Case Studies
A cross-platform window manager and switcher
| Client: |  SMBAct |
| Industry: | Desktop application |
| Location: | Worldwide |
| Budget: | $20 000 |
| Tech Stack: | |
| Website: | smbact.com |
About the project
As the developers of SMBAct Window Manager and Switcher, we set out to create a powerful tool that would enhance window management across different operating systems.
Our goal was to build a solution that would boost productivity by giving users unparalleled control over their desktop workspace.
Main features of the application:
- Efficient window control across multiple displays. Users can position, resize, organize windows, selectively hide or blacklist applications to maintain a clean workspace.
- Customizable keyboard controls: The software has to offer a range of keyboard shortcuts for window management tasks. These shortcuts are fully customizable, allowing users to tailor the controls to their specific needs and preferences.
- Advanced window switching: SMBAct has to include a window switcher with fuzzy search functionality. This feature enables quick navigation between active windows and applications, enhancing multitasking capabilities.
- Integrated Chromium Browser: An embedded Chromium-based browser has to be included in SMBAct. This browser allows users to view websites in customizable, frameless windows that can remain on top of other applications, facilitating easy access to web content.
- Comprehensive documentation and video tutorials. It also includes features for saving and restoring user preferences and configurations, ensuring a consistent experience across sessions.
Challenges
Developing SMBAct required solving complex tasks in several areas, making the project truly challenging.
Some of the main challenges we likely faced include:
- Cross-platform development: Coordinating development efforts to ensure consistent functionality and user experience across Windows, MacOS, and Linuxб that makes this project technically challenging.
- Testing and quality assurance: Developing comprehensive testing protocols to ensure the software works flawlessly across various hardware configurations and operating systems.
- Performance optimization: Balancing the extensive feature set with the need for a lightweight, responsive application.
- User experience design: Creating an intuitive interface that makes complex functionality accessible to users of varying technical skill levels.
- Ongoing support and updates: Planning for future maintenance and updates, considering the software's complexity and cross-platform nature.
- Knowledge transfer: Ensuring proper documentation and updating the software post-delivery.
Scope of work
Electron Application Development
Built a cross-platform application using Electron, ensuring smooth performance across different operating systems.
Custom Node.js Modules Building
Crafted three specialized Node.js modules tailored for Windows, macOS, and Linux to handle system-specific window management functions.
Paywall Server Setup
Implemented a secure paywall server to manage subscriptions and process payments (Lemon Squeezy), enabling a seamless user experience for premium features.
Writing Documentation
Created detailed, user-friendly documentation to guide users through SMBAct's features and customization options.
Web Development
Designed and developed an engaging product page and comparison pages to showcase SMBAct's capabilities and highlight its advantages over competitors.
Results
SMBAct is a stable solution that runs without glitches or drops:
- No refund requests: This indicates high user satisfaction with the product.
- Negligible bug reports: Most user feedback is focused on requests for new features rather than issues with the existing functionality.
- Minimal support tickets: The number of support requests has been low, indicating that the product is intuitive and user-friendly.