C# Development

Background

You'd be forgiven for thinking of C# as just another programming language, but for your business, it can be a lot more than that. Microsoft first released C# in the early 2000s as part of the wider .NET initiative. It was built to give you a modern, object oriented language that brought together the strongest elements of C++ and Java.

The aim was to make development simpler and safer with features including type safety, automatic memory management and extensive library support. Since 2002, it has evolved to include asynchronous programming, cross platform development through .NET Core and strong interconnectivity capabilities with other languages.

Today, C# is one of the most widely used languages worldwide serving as the backbone for websites, mobile apps, desktop software and games. If your business uses digital tools to engage clients or run operations, there’s a good chance you're already using C#...even if you don't know it!

What might I use C# for?

C# is incredibly versatile, which makes it useful across many different areas of business technology. Depending on your needs, here’s where you might consider using C#:

Web development

If you want to build modern websites, customer portals or booking systems, C# is the de facto partner for the ASP.NET framework. It allows you to create responsive and interactive platforms that can gear up or down as your user base grows (or declines!). For businesses, that means secure, reliable websites that manage transactions, customer interactions and deliver an all round solid online experience.

Mobile applications

Another highly attractive characteristic of C#, is that you can it to develop apps that work across iOS and Android without needing to build two completely separate systems. Frameworks such as .NET MAUI allow you to share code between platforms whilst still offering a native feel. This saves both time and money whilst giving your customers a professional, consistent mobile experience.

Desktop applications

Many businesses still rely on desktop software for internal processes. With C#, you can create applications using 'oldie but goodie technologies' including WinForms or Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF). These are particularly useful for industries where staff need structured, feature rich tools that aren’t tied to a web browser.

Cloud based applications

It is also a popular choice for creating applications and services hosted on cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure and AWS - handy considering the mass migration to the cloud we're currently experiencing.

APIs

Again, many businesses these days rely on software integrations to ensure their systems work together in a cohesive manner. With C#, you can develop APIs that connect your CRM, ERP, finance systems or third party services. This means data moves securely and automatically between platforms and who doesn't want that?!

Internet of Things (IoT)

If your organisation uses devices or sensors to capture data, C# can help you build the applications that connect and control them. This might include monitoring equipment performance, tracking logistics or creating smart environments in offices and warehouses.

The right projects for C#

By now you've probably got the picture in that C# is a bit of an all rounder. But where can it really make a difference for you and your business? 

Logistics and inventory systems
If you’ve ever tried to manage stock levels with a spreadsheet and sheer willpower, you’ll know it’s not sustainable and you might have gained a few grey hairs in the process. C# can help you build logistics platforms that track shipments, manage stock and even automate reorders before you’ve run out. Thanks to its close ties with SQL databases and support for both desktop and web apps, you can keep your supply chain moving - no grey hairs required.

Billing, quoting and invoicing platforms
When pricing models, subscriptions and multiple currencies become problematic, C# and it's steady, reliable nature can keep you from totally losing the plot. It’s precise enough to manage all the calculations and safe enough to avoid those unwelcome, costly mistakes. Plus, it integrates neatly with your existing accounting software, CRMs and payment gateways so the numbers add up where they should.

Business intelligence dashboards
If your data is spread across six systems, three spreadsheets and an inbox folder called “Stuff to sort”, you probably need a dashboard. C# powered dashboards allow you to pull all of your information into one place, crunch the numbers and present them in a way that makes sense to YOU. 

Secure user portals
Whether it’s customers booking appointments, staff checking payslips or clients reviewing order history, portals are the front door to your business. C# gives you the tools to make them secure, reliable and easy to use - no frustrating logins or spinning wheels of doom.

System integration and middleware
Let’s be honest, most businesses run on a patchwork of old and new systems that don’t really communicate. C# can be used to build the middleware that makes them work together. It can be used for various tasks including syncing data, scheduling tasks and making sure your tools stop sulking in their silos.

Data processing pipelines
If you’ve ever spent an afternoon manually tidying up a CSV, you’ll understand deeply the meaning of life’s too short. C# can automate such repetitive tasks - importing, cleansing, converting - so your data is reliable, consistent and your time can be spent doing literally anything else.

How can we help

As the primary language used within the .NET framework, C# offers a solid choice for your business's development needs - particularly if you're environment is already heavily Microsoft based.

Whether you're after an engaging website, a cross platform mobile application or a custom API, C# is a powerful language that serves as an excellent development tool that we can utilise for you. If you're unsure whether C# is the right fit for you, feel free to reach out. Our UK based team is more than happy to discuss your options and provide guidance.

Further reading

Discover the Pros & Cons of C#