A Northampton-based software company has launched a new platform designed to help manufacturers across Northamptonshire, the Midlands and the rest of the UK modernise their systems without the high costs and long delays traditionally associated with bespoke software.
The launch of WAMRAD, which stands for Web Alliance Manufacturing Rapid Application Development, marks a major milestone for Web Alliance as its first dedicated product after more than a decade of delivering custom-built systems for companies across the UK.
The platform has been developed to support small and medium-sized manufacturers that need more flexibility than standard off-the-shelf software can offer but may not have the budget or time to invest in a traditional fully bespoke system.
Web Alliance was founded in 2012 by husband-and-wife team Ashish Kumar and Iram Gilani, with a mission to make flexible, high-quality software accessible to smaller businesses. What began as a two-person start-up operating from a family home has grown into an international business, supporting SMEs with tailored systems designed around how they work.
Ashish Kumar, director of Web Alliance, said: “Thirteen years ago, we believed SMEs deserved better than rigid systems that forced them to change how they work. We wanted to give smaller businesses access to the kind of bespoke technology usually reserved for large enterprises. Launching WAMRAD is a proud moment for us. It’s everything we’ve learned over the years, brought together into something that businesses can use quickly and build on as they grow.”
Historically, manufacturers have had to choose between off-the-shelf software, which can be quick to set up but often inflexible, and bespoke systems, which can cost in excess of £50,000 and take more than a year to build. WAMRAD bridges that gap, offering a system that businesses can start using in as little as one week, while still allowing it to be tailored and expanded over time.
The platform starts with a ready-to-use CRM foundation, allowing businesses to manage customers and key day-to-day processes from the outset. From there, additional functionality can be added over time, helping manufacturers evolve the system into a fully tailored ERP platform as the business grows.
A key feature of the launch is its transparent and accessible pricing model. WAMRAD is available with a £300 one-time setup fee and a £300 monthly subscription for up to 10 users, with additional users costing £10 per month, making it significantly more affordable than traditional bespoke systems.
Each business receives its own dedicated system, meaning manufacturers retain full ownership of their data from day one. Following significant customisation, clients can also gain access to the source code, giving them the option to manage future development in-house if required.
Web Alliance says the launch reflects growing demand from smaller manufacturers locally and nationally, particularly at a time when many are looking to improve efficiency, reduce costs and remain competitive.
WAMRAD is now available for demonstrations and is supported by a UK-based 8am–3pm, Monday to Friday technical hotline, alongside a ticketing support system that is available at any time. For more information, visit https://www.web-alliance.co.uk/wamrad