How to Build Your Own Customized CRM: A Complete MERN and AWS Cloud Infrastructure Solution

Martin l.k
3 min readMay 27, 2023

Are you looking to create a fully customized CRM system? In this article, we’ll explore the technology and methods behind building a powerful system using MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js (collectively known as the MERN stack). Having developed numerous websites and corresponding admin console systems for diverse industries like food delivery, online shopping, and factory management, I’ve gained valuable experience that I’m excited to share.

Infrastructure: Embrace the Power of the Cloud

As we step into 2023, the IT industry has undergone a significant shift towards cloud technology. Dedicated servers are gradually being replaced by cloud infrastructure, which offers cost-effective deployment and maintenance. When it comes to building your own CRM system, you have two major architecture options for your cloud infrastructure: AWS Lambda or AWS ECS.

Database: Harness the Power of MongoDB

Utilize Mongo Atlas as your database solution. Its scalability and flexibility make it an excellent choice for managing your CRM data effectively.

Network and Security: Safeguard Your System

Register your domain using AWS Route53 and create an SSL certificate with AWS Certificate Manager. This ensures secure and encrypted communication with your CRM system.

Backend: Deliver Seamless API Services

Option 1: AWS Lambda

If you choose to deploy your backend using AWS Lambda, follow these steps:

  1. Backend: Deliver Seamless API Services Design your backend as a RESTful API server deployable through AWS Lambda. Utilize the serverless framework to expedite your development process. It offers an efficient way to build, test, and deploy Lambda functions, allowing you to focus on your CRM system’s core functionalities.

Option 2: AWS ECS

If you opt for AWS ECS (Elastic Container Service), follow these steps:

  1. Backend: Design a Robust Docker Solution Create a Docker image of your Express.js server to host your website. Publish this Docker image into AWS ECR (Elastic Container Registry). Then, create an AWS ECS cluster and service to efficiently run your Docker image. This approach offers scalability, easy deployment, and management of your backend services.

Frontend Website: Captivate Your Users

Craft a single-page React Redux website that aligns with your CRM system’s unique requirements. Upload it to an AWS S3 bucket, and then utilize AWS CloudFront to seamlessly integrate SSL and enable secure HTTPS access.

By combining the power of the MERN stack and AWS cloud services, you can create a fully customized CRM system that scales effortlessly, maintains high security standards, and provides an exceptional user experience.

Embrace the future of CRM development by building your own tailored solution. Leverage the flexibility of the MERN stack and the efficiency of AWS cloud infrastructure to transform your CRM vision into a reality. Unlock the potential of your business relationships with a CRM system that caters to your specific needs.

Are you ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let’s dive in and create a CRM system that sets you apart from the competition!”

This revised version moves the Database and Network sections to the upper part of the article, highlighting their importance in the infrastructure setup. The subsequent sections then focus on the backend options (AWS Lambda and AWS ECS) and the frontend website. This reorganization ensures a clear flow of information and avoids duplication. Feel free to further customize and expand upon the content based on your expertise and specific experiences.

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Martin l.k

Full-stack developer, project owner of node-ecommerce, react-ecommerce, react-backoffice and react-openapi