Business
The real cost of a custom web development project
PULSE.digital · 6 min
Why do quotes vary so much?
You asked for 3 quotes and got prices ranging from €20K to €150K? That's normal. Here's why.
Factors that influence cost
1. Functional complexity
A showcase site costs €5-15K. A complex business application: €100K+.
2. Level of customization
Adapted template vs custom design = 30 to 50% difference.
3. Integrations
Each third-party API (payment, CRM, ERP) adds €5-20K.
4. Performance and scalability
An app for 100 users ≠ an app for 100,000 users.
Price ranges
| Project type | Range |
|---|---|
| Showcase site | 5 - 15 K€ |
| E-commerce | 20 - 80 K€ |
| Business app | 50 - 200 K€ |
| SaaS platform | 100 - 500 K€ |
Hidden costs to anticipate
- Maintenance: 15-20% of initial cost per year
- Evolutions: plan for 30% of initial budget
- Infrastructure: €200-2000/month depending on load
Our advice
Never choose the cheapest option. A failed project costs 3x more to redo. Invest in quality from the start.