Transparency Note
This article is about a project we fully developed but that never went into production. We share our experiences because valuable insights can emerge from them.
What Was Tafel.app?
On behalf of Motus UG, we developed a comprehensive digital solution for Tafel Deutschland (German Food Banks) in 2025: Two mobile apps (customer app and scanner app for staff) plus a web dashboard for administration.
The idea was compelling: Digitize analog processes like customer management, queues, and eligibility verification. The calculated potential: over 300,000 saved volunteer hours per year with nationwide deployment.
What Happened?
In short: We built everything – but it never went into production.
The apps (customer app, scanner app) and the web dashboard were fully developed and functional. However, Tafel Deutschland decided against deployment. Our client (Motus UG) had assumed that Tafel would use the solution – that turned out not to be the case.
The reasons weren’t technical:
What We Learned Technically
Flutter Proved Itself
Our decision for Flutter was right. In just 2 months, we developed two complete apps for iOS and Android – with one codebase. Performance was native, development efficient.
Takeaway: For cross-platform apps with limited budget, Flutter is a solid choice.
Privacy by Design Saves Time
We developed GDPR-compliant from the start: data minimization, automatic deletion periods, granular access rights. This cost more time initially but saved trouble later.
Takeaway: For sensitive data (social data, health), Privacy by Design is mandatory – and more efficient long-term.
Offline-First is Complex but Doable
The app had to work without stable internet connection. The synchronization logic was challenging but solvable with local data storage and intelligent conflict resolution.
Takeaway: Offline functionality significantly increases complexity but is indispensable for many use cases.
What We Learned About Projects
Technical Excellence Isn’t Enough
A technically perfect solution is useless if the framework conditions aren’t right. Stakeholder management and timing are just as important as code quality.
Non-Profit is Different
Decision-making in social organizations is longer and more complex. Volunteer structures and democratic processes require patience and adaptability.
Pilot Projects Need Champions
A pilot project needs internal advocates who drive it forward. Without this “champion” on the client side, even the best concept is hard to implement.
Why We Still Show This Project
Some would say: A failed project doesn’t belong in a portfolio. We see it differently.
If you’re planning a project in the social sector, we can draw from this experience. We now know better what matters – not just technically.
Conclusion
Tafel.app was a project with great potential that failed due to external circumstances. The technical work and learnings remain. For us as a team, it was an important experience: Not every good project gets realized. But every project – successful or not – makes us better.
Planning a Digital Project in the Social Sector?
We bring not only technical expertise but also the experience of what matters beyond technology.
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