What is the main purpose of creating web apps within ArcGIS Online?

The primary purpose of creating web apps within ArcGIS Online is to control user interaction with web maps and scenes. This involves designing interactive interfaces that allow users to visualize, interpret, and analyze geographic information effectively. By facilitating user interaction, web apps enhance the usability of maps and scenes, making it easier for users to leverage GIS capabilities according to their needs.

Web apps serve as a bridge between complex GIS data and end-users, allowing for customizable features like pop-ups, filtering options, and legends. This tailored interaction is vital for engaging users and ensuring they can access the specific data or functionalities required for their tasks.

In contrast, the other options have more specific focuses that do not encapsulate the overarching role of web apps as platforms for user engagement with dynamic GIS visualizations. For instance, while enabling the development of new GIS tools is important, that is beyond the primary function of web apps specifically. Managing user access pertains more closely to administrative functions and security aspects rather than the user-facing features of web apps. Lastly, hosting static copies of geographic data relates to data storage rather than user interaction or engagement in a dynamic environment.