Bespoke Desktop Application Development

What is a bespoke desktop application?

A bespoke desktop application is a custom built piece of software designed specifically for you and your business only - not for the masses. Unlike off-the-shelf desktop apps that try to please everyone (and end up being a compromise for most), bespoke desktop software is tailor made to fit your exact needs, workflows and goals.

Typical features of a bespoke desktop application

Every bespoke desktop app is unique (the clue is in the name), but most share a few key characteristics that act as their core foundation:

• Custom built - The application is developed from scratch based on a specification provided by you - not a hundred different other companies too.

• Integration capabilities - Your bespoke desktop app can be built to connect with your existing systems and databases, ensuring everything works together like clockwork.

• They are scalable - As your business morphs and changes, your app can evolve right alongside it. You can add new features, users or capabilities at your own leisure.

• They provide a superior user experience - Because you’re directly involved in the design process, the final product looks and feels intuitive for your team (or at least it should). You can give the confusing menus and features you'll never use a wide berth.

• Flexible support and maintenance options - You control the level and regularity of support and maintenance required rather than having this dictated to you by a third party.

Benefits of bespoke desktop applications

There are a million and one reasons to choose a custom desktop app over an off-the-shelf solution - here are the biggest advantages:

• Custom built to YOUR requirements

  There's that word again! With bespoke desktop apps, you get everything you do need and nothing that you don’t. No wasted features, no paying for functionality you’ll never use and no trying to make generic software fit a specific process.

• Enhanced efficiency and productivity

  Because the app is designed around how you work, it get's rid of redundant tasks and streamlines your processes, saving you time, money and sanity.

• Cost effectiveness (in the long run)

  Yes, initial development costs will be higher than buying something off-the-shelf. However, over time, bespoke apps pay for themselves and then some by reducing inefficiencies, removing the need for multiple software subscriptions and remaining fit for purpose much longer than off-the-shelf systems typically will - especially if you're eyeing growth.

• Wide integration capabilities

  Your custom desktop software can be built in a way that allows it to connect directly to your existing systems whether that be CRM, accounting, manufacturing, logistics - you name it. This not only ensures your systems can communicate with each other but also protects prior investments by extending their lifecycles.

• Scalability

  Whether you add new teams, services or customers, your bespoke app can grow alongside your business without limits.

• Better user experiences

  Your desktop app will be built with real user input and should therefore feel more 'natural' and intuitive to your staff. That means faster onboarding, fewer errors and happier users.

• Improved security 

  Because it’s custom built, your app can include tailored security features specific to your business and data. It’s also less vulnerable to mass cyber attacks that target widely used, off-the-shelf software.

• Ownership

  Once developed, the software is yours. You decide how it’s used, how it’s updated and how it evolves. You’re not tied to a third party vendor or dependent on their timelines.

What sort of projects are best created as desktop applications?

Whilst cloud and web based solutions are incredibly popular, there are still plenty of cases where a desktop application is the better option. Here are a few examples:

Heavy duty data processing

Tasks such as 3D modelling, video editing or scientific simulations usually need serious computing power — and that’s something local, desktop-based applications handle far better than web apps.

Offline software

If you’re in an environment with limited or unreliable internet (fieldwork, factories or remote areas), desktop software ensures you can still get things done - no Wi-Fi panic required.

System level software

Software that needs to interact directly with the operating system - think file management utilities, diagnostic tools or device drivers - are almost always better suited to desktop environments.

Secure or regulated environments

Regulated industries including finance, defence and healthcare may be required to have local data storage with strict access controls. A desktop app allows more direct control over where and how data is managed.

Specialist software

From CAD design to audio engineering, some industries simply perform better with sturdy, responsive desktop apps that can manage complex files and specialist hardware integrations.

How can we help?

It is important to note that a bespoke desktop application may not be the best option for your business. There are thousands of off-the-shelf solutions available today that address a while range of needs successfully. However, for larger and/or more complex organisations with specific processes and requirements it may be a worthy investment. Here at Cool Code Company, we will assess your requirements and provide you with an unbiased view as to whether you could benefit from a bespoke desktop application based on the benefits and risks associated with it. If you do decide to go ahead, we will help you define your requirements and develop a solution that addresses them all.

FAQs

Q) Are desktop applications declining in popularity?

A) Not particularly, they’re evolving. Cloud and mobile apps are now being used for projects that would otherwise have been desktop applications, but they still remain essential for work that requires speed, power and/or offline access. As part of their evolution, desktop apps can usually now integrate with cloud services, giving users the best of both worlds.

Q) What is the future of desktop applications?

A) Well, they won’t be disappearing but they’ll increasingly work alongside cloud and mobile solutions. You can expect to see more hybrid models where desktop apps deliver the power and performance needed for high consumption tasks, whilst the cloud services will provide flexibility, collaboration and global access.

Q) What are most desktop apps built with?

A) This totally depends on the development team and client requirements, they can be built using frameworks and languages including .NET, C++, C#, Java and Python. The choice quite often depends on the operating system, performance requirements and whether cross platform support is needed.

Further Reading

Advantages and disadvantages of bespoke desktop applications