How do I know Excel is no longer enough?
- There are several versions of the same list and nobody knows which one is right
- Data is typed from Excel into quotes, invoices or emails
- The team calls or sends WhatsApp messages to find out the plan
- Reports come back on paper and are entered afterwards
- Only one person really understands the formulas
What alternatives to Excel are there?
| Solution | Fits when | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Shared spreadsheets (e.g. online) | several people plan at the same time | still a spreadsheet, no workflows |
| Standard software for the industry | there is a good product for your industry | your workflow has to adapt |
| Automation with n8n or Make | existing programs should be connected | does not replace a missing interface |
| Custom web app | your workflow is special or customers should take part | needs a development partner |
What does a custom web app bring?
A web app maps exactly your workflow: jobs, planning, reports and invoices in one place, in the browser and as an app for the team. Everyone sees only what they need, and customers can see the status or sign through a portal.
We start projects like this with a clickable prototype. You see early whether the solution fits, before the actual development begins.
How do I switch from Excel?
- Start with the workflow that costs the most time, not with everything at once
- Import existing data from Excel instead of entering it again
- Let the team test early, especially the app for the road
- Only switch off Excel once the new solution has run stably for two or three weeks