What is the difference between web design and web development?
Design decides what a site looks like and says. Development makes it do things: take a booking, log a client in, calculate a quote, send data where it needs to go.
Most small business sites need only a little development. Some need a lot, usually because the business runs on a process a plugin cannot follow. That is where a custom build pays for itself.
What can Lab 5280 build?
- Booking and scheduling that follows your rules, not a generic calendar's.
- Client portals where customers log in to see documents, status or invoices.
- Quote and estimate tools that price a job from a few answers.
- Integrations between your site and the tools you already use, like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, your CRM or your payment processor.
- Small web apps for an internal job your team does every day.
Has Lab 5280 built apps before?
Yes, three of its own, all on the work page: Reported, a free scam-email and PC safety checker that runs in the browser; Meridian, a task board with an assistant; and Articulate, a speaking trainer. They are built to the same standard as client work.
How does a development project work?
- Map the job. A free call and audit to understand the process the tool has to follow.
- Fixed quote. You get one price for a defined scope before work starts.
- Build in the open. You use working pieces early and steer as it takes shape.
- Launch and care. Hosting, updates and fixes run month to month if you want them.