If you'd like to offer advanced functionality to inform, engage, or serve your community, you probably want to build an application ("app").

Historically apps have mostly been software projects that users would have to install on a computer or mobile device. But web apps (interactive services or resources designed for delivery via a web browser) can be a streamlined, affordable option -- especially given the great enhancements in mobile devices and browsers over the last couple years.

What do you need to know to build a web app? How can you strategize to create a great one? Where should you start? Technology consultant Jeff Reifman has published an excellent free online tutorial: So you want to build a web application?

This guide covers:

• Content management
• Sending and receiving e-mail
• Search engines and statistics
• Mobile considerations and options
• and more.

Before building any app, be sure to read this guide to make sure you understand your options.