People often ask about the differences between widgets and applications. Widgets are typically stand-alone pieces of embeddable code. Widgets are great for viral marketing, as users can cut and paste code from a widget to embed on their own site or blog. Widgets were all the world had until May of 2007, when Facebook launched their Platform, and applications were born.
Applications tie into the social communication channels of the host social network, such as Facebook, MySpace, hi5, or Bebo. Typically applications can’t be cut and paste outside of the host social network, but within the network applications are very easy to share. Applications allow for more interactivity, as they operate as full websites within the host environment.
Some typical differences between widgets and applications-
WIDGETS
APPLICATIONS
Widgets are primary for self-expression
Applications are about being social and communicating
Widgets are stand-alone
Applications are integrated into social network platforms
Widgets live anywhere and work on any site
Applications are at their best when deeply integrated into the host site
Widgets are easy to grab and share via embed code
Applications are easy to share via communication channels inside the social network
Widgets leave brands exposed to user-generated content
Applications typically have control of the full-page where the application resides
Widgets are typically small bits of content that act as teasers to lead to other content
Applications are at their best engaging and all encompassing, not requiring a visit to another site for a full experience
Widgets spread when users grab code and post the widget on their own page
Applications spread through sharing within friend networks (typically 5-10x more viral than widgets)
Widgets are best when the focus is on photos, video, music
Applications are most successful when focused on friends, text, interactive games, and interesting content
