Bespoke Software Developers

What is Bespoke Software?

The term 'Bespoke Software' refers to custom built software solutions that have been developed and tailored specifically to meet the unique requirements of your particular organisation - nuances and all. Unlike off-the-shelf software, bespoke software is designed and developed from scratch to address your specific challenges and/or provide specific outputs that may otherwise be unobtainable to you.

It could be a CRM system, a mobile app, a web application or even a genius way to make all your existing systems finally talk to each other. In short, if you can describe what you want, bespoke software can probably make it happen.

What does Bespoke Software offer?

Bespoke software comes with a whole host of benefits that can make your business faster, more intelligent and more efficient and in some cases - even happier! Here are some of the major benefits your business could see should you choose to go bespoke:

Functionality that suits you

The biggest advantage of bespoke software is that it’s built just for you. It’s designed to match your exact processes, workflows, and goals - not the other way around. Every feature exists for a reason and actually helps you do what you need to do.

Financial benefits

Yes, custom software has development costs, but it’s refreshingly transparent. There are no surprise license renewals lurking around the corner and over time it can save you serious money. Efficiency gains, automation and the absence of ongoing fees - what's not to love?

Flexibility built in

Your business changes and bespoke software can change right alongside it. Need to tweak a feature or add something new later? No problem. You won’t be stuck waiting for the next version update or hoping a vendor decides your idea is worth adding.

Great user experiences

Because bespoke software is designed for your specific users (ideally by listening to them!), the final product should feel more 'natural' to use. When your staff (or customers!) help shape the design, the end result actually makes sense to them - a win for both productivity and morale!

Extensive integration capabilities

One of the biggest perks of bespoke software is that it can be built to integrate with your existing systems. Instead of forcing you to get rid of software that already works (and that you've already paid for!), bespoke software can connect and enhance what already exists protecting your prior investments.

Flexible maintenance and support

You can also get support on a basis that suits you rather than relying on a third party to set the schedule. You can have as much or as little as you require meaning you're not paying for support or maintenance that happens you wouldn't choose to have.

What are the indications that my business would benefit from Bespoke Software?

Simply put, if you can’t find software that does exactly what your organisation needs, it may well be a sign that bespoke business software is the right choice. Many companies settle for off-the-shelf solutions, sacrificing essential features or paying for unnecessary functionality - often for far longer than they need to. But this doesn’t have to be the case!

If you find yourself in any of the following situations, it could be time to consider going bespoke -

• You need specific functionality - The tools you’re using don’t do what you need - or they do it badly.
• You want a cost effective solution - Off-the-shelf solutions can be pricey, packed with features you’ll never use and come with ongoing licensing fees. A bespoke system provides what you actually need rather than things you don't.
• You're eyeing growth - Whilst an existing solution may meet your current needs, they often offer limited scope (if any at all) for change or expansion. Being tied to a third party supplier can restrict your ability to scale as your business evolves which is no good for anyone involved. Investing in a custom solution now can help future proof your business.
• You have a unique challenge to overcome - If your business problem is unusual (and let’s be honest, it's not exactly a rare occurence), bespoke software gives you the freedom to create your own solution.
• You have a unique product - You have a unique service and/or product offering and there are no off-the-shelf solutions that are tailored it.

How does A Bespoke Software development project begin?

The process starts with understanding - where you are now, what’s working (and what isn’t) and where you want to go. Together, you and the development team define your goals and objectives then explore practical options, identify potential risks and set realistic timelines.

From there, development begins with open communication all the way through. You’ll always know what’s happening, why it’s happening and how things are progressing - there are no mystery milestones here.

How can we help?

Our UK based development team have seen it all - large enterprise projects to compact systems for small but mighty businesses. We’ve worked across public and private sectors and every project has been shaped around our clients’ specific goals.

All of our solutions are built from the ground up. By drawing on experience with a wide range of technologies, we make sure you get the right fit for your business every time resulting in software that is both functional and genuinely empowering.

FAQs

Q) What is another name for bespoke software?

A) Another common name for bespoke software is custom software and as far as we are concerned, they mean the same thing.

Q) Is bespoke software less expensive?

A) This is highly dependent on your individual circumstances, it may be less expensive, it may be more expensive than off-the-shelf. Bespoke software tends to deliver a higher ROI over a longer period of time due to lack of licensing costs.

Q) What are the types of bespoke software?

A) There are many different variations of bespoke software (it is bespoke after all!) however, common systems include Customer Relationship Management, Enterprise Resource Planning, Work Force Management, Supply Chain Management, Ecommerce systems and Mobile Applications.

Q) Is bespoke software more user friendly?

A) It certainly should be. Bespoke software is purpose built to a clients specifications to deliver specific outcomes. The useability of the bespoke software system is generally of paramount importance to clients particularly when they are looking to drive efficiencies in the business - the software can be tailored to ensure best results

Q) What are the limitations of bespoke software?

A) The most common limitation of bespoke software is the initial cost and time to deliver. Because the software is being developed to custom requirements, it can be costly and take time to deliver. However, these limitations are often negated by the lack of monthly subscription fees which can and often does work out cheaper in the long run and the fact that changes and upgrades can be made at any time you see fit.

Q) Who uses bespoke software?

A) Most types of businesses can benefit from bespoke software solutions. Whether they be private or public sector companies, micro or multi-national and regardless of industry, the majority of the time there will be benefits. 

Q) What is an example of a bespoke service?

A) A bespoke service or piece of software that has been designed to meet specific requirements set by your company only - it is not for the masses and the features and functionality are unique to your business. Check out our MOTS case study for a real life example from one of our clients.

Further reading

What is the difference between bespoke and off-the-shelf software?

How much does bespoke software cost?

Do I need to get rid of my current systems if I am going to invest in a bespoke solution?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of bespoke software?

Bespoke Software Services