-image">![7 Benefits of Cloud-Based Software Development](https://wp.spaceo.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/7-Benefits-of-Cloud-Based-Software-Development.jpg "benefits of route planner app")</figure>1. ### Low Cost

    Naturally, switching to a cloud network minimizes IT machine servicing and administration. By just sourcing specifications from service providers, you can save the expense of running costly hardware.

    For instance, unlike on-site networks or remote data centers, which require a large initial investment, the cloud does not need any upfront investment. Instead, the cloud lowers the running costs of infrastructure security measures, applications, and hardware investments.
2. ### Elevated Scalability

    In contrast to conventional server hosting, there is no doubt that applications deployed in the cloud will scale to an unparalleled degree. In the conventional system, you first have to decide the hardware on which the machine is going to operate. You would also require load-balancing, database clustering, and data sources while hosting highly accessible applications.

    This means more cost and planning!

    But when you select cloud platforms, it is now possible to rapidly scale any portion of the program. For example, by increasing the hardware capacity or adding more application servers, the program can easily be scaled up.
3. ### Great Security Over Information

    Concerning the cyber threats that raise problems related to data and information degradation, one would imagine that network operations might pose a vulnerability to malicious attacks. Don’t be scared! Cloud networking enables you to build private networks of your own. Plus, the cloud provider is now known for his/her ability to handle the confidentiality of the information and associated resources. So, an increasing tendency towards providers of cloud services can be observed.
4. ### Flexible At Work

    The virtual office allows people to view their essential data conveniently from anywhere at any time. Your physical location need not be a serious problem for the organization, because the data is stored electronically and business operations are carried out across the network. Hence, great flexibility at work!
5. ### Different Models

    Another strength of the cloud is that it makes it simpler for companies to select from many different models. You will never be forced to pick a one-size-fits-all solution that requires multiple options that you will never use. Providers have many different options for setting up a cloud environment so that it satisfies the unique demands of companies.
6. ### Business Consistency

    This is a key benefit offered by cloud computing. All sensitive information that you think is vulnerable to unexpected incidents or device errors can be stored in the cloud. Just hold them and operate them on the cloud, and get them back after they have been recovered. This way, you ensure business stability in the face of unexpected barriers.
7. ### Portable Apps

    You can conveniently switch your applications cloud to the standard infrastructure and take them back if possible – just like you switch your mobile sim cards. This way, the cloud provides enterprise consistency for efficient application and data processing.

## How to Build Cloud-Based Applications?

You might want to know that if cloud-based apps and mobile-based apps are developed by the same process, then no! The tech team members develop cloud applications that depend on the cloud services infrastructure provider. Follow the below steps for developing a cloud based application.

<figure class="wp-block-image">![How to Build Cloud-Based Applications_](https://wp.spaceo.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/How-to-Build-Cloud-Based-Applications_.jpg "benefits of route planner app")</figure><div>### Step 1. Analyze the Market

You ought to do market research and comprehend the pain points of your consumers to attract users. It will help you to build a solid approach that will bring business value to end-users. Your target customer must consider why hundreds of those on the market should want your product. Analyzing rivals, their traits, and business models are best practices.

### Step 2. Collaborate With Cloud-App Developers

The development of cloud software requires an experienced and skilled team. So the question arises – from where to hire developers to get cloud application development services? You can either outsource a development team or create an in-house tech stack team.

However, for the in-house tech team, you need to pay for rent, hardware, software, and taxes. While outsourcing a development team is the most suitable option for your effective business environment. This is due to the affordable pricing, user experience, and decent end-product consistency.

### Step 3. Design App

It’s time for designers to create the storage services from the data and then merge those services into composite services or full composite applications. You work with dynamic distributed systems while designing an application architecture for the cloud platforms. That can take advantage of dynamically interconnected applications cloud based on multiple resources that can also be isolated from the data. So your design team must focus on the data effectively.

### Step 4. Decoupling Data And Develop

Once the design is ready, the development team will be in action. It won’t find a nice home in the cloud if you closely pair the data to the program. Content delivery networks that operate well with device structures that split processing tasks and data into different components are private and public clouds.

So, you must consider the performance. When you decouple the data, latency can be triggered by database reads and writes through the open Internet and database interactions.

### Step 5. Test and Launch

This can be the final step. In the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android), you need to release your app. To speed up the process, Google Play uses automatic testing for product quality assurance. The App Store delegates authentication of software to actual persons. If there are any glitches, they will call for them to be patched. So before you launch your app, ensure it is tested thoroughly.

</div>## Tools to Build Cloud-Based Apps

When developing a cloud solution, the tech stack is a crucial question you need to address. But our all-time recommendation is to select one of the industry leaders for a cloud service provider. So let’s discuss the best industry leader for each type of cloud application development.

1. ### CircleCI For SaaS

    Although CircleCI provides an on-premise option, no dedicated server is required for this cloud-based operation. CircleCI is most commonly used by both small and open source projects that require quick and fast deployment. CircleCI comes with support for Docker and iOS applications as you ship applications in containers or to mobile devices.


    - **Languages Supported:** Go, Haskell, Java, Node.js, Ruby, Python, and PHP
    - **Developers Tools:** Docker, Sauce Labs, and Jira

    [Visit Website](https://circleci.com/)
2. ### AWS CodeDeploy For PaaS

    If you’re a cloud user of Amazon Web Services (AWS services), AWS CodeDeploy is a deployment service that lets you simplify deployments of your application, whether you’re deploying your software with a single AWS Lambda feature or over thousands of instances of Amazon EC2.

    With CodeDeploy, using the Amazon Web Services Management Console, DevOps, or the AWS CLI, you can handle your deployments from one location. DevOps will help to increase the speed of your cloud development.


    - **Languages Supported:** Any
    - **Developers Tools:** Atlassian, GitHub, Jenkins, and HashiCorp

    [Visit Website](https://aws.amazon.com/codedeploy/)
3. ### Google App Engine For IaaS

    Google app engine is part of the Google Cloud Platform that helps you to use your chosen language or system to create and deploy an app. The software engine offers a completely controlled cloud app infrastructure framework, so you just need to think about the app you are creating and not their settings for the host.


    - **Languages Supported:** Node.js, Go, Python, Java, C#, PHP, and Ruby
    - **Developers Tools:** Cloud Tools for IntelliJ, Firebase Test Lab, and Kubernetes

    [Visit Website](https://cloud.google.com/appengine/)

## Cloud-Based Apps Architecture

The creation of cloud applications needs advanced knowledge of the architecture of data. First, a <span style="text-decoration: underline;">_set of integrated services (APIs)_</span> which is the first distinction between standard web creation and cloud software architecture. So by linking them, you need to think of how to get the most out of cloud providers and be mindful of what kind of components you have. API integrations with each other can also be facilitated by these programs.

<figure class="wp-block-image">![eCommerce App Development Process](https://wp.spaceo.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/eCommerce-App-Development-Process.jpg "benefits of route planner app")</figure><span style="text-decoration: underline;">_Data organization_</span> will be the second thing that you ought to be mindful of. The app architecture can include guidance for cloud servers for how the data should be decoupled. Separate app elements and as a result, you can store them on public or private servers anywhere you choose.

Then, follow the <span style="text-decoration: underline;">_processing logic of communication_</span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;">_scaling opportunities_</span> between your app’s data and services. Develop an operating architecture that can work even under exceptional situations, support back-end modules, and storage server clients.

Finally, <span style="text-decoration: underline;">_security algorithms_</span> are the last challenge. To construct a solid data security level and introduce a public cloud identity and access infrastructure management strategy, to keep the product stable and cost-effective, review them. And learn about possible vulnerabilities in your software solutions.

<div class="callout_box">Want to Hire Cloud App Developers for Your Project?

Discuss your project requirements. We are a leading software development company, having developed solutions in industries like food, healthcare, and logistics.

<div class="sec-btn"><button class="sf-button accent default mt0 mb0" data-target="#quoteform" data-toggle="modal">Schedule Your Free Consultation Today </button></div></div>## Cloud-Based Application Development Challenges to Avoid

The greater the benefit, the greater the challenges to keeping it on track! Cloud application development is complex. All credits go to the technical sophistication.

1. ### Interoperability

    One of the most critical aspects of cloud migration is the ability of networks to communicate with each other. So, you must adopt the necessary principles of cloud storage to ensure interoperability. Because the more open data is, the more software is interoperable!
2. ### Performance

    You just can’t estimate the time it will take to make the files, user interfaces, style sheets, and anything else that requires your amazing app experience if you do not know where your data centers are.

    So how will you overcome it?


    - Do necessary homework on [your business service and automation](https://www.spaceo.ca/blog/business-process-automation/)
    - Ask detailed questions for customer relationship management
    - Determine which software can be migrated to the cloud technology securely and which can not be transferred
    - Test early and often
3. ### Loosely Coupled Design

    You just can’t afford a loosely coupled design, especially in a customer-centric world where needs keep changing. So, make sure the tech stack staff understands the various procedures and takes responsibility for the actions of the coordinated program. As more knowledge, training, case studies, and examples of effective and reliable service design are required.
4. ### Reliability

    Cloud services often neglect service around the clock, which contributes to repeated shutdowns. Therefore, tracking the services delivered using internal or third-party software is essential. Just follow the below menu points.


    - Track the usage, SLAs, app performance, robustness, and business logic of amazon web service
    - Ensure cloud technology connectivity around-the-clock
    - Verify the level of protection that you get from your provider of c-storage
5. ### Security

    We know that security on the client-side is improving but remains a concern primarily due to web browser status; thus, operating systems need to ensure that sensitive security is carried out beyond web browsers. Just follow the checklist:


    - Ensure that the information is encrypted using solid data encryption
    - Have reverse proxy to fix security issues
    - Use SSL and other industry standards to address the security policies of big corporations

## 5 Tips to Ease Cloud Application Development

Ready to develop a cloud-based app but need more tips? Herein, we have listed five tips to consider.

1. **Focus On Performance:** Performance concerns can undermine device creation and new obstacles are posed by the system. Data will spread through many centers across the globe. So, it is important to architect applications such that ample wide-area network services are available during each phase of the journey.
2. **Never Avoid Ripple Effects:** Businesses are gradually working more closely with associates and consumers, which suggests applying implementations to the networks of outsiders. As opposed to traditional systems, the cloud helps organizations to broaden their cloud infrastructure and exchange data and processes, but developers must consider the consequences of opening up these systems to others.
3. **Think Before Integration:** An app can be made up of tens of thousands of small components (integrations) that connect with one another. Sadly, they may have restricted access to all the connections. This means customers will have to make an extra effort to define products. So, make sure your integrations are effective for all users.
4. **Do Not Miss Security Aspects:** A central feature of all modern software is security. So, don’t leave the initiative to build a security plan at the end of the implementation period for each service and your overall application.
5. **Watch Out Your Resource Wastage:** The development of systems is complex, and device implementations are continuously in flux. So, you may be wasting money on private cloud storage payments unknowingly. Thus, companies need to understand the structural differences. And take the measures required to minimize these potential downsides to be as productive as possible.

<div class="callout_box">Looking to Hire a Cloud App Development Company?

Want to validate your requirements? Let’s connect. We can help you from project planning to deployment of your app in cloud servers.

<div class="sec-btn"><button class="sf-button accent default mt0 mb0" data-target="#quoteform" data-toggle="modal">Book Your Free Consultation </button></div></div>## Cloud App vs. Web App: Defining the Difference

Whether to choose cloud or web applications, it’s a never-ending debate. So from the below table, you can easily find the difference.

<div class="table-responsive expense_track td_align_midl vehicle-report">| **Parameter** | **Cloud App** | **Web App** |
|---|---|---|
| **Connection** | All cloud apps are web apps | Not all web apps are cloud apps |
| **Version** | Standardized app for all | Customized app for each user |
| **Location** | Occurs in the data center | Located elsewhere, accessible elsewhere |
| **Scalability** | Highly scalable | Limited scalability |
| **Availability** | High uptime | Limited uptime |
| **Storage** | Multiple data centers | Single data center |
| **Solution** | Multi-tenancy | Isolated-tenancy |
| **Operation** | From the user’s system or providers server | From providers server |
| **Examples** | Dropbox, Google Drive | Aliexpress, Forbes, Pinterest |

</div><div class="wp-block-group alignwide common-faq-section has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained">## FAQ

<div class="wp-block-group alignwide common-faq-wrapper has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained"><details class="wp-block-details alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow"><summary>What is cloud-based technology?</summary></details><div class="wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fe9cc265 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">It is the distribution over the internet of information facilities, including servers, storage, databases, networking, applications, analytics, and knowledge, to enable quicker creativity, IT infrastructure, and economies of scale.

</div><details class="wp-block-details alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow"><summary>How cloud technology is beneficial for app development?</summary></details><div class="wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fe9cc265 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">- Multiple OS platform (ex. Microsoft Azure) cloud app development
- No storage space required on the smartphone
- Reduced chances of data loss
- Save time for developers in the ecosystem
- Greater customer experience and customization

</div><details class="wp-block-details alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow"><summary>What are the types of cloud services?</summary></details><div class="wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fe9cc265 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">Cloud computing has three key service models: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).

</div><details class="wp-block-details alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow"><summary>Why is cloud computing important for developers?</summary></details><div class="wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fe9cc265 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">Cloud platform assists enterprises and developers to make applications more stable. It allows you to preserve the privacy of information and the retrieval of data.

</div><details class="wp-block-details alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow"><summary>How do you develop cloud-based applications?</summary></details><div class="wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fe9cc265 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">- Analyze the market and business goals
- Search a software development company
- Know security features and design app
- Decouple the data and develop
- Test and launch

</div><details class="wp-block-details alignwide is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow"><summary>What’s the difference between the web app and the cloud app?</summary></details><div class="wp-block-group alignwide is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-fe9cc265 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex">Data architecture is a crucial distinction between cloud and mobile applications. To work, a web server or web application must provide a continuous internet connection. Conversely, on a local computer or workstation, a cloud application can easily execute a cloud computing model.

</div></div></div>### Conclusion

Now, you know that the cloud approach provides organizations with some valuable advantages, such as cost savings, higher-end product quality, a new standardization level, and scaling efficiency. However, it’s complicated at the same time, since it’s extremely versatile.

But, asking for maintenance is quite fair enough, as it gives more, right? So want to hire dedicated app developers for your business? Contact us now for your business needs and proposals. We are excited to listen to your ideas, to give them life.


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