Lever 04 · Build

Build only what packaged software cannot do.

Sometimes the right answer is configuration. Sometimes it is a tool built for the way your business works. We build custom applications and integrations with Focus20 Labs when packaged software leaves gaps, connecting your CRM, ERP, POS and operational systems so data flows once and correctly.

Talk to a Growth Architect All cost services

The problem

When packaged software stops fitting your business

Systems that never talk.

Your CRM, ERP, POS and finance tools each hold part of the picture, so staff reconcile them manually and leadership waits for answers.

Spreadsheets running core operations.

Critical processes such as pricing, scheduling or job tracking live in fragile spreadsheets that only one or two people fully understand.

Workarounds around rigid tools.

Packaged software forces your teams to bend the process to fit, adding manual steps, side records and approval delays the business does not need.

Your data locked in.

Data sits inside tools you cannot easily extract from or extend, which limits reporting, automation and any future use of AI.

How we work

Scoped tightly, built to last

Step 1

Scope

We confirm the problem, check whether configuration or automation would solve it first, and define the smallest build that delivers the outcome.

Step 2

Design

We map data flows, user screens and integration points with your process owners, and agree acceptance tests before any code is written.

Step 3

Build

Focus20 Labs develops in short stages with regular demonstrations, so your team sees working software early and can correct course quickly.

Step 4

Handover

We test against agreed cases, deploy, train users and hand over code, documentation and access, so your business owns what was built.

What you get

Software that fits and stays yours

Solution scope

A written definition of the problem, users, data, integrations and acceptance tests, agreed before build so cost and outcome stay clear.

System integrations

Connections between your CRM, ERP, POS, finance and operational systems so records are created once and shared correctly everywhere.

Custom application

A purpose-built tool, such as an internal portal, operations dashboard or workflow app, designed around how your teams actually work.

Tested release

Software checked against agreed acceptance tests and real scenarios, with issues logged and resolved before your team relies on it.

Full documentation

Technical and user documentation covering architecture, data flows, configuration and common tasks, so any competent team can maintain it.

Code and access handover

Source code, credentials and hosting access transferred to your business, so your business holds full and permanent ownership of the software you paid for.

What we measure

Judged by the numbers, not the activity.

We take a baseline in Review week, agree targets in writing and report against them every month.

Manual reconciliation hours

Data errors between systems

Process cycle time

User adoption of new tools

You are a good fit if

Your core operations depend on spreadsheets or manual reconciliation between systems.

Packaged software has forced workarounds your teams handle every day.

You want to own the code, data and documentation outright.

FAQ

Questions leaders ask us.

How do you decide between building and buying?

We start by testing whether configuration, automation or an existing platform can solve the problem. We only recommend a custom build when those options leave a real gap. The scope document records the reasoning, so the decision is clear to your leadership.

Who owns the code?

You do. Source code, documentation, credentials and hosting access are handed over at the end of the build. You can maintain it in house, use another provider or continue working with us and Focus20 Labs. There is no lock-in.

Can you integrate with our existing ERP or CRM?

In most cases, yes, provided the system offers a supported way to read and write data. We check this during scoping. Where options are limited, we design the safest available route and document any constraints before you commit to the build.

How do you stop a custom build running over?

We scope the smallest build that delivers the outcome, agree acceptance tests in advance and work in short stages with regular demonstrations. Changes are logged and approved, so any shift in scope is a visible decision rather than a surprise.

Keep exploring

Services that work alongside this one.

Lever 03 · AutomateWorkflow Automation

Much office work is moving information between systems, chasing approvals and producing the same reports.

Explore Lever 03 · AutomateAI Agents

An AI agent is software that reads, decides and acts within limits you set.

Explore Lever 01 · DecideAI Readiness Assessment

AI projects fail on foundations more often than on models.

Explore

Start with a free Cost Review.

One week, no charge. We find where your cost hides and show you whether Custom Software & Integrations is the right first move, with us or without us.

Talk to a Growth Architect