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The new EU law affects websites, apps, e-commerce, and digital services. Find out who must comply, what changes are required, and how to make your business accessible without overcomplicating the process.

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European Accessibility Act (EAA): what businesses need to know before 2025

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a law that will change how businesses work in the European Union. If you run a business, especially one that sells online or provides digital services, it&#039;s important to understand how the EAA will affect you. This law was created to make things easier for people with disabilities by setting rules that all businesses must follow. This article will explain what the EAA is, how it can impact your business, and how to follow the rules while also making things better for everyone.

<h2>Understanding the European Accessibility Act</h2>The <a rel="noopener" target="_new" href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32019L0882">European Accessibility Act</a> is a rule that helps people with disabilities access products and services more easily across the EU. It is part of the EU&#039;s larger plan to support equal rights and works alongside other rules like the <a rel="noopener" target="_new" href="https://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1484">EU Disability Strategy</a>.The goal is to make the rules the same across all EU countries. This way, businesses can operate in different places without needing to worry about different laws. It helps companies focus on what they do best, instead of getting confused by complicated legal differences.The EAA covers many products and services. This includes websites, apps, phones, computers, ATMs, banking services, e-books, ticket machines, transport booking, and online shops. Starting 28 June 2025, businesses must make sure these things can be used by everyone, no matter their abilities. That means following clear rules to remove barriers.Not every business must follow the law in the same way. If your business is very small with fewer than 10 workers and less than €2 million yearly income, you may be exempt from these legal rules. But the EU still recommends all companies try to follow them, because it helps more people and improves products for everyone.<h2>Key areas of impact for businesses</h2><h3>E-commerce and digital services</h3>For businesses that sell online, the EAA means your website or app must be easy for everyone to use. This includes making sure people can move through the site using only a keyboard, adding text for all images, using clear and simple language, and making content easy to see and understand.These changes can take some time and money, but they bring clear value. They make your website better for all users and help you stand out compared to other businesses that ignore accessibility.Making your website accessible is not just about legal rules. It&#039;s a chance to grow your business. When your site is easier to use, you can reach more customers, including the 80+ million people in the EU who have a disability. This can increase your sales and help you build a loyal customer base. Plus, accessible design also helps everyone, not just people with disabilities. It leads to happier users and better overall experience. As more people care about fairness and inclusion, businesses that focus on accessibility are more likely to grow and gain trust.<h3>Software and technology solutions</h3>If your business builds or uses software, the EAA says those tools must be usable by everyone. You should think about this from the start when you plan and build the software. You should also make sure any tools you use from others follow the same rules.Adding accessibility features early can save time and money. It also gives you a chance to build smarter tools that work better for more people. For example, adding things like voice commands, screen reader support, or options for bigger text makes your software easier for everyone.To follow the law, you should look at accessibility guidelines like <a rel="noopener" target="_new" href="https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/">WCAG 2.1</a> for websites and EN 301 549 for devices. These are the standards that show what needs to be done.By including these features and following the right steps, your business can stay ahead. You&#039;ll be ready for future changes and create products that help more people.<h2>Steps to ensure compliance</h2><h3>Conduct an accessibility audit</h3>Start by reviewing what your business currently offers. This means looking at your websites, apps, and other digital tools to see where you can improve accessibility. A full audit can help you spot problems and focus on what needs to be fixed to meet the 2025 deadline. It&#039;s helpful to work with experts who know the EAA and can give you a detailed view of what&#039;s missing.<h3>Implement accessibility features</h3>Once you know what needs improvement, the next step is to make those changes. You might need to redesign your website, update your software, or train your team to follow best practices. You may also want help from designers and developers who know how to build accessible systems.Some fixes are simple, like adding image descriptions or fixing button contrast. Others might take more planning. Keeping your team aware and involved is also important, so that accessibility becomes part of how you work.<h3>Stay informed and updated</h3>Accessibility standards and tools are always changing. That’s why it helps to stay up to date. Joining groups, reading updates, or attending workshops can keep your team aware of what’s new. Regularly checking your systems and learning from others in your field can give you new ideas and help you stay compliant.Being active in this area not only protects your business. It also shows that you care and can help you lead by being a business that puts users first.<h2>The benefits of accessibility compliance</h2><h3>Enhanced user experience</h3>Good accessibility often makes digital products better for everyone, not just people with disabilities. For example, captions help users who watch videos in noisy places. Voice commands help people when they can&#039;t use their hands. These features make things easier and improve the overall experience.By focusing on clear design, smart layouts, and simple content, you can make your website or app more enjoyable to use. Happy users are more likely to return and share what they like with others.<h3>Improved SEO and reach</h3>Search engines like websites that are well-designed. Accessibility often means better structure, faster load times, and more useful content — all things that help with SEO. By improving accessibility, your site can rank higher on Google, making it easier for people to find you.This brings more traffic, more attention, and more chances to turn visitors into customers. Better access is good for people and good for business.<h3>Increased market share</h3>When your products and services are accessible, you can reach more people. That includes people with disabilities, older users, families, and others who value fairness. It also shows that your brand cares about doing the right thing, which many customers respect.Being accessible helps you build trust and grow your audience. As more people look for brands that support inclusion, you’ll be better positioned to connect with them.<h3>Reduced legal risks</h3>Following the EAA helps you avoid legal problems and possible fines. In some EU countries, governments can block your sales or services if you don’t follow the rules.Following the standards shows your business is serious about quality and fairness. It also helps you avoid expensive lawsuits or damage to your reputation. Many partners, clients, and investors want to work with companies that follow the rules and support accessibility.<h2>Challenges and considerations</h2>While accessibility brings many benefits, it can also be a challenge. Updates take time, and you may need to invest money, especially if your systems are older or complex. It’s important to plan ahead, set clear goals, and create a budget to avoid last-minute work before the 2025 deadline.You also need to think about how to balance design, function, and accessibility. With the right help, you can make products that look good and are easy to use for everyone.It’s worth working with people who understand both design and accessibility. When you do, you get tools that work well, look great, and support users in all kinds of situations.

<h2>Frequently asked questions about the European Accessibility Act</h2>

If your business has under 10 employees and less than €2 million in yearly income, the EAA does not legally require you to comply. However, the EU encourages small businesses to follow the rules when possible. It improves usability, builds trust, and can give you an edge over competitors.

1. I run a small business with fewer than 10 employees. Do I need to follow the EAA?

If your business is required to follow the law and doesn&#039;t meet the standards by 28 June 2025, you may face penalties. These could include fines or restrictions on selling certain products or services in the EU. Each EU country sets its own penalties, but most include legal or financial consequences.

2. What happens if I ignore the EAA?

Yes. If your business is based outside the EU but sells digital products or services in the EU market, the EAA still applies. You must meet the same standards as EU-based companies.

3. Does the EAA apply to businesses outside the EU?

The EAA applies to websites, mobile apps, e-commerce shops, e-books, banking systems, ATMs, public transport booking systems, smart devices, and other digital or interactive tools. It also affects services like online customer support, product manuals, and digital communication.

4. What products and services are affected by the EAA?

Start with an accessibility audit. You can use basic tools online, but the best way is to hire experts who follow <a rel="noopener" target="_new" href="https://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG21/">WCAG 2.1</a> and EN 301 549 guidelines. They can give you a full report and step-by-step improvements.

5. How can I know if my website or product is compliant?

No. While accessibility helps people with disabilities, it also benefits everyone. Clear text, easy navigation, mobile-friendly layouts, and captioned videos improve the experience for all users, especially those using mobile devices, with low internet speed, or in noisy environments.

6. Is accessibility just for people with disabilities?

<h2>Conclusion</h2>The European Accessibility Act is both a challenge and a chance for businesses. When you understand what’s needed and take the right steps, you can avoid legal trouble and grow your business at the same time.Accessibility isn’t just about rules. It’s about making products and services that more people can use and enjoy. As 28 June 2025 gets closer, now is the time to take action.By making accessibility part of your everyday work, you can build a business that is more useful, more trusted, and more ready for the future.

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What seemed like a distant future decades ago has become a reality today. No one could have expected that online stores would replace classic physical stores, but the statistics do not lie. Since the first day that e-commerce became popular, online stores have been slowly and steadily displacing physical stores. According to the latest research, more than 50% of consumers prefer online shopping to visiting traditional physical stores. And the fact is that this number only grows, year after year.With this in mind, no retailer should ignore the e-commerce aspect of their business.

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<h3>Advantages of online stores</h3>At first you may wonder why online shopping has become so popular, but things become clearer when you dive deeper into the matter. Given our times and the way we live, online shopping makes sense.Here are just a few of the many advantages of online stores:1. AccessibilityIn contrast to physical stores that are accessible mainly to customers living close to them, online stores can usually be accessed from anywhere in the world and at any time of the day. All you need to start shopping online is a computer or a smartphone and access to the internet.2. Time- and money-saving Consumers often spend time and money getting to physical stores only to find out that stores don’t have what they are looking for. Having the ability to access online stores from almost any place in the world, all it takes to check out availability when shopping online is a minute of your time.3. ConvenienceOnline shopping is more convenient than shopping in physical stores. You can order products from an online store and have them delivered to your doorstep without ever having to leave your home. It is the same if you have to return any of these products. Even that can be done from the comfort of your home.4. Informative shoppingOnline stores provide much more information about products than traditional physical stores. Product descriptions, customer reviews, related products, etc. are all at your fingertips if you visit a store online instead of going to its physical location.5. Flexible policiesOnline stores are known for their flexible return policies. In contrast to classic stores that are often strict about returning products, online stores are quite flexible here. If you don’t like something you ordered, you can return it without specifying any reason and get your money refunded. And the whole process of returning products is quite straightforward.This list could have been much longer, but these few points already show why online stores are so popular lately. However, they would hardly have reached this level of popularity if their owners had not learned how to use e-commerce to increase their profits.Check out the list below to find out why online stores are so popular among retailers as well:1. Wider reachThe pool of potential customers of online stores is significantly larger than that of traditional physical stores. The main reason is that online stores can be accessed from anywhere in the world and at any time of the day.2. Cost-efficient storesOnline stores can save significant amounts of money that would be spent on some overhead costs if their owners ran a physical store instead. Reducing costs such as rent and employee wages allows owners to spend more on marketing or expanding into new markets.3. Scalability Unlike classic stores which require significant investments when expanding to new markets, online stores usually have negligible scaling costs. That is because online stores don’t need extra space or people to operate in new markets. All it takes to expand to a neighboring market is to translate the online store into its language.4. Detailed analyticsWhile classic stores give insight into various sales figures, online stores provide a comprehensive insight into customer behavior. Utilizing analytics tools (Google Analytics for example), online stores can give insight into sales figures and data like the total number of unique visitors or the conversion rate.5. Better sales resultsOne of the main advantages of online stores is that they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In contrast to physical stores which limit sales to their working hours, online stores allow customers to place their orders at any time of the day on any day of the week. This means customers can shop online even on Christmas, Easter, or any other holiday resulting in better sales results.

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<h3>Things to consider when starting</h3>A well-established retail business is no guarantee that its online version will be equally successful. The principles that apply in physical stores will not necessarily apply to online stores. E-commerce is specific and there are several things that everyone must adhere to in order to maintain a profitable online store. So, if you&#039;re wondering what these things are, read on so you don&#039;t miss them when starting your online store:1. User experience and user interfaceUser experience and user interface are two things that should always be taken care of, regardless of the price. No matter how competitive the prices, an online store is unlikely to attract significant customer attention if its design and user experience are not up to the latest standards. It is a fact that customers are much easier to accept new trends than they are ready to adapt to something they consider outdated. 2. Responsiveness and optimizationEven the most attractive design will not help much if the online store is not responsive and does not display correctly on all devices. It&#039;s the same if it takes forever to load. Customers are usually not interested in spending a lot of time ordering in an online store if they can do it faster in another. Therefore, constant optimizations are necessary.3. InformativenessThe more informative the online store is, the better. Although today more and more online stores offer live support via phone or chat, users rarely use it. This is probably because no one wants to spend time waiting for a support agent to respond to their request. The solution is to provide as much information as possible on all trade-related topics and make it accessible without spending a lot of time searching. Information refers to things like:<ul><li>product description (weight, height, width, product images, customer reviews, etc.)</li><li>Related products</li><li>list of discounted products and current promotions</li><li>terms of delivery</li><li>return policy</li></ul>4. Online shopping standards With online stores becoming more and more popular every day, almost everyone today is familiar with the generally accepted standards of online shopping. Customers are used to this standard and expect to find it in any online store. Therefore, when starting an online store, special attention should be paid to how the order and return process works. Anything that differs significantly from what is considered the standard today can be a serious problem for an online store.5. Third Party IntegrationsOnline stores use different applications for different purposes just like any other business. These applications are usually used to work with the same data. Updating data in one application often requires updating it in another. This is where integrations come in handy. Some of the most popular eCommerce integrations include the following:<ul><li>online store - ERP</li><li>online store - CRM</li><li>online store - Newsletter provider</li><li>online store - delivery service</li><li>online store - payment gateway</li></ul><h3>Selecting a platform for an online store</h3>There are dozens of platforms on which online stores can be built. Some platforms are more popular than others. Some are more suitable for smaller stores and some for larger online stores. Some require payment, while others are free. Some are adaptable, others are not. Anyway, the point is that they are all somewhat different because they usually don&#039;t cover the same features. Therefore, choosing the right platform is mandatory.But with all that said so far, choosing an online trading platform can be challenging. To be able to do this, you need to be familiar with the available platforms and the latest trends in e-commerce. If you are wondering which platform to choose, looking for an e-commerce expert to guide you through the process can be a good idea. At the Simple Code agency, we have many years of experience on various WooCommerce and custom e-commerce projects. Creating custom blocks and integrating online stores with third-party applications is our expertise. We&#039;d love to hear more about your e-commerce project, so feel free to get in touch via email or our contact form.<img src="https://cdn.simple-code.agency/articles/emiliano-vittoriosi-jovi7grqjos-unsplash_ecommerce.jpg" alt="A clothing webstore displayed on a laptop screen">

<h2>Conclusion</h2>Internet stores are the present and the future of retail. Sellers who lack this aspect of their business should not wait any longer, but starting an online store can be a challenging experience. Things can easily go wrong if you are not familiar with e-commerce and the available e-commerce platforms. They all have their ups and downs and not all are suitable for different online stores. Therefore, choosing the platform that best suits your store is a must.

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Struggling with unproductive engineering meetings? Discover strategies to boost engagement and reduce disruptions.

How to Make Engineering Meetings Productive and Engaging

For many engineers, meetings can feel like a descent into hell. Unlike the tangible and immediate results of coding, meetings often seem less impactful and more disruptive. They&#039;re seen as necessary evils by engineering managers, but there are ways to make them more engaging and less of a chore for your engineering team.Here are some tips:<h3>1. Define the End Goal of Every Meeting</h3>Question to Ponder: &quot;How will we know when this meeting is over?&quot;Encourage your team to ask this crucial question for every meeting. It helps determine whether the meeting is an endless, aimless discussion or a focused, productive session. Remember, avoid the dreaded &quot;we have the hour&quot; mindset at all costs.<h3>2. Focus on Outcomes, Not Agendas</h3>An agenda is not an outcome. It&#039;s crucial to distinguish between what a meeting will cover (agenda) and what it aims to achieve (outcome). If you can&#039;t define how the meeting will change participants&#039; behavior or decisions, then the meeting&#039;s purpose isn&#039;t clear enough.<h3>3. Embrace Decision Meetings</h3>Engineers work differently from managers. For them, meetings are often interruptions. Instead of pulling them into the management world, try decision meetings. These are short, focused sessions where engineers bring a decision they&#039;ve made after a period of investigation. It&#039;s a great tool to combat indecision and to keep discussions brief and to the point.

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<h3>4. Timing and Attendance Matter</h3>Be strategic about when and who you invite to meetings. Engineers need long, uninterrupted periods for coding. Schedule meetings at less disruptive times, like early in the day. Also, if someone can multitask during a meeting without missing out, they probably don&#039;t need to be there.<h3>5. Run a Nano-Retro</h3>At the end of each meeting, ask attendees to rate its value on a scale of 1-10. If ratings are low, ask why. Was the meeting necessary? Could it have been conducted differently? Will it change anything for the attendees? This feedback loop is crucial for improving future meetings.<h3>6. Don&#039;t Default to Meetings</h3>Finally, don&#039;t make meetings your go-to communication method, especially for remote teams. Consider asynchronous alternatives like recorded messages, Slack polls, or documentation. Remember, every meeting should be more valuable than the coding time it replaces.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>By applying these tips, you can make meetings a productive and engaging part of your engineering team&#039;s routine, rather than a dreaded diversion. Remember, it&#039;s about making every minute count and respecting the unique workflow of your engineers.

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Project management can sometimes feel like a complex journey with various stages and tasks to navigate. In this blog post, we&#039;ll break down the essential components of the project lifecycle in software development.

A Simple Guide to Project Lifecycle

<h3>Setting the foundation</h3>The journey begins with initiation, where we lay the groundwork for the project:<ul><li>Request for Quote: We ask potential vendors for their proposals.</li><li>Research: We gather information about the project&#039;s needs, goals, and constraints.</li><li>Initial Budget: We decide on the project&#039;s initial budget and secure funding.</li><li>Initial Scope: We define the project&#039;s big picture.</li><li>Initial Schedule: We estimate the project&#039;s timeline.</li><li>Initial Estimate: We create an early cost estimate.</li></ul><h3>Charting the course</h3>

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With the foundation set, it&#039;s time to plan the journey:<ul><li>Project Plan: We create a detailed plan with tasks and dependencies.</li><li>Scope of Work (SOW): We define what we need to do and deliver.</li><li>Allocate Resources: We assign roles and resources to project tasks.</li><li>Defining Timeline: We create a detailed schedule with milestones.</li><li>Shareholders Approval: We get the green light from stakeholders.</li></ul><h3>Making it happen</h3>Now, it&#039;s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work:<ul><li>Actual Development: We build and implement project deliverables.</li><li>Monitor Progress: We keep an eye on the project&#039;s progress and make adjustments.</li><li>Budget and Cost Monitoring: We stay on top of expenses.</li><li>Shipping Viable Features (QA): We deliver features ready for testing.</li><li>Client Review &amp; Approval: We ensure client satisfaction.</li></ul><h3>Wrapping it up</h3>

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As the project nears completion, it&#039;s time to tie up loose ends:<ul><li>Shipping Project Live: We launch the project to the public.</li><li>Ongoing Support: We provide ongoing support and maintenance.</li><li>Team Retrospective: We reflect on the project for future improvements.</li></ul><h3>Ensuring long-term success</h3>Once the project is live, ongoing support is crucial:<ul><li>Client Training: We equip clients to use and maintain the product.</li><li>Technical Support: We address any technical issues promptly.</li><li>Service-Level Agreement (SLA): We ensure our commitment to client satisfaction with a contract.</li></ul>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>Understanding the project lifecycle is like having a roadmap for a successful journey. By breaking it down into manageable steps, project managers can ensure smooth sailing from initiation to closure and beyond, providing lasting value to clients.

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This article outlines our strategic blueprint for improving client satisfaction and engagement through project assessment and workflow enhancement.

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In the constantly changing world of project management and client services, the key to success lies in two essential elements: efficient communication and client happiness. We have chosen to enhance our strategy, making certain that every project meets our client&#039;s expectations.This blog post outlines our strategic blueprint for improving client satisfaction and engagement through project assessment and workflow enhancement.<h3>Initial project documentation review</h3>Our first step towards improvement involves a thorough examination of our project documentation. We ask ourselves critical questions:<ul><li>Is the documentation detailed enough to cover all aspects of the project?</li><li>Have we adequately addressed all variables and RAID (Risks, Assumptions, Issues, Dependencies) elements?</li><li>Are disclaimers and scope definitions clear, and have we maintained flexibility for agile adjustments where necessary?</li><li>How do these factors relate to any deficiencies reported?</li></ul>This introspective look helps us identify areas for enhancement, ensuring that projects are documented with precision and clarity, setting a solid foundation right from the start.<h3>Project management processes review</h3>

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Engaging with our team members, we discuss the project management processes to polish them:<ul><li>The team&#039;s familiarity with project details and whether due dates are realistic</li><li>Clarity of roles, responsibilities, and task flows</li><li>The frequency and effectiveness of project status checks</li><li>Timeliness of task completion and resolution of team queries</li><li>The comprehensiveness of the testing process</li></ul>This review enables us to streamline our project management practices, fostering a more cohesive and efficient team environment.<h3>Client relationship maintenance review</h3>

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A key component of our strategy is assessing our communication with clients to ensure:<ul><li>Project documentation explicitly specifies communication protocols</li><li>Regular and detailed project updates are provided through appropriate channels</li><li>Responses to client inquiries are prompt and comprehensive, with all feedback duly logged and addressed</li><li>Product features are regularly delivered for client testing and feedback</li></ul>This ensures our communication is not only consistent and informative but also tailored to meet our client&#039;s needs.<h3>Our commitment to continuous improvement</h3>

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Learning: The crux of our strategy lies in our commitment to continuous improvement. By asking ourselves what we could do differently and whether our learnings should be applied to future projects, we embrace a culture of adaptability and growth.Client Engagement: Our revised client communication plan is designed to foster deeper engagement and trust. By ensuring regular, clear, and meaningful interactions, we aim to keep our clients informed and involved every step of the way.Client Satisfaction: We understand that our success is measured by the satisfaction of our clients. Our strategic improvements in communication and project management are aimed at delivering outstanding results that not only meet but exceed our clients&#039; expectations.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>Our goal is clear - to level up satisfaction and engagement among our clients. We believe that through effective communication, meticulous project management, and a commitment to continuous improvement, we can achieve exceptional outcomes for our clients and build lasting relationships based on trust and excellence.

Our strategy for improving client satisfaction and engagement through project assessment and workflow enhancement.

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Welcome to a guided tour of Simple Code&#039;s project management toolkit. In this article, we&#039;re unfolding the map to our treasure trove of tools, illustrating how each one contributes to steering projects toward success.

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<h3>Introduction</h3>Welcome to a guided tour of Simple Code&#039;s project management toolkit. In this article, we&#039;re unfolding the map to our treasure trove of tools, illustrating how each one contributes to steering projects toward success. It&#039;s our way of ensuring precision and care in every endeavor, and we&#039;re excited to share these insights with you, whether you&#039;re a fellow project manager, a curious client, or anyone interested in the art and science of project management.<h3>Our Essential Project Management Tools</h3>

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At Simple Code, our project toolkit is tailored to the unique landscape of each project. Like a skilled craftsman choosing the right tool for the job, we select each application for its ability to address specific project needs and objectives.<ul><li>Slack is our communication hub. Each project has its own dedicated channel, fostering clear, quick, and organized discussions among team members.</li><li>ClickUp is at the heart of our project management. Primarily used for planning sprints, it also provides an overview of workloads, timelines, and documents. It&#039;s a central spot for jotting down meeting notes and tracking progress, as well as organizing client feedback efficiently.</li><li>Clockify isn&#039;t just about tracking time; it&#039;s about understanding our efforts and refining future estimates. It&#039;s our commitment to transparency and efficiency.</li><li>LastPass ensures the security of our digital assets, maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of project information.</li><li>Miro offers a collaborative space for brainstorming and planning, helping us visualize concepts and workflows.</li><li>Google Drive is our central repository for all project-related files, ensuring everything is organized and accessible.</li><li>Google Docs and Google Spreadsheets allow for real-time collaboration on documents and data, streamlining content and information management.</li><li>Ybug enhances our feedback loop, capturing client and team input directly into our workflow for prompt and precise action.</li><li>Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Webex keep us connected, facilitating virtual meetings and discussions with clients and team members globally.</li><li>Google Calendar keeps us on track, managing schedules, deadlines, and important events to ensure no detail is overlooked.</li></ul><h3>Enhancing Project Delivery and Client Relationships</h3>

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Our toolkit is more than a set of applications; it&#039;s an integrated approach to project management. Each tool is a cog in a larger machine, working together seamlessly to keep projects moving smoothly and efficiently. This integration not only optimizes our internal workflows but also enhances the client experience, ensuring satisfaction and trust. Our commitment to continuous improvement keeps us agile and responsive, always ready to adopt new methods or tools that can enhance our productivity and project outcomes.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>Our project management toolkit is a critical component of how we deliver projects with precision and quality. By sharing our approach and tools, we&#039;re not just offering a look behind the scenes — we&#039;re inviting you to understand the dedication and meticulous planning that goes into each project. If you&#039;re interested in further exploration of our project management strategies, take a look at our in-depth discussion in &quot;<a rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" href="https://simple-code.agency/business/blog/project-management/our-project-management-approach">Our Project Management Approach</a>.&quot; It&#039;s a testament to our commitment to versatility, excellence, and delivering value to every project we undertake.

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In this article, we're unfolding the map to our treasure trove of tools, illustrating how each one contributes to steering projects toward success.

Streamlining Success with Our Project Management Toolkit

Welcome to a guided tour of Simple Code's project management toolkit. In this article, we're unfolding the map to our treasure trove of tools, illustrating how each one contributes to steering projects toward success.

Most of the projects nowadays can be complex and multifaceted, so to effectively manage them, we focus more on providing flexibility in our approach to account for different types of projects which come in various sizes and bring their own set of requirements.

Our Project Management Approach

Over the course of the last decade, there has been an increase in available project management methodologies which offer a variety of tools and techniques to ensure that the project runs as smoothly as possible. This is necessary in order to achieve a balance between a satisfied client as well as an accomplished development team.Most of the projects nowadays can be complex and multifaceted, so to effectively manage them, we focus more on providing flexibility in our approach to account for different types of projects which come in various sizes and bring their own set of requirements. We follow the essential steps, familiar processes and leverage our flat hierarchy to create our own customized blend of project management methodologies. It all depends on the project itself, and of course, a mutual consensus on which approach is the best fit for the respective project in order to achieve the best possible customer experience and exceptional value to our clients.

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<h3>Reasons for blending project management methodologies</h3>So, what made us blend different methodologies? From previous experience, here is a list of the benefits and reasons why we use this approach:<ul><li>Successful team – Methodologies don’t deliver projects, people do. A methodology is only a tool in a toolbox, so asking the team to pitch in and combine best practices of various methodologies can ensure a project is successful. Our approach complements a project, and we ensure that methodologies work for our project team, not vice versa. As project teams often vary in size, experience and availability, it is quite normal that flexibility is necessary in order to achieve success.</li><li>Identical projects do not exist – Although it may seem that a project is exactly the same as a previous one, you cannot just blindly replicate everything.  As a minimum, the people (project team and shareholders), the risks and project environment will be different, so you cannot use the same methodology over and over again. Instead, we always encourage a review of the previous methods used as part of the initial project planning phase, so that our Project team can then see and decide what can be translated over or what is not so beneficial for their next project.</li><li>Projects are unpredictable – Things do not always go as planned, no matter how prepared you are. Unexpected challenges can throw your project off course, so you will have to adapt and adjust. Using the same methodology is not the best solution. Adopting a different strategy from another methodology can often help you get the project back on track.</li><li>Adaptation is not a waste of time – Projects sometimes use a methodology that simply does not work and if not addressed, the project team may start to scramble or rush some of the necessary steps. Depending on the individual circumstances they may stick with it, or after a review, may choose to move the project in a different direction, which can save precious time. A re-evaluation of the methodology used, or adding a new element from another one, can add a fresh perspective and turn around a potentially failing project.</li></ul>

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<h3>How to choose the right blend of project management methodologies</h3>After listing the reasons why we choose to blend different methodologies, we want to highlight some key questions we ask before choosing the right blend. Blending and implementing multiple methodologies for a project requires time, effort and knowledge. To help you determine which methodology is a good fit for a particular project, here are our suggested keynotes:<ul><li>Available methodologies – you need to have a good understanding of various methodologies and what the reasoning is behind using them. Our primary focus is on the value they add to a project, and then we establish which methodology is best suited to a specific team and how they can be utilised before starting a project to ensure project success.</li><li>Shareholder needs – Listen to and focus on shareholders’ needs and wishes. If they are more likely to be making a lot of changes in the specifications or asking for constant updates, we always select a methodology with shorter cycles and an iterative approach, such as Scrum. With shorter sprints and shipping regular finished parts for testing and feedback, it gives a perspective of flexibility. Moreover, it demonstrates quick delivery and continuous value to the shareholders, which helps to keep them happy and prevents our team from feeling overwhelmed or pressured to deliver huge chunks of work.</li><li>Project team needs – Our team is the one delivering projects so we are always trying to be realistic about our projects and listening to the needs of our team. Chosen methodologies must fit well with the skills of our team, strengths and weaknesses, availability and preference. Our blend needs to align with what our team can really do practically, and not so much in the written theory behind it. </li><li>Project type – if the project is classified and looks more dynamic and you anticipate changes to the requirements, methodologies such as Agile or Scrum will make more sense.Similarly, if the project requirements are rigid and already set, traditional methodologies such as Waterfall or PRINCE2 are more sensible to use. You also need to consider any constraints and risks that are crucial to the success of the project. If there is room for more risks, in favour of more flexibility, it would be wise to use some of the strengths of Agile for example. Analysis of those key indicators can be really helpful and shed light on the path for the project team to choose, and what can be most beneficial to them and for the project.</li><li>Available tools – Different clients often use different project management software. It is up to the project team to see which methodologies those software solutions support and what can actually be achieved. There is no point in having Agile in Trello for example, as it is more suited to the Kanban approach. Assessing which tools are accessible and how they match with the needs of the project team, is something that is often neglected.</li></ul><h3>Our blend of project management methodologies </h3>Below is a list of some of the methodologies we use, to highlight their advantages and the reasons why we choose to use them. As some of these methodologies are quite complex, we are more focused on specific segments of them. The segments that provide the most value to our project teams and ones we find most natural to use, are often incorporated into our project planning.<ul><li>Waterfall – Maybe the oldest but most stable and structured approach. The key stages typically include requirements gathering, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance. It provides predictable results, and is often used for projects that have fixed requirements, strict budgets and are not flexible to changes.The issue with this approach hides in the fact that more often than not, some features might not be adequately explained or the requirements might change at some point which will not be covered by the existing documentation, and will cause issues with the overall project duration.In our case, we tend to use it in projects for specific phases where there are deliverables that are needed to follow its natural and strict development processes, but very rarely is it used as a whole.</li><li>Scrum – Scrum is an iterative and incremental methodology where the emphasis is largely on adaptability and collaboration. It divides the project into short iterations called sprints, with the team working in cross-functional units and focusing on delivering small, valuable increments of the project in each sprint. At Simple Code, we often use this methodology in order to achieve faster go to market by focusing on the minimum viable product in the first few sprints. </li><li>Lean – Although Lean is a methodology that is often neglected because it is perceived as a loose methodology, we are quite fond of it. As it is focused on doing more with less and maximising value through continuous improvement, it is very helpful for the project team, and it helps to clarify what really needs to be done. It can also help to reduce wasteful effort and cut down the cost, which is something that is highly desired by our clients.</li><li>Kanban – Similar to the others, we use this approach to help our project teams visualise work easily and maximise their workflow efficiency. The system uses a Kanban board with columns where each task is represented by a card that moves across the board as it progresses. The main idea is to prevent a large number of tasks from being in progress in order to prevent bottlenecks. Kanban provides transparency and is particularly effective for projects with a high volume of small tasks and a need for real-time tracking.We often use this approach when developing websites since usually there is no such thing as a minimum viable product and everything needs to be ready before launching the site. In those cases, Kanban provides a clear picture of the work that is left to be done and ensures that the workload for each member of the team is manageable and can be finished at approximately the same time.</li></ul>

<h2>Conclusion</h2>There will always be arguments about which project management approach is the best and in our opinion, we don’t know and don’t care, since we’re focused on delivering quality products and continuous improvement.Our blend approach provides us with the flexibility to pick and choose various components of different methodologies to facilitate project success, so we get the best of both worlds. We believe the time when one approach fits all projects is a thing of the past. Being flexible and doing what is best for the project team and project objectives is our guiding star, which has never failed us so far.

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Explore Our Project Management Approach: Delivering Success Through Effective Strategies. Discover How We Plan, Execute, and Deliver Projects with Precision.

Our Project Management approach

Struggling with tools that don’t fit your business? Learn how bespoke software solves inefficiencies, adapts to your needs, and supports long-term growth. A detailed guide for business owners exploring tailored digital solutions.

Bespoke software development: a practical guide for business owners

Today, many businesses struggle with software that doesn&#039;t fully match their needs.You might be managing multiple generic tools. You might experience frequent frustrations with manual data entry. Or you might feel held back by rigid platforms that don&#039;t adapt to your processes.Perhaps you spend considerable time dealing with software limitations. Or correcting mistakes caused by ineffective integrations.If these problems sound familiar, or if you’ve heard of bespoke software but don’t know how it could help, this guide will explain it clearly.

<h2>What is bespoke development?</h2>A custom-built tool that fits your workflow instead of forcing you to adapt.Bespoke software, sometimes called custom software, is designed from the ground up to match the specific needs of a business.Unlike generic, off-the-shelf tools made for many users, bespoke solutions are built to support your internal processes, workflows, and goals.Instead of adjusting your business to fit a product, the product is shaped to fit how your business actually works. This makes everyday operations smoother and more intuitive.<h3>Types of bespoke solutions</h3><ul><li><a target="_blank" href="/our-approach">Custom web applications</a>: Platforms built just for your business, like a custom shop, booking tool, or internal dashboard.</li><li><a href="/expertise/mobile-app-development">Mobile applications</a>: Built to match your business - like a mobile ordering app or a tool your team uses daily.</li><li><a target="_blank" href="/expertise/web-app-development">Tailored CRM and ERP systems</a>: Custom versions built around how your team works, not generic off-the-shelf setups. For example, a sales tracker that fits your steps, or an inventory system that follows your supply flow.</li><li><a target="_blank" href="/expertise/custom-software-development">Bespoke websites and portals</a>: Company websites or customer portals built with features and tools you won’t find in standard templates.</li><li><a target="_blank" href="/expertise/bespoke-app-development">Integration solutions</a>: Sometimes the “software” you need isn’t a single application but a way to connect existing tools. Bespoke development can include building middleware or custom integrations (for instance, linking your online store with your inventory database, or creating a unified view of data from multiple systems).</li></ul><h3>Industries that rely on custom builds</h3>Healthcare, finance, retail, and manufacturing often depend on bespoke solutions.For example, healthcare providers use custom patient management systems to meet privacy laws. Financial institutions create tailored trading platforms for their risk processes. <h2>Key differences between off-the-shelf and bespoke software </h2>See how fit, flexibility, and total cost change when you switch from generic to custom.<h3>Fit for your business</h3>One of the biggest differences between off-the-shelf and bespoke software is how well it fits your business. Off-the-shelf tools are built for mass use and often include features you don’t need, while missing key ones you do. In contrast, bespoke software includes only what’s relevant to your business, giving you better focus and usability.<h3>Flexibility to evolve</h3>Flexibility is another major point. With off-the-shelf tools, you’re limited to predefined settings and options. But when the system is custom-built, it can adapt to your processes and be adjusted over time as your business evolves.<h3>Easier integration</h3>Integration is also much easier with custom software. Many businesses use multiple tools that don’t communicate well with each other. This can lead to data silos or manual entry. Bespoke software can be designed to connect everything you already use - CRMs, ERPs, websites, and more - into one seamless system.<h3>Long-term cost advantages</h3>Cost structure is different too. Off-the-shelf products usually have a lower starting cost, often based on monthly or annual licenses. Custom development has higher upfront costs because you’re paying for design and development time. Over time, you save money by cutting extra tools, fixing slow processes, and not switching platforms.<h3>Full ownership and control</h3>Ownership is a big advantage of going bespoke. You have full control over the product and how it grows. You’re not locked into a vendor or subject to sudden pricing changes or removed features.<h3>Competitive edge</h3>Custom software gives you the chance to build features your competitors don’t have. That edge - like smoother UX, smarter tools, or unique features - helps you stand out.<h2>Advantages of bespoke software development</h2>One of the biggest strengths of bespoke software is how well it can support the way your business actually works. Instead of adjusting your workflow to fit a tool, the tool is built to match how you operate.By automating repetitive tasks and simplifying key processes, bespoke solutions free up your team&#039;s time. This reduces mistakes and improves day-to-day operations.As your company grows, a custom solution can grow with it. Whether you&#039;re adding new products, expanding to new markets, or changing how you work - your software can be adjusted without needing to start over.Another major benefit is integration. Many businesses juggle different platforms that don&#039;t talk to each other. A bespoke system acts as a bridge, keeping your data consistent and removing the need for manual syncing.Custom-built systems also give you the freedom to include features that are hard - or impossible - to find in off-the-shelf software. This could be anything from a personalized customer portal to a smart tool that supports your unique services. These features help you stand out.A tailored interface is easier for employees and customers to use. Higher adoption rates mean better results.Over time, bespoke software often pays for itself. You reduce license costs, avoid unused features, and eliminate time lost to inefficient processes.Security and compliance are easier to control. You can build in the exact measures your industry requires without waiting for vendor updates.Full ownership gives you independence. No forced updates. No surprise pricing changes. You control how the software evolves.

<h2>Signs your business might need bespoke software</h2>It’s not always obvious when your existing software is holding you back. But there are a few signs that show you may be ready for a custom solution.<h3>Constant workarounds</h3>If you find yourself constantly using workarounds - manually transferring data between systems, keeping spreadsheets just to fill gaps, or repeatedly fixing the same problems - it’s a sign that your current tools aren’t keeping up with your needs.<h3>Disconnected systems</h3>When different departments use disconnected tools that don’t talk to each other, it slows everything down. Manual syncing causes errors and wastes time. A bespoke solution can bring these systems together and automate the flow of information.<h3>Bottlenecks as you grow</h3>You may also notice that your existing software becomes a bottleneck as you grow. Features you once didn’t need are now essential. Perhaps you’ve expanded your services or team and your tools are starting to limit your ability to scale.<h3>Industry-specific needs</h3>Industry-specific needs are another trigger. If compliance, reporting, or process requirements aren’t supported by your current software, it creates risk and inefficiency. Custom software can be built to meet these needs directly.<h3>Feedback from your team or customers</h3>Finally, feedback from your team or customers (requests for missing features, frustrations with workflows, or suggestions for improvements) can show that your current setup needs to change. Listening to this feedback can help guide the design of a tailored solution that better supports everyone involved.<h2>Potential downsides and considerations</h2>Bespoke development isn’t a magic bullet – it comes with its own challenges and may not be the right choice in every situation. It’s important to weigh the potential downsides:<ul><li>Higher upfront cost: Developing custom software requires a notable investment. You are funding the design and build from scratch, whereas with off-the-shelf, you’re just paying a license fee that’s shared among many users. This means bespoke solutions typically have higher initial costs​. (However, remember to weigh this against the ongoing costs of inefficiency or multiple software licenses that you might incur otherwise.)</li><li>Longer time to launch: You can’t get a custom solution overnight. Depending on complexity, it could take a few months to several months (or even longer for very large projects) to plan, develop, test, and deploy. If you need an immediate fix, bespoke might not meet an urgent timeline. Patience is required to do it right.</li><li>Involvement and effort: Building software is a collaborative process. As a business owner, you’ll need to be involved in providing requirements, feedback, and testing the solution to ensure it meets your needs. This requires time and effort (though a good development agency will guide you through and minimize the burden). If you prefer a hands-off approach, an off-the-shelf solution might seem easier, albeit less precise.</li><li>Maintenance responsibility: After the software is delivered, it will still require maintenance – updating for security patches, adapting to new operating system versions, adding enhancements, etc. With off-the-shelf, the vendor handles all that (you just update to their latest version). With bespoke, you’ll need to arrange ongoing support, either in-house or with your development partner. That said, maintenance can be planned and budgeted for, and you have control over when and what to update.</li><li>Possibility of changing requirements: One risk in any software project is that by the time it’s finished, business needs have changed or initial requirements missed the mark. This can be mitigated by using an agile development approach (building the software in iterative phases and keeping you involved throughout). Still, there’s a risk that you invest in something that needs adjustments later. A reputable bespoke development firm will usually plan for this by including refinement cycles and flexibility for updates.</li><li>Not always necessary: In some cases, a custom solution might be overkill. If your needs are fairly standard and budget is tight, sometimes it’s better to start with an off-the-shelf solution. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel for common functions like basic accounting or simple website content management unless you truly have special requirements. Bespoke is best reserved for when it brings clear added value or solves a unique problem that off-the-shelf cannot.</li></ul>Despite these considerations, many businesses proceed with bespoke development because the long-term benefits and ROI outweigh the initial drawbacks. The key is to enter the process with a clear understanding of costs, timeline, and responsibilities. By choosing the right development partner and maintaining good communication, most of the risks (overruns, missed requirements) can be managed effectively.

The wrong software costs time, sales, and money. Ready for a change?

<h2>Cost-effectiveness and ROI of bespoke software</h2>Is bespoke development financially worth it? Most of the time, yes - especially in the long run.Custom software can save your team hours every week. For example, if 10 people save 5 hours each per week, that&#039;s 2,600 hours per year you get back.Replacing several subscription tools with one custom solution can reduce software costs and make processes smoother.Error reduction and less downtime prevent lost revenue and customer dissatisfaction.Custom software can also drive revenue growth. Whether through a better checkout flow or features your competitors can’t match, the right system makes a difference.Many businesses report profit increases of 25% to 65% after moving to a custom solution.You don’t always have to build a massive system at once. Many companies start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or a core module that addresses critical needs. They then expand over time as they see returns. This phased approach helps manage costs and delivers incremental ROI at each stage.<h2>Reasons to consider bespoke development</h2>There are many practical reasons why businesses turn to bespoke software. While cost savings and flexibility are often top of mind, there are other long-term advantages worth noting.<ul><li>You gain control. When you build something tailored to your business, you’re no longer dependent on a third-party vendor’s roadmap or feature set. You can make updates when needed, add functionality as you grow, and adjust the tool as your team’s needs evolve.</li><li>You reduce workarounds. Many businesses use multiple tools and spreadsheets to patch over the gaps left by generic software. Custom solutions remove these gaps and make daily operations simpler.</li><li>You avoid paying for unused features. Off-the-shelf platforms often come packed with features that don’t apply to your business. With bespoke software, you only pay for what you use - nothing more.</li><li>You can grow without disruption. Custom software scales with your company. Whether that means handling more users, supporting new services, or expanding into new regions, you don’t have to switch systems or force workarounds.</li><li>You build for the long term. Bespoke solutions are designed to last. Even if your business changes, your platform can evolve with you.</li></ul>

No. We build lean tools for small teams and full platforms for large groups. If a process slows you down, we size the solution to your budget and goals.

1. Is bespoke software development only for large companies?

Costs vary depending on complexity. Projects start in the low five figures for a focused module and rise with scope. We break work into clear phases, offer monthly payment plans, and never let costs drift outside the plan you approve.

2. How much does bespoke development cost?

A simple tool can be live in 4-8 weeks. Mid-size systems often run 4-6 months. We share a timeline before we start and give you a working slice (MVP) as soon as possible so value shows early.

3. How long does it take to build custom software?

Yes. Integration is one of our core skills. Whether you rely on a CRM, ERP, payment gateway, or legacy database, we connect each piece into one smooth workflow so data moves once and stays in sync.

4. Will the new software work with what we already use?

Change is normal. We build in short sprints, review with you often, and adjust on the fly. After launch we can add features, scale for new users, or refine flows without ripping out the core.

5. What happens if our needs change later?

You own 100% of the code. We host it for you or hand it over - your choice. For upkeep, most clients stay on one of our care plans that cover updates, security patches, and small tweaks.

6. Who owns the software and how is it maintained?

Generic tools are fine until they block growth, force manual work, or cost more in licences than they save. When that happens, our custom build pays back fast - clients see a 3× return within 12 months on average.

7. Why not just use off-the-shelf tools since they’re cheaper?

Absolutely. You explain the goals and pain points; we turn them into features, designs, and code. Clear demos, plain-language updates, and our Simple Code Guarantee keep you in control without tech jargon.

8. I’m not technical. Can I still manage a bespoke project?

<h2>Is bespoke software right for your business?</h2>If you’re facing problems like disconnected systems, repeated manual work, or software that simply doesn’t fit your operations, those are strong signs that a tailored system could offer real value.If your growth is slowed down by your tools, or if you find yourself building workarounds instead of working efficiently, it may be time to explore something more aligned with your goals.You don’t need to be technical to lead this kind of project. What you need is clarity on your pain points and a partner that can turn your business logic into a working system.That’s where we come in.We’ve helped companies like YOONIT Bikes and growing media businesses replace rigid platforms with custom-built systems tailored to how they work. The result: more efficiency, better user experience, and measurable business outcomes.If you&#039;re still unsure, that&#039;s completely normal. A custom solution is a commitment - but it can also be a game-changer.We’d be glad to walk you through the possibilities, share examples of our work, and help you make the right call.No sales pressure. No obligation. Just honest advice.<a href="/bespoke-app-development">Explore our approach to bespoke software development</a> to see how we work and what you can expect. If it feels like the right fit, let&#039;s talk.

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Tired of workarounds? Let’s build software that fits your business.

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Learn how tailored software helps solve everyday business issues, removes manual work, and fits how your company actually operates.

Bespoke Software Development for Businesses - Simple Code

Bespoke software development: a practical guide for business owners

Choosing the right CMS can feel overwhelming. Many options seem similar, making it hard to know what’s best for your business. This comparison highlights key differences to help you identify which platform suits your business model and goals.

Storyblok vs WordPress: Which CMS is Right for Your Project?

<h2>Overview</h2><h3>Storyblok</h3>Storyblok is a SaaS-based headless CMS that relies on an API, providing users with an easy-to-use and flexible interface for managing content. Unlike traditional CMS platforms, Storyblok is headless, meaning it doesn’t include a front-end. Instead, it offers tools and support for building the front-end with the technology of your choice.

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It simplifies backend maintenance, supports modern technologies, and delivers strong security, excellent performance, an incredibly fast CDN, and advanced image services.Storyblok is flexible, designed for content management and organization, and works seamlessly for websites, web applications, mobile apps, and as a CMS for various e-commerce services.While it offers robust features for larger teams and complex projects, experienced web agencies can also use Storyblok to quickly develop simple, high-quality presentation websites. These solutions are scalable and adaptable, making them ideal for future growth.<h3>WordPress</h3>WordPress is a traditional, all-in-one CMS originally designed for blogging, where it performs exceptionally well. It’s simple to use, featuring a user-friendly dashboard that requires minimal technical expertise.

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As a monolithic solution, WordPress has its backend and front-end built in PHP. Its widespread popularity and long history have resulted in a vast array of themes and plugins, many of which are either free or inexpensive.Creating a website or basic e-commerce solution with WordPress doesn’t require technical skills. Its block-based editor, Gutenberg, enhances user experience and streamlines the process of designing custom front-end themes.Although WordPress was initially intended for blogs and simple websites, skilled developers can adapt it into a headless CMS. This allows integration with modern front-end technologies to create distinctive and highly customized user experiences.<h2>Detailed Comparison</h2><h3>Ease of use</h3>The ease of using either platform largely depends on how it is configured during development.For WordPress, theme creation allows developers to customize the maintenance experience for end-users, while in Storyblok, structuring content blocks can be tailored to user needs. The development team&#039;s choices significantly impact the platform&#039;s intuitiveness, making it crucial to select an experienced agency.Both systems are straightforward and easy to maintain when properly set up, but custom solutions offer even more flexibility tailored to specific requirements.

<h3>Dashboard UI</h3>Both platforms offer additional sections for managing global settings and feature-specific configurations, ensuring a smooth content management experience.

<h3>Themes</h3>WordPress has a large library of themes that can be used to quickly set up a website. Many of these are free or affordable, making them an easy starting point. However, lower-cost themes often lack proper optimization, which can lead to security risks, performance issues, or accessibility problems. Custom themes provide more control and allow developers to meet specific needs.Storyblok doesn’t include pre-built themes. Instead, it allows developers to design custom front-ends using modern technologies. This approach takes more time and effort but ensures the final product is unique, high-performing, and built to fit the project’s exact requirements.<h3>Plugins</h3>

<h3>Security</h3>Storyblok, as a SaaS platform, maintains its system and ensures plugin quality, providing a high level of security.WordPress, being open-source, allows anyone to develop plugins, which increases the risk of vulnerabilities if plugins are poorly maintained or selected by someone without technical expertise. Regular maintenance and careful plugin selection are crucial for ensuring security.<h3>E-commerce</h3>

<h3>Flexibility and adaptability</h3>Storyblok’s headless architecture and API-first design make it extremely flexible. Its &quot;Component-Based Content Management&quot; approach allows developers to create intuitive editor experiences while maintaining a data-driven structure. Custom field types and logic can be added when needed, offering unparalleled adaptability for specific or complex requirements.WordPress, with its Gutenberg block editor, provides flexibility for custom themes. While pre-made themes can be enhanced using plugins, the true potential of WordPress shines with custom themes where developers have access to advanced features like conditional fields and multilingual capabilities. However, relying heavily on plugins without proper technical knowledge.<h3>Compatibility with modern technologies</h3>

<h3>Integration with other tools</h3>Storyblok’s API-first approach makes it easy to integrate with modern applications, web solutions, or tools via API connections.WordPress has a vast library of plugins that enable integration with various tools. For specific business needs, there’s often a plugin available, offering significant flexibility for less complex requirements.

<h3>Support and communities</h3>WordPress boasts a massive global community with extensive resources, documentation, and answers to almost any question.Storyblok has a smaller but highly active and helpful community, primarily on Discord. Its documentation is detailed and precise, ensuring users receive clear guidance when needed.<h3>Preview and Live Editing</h3>Storyblok excels in live editing, offering real-time previews across different environments (live, staging, development).WordPress loses its preview capabilities if used as a headless CMS. In its traditional setup, it provides reliable preview features through the Gutenberg editor.<h3>SEO opportunities</h3>Storyblok’s headless nature allows developers to implement tailored SEO solutions specific to a business’s needs. For instance, a retailer using Storyblok could benefit from custom-built SEO strategies to rank higher in search results for specific product categories, driving more targeted traffic to their site.WordPress offers ready-made plugins that simplify SEO tasks, including content optimization and page analysis. Some plugins even utilize AI to help continuously improve site performance.

Still not sure which CMS is right for your business? Let’s explore your options together!

<h3>Costs and licensing</h3>WordPress is free to use, but additional costs can arise from premium themes, plugins, hosting, and maintenance.Storyblok starts at €99 per month, with pricing increasing for more complex solutions. While its cost is higher, the investment pays off with excellent performance, system stability, and included features like CDN services and automatic updates.<h3>Blogging/Presentational website</h3>WordPress is an excellent choice for blogging and presentation websites due to its ready-made plugins and themes. Whether using a free theme or a custom solution, WordPress can deliver a high-quality result.Storyblok, while requiring more effort for basic setups, is ideal for creating high-performing, modern websites with features like custom workflows, versioning, comments, and auto-saves.<h3>Accessibility</h3>Many WordPress themes, especially free ones, fail to meet accessibility standards. Custom solutions, however, can be designed to address these shortcomings.Storyblok supports accessibility by allowing developers to create websites that meet high standards, ensuring all users, including those with disabilities, can interact effectively. For example, a business prioritizing accessibility can improve user experience, increase customer satisfaction, and comply with legal requirements.<h3>Dashboard Performance</h3>When comparing dashboards purely as CMS interfaces, Storyblok outshines WordPress. Storyblok’s dashboard is extremely fast, free from errors, and provides clear, descriptive messages to guide users.WordPress’s dashboard is user-friendly but can become slower and more cluttered, depending on the number of installed plugins and themes. Regular optimization and maintenance can help mitigate these issues.<h3>Editors</h3>The main difference lies in how each platform handles content editing.

<h3>Asset Caching</h3>Storyblok uses &quot;Amazon CloudFront&quot; to store and heavily cache assets. Even when functionalities like cropping, resizing, or blurring images are applied, the caching ensures outstanding performance. Developers can define or dynamically generate image sizes as needed.WordPress requires predefined image sizes for optimization. However, plugins are available to dynamically generate images on demand, which improves performance and reduces manual setup. There are also many plugins for CDN integrations that can be configured at any point.<h3>Front-end Performance</h3>Front-end performance in WordPress depends largely on the chosen theme, plugins, and hosting setup. Custom themes can improve performance but still fall short of the possibilities offered by modern technologies.Storyblok, as a headless CMS, has a significant advantage. Its reliance on modern front-end technologies like Next.js or Astro, combined with asset caching via Amazon CloudFront, ensures superior performance and scalability.<h3>Scalability</h3>Storyblok offers excellent scalability due to its headless design. Adding new features or scaling resources is straightforward, with just a few clicks needed to upgrade plans or assign additional front-end resources.WordPress requires more effort to scale, especially for high-traffic websites. Running multiple instances or optimizing server configurations is often necessary, making scalability more complex.<h3>Multilanguage support</h3>WordPress does not natively support multilingual functionality but offers many plugins that handle translations effectively. High-quality plugins can minimize potential issues, provided they are regularly maintained.Storyblok has built-in multilanguage support and additional plugins for advanced translation features. Developers can even program custom paths for personalized multilingual experiences.<h3>User roles and access</h3>Storyblok allows for detailed customization of user roles and permissions directly from the dashboard. Administrators can define which roles can modify workflow statuses, view specific blocks, or access certain content. These options make it ideal for larger teams and complex requirements.WordPress doesn’t natively support custom user roles, but plugins can be used to add this functionality. These plugins offer extensive options, including the ability to create members who can access specific parts of the application without full admin rights.

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<h2>Use cases</h2>Storyblok is used as a CMS for websites, web applications, mobile applications, as an omnichannel CMS, but always only as a CMS, and it works great for all types of businesses and team sizes.WordPress was primarily designed as a blogging tool, but over time it has progressed and various plugins have been developed. If you&#039;re interested in how WordPress compares to other CMS platforms, check out our blog post on <a href="wordpress-vs-typo3-vs-craft-cms">WordPress vs TYPO3 vs Craft CMS</a>. Today you can use it for blogging, websites with various integrations, e-commerce, or headless and connect it with modern technologies. It should be noted that if you use it for anything other than a monolithic website, then you should consider whether it would be better to use other technologies for the product.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>Storyblok and WordPress each have their strengths and are suited for different needs.<ul><li>Choose Storyblok if you require a scalable, modern solution built with high standards and are willing to invest in a customizable setup. It’s ideal for teams expecting growth or businesses that demand a high-performance, future-proof system.</li><li>Choose WordPress if you need an affordable, user-friendly option for blogging, basic websites, or small e-commerce setups. Its extensive plugin library and themes provide flexibility, but it’s better suited for simpler projects.</li></ul>Both platforms have their merits, and the right choice depends on your product’s needs, budget, and long-term goals. Consulting with experienced developers can help you select the best solution tailored to your requirements.

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Compare Storyblok and WordPress to find the best CMS for your project. Explore ease of use, themes, plugins, scalability, and more in this detailed guide.

Storyblok vs WordPress: Which CMS is Best for Your Website?

In a world where providing a seamless digital experience is key, Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are a game-changer for businesses. This article explores how PWAs work, their benefits over native apps, and how they help businesses reduce costs, reach users on any device, and boost online visibility.

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How Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) Are Transforming the Digital Experience

Every business today wants to provide a smooth and engaging experience across all devices. But what happens when creating an app becomes too costly and complex? The reality is that developing separate native apps for Android, iOS, and web can be time-consuming and expensive. On top of that, your users expect a fast, responsive, and seamless experience – whether they’re on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop.What if there was a better solution to this challenge? That&#039;s where Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) come in.<h2>What Exactly Are PWAs?</h2>Imagine having one app that reaches your users on every device, one that provides all the functionality of a native app without the need for a separate build for each platform. That’s the essence of a PWA.A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a type of application that runs directly in the browser but feels and acts like a mobile app. Users can add a PWA to their home screen, just like a traditional app, but they never have to visit an app store or download large files.<h2>How PWAs Solve Real Business Problems</h2>PWAs are more than just a technical improvement – they’re a business advantage. Let’s walk through some of the ways they can help:<ul><li>Reach Users on Any Device: Imagine being able to offer the same user experience on a desktop, smartphone, and tablet without needing separate versions of your app. PWAs make this possible by adapting to any device, ensuring your content is accessible to all users, anywhere.</li><li>Faster Development and Cost Savings: The cost of developing native apps for multiple platforms can be high, and maintaining those apps over time adds up. PWAs provide a cost-effective solution – you build one app, and it works on all devices. This means quicker development, lower costs, and consistent functionality across platforms.</li><li>Quick Loading and Offline Access: What happens when your users have poor or no internet connectivity? With a PWA, they can still access core features and content, providing a seamless experience regardless of their connection. For example, a user browsing your online store can keep shopping even when they temporarily lose their connection.</li><li>Engaging, App-Like Features Without the Hassle: A major challenge with native apps is encouraging users to download and keep them. With PWAs, users can add your app to their home screen straight from the browser – no app store required. Plus, they can receive push notifications, keeping them informed and engaged with real-time updates.</li><li>Easy Updates and Maintenance: Unlike traditional apps that require users to update manually, PWAs update automatically like a website. This means your users always have the latest version without any extra steps, reducing the burden of maintenance for your team.</li></ul><h2>PWAs vs. Traditional Native Apps</h2>Native apps have been the go-to for many businesses, but PWAs offer a fresh alternative. Here&#039;s how they differ:<ul><li>No App Store Needed: Traditional native apps require users to go through an app store to find, download, and install. A PWA skips this step entirely – it can be added to a user’s home screen directly from the browser.</li><li>Lightweight Storage and Automatic Updates: Native apps take up device storage and often require large downloads to install or update. PWAs are much lighter, use less device storage, and update automatically without user intervention.</li><li>SEO Benefits and Discoverability: PWAs, unlike native apps, are indexed by search engines like Google. This improves their discoverability and boosts your online visibility. Native apps, on the other hand, aren&#039;t found in search results, limiting their exposure to potential users.</li><li>Simple Integration with Existing Systems: PWAs integrate easily with your existing website, e-commerce platform, or CRM without disrupting your current setup. They extend your digital presence without requiring a complete overhaul.</li></ul><h2>Real-Life Success Stories</h2>The benefits of PWAs aren’t just theoretical – real businesses are seeing tangible results:<ul><li>Twitter Lite: With a goal of reducing data usage and improving the user experience, Twitter developed a PWA that loads quickly, uses less data, and provides the core functionality of their native app, all while taking up less space.</li><li>Starbucks PWA: Starbucks wanted a way to allow customers to browse their menu and place orders even with limited internet access. The PWA they built achieved this, providing an engaging experience that keeps users connected.</li><li>Pinterest &amp; Lancôme’s Wins: Pinterest saw a 44% increase in ad revenue and a 60% boost in engagements with their PWA. Lancôme reported a 50% faster loading time and a 16% year-over-year increase in mobile sales after adopting a PWA.</li></ul>These examples highlight how PWAs can improve user engagement, increase sales, and keep users connected no matter the situation.<h2>PWA Features You Should Know About</h2>Here are some of the powerful features PWAs offer that can benefit your business:<ul><li>Push Notifications for Engagement: Reach out to your users directly with personalized messages, updates, and offers. Push notifications make it easy to keep your audience engaged and informed in real-time.</li><li>Responsive Design Across All Devices: Whether your users are on a desktop, tablet, or mobile phone, PWAs ensure a consistent and seamless experience without any extra development effort.</li><li>Fast Loading Times to Reduce Bounce Rates: PWAs load quickly, even on slow connections, improving the overall user experience and reducing the chances of users leaving your app due to long wait times.</li><li>Automatic, Hassle-Free Updates: Users don’t have to worry about manual downloads or app store updates. With a PWA, they always have the latest version with all features and improvements instantly available.</li><li>SEO Benefits for Better Discoverability: Since PWAs are indexed by search engines, they can drive more organic traffic to your app, improving visibility and accessibility compared to native apps.</li><li>Single Codebase for Easier Maintenance: Maintaining a single codebase for your PWA means you save time and costs on development and updates, ensuring consistent functionality across all platforms.</li></ul><h2>How to Know If a PWA Is Right for Your Business</h2>If you&#039;re still not sure whether a PWA is the right fit for your business, consider these scenarios:<ul><li>Do you want to provide a smooth, app-like experience across multiple devices without building separate native apps?</li><li>Are you looking to reduce development costs, speed up time to market, and ensure easy maintenance?</li><li>Do you need your app to work even when users have poor or no internet connectivity?</li><li>Are you aiming to improve your app’s discoverability on search engines and drive more organic traffic?</li></ul>If any of these situations resonate with you, then a PWA could be the perfect solution to enhance your digital presence and engage your users effectively.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>With the growing need for user-friendly and responsive digital experiences, PWAs are shaping the future of how businesses engage with their customers. If you’re ready to explore what a PWA could do for your business, we&#039;re here to help. From providing real-time user engagement to ensuring your app is optimized for all devices, PWAs offer a powerful way to grow your digital presence.

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Why PWAs Are the Next Big Thing - See how Progressive Web Apps enhance user experience, boost engagement, and drive conversions for businesses.

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