Bespoke Web Application Development

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 created to align with the client's brand identity and in a way that best serves it's users.

Customised Features & Functionality - Bespoke web applications are developed to incorporate features and functionality that is determined by the client rather than the client having to adapt to fit a piece of existing software.

Integration with Existing Systems - Bespoke web applications can be designed to integrate with existing business systems, data streams and/or third party APIs that a client is already or intending to use regardless of whether those systems are bespoke or off-the-shelf.

Scalability - When developing a bespoke web application, scalability is a key consideration from the outset. The application is designed to flex and adapt - whether that means accommodating increasing user numbers, expanding data volumes or incorporating new features - as the business grows and morphs.

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 opt for a custom web app over an off-the-shelf solution. 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 and nuanced 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 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 functionality 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 ultimately, helping to differentiate the business in the marketplace.

What Sort of Projects Are Best Created 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 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 and minimal fuss.

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

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

Internal Tools

Tools 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.