Glossary
The key terms around websites, shops, apps and software, explained briefly and without jargon.
- API
- An API is an interface through which two programs exchange data. A shop can, for example, pass orders directly to the accounting system.
- CMS
- A content management system is the back office where you change the texts and images of your website yourself. No programming knowledge is needed.
- Cross-platform app
- It comes from one shared codebase for iOS and Android and also goes into the app stores. Building and maintaining it costs less than two separate apps.
- Database
- The database stores the data of an application in an ordered way, such as customers, orders or invoices. Regular backups protect them from loss.
- Domain
- The domain is the address of your website, for example yourcompany.ch. It is rented yearly and should be registered in your name.
- FADP
- The Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection governs how personal data may be processed. A website generally needs a privacy notice and clear information about the services it uses.
- Fixed price and time and materials
- With a fixed price, the amount for a clearly described scope is set in advance. With time and materials you pay the hours worked, which suits work whose scope only becomes clear along the way.
- Frontend and backend
- The frontend is what people see and operate. The backend runs in the background on the server and manages data, rights and processes.
- Hosting
- Hosting is running your website on a server that can be reached around the clock. It is an ongoing service that comes on top of the build cost.
- HTTPS
- HTTPS encrypts the connection between browser and website. Form entries cannot be read along the way, and browsers do not warn about the page.
- MVP
- A minimum viable product is the smallest version that delivers real value. It shows early whether the idea works before more money goes into further features.
- Native app
- A native app is written specifically for iOS or Android and installed through the app stores. It uses all device features but needs separate development per system.
- Progressive web app
- A web app that can be placed on the home screen like an app and partly works without internet. It needs no app store but cannot use all device features.
- QR-bill
- The QR-bill is the Swiss standard for payments. The QR code contains account, amount and reference, so the payment can be entered directly with a banking app.
- Responsive design
- The website adapts to any screen size, from a phone to a large monitor. Texts, images and menus rearrange themselves without a second version being needed.
- SaaS
- Software as a service means software is used in the browser and paid by subscription instead of being bought and installed. The provider takes care of operation and updates.
- SEO
- Search engine optimisation makes sure that Google understands your pages and shows them for matching searches. It covers technology, texts and links from other sites.
- Web app
- A web app is an application that runs in the browser, for example a customer portal or an internal tool. No installation is needed, and updates reach everyone at once.
Still have questions?
The frequently asked questions cover process, prices and operation.
To the frequently asked questions