Custom SharePoint alternative development
Not off-the-shelf software, but a document management and collaboration platform that we develop specifically for your organisation. Fully tailored to your working processes, without the limitations and complexity of SharePoint.
Important: We do not sell off-the-shelf software. Appfront builds custom solutions from the ground up, precisely tailored to your situation.
Why choose a custom SharePoint alternative?
SharePoint is a generic platform with many features you don't need, while the specific functions you do want are missing or don't work well. Custom development solves this.
Common SharePoint frustrations
- - Feature overkill: Paying for what you don't use
- - Complex configuration: Specialist IT staff needed for simple changes
- - Limited adaptability: Your process has to fit SharePoint, not the other way round
- - Confusing interface: Staff don't enjoy using the system
- - Microsoft lock-in: Dependent on a single supplier
What custom development offers you
- + Exactly what you need: No superfluous features
- + Intuitive interface: Designed for your staff
- + Your workflow at the centre: The software adapts, not the other way round
- + Ownership: The software belongs to you, with no vendor lock-in
- + Unlimited scalability: Grows with your organisation
| Aspect | SharePoint | Custom platform |
|---|---|---|
| Adaptability | Limited to templates | 100% custom built |
| Ease of use | Steep learning curve | Intuitive for your team |
| Integrations | Microsoft ecosystem | Every system integrable |
| Cost structure | Ongoing licences | One-off investment |
| Ownership | Microsoft sets the roadmap | You are the owner |
What can we build for you?
We develop custom document management and collaboration platforms with the functionality your organisation truly needs
Our approach: We begin with a thorough analysis of your work processes and requirements. We then design and build a platform that fits perfectly with how your organisation works, not the other way round.
Document control
Central storage with a smart folder structure, version control and search functionality. Set up exactly the way your organisation works.
Collaboration
Real-time collaboration on documents, comments and feedback, task assignment and notifications. Tailored to your team's processes.
Permission management
Flexible permissions system with roles, groups and folder-level rights. Exactly as your organisational structure requires.
Workflows & approval processes
Automate your approval flows, review cycles and publication processes. From simple sign-off to complex multi-step workflows with conditional routing.
Search & metadata
Powerful search functionality with full-text search, filters and custom metadata. Find any document in seconds, even in large archives.
Integrations with your existing systems
Custom development also means we ensure your new platform works seamlessly with the tools you already use
Identity providers
- • Azure Active Directory
- • Google Workspace
- • Okta / Auth0
- • SAML / OAuth 2.0
- • LDAP / Active Directory
Productivity
- • Microsoft 365
- • Google Workspace
- • Slack / Teams
- • Trello / Asana / Jira
- • Email systems
Business systems
- • ERP systems
- • CRM (Salesforce, HubSpot)
- • HR systems
- • Accounting software
- • Custom applications
Modern technology, built to last
We build with proven, modern technologies that guarantee scalability and maintainability
Cloud hosting options
Your custom platform can be hosted wherever you prefer:
- • Public cloud: AWS, Azure or Google Cloud
- • Private cloud: Your own data centre or dedicated servers
- • Hybrid: A combination for optimal control
- • On-premise: Fully within your own network
Security & compliance
Security is fundamental to our development process:
- • End-to-end encryption
- • GDPR compliant
- • ISO 27001 hosting available
- • Audit logging and monitoring
- • Two-factor authentication
Our development process
From first conversation to a working platform, through a structured process
Discovery & analysis
We dive deep into your current working processes, pain points and wishes. Interviews with key users, analysis of document flows and requirements gathering.
Design & prototyping
UX/UI design tailored to your organisation. Interactive prototypes to validate how things work before we start building.
Development
Agile development with two-weekly sprints. Each sprint delivers working functionality that you can test and give feedback on.
Migration & launch
Careful data migration from SharePoint or other systems. User training and a guided go-live with direct support.
Frequently Asked Questions
The investment depends on your specific requirements and functionality. A basic document management platform starts from €40,000, while extensive collaboration platforms with workflows and integrations start from €75,000. We always provide a tailored quote after a thorough analysis of your situation.
Developing a custom document platform typically takes 4 to 8 months, depending on complexity and integrations. We work in agile sprints and deliver working functionality every two weeks that you can test.
Yes, we handle the full data migration from SharePoint to your new custom platform. Documents, metadata, permissions and version history are carefully transferred. We create a migration plan to minimise downtime.
No, we don't sell off-the-shelf software. Appfront is a development agency that builds custom solutions. Every platform we develop is unique and designed specifically for the organisation in question. This ensures the closest possible fit with your working processes.
You are the full owner of the custom software we build for you. The source code, the design and all intellectual property rights belong to you. You are not dependent on us for future modifications or hosting.
We offer optional maintenance contracts covering technical support, security updates and bug fixes. Further development and new features can always be added. You decide the pace and priorities.
Ready for a platform that truly fits you?
Let us build a custom document management and collaboration platform that fits your organisation perfectly. Not off-the-shelf software, but a solution we develop specifically for you.