Introduction: What is Custom Software?
Custom software is developed specifically to meet your business’s individual needs, unlike off-the-shelf software products designed for general use. An example of custom software is a CRM system that has been tailored to solve your business’s specific customer challenges. As a business owner or managing director you understand a successful business requires tools that work well with the way you run your company and this includes your software.
In this blog post, we will go through a list of 24 examples of custom software that can make a real difference in how companies operate. Each example shows how different industries are using custom software to overcome challenges and achieve success. Understanding these examples will help you see how custom software may be applied to your business.
1) Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software
CRM software helps companies manage interactions with their customers, like tracking sales and improving communications. A custom CRM is tailored to a company’s workflows, so it can work with the company’s unique sales process and customer segmentation.
Example of Custom Software for Estate Agents
Estate agencies can use a custom CRM to manage property listings, client data, and appointments in one platform, improving client relationships and follow-ups.
2) Enterprise Resource Planning Software
An ERP software system integrates business processes to create a single solution, this can include things like finance, HR and inventory management. A custom system is built to address unique business needs, rather than purchasing a ready-made general software product. A custom software development company will create an ERP system that works in tangent with your business not against it.
Example of Custom Software for Manufacturing
A manufacturing company will use an ERP to track production and raw materials. A custom system can also integrate with supply chain software or incorporate it within the system as a whole.
3) Inventory Management Systems
This type of software tracks and manages incoming and outgoing orders, stock and deliveries. You can integrate specific warehouse or accounting systems when using a custom inventory management system, or these features can be built directly into the software.
Example of Custom Software for Automotive Repair
Garages and vehicle repairs can use an inventory management system to track parts, tools and equipment across locations. Automation can be built in to restock and monitor stock levels, ensuring that parts and tools are always available when work comes in.
4) E-commerce Platforms
Sell products online and handle transactions with an E-commerce platform. Exclusive features tailored to the way a company operates can be developed within an E-commerce platform when a custom option is chosen.
Example of Custom Software for Online Retail
As well as receiving orders online, an e-commerce platform, can offer loyalty programmes and discounts for frequent and returning customers. Online retail can also benefit from seamless payment processing with multiple product and delivery options.
5) Project Management Tools
These tools help companies to plan, track, and manage project deadlines and tasks. A custom tool of this type, will be developed to match the team’s specific workflows, needs, and reporting requirements.
Example of Custom Software for Construction
Construction companies use custom project management software to store plans and blueprints, manage project resources, such as assigning staff and materials to specific building sites.
6) Accounting and Finance Software
Is a type of software that enables companies to manage their financial transactions, generate reports and easily deal with end of year and sales taxes. Custom finance software can be tailored to a company’s tax regulations, unique reporting structures, and specific financial processes.
Example of Custom Software for Financial Services
Various types of financial services can use accounting and finance software, such as accountants, mortgage brokers and banks. Using the correct type of software can ensure that financial legislation is complied with, and all transactions are secure.
7) Supply Chain Management (SCM) Software
An SCM software solutions is built to track the flow of goods from the supplier to the customer, it can also help with inventory, distribution and production management. If you choose to have a custom SCM developed, you can also reap the benefits for workflows designed exquisitely for your company, automated processes and improve time tracking and delay reduction.
Example of Custom Software for Logistics
Optimise route for field staff; track delivery departures and arrivals; improve communication with suppliers and ensuring deadlines are met, are just a few of the benefits logistic companies receive when employing a SCM.
8) Human Resources (HR) Management Systems
HR software manages employee data, payroll, benefits, and performance. Custom HR systems can be designed to match a company’s specific hiring processes, employee benefits, and performance evaluation criteria.
Example of Custom Software for Healthcare
Hospitals use custom HR software to manage staff shifts, track training, and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations. Copies of CVs and training certificates, along with other documents can also be uploaded and stored within the HR System.
9) Point of Sale (POS) Systems
POS software handles customer transactions, tracks sales, and manages inventory in retail environments. A custom POS system supports specific product types, customer loyalty programmes, and integration with inventory systems.
Example of Custom Software for Retail
Retailers use custom POS systems to manage in-store purchases, loyalty programmes, and special promotions for an enhanced customer experience.
10) Learning Management Systems (LMS)
An LMS can deliver training, track learner progress and using questionnaires assess a learner’s understanding. Custom LMS platforms include specialised content for different industries, provide personalised learning paths, and integrate with other systems like payroll or employee records.
Example of Custom Software for Corporate Training
Corporations and large companies can use an LMS to monitor staff training and maintain copies of qualifications and training certificates. They can also be used to monitor employee progress and ensure all training aligns with company goals.
11) Document Management Systems
Store, track and manage documents and digital paperwork with a document management system. Custom document management software can be tailored to specific industries for secure file sharing, regulatory compliance, and document approval workflows.
Example of Custom Software for the Legal Profession
Law firms and other legal businesses use document management systems to store sensitive legal documents securely. Custom systems can track document changes to comply with industry regulations. They can also be built to integrate with document signing software, such as Docusign.
12) Mobile Applications
Mobile apps allow users to access services and perform tasks on the go. Custom mobile apps integrate with back-end systems, enabling seamless data exchange and meeting specific business needs.
Example of Custom Software for Travel
Travel agencies use custom mobile apps to allow customers to book flights, check-in, and receive updates about their travel plans. They can also be used to book tickets, that can be stored on your device in digital form.
13) Job Management Systems
Organise and plan jobs, assign tasks to staff members and monitor progress of works, with a Job Management System. Customised Job Management software adapts to unique processes, such as managing field workers or coordinating tasks across multiple locations.
Example of Custom Software for Field Services
Tradespeople like electricians and plumbers use custom job management software to assign tasks, track job updates, and communicate with clients in real time.
14) Booking and Reservation Systems
Hospitality companies can use booking and reservation software solutions to arrange and manage bookings, appointments, services and events. A custom booking system can include features like automated reminders, payment integration, and tailored booking rules.
Example of Custom Software for Hospitality
Hotels and guest houses use custom reservation systems to manage guest stays, book conference rooms, and track room availability. These systems can also store guest preferences for future visits.
15) Client Portal Software
A client portal allows customers and clients to access their information and interact with their own data that is stored by the company who owns the client portal. This web-based portal is accessible to anyone with an authorised login as long as they have access to the internet through a reliable connection. When employing a custom version for your company you can include specialised features that are unique to your business and the type of clients you serve.
Example of Custom Software for Asbestos Management
An asbestos management company can use a custom client portal to allow clients to view inspection reports, access and download certification documents, and track the progress of asbestos management or removal.
16) Scheduling and Appointment Software
For companies that need to deal with many appointments, scheduling is crucial to avoid double booking and missed appointments. This type of software helps you schedule appointments and book them accurately. A customised software solution can include elements such as: automated reminders with locational maps and support for various appointment types.
Example of Custom Software for Hair Salons
Hair salons use scheduling software to allow customers to book appointments online, providing user-friendly booking interfaces with visual calendars and sending out customer reminders on the day of their appointment.
17) Customer Support Ticketing Systems
Track and manage customer support requests using ticketing software. This type of software makes communication easy and ensures that the customer has constant updates. Custom ticketing systems have added features not always found in generic versions of the software, and they can also be developed to integrate with other software the company uses.
Example of Custom Software for Information Technology
A technology company, such as IT support or software development, can use a ticketing system to handle enquiries and reassure customers that action is being taken. You can also build priority setting and urgent case escalation into a custom ticketing system.
18) Event Management Software
For companies that manage events this type of software can help with scheduling and coordination of events, such as weddings, parties and concerts. A custom solution can offer features like guest list management, specialised ticketing options, and integration with marketing tools.
Example of Custom Software for Event Management
Event planners use custom event management software to manage bookings, organise event schedules, and communicate with vendors.
19) Fleet Management Software
Whether you have a fleet of vans or lorries, a Fleet Management software system combines maintenance, schedules, and location tracking. Custom fleet management solutions can include advanced analytics, route optimisation, and integration with other business systems.
Example of Custom Software for Transport
Delivery and transport companies use custom fleet management software to monitor vehicle performance, optimise delivery routes, and reduce operational costs.
20) Survey and Feedback Tools
Often used online this type of software can improve a businesses services and products by gathering valuable customer information and making it available to analyse. Custom survey software can offer specific question formats, branding options, and integration with CRM or marketing platforms.
Example of Custom Software for Market Research
Market research firms use custom survey tools to gather insights on customer behaviour, preferences, and satisfaction levels.
21) Subscription Management Systems
This type of software can easily deal with the billing and renewals of any subscription-based company. Online membership sites, SaaS companies, streaming services, magazines and newspapers can all benefit from this type of software. Custom solutions can integrate with payment gateways, support unique pricing models, and track customer usage patterns.
Example of Custom Software for SaaS Companies
Software companies often license their products rather than selling them outright, so these types of companies use custom subscription management software to track user subscriptions, process payments, and send automated renewal reminders.
22) Workforce Management Software
Schedule, track and manage employees’ tasks and performance with a workforce management software. Customised versions can accommodate unique and complex scheduling needs and integrate with other software systems, such as payroll.
Example of Custom Software for Cleaning Companies
Cleaning companies use custom workforce management software to monitor staff shifts, manage availability, and improve resource allocation. This helps ensure appointments are kept and prevents double bookings.
23) Loan and Credit Management Software
Various financial companies and institutions need to manage a wide variety of financial dealings, this type of software specialises in all aspects associated with this work such as approvals and repayments. A custom version can integrate with credit-checking services, automate repayment schedules, and send reminders for overdue payments.
Example of Custom Software for Banking
A bank can use a custom loan management software to manage the whole loan process. Using this type of software can speed up the approval process and manage repayments.
24) Sales and Lead Management Software
Sales management software tracks leads, manages sales processes, and analyse customer data. Custom solutions can automate lead nurturing, track custom sales metrics, and integrate with existing systems, providing features tailored specifically to the business’s sales needs.
Example of Custom Software for Pharmaceutical Companies
Pharmaceutical companies use custom sales and lead management software to manage relationships with healthcare providers, track sales of medications, and monitor leads for new business opportunities. The software helps the sales team follow up on doctor and hospital leads, track product performance, and ensure compliance with industry regulations throughout the sales process.
Why These 24 Examples of Custom Software Matter to Your Business
The list of 24 examples of custom software we’ve just discussed shows how businesses across different industries are using tailored software to improve their processes and better serve their customers.
How to Choose the Right Example of Custom Software for Your Business
Now that you’ve seen examples of custom software, it’s time to decide which solution would work best for your business.
Each of these software solutions solves a specific problem, like managing customers, tracking inventory, or improving employee performance. The key is to find the one that will benefit you most.
Start by thinking about your biggest business challenges and what processes need improvement. Then, choose the example of custom software that aligns with your goals and would give you the most value. Working with a developer to create a custom solution can ensure that it perfectly fits your needs.
Conclusion: Custom Software for Business Growth
Custom software is not just for large corporations. Small businesses and startups can also benefit from software that’s built specifically for their needs. The examples of custom software listed in this post show just how many ways custom-built solutions make a big difference to a company.
BSPOKE Software have over 15 years of developing custom software solutions for many different industries. If you’re ready to explore how a custom software solution could help your business, please fill in our contact form and tell us about your software requirements and goals.
