What is Bespoke Web Application Development?
Bespoke web application development involves creating a web based application tailored to meet the specific needs defined by a client. Unlike off the shelf solutions, which are generally designed to appeal to a broad audience, bespoke web applications are customised to suit the unique requirements of a single client or organisation.
Typical features of a Bespoke Web Application
Unique Design and UI (User Interface) - The user interface and indeed, the whole design of a bespoke web app is generally created to align with the clients brand identity and to provide a tailored and intuitive user experience. Unlike off the shelf web apps, bespoke web applications are designed to meet a single client's specifications.
Customised Features & Functionality - Bespoke web applications are developed to provide features and functionalities that are specific toa single client's requirements. This may include features such as multi-factor authentication, specific data and reporting capabilities and workflow automation.
Integration with Existing Systems - Bespoke web applications can be designed to integrate seamlessly with existing business systems, data streams and/or third party APIs that a client is already or intending to use. This integration ensures a cohesive and efficient business process.
Scalability - When developing a bespoke web application, developers will also have scalability in mind during it's design and development. This allows the application to easily flex up or down, handle volume changes in users, changing data volumes and additional features as the business evolves.
Client Involvement - As with all bespoke solutions, the development of a bespoke web application generally requires more involvement and closer collaboration between the client and the development team. Regular communication and feedback ensures that the application is meeting the client's requirements at regular intervals.
Why Might You Consider a Bespoke Web Application?
There are a wide variety of reasons as to why a business may choose to have a custom web app developed as opposed to using an off the shelf alternative. Here we look at three of the most common -
Customisation
As we have covered above, bespoke web applications are tailored specifically to meet the unique requirements and workflows of a single business. This is in contrast to off the shelf solutions, which offer generic features that may not fully align with the needs of organisations who have more complex processes and technical needs. By choosing a custom web application, organisations can guarantee they will get what they need, in the way they need it.
Scalability and Flexibility
With a bespoke software application, organisations have the ability to scale and adapt the application as their operations grow and evolve. Off the shelf software often comes with limitations in customisation and with regards to scalability, whereas a custom built application can be adjusted to incorporate new features, manage changing user demands and to integrate with other systems as needed.
Competitive Positioning
By choosing a bespoke solution, businesses are able to implement unique features and functionalities that set them apart from the competition. This can provide a significant competitive advantage by offering specialised capabilities and a distinctive user experience (particularly useful if the app in question is customer facing with a customer portal) that off the shelf products simply cannot match, helping to differentiate the business in the marketplace.
How Can We Help?
If you're considering whether a bespoke website application is a good choice for you, you're in the right place! Our UK based developers have extensive experience in developing custom web and software applications and are more than happy to discuss your current situation and requirements. We can help you evaluate the pros and cons of a bespoke development project based on your unique environment and goals.