Differences between Desktop and Mobile devices and apps
Let’s jump right in shall we. Devices and applications for desktop and mobile are both similar and worlds apart, as you’ll find out…
Desktop (Full versions)
Desktop tools are packed with all the features and functionality you could ever need. When you use tools specifically designed for desktop, you get to deep dive into the task at hand, making all kinds of tweaks and adjustments to create something that’s just right. Desktop programs provide you with the full spectrum of features, so you can fully immerse yourself and geek out to all the possibilities at your fingertips. They run complex software, so they’re powerful enough to juggle multiple tasks at the same time, helping you handle heavy-duty work like the boss that you are.
And let’s not forget that whether you’re using a PC or a laptop, desktops allow you to arrange your virtual workspace just the way you like it, where you can spread out and personalise your area to suit your needs. You'll also be working on a big ol' screen, which provides space for creativity and in-depth tasks like spreadsheeting - plus everything is large, super clear and easy to manoeuvre. Not only that, but these days it’s common to have more than one screen - viewing different programs at the same time is so much more efficient, and if you haven’t tried it yet, then we highly recommend it!
Mobile (Lite versions)
Mobile programs tend to be quite a bit lighter (meaning less features), and are more streamlined (meaning the features you do get, suit smaller screens), but they still get the job done to a large extent. They’re buzzing with social features that help keep you in touch with the world so you can connect and share content quickly. They’re fantastic for work on the go, making quick changes to your projects by swiping, tapping and using touch screen interactions.
Having email on our phones is one of the best things since sliced bread - it means you can view and respond quickly, keep the ball rolling on projects that might have otherwise had to wait. A number of companies these days also use iPads to enter data while they’re on site, so they don’t have to take down notes with pen & paper, then re-enter that info into a program back at the office - this is especially handy for a handy man/woman (or any trade for that matter!). Having applications on mobile devices has made a hugely positive impact on a number of businesses worldwide. It makes it easy to get back to customers quickly and keep projects moving forward - and who wouldn’t want that!
Now that we’ve given you some positive differences about working on both desktops and mobiles, let’s talk about what they can do for each other. These days most companies have both a desktop application and a mobile application of the same program. This means they automatically sync up to each other - whatever you do on one device saves to the other one too - it’s like magic! So, if you start a task on your desktop but get an afternoon cake craving and absolutely must suddenly dash out for some, then you can potentially finish the task on the fly. Or if you start a task on mobile while waiting in line at the supermarket let’s say, then you can jump right into where you left off when you get back into the office. It also means no lost data, no extra inputting and no time wasting - amazing!
Both desktop and mobile apps bring their own flavour of fun and functionality to the digital playground, so it all comes down to what you want to achieve. If you need to get really deep into your work and make lots of tweaks, then desktop tools are definitely the way to go. But if you need to work on the go and make quick changes, then mobile tools are going to be your best friend. Our advice is to take advantage of tools that have both desktop and mobile applications, and use a combination of both to get the best output and user experience.
In the end, both desktop and mobile tools have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. So go ahead and try them both out to see how they can help you become more efficient in your daily work life!