Crawford Software Works
Website, Software and Support FAQs
Clear answers about web design, website costs, remote work, apps, database systems, ongoing support, legacy Windows builds, Linux options and hardware advice.
Questions before starting
Website, software and support questions answered clearly
Crawford Software Works supports websites, WordPress builds, clean custom websites, apps, desktop tools and database-backed systems. These answers explain the common starting points before a project begins.
The aim is to keep advice practical: what is possible, what is sensible, what it may cost, and when a modern rebuild is safer than trying to keep old technology alive.
Project basics
Common questions about websites and software projects
Do you work remotely?
Yes. Crawford Software Works is remote-friendly and can work with clients across the UK and beyond where the project can be planned, reviewed and supported properly online.
How much does a website cost?
It depends on the pages, features and complexity. We provide clear scopes and pricing before work begins, and we also offer starting-from package pricing.
Do you only build websites?
No. We also build apps, desktop tools and database-backed systems depending on what your business needs.
How long does a project take?
Smaller websites can often be completed in a few weeks. More complex app or database projects depend on scope, integrations, testing and delivery phases.
Do you provide updates after launch?
Yes. Support, fixes and feature improvements can be provided after launch as ongoing work.
Can you help structure the content?
Yes. We can help shape page structure, messaging and user flow so the site communicates clearly and converts better.
Can you improve an existing system instead of rebuilding everything?
Yes. In many cases, targeted improvements are the most cost-effective option, especially when the current system is stable enough to improve safely.
What if I am not sure what I need yet?
That is common. Start with a message or request a free website review or audit, and we can help define the right first step.
Legacy systems, Linux and hardware
Older Windows apps, Linux options and hardware advice
Can you build or support apps on Windows 7 or Windows XP?
We can sometimes help, but we strongly recommend a modern rebuild instead.
For security and cost reasons, it is usually far cheaper and safer to build a new solution for Windows 11 or Linux and then export or migrate your data from the older system.
Legacy builds often require older languages and toolchains, and we may not be able to compile for that operating system at all. Even when it is possible, we often cannot reliably test it in-house and may need to live-test on your machine, which can be disruptive and may cause crashes while compatibility is checked.
Because of the extra work and risk involved, a legacy operating system build typically costs significantly more than a modern rebuild plus data migration.
Why do you recommend Linux, and how can it save money?
Linux can be a cost-effective alternative to Windows for many business systems, especially where the software is custom-built.
- No Windows licence cost for the operating system, depending on your setup.
- A strong security model and frequent updates.
- Stable performance for servers and long-running business tools.
- A good fit for web apps, dashboards, databases and automation workflows.
In most cases, we can rebuild your solution for Windows 11 or Linux and migrate your existing data, such as databases, spreadsheets and documents, into the new system. We will advise on the best option based on your workflow, hardware and any specialist software you must keep.
Do you offer a feasibility check for legacy Windows builds?
Yes. If you specifically need a build for an older operating system such as Windows 10, Windows 7 or Windows XP, we charge £150 to assess feasibility.
This covers checking whether we can build or compile for the target operating system, reviewing dependencies and toolchain requirements, and confirming realistic testing options.
If it is feasible, we will provide an estimate for the legacy build or patch route, plus a comparable quote for a modern rebuild for Windows 11 or Linux with data export or migration. The modern route is often cheaper.
I do not know whether to choose Windows or Linux — can you help?
Yes. You do not need to find someone else.
We have experience with both Windows and Linux and can recommend the best option for your needs and budget. We can also recommend a suitable PC build or specification and advise trusted places to buy the hardware.
Basic setup and configuration is £100. This covers essentials such as accounts, updates, drivers, core settings and getting you online.
We can also advise on security and maintenance tools, specialist software such as DVD authoring tools, reliable suppliers and legitimate discounts where available.
Can you recommend the best hardware to run my new software, and do you add markup?
Yes. For £50 we can recommend a cost-effective PC or laptop specification that is suitable for your new software and budget.
We will provide supplier links, for example Argos, Currys and specialist suppliers we use ourselves, at face value. We do not add an upselling charge.
You will need to factor in the cost of the hardware itself. We can either purchase it for you at face price or provide direct links so you can buy it yourself.
Need a practical answer for your project?
Send a short outline of what you need, what you currently have, and whether the work is for a website, app, desktop tool, database system or older machine. Crawford Software Works can then suggest the most sensible next step.