When tasked with building a web application, we start with purpose-driven database design followed by a custom content management system (CMS) to manage that data. We aim to ensure data organization, usability, flexibility, and a user-friendly interface. Below, we explore the benefits of these key components and how they work together to create powerful, useful web apps for the public.
Typically, our clients store their data in a spreadsheet or a handmade MS Access database. We want to review the data they've collected and design a relational database to structure and organize that data into related tables. The design is meant to optimize how data is saved and retrieved. In a public-facing web application, effective database design is a crucial first step.
A well-designed database ensures that information is organized into a set of tables, making it easy to retrieve and manage. For example, a resource showing State and National grants for farmers can use a structured database to store grant organizations, contact info, availability, and the end dates for applications, giving farmers quick access to relevant information.
Data normalization means that any piece of data is stored only once. A simple example might be the status of something, like a parking lot (good, bad, unpaved, or paved). It would make sense to create a table for "parking lot status", and use the values in a dropdown or however needed. Easy to update, easy to maintain. When a database is properly designed and the data normalized, it cuts down on redundancy and ensures that updates or changes to the data are consistent across every part of the application.
Relationships between tables allow data to be interconnected in ways that enhance the overall value and integrity of the database. By connecting related information, such as customers to orders or products to categories, databases can eliminate redundancy, ensure data consistency, and simplify complex queries. These relationships make saving and retrieving data more efficient, which creates better reports and improves data integrity. We want the databases we work on to be both reliable and scalable. Our approach benefits clients by streamlining data and unlocking the value of the data they've worked so hard to collect.
As the popularity of a web application grows, so does the data collected, and the number of records stored in the database. A well-structured database can easily scale to handle more data without sacrificing performance. Public institutions, government websites, and non-profits often see growth in usage, and scaling their data is critical for the success of the app in the future.
A Content Management System (CMS) provides a way to create, update, read, and delete the information in a database. If the database was designed specifically to meet certain needs, a custom CMS is the best way to manage the data within it. Here, we discuss why a custom CMS can be an incredible tool for any business.
Unlike off-the-shelf CMS software, a custom CMS is developed to match the specific needs of the data, and the way the client works. What we typically see with pre-packaged software is a lack of functions the client needs and an abundance of features they don't use. A custom CMS does exactly what's needed because the client is part of the design and development process. We often bring new ideas to the client for approval, and end up coming away with an even better way to make their work easier to do.
Custom CMS development offers the flexibility to add unique features, like file uploading, search features, and custom reports. We also see that our clients ask us to change the application over time as they get used to what it can do and think of new ideas. This allows the app to grow and adapt with the company as it evolves, year after year.
Because a custom CMS was created with the client on board, they find their day-to-day tasks easier to do. Together, we'll create user account management, document organization, reports, and the typical convenience of being able to find what they're looking for! One can imagine the possibilities of how a custom web app can fundamentally change how a business flows through its workday.
Since custom CMS platforms are built specifically for the business it was meant to assist, they tend to perform better than generic platforms with unnecessary features that can slow down the app, the website, and the database they're connected to. Fast-performing software is especially beneficial for public-facing applications with a high volume of visitors.
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When database design and custom CMS development are combined, they form the backbone of a powerful web application.
For example, a city government could build a web portal where residents can access public resources, request services, and stay updated on community events. A well-structured database would ensure that user data, service requests, and updates are efficiently managed, while a custom CMS would allow city staff to easily update content and information. The result is a robust platform that simplifies public interaction with local government services, enhances user experience, and ensures accurate, timely information is accessible to all.
The combination of strong database design and custom CMS development provides a scalable, secure, and adaptable solution for creating web applications that serve the public. These applications offer streamlined management of both data and content, improving the overall quality and accessibility of public services and information.
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