If then,
co too
Do you have a Dutch company that requires a unique software solution that is also interesting for other users? Would you like a favorable license rate by sharing your idea and experience? If then, co too!
Have you developed a scalable product with a proven market? Is your product outdated or in need of a new impulse? Do you want to collaborate or sell your product? If then, co too!
Are you an entrepreneurial investor looking for a unique way to invest? Would you like to invest in one of our platforms or build something new together? Do you see the potential of platforms? If then, co too!
Do you have a software platform recognized by the market? Do your revenues prove you have tapped into a viable market? Would you like to sell your software fully or partially? If then, co too!
Do you have a software platform also used by other entrepreneurs but lack the motivation, knowledge, experts, or resources to continue its development? If then, co too!
Code with the flow
Our platforms continuously evolve, using the latest techniques and based on user experiences. At rates acceptable to everyone. Softhouse thrives on flexible collaboration with energy and enthusiasm.
At Softhouse, it is always about the client. Every platform must 100% match the needs and desires of the client. Using our platforms must be intuitive and seamless. That "flow" is the ultimate phase for us. That’s when it truly feels like co-development. That’s when we are genuinely co-workers with our clients. We don’t deliver expensive custom solutions with costly upgrades for the happy few. We build smart software platforms for the happy more.
Accessible and sustainable solutions that are highly valuable to everyone. Open platforms designed to grow. This results in satisfied and loyal clients. Because that is what we at Softhouse always strive for: long-term relationships. We also have many clients who have been doing business with us for over ten years, and in some cases, the relationship goes back twenty years. For us, this is the ultimate proof that we add value.
Vacancies
Softhouse is a close-knit team of code partners. A pleasant group united by a love for complexity and challenge. With a shared answer to that complexity and challenges: code. In code, we trust.
Will you be our co-worker?
Do you have extensive experience and are looking for like-minded individuals to spar with at a top level? Or are you a young coder eager to challenge our specialists? Whatever your motivation, you are welcome in our close-knit team. We are always looking for the best co-workers.
Full Stack Software Engineer?
Are you a passionate Full Stack Software Engineer? Do you want to work on state-of-the-art applications? Feel at home in an informal environment and want to learn from the best? Do you also believe in co-creation, co-operation, and co-ownership? Check out the vacancy and apply at Softhouse.
Co-creation Through the Years
Our journey of co-creation began in 1991 with a strong focus on co-makership and co-ownership. Over the years, we have tackled exceptional challenges with our coding expertise, supporting leading brands and clients. Our appetite for innovation and complexity has driven us to great achievements and continues to fuel our passion, even after decades of work and millions of lines of code.
Founding
Softhouse was founded in 1991 by Paul de Blaauw following his computer science degree and a brief career in two software companies. Initially, Softhouse specialized in custom software solutions for administrative tasks in the maritime and automotive industries.
Launch of SOVIS and Sale
In 1994, Softhouse developed a logistics ERP system for the petrochemical and installation industries called SOVIS. The business grew, attracting potential buyers, and in 1999, Paul de Blaauw sold the majority of the company and stepped back as director.
Reacquisition and Strategic Shift
Following the decline of SOVIS under new ownership, Paul de Blaauw decided to reacquire full ownership of Softhouse in 2001. The company then discontinued the development of SOVIS.
Entry into the Equine Market
In 2001, Softhouse began developing a registration platform for the equine sector, initially for the Royal Association Het Friesch Paarden-Stamboek with around 15,000 members. This project laid the foundation for the EQUIS platform.
Entry into the Logistics Market
In 2003, Softhouse developed a system for planning and coordinating arrival and departure times at loading docks. This became the basis for the current DC Transport Planner (DCT) platform.
EQUIS Platform Established
In 2004, Softhouse consolidated its equine activities under the brand EQUIS by partnering with CRV and Media Primair. Despite CRV’s subsequent withdrawal, its equine clients transitioned to the EQUIS platform.
Entry into the Retail Market
In 2008, Softhouse collaborated with Hallmark Retail Internet Services to create an online platform used by 5,000 retailers across the Benelux and Germany. In 2020, Softhouse discontinued the platform’s operations.
Second Generation of DCT
In 2011, Softhouse partnered with an international supermarket chain to launch a second-generation DCT platform, piloted in 35 distribution centers in France. It featured rapid configuration tools for new centers.
Second Generation of EQUIS
Softhouse developed a new open platform integrated with third-party solutions, including apps for equine passport processing and event inspections. EQUIS became the dominant platform in the Netherlands, handling 85% of registrations.
Third Generation of DCT
In 2021, DCT underwent a modernization to manage over 4 million bookings annually. New features included driver check-in kiosks, access management tools, and waiting room scheduling capabilities.
LTO Joins Delta Horses
The entry of LTO into Delta Horses boosted the EQUIS platform, which now serves 90% of studbooks, horse owners, and breeders in the Netherlands. LTO’s investment supports the platform’s ongoing development.
Facts & Figures
Softhouse is approachable and friendly, yet capable of addressing critical business needs with precision. We value the right balance in our team.
We invest between €500K and €2M in developing or acquiring software platforms, driven by the strength of co-funding.
Our team blends experience and youth, collectively representing nearly 200 years of coding expertise while staying agile and innovative.
Our platforms are vital to numerous customers daily. We are committed to delivering reliable products and exceptional service.
Why We Participate in Coding?
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Our approach starts with identifying a critical business question from an initial user. We aim to solve challenges that cannot be addressed by standard applications. Co-finding the answers is our mission.
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We build and operate platforms that are scalable, open, and future-ready. By fostering collaboration, we create the best solutions at the most competitive prices. Co-founding the future is our vision.
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We not only develop and finance platforms but also collaborate with other financiers to create solutions. The result? Satisfied users and a win-win scenario for all stakeholders. Co-funding for shared success.
Unlock Your Business Ideas
Software Development
At our core, we are software developers. Our code solves problems, creates opportunities, and unlocks business potential for users. Let us help you leverage your ideas into solutions.
Funding & Operating
We don’t just develop platforms; we also take on the financial responsibility for their creation. Our platforms are offered as SaaS solutions, ready for market deployment and long-term operation.
Idea Testing & Software Validation
We seek to address unmet market needs, creating solutions for widespread use—not just for the few. Share your challenges with us, and let’s innovate together.
Building & Implementation
We design our applications with real-time client feedback, underpinned by years of expertise and best practices from our other platforms. Our goal is long-term reliability.
Maintenance & Management
Our platforms are continuously improved through co-makership, leveraging collective user insights. Where needed, we deliver tailored solutions to meet specific needs while ensuring platform integrity.
Investment Opportunities
We are prepared to invest in our platforms and offer co-funders the chance to join us. Together, we aim for loyal users and sustainable returns.
We have had an incredible journey as a company, and our exploration is far from over. We are always searching for new funders, finders, and founders to join us.
Get in Touch
Would you like to be part of a transformative journey? Do you want to co-find, co-found or co-fund? Reach out to our founder and director, Paul de Blaauw, via phone or email.
