Bespoke Web Application Development

What is bespoke web application development?

Bespoke web application development is the process of building a web based application that’s designed specifically for you and your business. Unlike off-the-shelf software, which tries to cram every possible feature into a one size fits all solution, a bespoke web app is tailored around your unique goals, workflows and users. 

Typical features of a bespoke web application

Unique design and user interface - Your app looks and behaves exactly the way you want it to. The user interface is designed around your brand and your users, so everything (should) feel intuitive and familiar from day one.

Customised features & functionality - Instead of adapting your business to fit someone else’s software, your software is built to fit you. Every feature has a purpose. Every workflow is unique to you. 

Integration with existing systems - Bespoke web applications can be designed to integrate with your existing business systems, data streams and/or third party APIs regardless of whether those systems are bespoke or off-the-shelf.

They're scalable - A good bespoke web app should be able to grow with your business. Whether you’re adding users, expanding services or integrating new tools, scalability is accounted for from the beginning so you’re never boxed in or limited by your own system.

Client involvement - When you build a custom app, you’re part of the journey. Your feedback shapes the design, functionality and feel of the app as it develops so the end result actually does what you need it to do (radical concept, we know).

Why might you consider a bespoke web application?

There are plenty of reasons to go bespoke. Here are some of the biggest:

They can be heavily customised

As we have covered above, bespoke web applications are tailored specifically to meet the unique requirements and workflows of your business only. This is in contrast to off-the-shelf solutions which offer generic features that may not fully align with the needs of your organisation - especially if it has more complex and nuanced needs. By choosing a custom web application, you can guarantee you will get what you need, in the way you need it.

They are scalable and flexible

By choosing a bespoke software application, you have the ability to scale and adapt the application as your operations grow and evolve. 9 times out of 10, off-the-shelf software comes with limitations 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.

They provide advantageous positioning

With custom software, you're able able to implement unique features and functionality that set you apart from your competition. This can provide your business with 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. Ultimately, this helps to  differentiate your business in the marketplace.

What type of projects work best as web applications?

Web applications have a large and wide range of use cases thanks to their accessibility, ease of updates and ability to run on any device with a browser - no downloads or installations required. It is common when people hear the word 'application' they immediately think of mobile apps. However, web apps can serve many of the same functions as mobile apps with much less hassle. Let's take a closer look - 

Customer portals

Systems where customers can log in to view information, make bookings, submit requests or manage their accounts are often best built for the web for maximum accessibility.

Ecommerce platforms

Online stores benefit from being web based as this allows them to reach the widest possible audience with zero need to install anything to start shopping.

Multi user and/or Multi device access

If your business has users that might have different devices or need to log in from different locations, web apps will ensure they have a consistent experience regardless of whether it's on a laptop or tablet, at home or in Spain.

Internal systems

Software meant for internal use including dashboards, intranets, CRMs, HR portals and project management platforms are great as web apps - they are easy to access from anywhere and generally quite simple to keep up to date.

How can we help?

If you're exploring whether a bespoke web application is the right solution for your business, you're in the right place! Our UK based development team has extensive experience in building custom web applications tailored to individual business needs - no matter how complex. We're happy to discuss your current setup and objectives to help you assess the pros and cons of bespoke development in the context of your unique environment and long term goals.

FAQs

Q) What qualifies as a web app?

A) Any 'app' that operates from a web server, is accessed via a web browser and allows users to perform interactive tasks.

Q) Can Chat GPT create web apps?

A) We asked Chat GPT if it could create web apps and surprise, surprise the answer was yes! However, when we asked if the web app would be fully functional and 100% correct it very much became a more murky picture with many caveats thrown in. When we asked if it would ensure adherence to GDPR rules, it was a straight up no. So, take that as you will and do so at your own risk...

Q) Can I turn any website into an app?

A) Yes - pretty much. Websites can be made into progressive web apps, mobile apps (WebView) or desktop apps. Some adaptations may be needed for performance or offline use however and the complexity involved will vary wildly.