When building applications that leverage Snowflake’s powerful data platform, organizations face a critical decision: Should you build a Connected App (external application that connects to Snowflake) or a Native App (application that runs within Snowflake’s ecosystem)?
This choice impacts everything from development time and costs to user experience and long-term maintenance.
At-a-Glance Comparison
Factor | Connected Apps | Native Apps |
Deployment | External infrastructure (cloud/on-premises w/full control) | Within Snowflake environment (limited control) |
Data Location | External storage + Snowflake | Inside Snowflake only |
Security | Secure authentication + your security model | Snowflake’s native security |
Development | Standard web development + Snowflake SDK | SQL/Streamlit/Container Services |
Distribution | Your own channels | Snowflake Marketplace |
Infrastructure Cost | Snowflake compute + your hosting | Snowflake compute only |
User Experience | Custom UI/UX | Integrated Snowflake interface or Custom UI/UX |
Time to Market | 3-6 months (full development) | 1-6 months (potentially quicker deployment) |
Maintenance | Full infrastructure management | Snowflake handles infrastructure |
Flexibility | Complete control | Limited to Snowflake patterns |
Best For | External integrations, custom UI, multi-cloud | Data-centric apps, internal tools, marketplace distribution |
Decision Framework
Visual Decision Tree
Quick Decision Matrix
Your Priority | Recommended Approach |
External system integration | Connected Apps |
Cloud deployment control | Connected Apps |
Multi-cloud strategy | Connected Apps |
Real-time processing | Connected Apps |
Data-centric applications | Native Apps |
Internal team tools | Native Apps |
Marketplace distribution | Native Apps |
Minimal infrastructure management | Native Apps |
Real-World Scenarios
Use Case | Challenge | Recommendation | Key Benefit |
Financial Trading Dashboard | Real-time dashboard combining Snowflake data with external market APIs | Connected App | Faster decision-making with live data |
Data Quality Monitoring | Monitor data quality across Snowflake warehouse with automated alerts | Native App | Improved reliability, reduced manual monitoring |
Multi-Cloud Data Platform | Integrate Snowflake with AWS S3, Azure Blob, Google Cloud Storage | Connected App | Unified data view, reduced vendor lock-in |
Internal Analytics Tool | Healthcare analytics dashboards for patient metrics and KPIs | Native App | Faster insights, improved team productivity |
Business Process Automation | E-commerce workflows: orders → inventory → notifications → CRM | Connected App | Reduced manual work, faster processing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we use both approaches?
Yes! Many organizations use both Connected Apps and Native Apps depending on the specific use case. Native Apps for internal data tools and Connected Apps for customer-facing applications or complex integrations.
What about costs?
- Connected Apps: Snowflake compute costs + your infrastructure hosting
- Native Apps: Snowflake compute costs only
- ROI Consideration: Native Apps typically have lower total cost of ownership due to reduced infrastructure management
How long does implementation take?
- Connected Apps: 3-6 months (full development cycle)
- Native Apps: 1-6 months (potenitally quicker deployment within Snowflake)
- Hakkoda can accelerate both timelines with our proven frameworks
What if we’re not sure which to choose?
Hakkoda, an IBM Company, offers comprehensive assessments that evaluate your specific requirements, existing infrastructure, team capabilities, and business objectives to recommend the optimal approach.
Can we migrate from one approach to the other?
Yes, but with considerations: Migration is possible but requires planning. Native Apps can be extended to Connected Apps, while Connected Apps may need architectural changes to become Native Apps.
What about security and compliance?
- Connected Apps: You maintain full security control and compliance responsibility
- Native Apps: Inherit Snowflake’s security model and compliance certifications
- Hakkoda helps ensure both approaches meet your compliance requirements
Why Partner with Hakkoda for Your Snowflake Application Strategy?
Our Expertise
- Deep Snowflake Knowledge: Certified experts in both Connected Apps and Native Apps
- Proven Track Record: Successfully implemented Snowflake applications across industries
- End-to-End Support: From strategy and architecture to implementation and ongoing maintenance
Our Services
- Application Strategy Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of your needs and optimal approach
- Rapid Prototyping: Quick proof-of-concept to validate your chosen direction
- Full Implementation: Complete development and deployment of your Snowflake application
- Ongoing Support: Maintenance, optimization, and scaling as your needs evolve
Our Value
- Faster Time-to-Market: Leverage our frameworks and expertise to accelerate development
- Reduced Risk: Proven methodologies and best practices minimize implementation risks
- Cost Optimization: Right-size your approach to avoid over-engineering or under-investment
- Future-Proof Architecture: Build applications that scale with your business growth
Ready to unlock new revenue streams and transform your data into powerful applications with a vetted strategic approach?
Talk to one of our application and product platforming experts to schedule your free application strategy assessment and discover the best path forward for your Snowflake application needs.
