From B2B Applications to Website Development: A Change in Perspective
David Wippel
After running my own agency focused on B2B applications from 2011 to 2023, I made a decision in summer 2023: It was time for a fresh start. What I didn't know then – this step would lead to an unexpected professional reorientation.
The Initial Plan and Its Evolution
When I founded Essential Code, the plan seemed straightforward: Focus on digital consulting and building SaaS products. It felt like a logical next step from my previous work. But new paths often bring unexpected insights.
A Year of Shifting Focus
Over the past year, I've tested different directions. One thing became clear: Traditional consulting isn't my path.
My focus now is on building digital solutions – websites, online shops, customer portals, product configurators or booking platforms using Storyblok. Initially, I hesitated to embrace this direction. Why? A premature assumption that website development was somehow less challenging than B2B applications. A prejudice that proved wrong.
New Perspectives, New Possibilities
This realization took time. For years, my work was defined by the complexity of B2B applications. Working with Storyblok showed me something different: Modern web development combines technical excellence with immediate impact.
The Advantages Are Clear
Three aspects particularly convinced me:
Direct Visibility: After years of building behind firewalls, I now create solutions people can actually see and use.
Faster Development Cycles: Shorter iterations mean quicker feedback and continuous improvement.
Technical Depth Still Matters: Experience with complex systems is crucial for robust integrations and scalable solutions.
Technical Foundation Matters
One core conviction from my agency days remains: Technical excellence is non-negotiable. A website needs a solid foundation. This is where my background in complex systems becomes an advantage – I know what matters in architecture.
Immediate Impact as Motivation
Client collaboration has taken on a new quality: Their vision quickly becomes a functioning digital presence. Seeing this direct impact of your work is a powerful driver.
Looking Forward
This reorientation is more than a technology switch. It shows that perceived career hierarchies often exist only in our minds. The technical challenges are different but no less interesting. The impact is more immediately visible.
Going back? Not a chance. This new focus combines the best of both worlds: technical excellence and immediate results. The opportunity to advance businesses through modern web solutions is exactly what I've been looking for.