This section of the Enterprise GIS Resource Center provides an introduction to the ArcGIS platform, along with standardized representations for each of the core application architectures.
For more information on the different application types (Rich Client, and so on), including pros, cons, and other considerations, please visit Microsoft's open source Application Architecture Guide.
Rich Client Apps
Desktop applications that operate in stand-alone, connected, and sometimes connected scenarios.
Mobile
Mobile applications that operate in stand-alone, connected, and sometimes connected scenarios.