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Home » Services » App Development

Custom App Development & Business Automation for UK Small Businesses

Stop wasting hours on manual processes and disconnected systems. We build custom mobile apps, web applications, and intelligent automation solutions that streamline your operations and give you back time to focus on growing your business.

  • UK-Based Team
  • No Long-Term Contracts
  • Free Consultation
Get Your Free Consultation
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Get Your Free Consultation

Tell us about your project and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

Is Your Business Held Back by Manual Processes?

You’re not alone. Research shows that 44% of working time is wasted on inefficient processes, and only 1 in 3 UK SMEs are using automation to solve these problems. Meanwhile, your competitors are pulling ahead.

Hours Lost to Repetitive Tasks

Your team spends valuable time on data entry, manual reporting, and administrative tasks that could be automated—time that should go toward growing your business.

Disconnected Systems & Data Silos

Your CRM doesn’t talk to your accounting software. Customer data lives in spreadsheets. Finding information means checking multiple systems—and hoping it’s up to date.

No Mobile Presence for Customers

Your customers expect to interact with you on their phones. Without a mobile app or responsive tools, you’re missing opportunities to engage them where they spend most of their time.

Costly Errors from Manual Work

Manual processes mean human errors—wrong orders, missed invoices, duplicate entries. These mistakes cost money to fix and damage customer relationships.

Scaling Becomes Impossible

The processes that worked when you were smaller are now bottlenecks. Growth means hiring more staff just to handle admin—not a sustainable path forward.

Competitors Are Pulling Ahead

63% of UK businesses now use automation and low-code tools. If you’re still doing things the old way, you’re falling behind companies that move faster and serve customers better.

Transform Your Operations with Custom Apps & Automation

We help UK small businesses eliminate manual processes, connect their systems, and build custom apps that give them a competitive edge. Here’s how we solve your challenges.

Custom iOS & Android Apps

We build native and cross-platform mobile apps tailored to your business needs. From customer-facing apps to internal tools, we create solutions that work seamlessly on every device.

  • Cross-platform saves 25-40% vs native

Business Process Automation

We automate your repetitive tasks using Microsoft Power Automate and custom scripting. From invoice processing to customer follow-ups, we eliminate the manual work that slows you down.

  • Save 2+ hours per employee daily

SaaS Integration Services

We connect your tools—Microsoft 365, Xero, Sage, Salesforce, and more—into one unified system. Your data flows automatically between platforms, eliminating manual transfers.

  • Real-time data across all systems

Low-Code Rapid Development

Need a solution fast? Our low-code approach delivers working apps in days or weeks, not months. Perfect for internal tools, customer portals, and process automation.

  • Go live in weeks, not months

Web Application Development

We build powerful web applications for booking systems, customer portals, dashboards, and internal tools. Cloud-based solutions that work on any device with a browser.

  • Accessible anywhere, any device

Ongoing Support & Maintenance

We don’t just build and disappear. Our UK-based team provides ongoing support, updates, and enhancements to keep your solutions running smoothly as your business evolves.

  • Same-day UK support included
Discuss Your Project With Us

Our App Development & Automation Services

Whether you need a customer-facing mobile app, internal automation tools, or seamless system integration, we have the expertise to deliver solutions that drive real business results.

Mobile & Web Apps
Business Automation
SaaS Integration
Low-Code Solutions
Mobile & Web Apps

Mobile & Web Application Development

We build custom applications for iOS, Android, and web platforms. Whether you need a customer-facing app to boost engagement or an internal tool to streamline operations, our team delivers solutions tailored to your specific business requirements.

📱 Mobile App Development

  • Native iOS apps (Swift)
  • Native Android apps (Kotlin)
  • Cross-platform apps (Flutter, React Native)
  • Offline functionality support
  • Push notifications & engagement features
  • App Store & Play Store submission

💻 Web Application Development

  • Customer portals & dashboards
  • Booking & scheduling systems
  • E-commerce platforms
  • Internal business tools
  • Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)
  • Cloud-based solutions (AWS, Azure)

💡 Cost-Saving Tip: Cross-platform development using Flutter or React Native can reduce your costs by 25-40% compared to building separate native apps—without sacrificing quality or performance.

Business Automation

Business Process Automation

Stop wasting hours on repetitive tasks. We implement intelligent automation that handles the mundane work, freeing your team to focus on what matters most—growing your business and serving your customers.

⚡ Workflow Automation

  • Microsoft Power Automate implementation
  • Custom automation scripts
  • Document processing & generation
  • Email automation & sequences
  • Approval workflows
  • Task scheduling & reminders

📊 Data & Reporting Automation

  • Automated report generation
  • Real-time dashboard updates
  • Data entry automation
  • Invoice processing
  • Inventory tracking
  • Customer data synchronisation

📈 ROI Insight: Research shows automation investments typically deliver 30-200% ROI in the first year, with 60% of organisations achieving positive returns within 12 months.

SaaS Integration

SaaS Integration Services

The average business uses 37+ different software tools. We connect them all into one unified system, eliminating data silos and manual transfers so your information flows seamlessly across your organisation.

🔗 Platforms We Integrate

  • Microsoft 365 & SharePoint
  • Xero, Sage & QuickBooks
  • Salesforce & HubSpot CRM
  • Slack & Microsoft Teams
  • Google Workspace
  • Mailchimp & email platforms

🛠️ Integration Services

  • Custom API development
  • Real-time data synchronisation
  • Legacy system connections
  • Automated data mapping
  • Error handling & monitoring
  • GDPR-compliant data flows

🎯 Common Challenge Solved: We address issues like delayed notifications between systems, file access conflicts, data duplication, and security concerns—ensuring your integrations work reliably.

Low-Code Solutions

Low-Code & Rapid Development

Need a solution fast? Low-code platforms let us deliver working applications in days or weeks instead of months. 63% of UK businesses now use these tools—and for good reason. They’re faster, more affordable, and easier to update.

🚀 Low-Code Platforms

  • Microsoft Power Apps
  • Bubble for web applications
  • AppSheet for data-driven apps
  • Airtable automations
  • Glide for mobile apps
  • Custom internal tools

✅ Ideal Use Cases

  • MVP & proof of concept builds
  • Internal process tools
  • Customer portals
  • Data collection apps
  • Approval workflows
  • Reporting dashboards

⏱️ Speed Advantage: Low-code apps go from idea to usability in days or weeks—not months. Perfect for testing concepts, replacing spreadsheets, or building internal tools that your team actually needs.

Why UK Businesses Choose HGC IT for App Development

We’re not a faceless agency or an overseas outsourcing firm. We’re a local Dorset team that understands the challenges UK small businesses face—and we’re committed to helping you succeed.

UK-Based Team in Dorset

We’re based in Portland, Dorset—not overseas. You get same-timezone support, clear communication, and the option for face-to-face meetings when you need them. We understand UK business culture and compliance requirements.

No Long-Term Contracts

We earn your business through results, not contracts. You’re never locked in. Our flexible engagement model means you can scale up or down as your needs change—with complete transparency on pricing at every stage.

Built for Small Businesses

We specialise in working with UK SMEs, not enterprise giants. That means right-sized solutions at practical price points—not overengineered systems designed for companies ten times your size. We get small business challenges because we work with them every day.

Full Ongoing Support

We don’t just build and disappear. Our relationship continues long after launch with ongoing maintenance, updates, and enhancements. As your business evolves, your apps and automations evolve with you—all backed by responsive UK support.

Our Proven Development Process

From initial consultation to ongoing support, here’s how we work with you to deliver solutions that truly fit your business needs.

01

Discovery

Free consultation to understand your challenges, goals, and requirements.

02

Planning

Detailed scoping, wireframes, and clear roadmap with transparent pricing.

03

Development

Agile development with regular updates and your feedback incorporated throughout.

04

Launch

Thorough testing, deployment, and team training to ensure smooth go-live.

05

Support

Ongoing maintenance, updates, and enhancements as your business grows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about app development, business automation, and working with HGC IT.

How much does custom app development cost for a small business?

App development costs vary based on complexity and features. For UK small businesses, a simple MVP typically ranges from £15,000-£40,000, while medium-complexity apps with more features run £40,000-£100,000. We always provide transparent quotes upfront with no hidden costs.

We can also explore low-code solutions that deliver results faster and more affordably—sometimes for a fraction of traditional development costs. During your free consultation, we’ll recommend the most cost-effective approach for your specific needs.

How long does it take to develop a business app?

Timelines depend on the project scope:

  • Simple MVP or low-code app: 4-8 weeks
  • Medium-complexity app: 3-6 months
  • Complex enterprise solution: 6-12 months

We use agile development methods, delivering working features in regular sprints so you see progress throughout—not just at the end. For urgent needs, our low-code approach can get you a working solution in weeks rather than months.

Do I need both an iOS and Android app?

Not necessarily. We recommend starting by analysing your target audience. If most of your customers use iPhones, you might launch on iOS first and add Android later. That said, cross-platform development using frameworks like Flutter or React Native allows us to build for both platforms simultaneously—typically saving 25-40% compared to building two separate native apps.

During discovery, we’ll help you make the right platform decision based on your audience, budget, and timeline.

What's the difference between low-code and traditional development?

Traditional development involves writing code from scratch, offering maximum flexibility and customisation. It’s ideal for complex, unique applications with specific performance requirements.

Low-code development uses visual interfaces and pre-built components to create apps much faster—often in days or weeks rather than months. It’s perfect for internal tools, customer portals, MVPs, and workflow automation. 63% of UK businesses now use low-code platforms.

We offer both approaches and can advise which is best for your specific project.

How can automation help my small business?

Automation eliminates repetitive manual tasks, saving time and reducing errors. Common examples include:

  • Automatic invoice generation and payment reminders
  • Customer onboarding email sequences
  • Data synchronisation between your CRM and accounting software
  • Automated reporting and dashboard updates
  • Approval workflows for quotes and expenses

Research shows automation typically delivers 30-200% ROI in the first year, with sales teams saving over 2 hours per day on average.

What systems can you integrate with our existing tools?

We integrate with a wide range of UK business tools including:

  • Productivity: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Slack, Teams
  • Accounting: Xero, Sage, QuickBooks
  • CRM: Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho
  • E-commerce: Shopify, WooCommerce, Stripe
  • Marketing: Mailchimp, ActiveCampaign

We also build custom API integrations for specialist industry software. If your systems have an API, we can likely connect them.

Will I own the app you build for me?

Yes, absolutely. Once your project is complete and paid for, you own the intellectual property and source code. You’re never locked into working with us—though most clients choose to continue our relationship for ongoing support and enhancements.

We provide full documentation and can assist with knowledge transfer if you ever want to bring development in-house or work with another provider.

What ongoing support do you provide after launch?

We don’t just build and disappear. Our support services include:

  • Bug fixes and issue resolution
  • OS updates and compatibility maintenance
  • Security patches and updates
  • Performance monitoring and optimisation
  • Feature enhancements as your business grows
  • Training for new team members

As a general rule, budget around 15-25% of your initial build cost annually for ongoing maintenance. All support is provided by our UK-based team during business hours.

How do you handle data security and GDPR compliance?

Data security and GDPR compliance are built into everything we develop. Our approach includes:

  • Encryption for data in transit and at rest
  • Secure authentication and access controls
  • GDPR-compliant data handling and storage
  • Regular security audits and updates
  • UK/EU-based hosting options when required

As a UK-based company, we understand the regulatory landscape and can advise on compliance requirements for your specific industry.

How do I get started with HGC IT?

Getting started is simple:

  1. Book a free consultation – Fill out the form on this page or call us on 01305 310006
  2. Discovery call – We’ll discuss your challenges, goals, and ideas (no obligation)
  3. Proposal – We’ll provide a clear scope, timeline, and transparent pricing
  4. Kick-off – Once approved, we begin development with regular progress updates

There’s no pressure and no obligation. We’re happy to chat through your ideas and help you understand what’s possible.

Ready to Transform Your Business with Custom Apps & Automation?

Join the growing number of UK businesses that have eliminated manual processes, connected their systems, and gained a competitive edge with custom solutions from HGC IT. Book your free, no-obligation consultation today.

  • Free consultation
  • No obligation
  • UK-based team
  • Response within 24hrs

Get Your Free Consultation

  • 01305 310006
  • hello@hgcit.co.uk
  • Portland, Dorset, UK
Managed IT Support

At HGC IT Solutions, we provide expert IT services in Dorset, tailored to meet your specific needs. Our certified team provides world class support, cost-effective solutions, and enhanced security to protect your business.

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