Abbacus Technologies

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the director of several e-commerce companies

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Abbacus Technologies?

We hired Abbacus to help us overcome some issues that the fast growth of our e-commerce website were causing, and to help speed up the development and deployment of new features and functionality.

What were your goals for this project?

This is an on-going project, with the goals of improving customer experience and growing a website storefront into a global brand.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

This project is extremely important to our company, and I had heard good things about Abbacus in the past. I selected them after comparing them against some of their peers online.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

At an early stage, Abbacus assisted in resolving a mission critical bug that had been affecting some of our clients - it is worth noting that we had several other specialists attempt to solve the same issue, and were very pleased when Abbacus managed it. Since then, they have been assisting with adding new features to our site, improving the customer flow, and improving functionality.

What was the team composition?

We work directly with three members of the Abbacus team (Cindy, Vishal and Jayesh). We are fortunate that they are all good communicators, and show a great deal of initiative.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

The resolution of the mission critical bug has saved us hours of customer service work each day, and without a shadow of a doubt it has helped us complete sales that may have otherwise have been lost. The other work done by Abbacus is assisting us in rolling out our offering to an international audience.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

The projects are managed via direct communication, skype and google sheets. It has been effective so far, although if we continue to rely on their services we are likely in invite them to use our basecamp project management system.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They communicate well, work hard, deliver on schedule, and they have some talented developers.

Are there any areas for improvement?

So far, there has been very little that I would flag as being an area for improvement. I am happy with their service.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are Graphic designers specialising in marketing services of which a good proportion is internet driven and I am the Managing Director

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Abbacus Technologies?

From our designs and visuals supplied Abbacus have for a few years now provided the back end and responsive build to the point of going live, testing leaving us to populate.

What were your goals for this project?

Speed and accuracy and a good constant relationship throughout the process with a good latitude of adjustment throughout the process.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

By reputation and a personal visit from the principle from india to us in Hereford England

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

Al our projects are varied and we are not prepared to discus these in technical detail suffice to say that we have never had a problem with Abbacus. They are excellent to work with and very proactive

What was the team composition?

Again we usually get designated development engineers and we build up a good working relationship with the team and the experience is reciprical

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

No we would prefer not to as most of our work is confidential but the impact on our business has always been very positive

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Managed with Skype and very effective.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Always proactive a ready to help at short notice

Are there any areas for improvement?

There is always room for improvement but generally considering the time zone difference and the distance involved between india and the UK we are happy with service

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We develop wordpress plugins and sites.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Abbacus Technologies?

We hired Abbacus Technologies to develop new features for our sites.

What were your goals for this project?

Getting credit card info, adding product comments on cart and more.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Saw addvertisements of them.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

The development had few tasks. For each of them AT estimated the cost in hours. And we continued task by task.

What was the team composition?

I worked with team manager that activated a programmer.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

I'm very happt for most of the outcomes, that now running in our sites.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

It was a small project that was organized very well.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Very good knowledge of wordpress and woocommerce hooks and how to develop the plugin.

Are there any areas for improvement?

The company could do more testing before submitting the produce.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We offer non-twisty small group international trips that follow sustainable/responsible principles. I am the founder and CEO of the company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Abbacus Technologies?

Abacus redesigned the website, added functionality as well as additional enhancements identified later.

What were your goals for this project?

Make the website aesthetically appealing to customers, user friendly, easy navigation, and comprehensive information on trips.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Recommended by a mutual colleague.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

Abacus redesigned the look of the website including the homepage as well as subsequent pages; added needed navigation, improved the ability to book trips including making secure financial transactions; created testimonial page and blog.

What was the team composition?

Main IT person & project manager overseeing the work and payment.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

The work noticeably increased the look, feel, functionality, and user-friendliness of the site, which was very important in a big improvement over the previous version.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

I'll requests go through a project manager to be approved and the work costed out. Work done by one IT person. Process worked fine.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They got the needed work done and was reasonably priced.

Are there any areas for improvement?

All was okay.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president of Marketing Rewards Ltd.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Abbacus Technologies?

We engaged with Abbacus Technologies to develop the rewards program for us from scratch. The team also developed a Magento platform for the multi-merchant environment through Shop.bs.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

The team at Abbacus Technologies built everything from the ground up. They also assisted with designs using our ideas.

What is the team composition?

We currently work with Michael (Business Development Manager) and a developer. There is a team in the background, but we primarily have conversations with those two.

How did you come to work with Abbacus Technologies?

We looked at a few companies online through recommendations about different experiences. After receiving various proposals, we engaged with Abbacus Technologies. They’re one of the leaders in dealing with the platform we wanted to use. They also completed several successful e-commerce platform projects. Their timelines and the cost were also more realistic compared to other companies.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent about $100,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started engaging with them in early 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

For changes and updates, they’re still our lead developers. There are issues here and there, but ultimately, I’m satisfied. The payment processing within the platform was customized for the Bahamas, and their team came through with that development, making sure it met laws and requirements.

How did Abbacus Technologies perform from a project management standpoint?

We have a great relationship with Michael. It’s grown into a personal relationship that parallels the business aspects. He represents Abbacus Technologies in a significant way. They’re great at facilitating any requests we put forward. If they can or can’t do it, it’s always a comprehensive discussion between both parties. We seek to continue working with them because of the relationship we have professionally and personally.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Overall, they’re a great company. I think they’re doing an excellent job.

Are there any areas they could improve?

When it comes to areas for improvement, it mainly relates to timelines. Given the aspect of the project, there is a lot of trial and error, so this might not be a good spot to measure them by. We have a lot of ideas, and everything we do is custom, so there’s a lot of different challenges. But in the end, some aspects of the project went over.

We would have to speak to Michael to get a team together, and they work to achieve the goals within the weekend. The pressure was on at that point, but they came through for us in the end to meet the deadlines.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

To a certain degree, have a strict deadline. We realize that is something we have to do. Initially, we had a lot of back and forth without specific timelines and diagrams. Weeks can go by, which ultimately delayed our project. We’ve realized we have to have them adhere to those strict deadlines for our launch.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Luxury For Princess is an hair extensions & styling tools company based in the Netherlands, Europe. Beyond beautiful hair, our mission is to inspire confidence and empower you to look and feel your best. Our customers are the center of everything we do. With this, we have build an loyal customer base from all over the world.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Abbacus Technologies?

We hired Abbacus to set up and build our new Magento 2 webshop. Abbacus also helped us with the migration from Magento 1 to Magento 2. We entrusted this project to Abbacus Technologies while our team concentrated on the design aspect.

What were your goals for this project?

Our current webshop (Magento 1.9) had to be upgraded to Magento 2. Therefore we asked Abbacus to arrange the migration. We also thought it was the perfect time to update the look of our website.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We searched for an Magento 2 specialist and we saw positive reviews from other people who get their services. After a few calls with Michael, Business Development Manager, we started with the migration and new layout design for our Magento 2 webshop.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

For the migration all worked out perfectly and the process was very fast. For the design project, we provided the designs. A great thing is that we provided the designs in PDF and Illustrator and a detailed briefing of the project. In the meanwhile we had contact through Skype.

What was the team composition?

Usually the team consists of 3 people from our side (designer, developer / tester and manager), the Abbacus team depends on the required tasks. We notice that Abbacus raises the team when a tight deadline has to be met.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

At this moment we are very happy with their work. It's an company you can count on. The lines of communication are short and the communication is very smooth.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Mainly via Skype and email. The communication was from the beginning very easy and clear. The process was very smooth and effective.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The dedication of their team is amazing; we haven't had this before with other companies. Communication with the team (project manager, developers) is fast and smooth, we have no problems communication our wishes and ideas.

Are there any areas for improvement?

At this moment we do not have anything for improvement.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Company Director. Online E-Commerce business specialising in Health Supplements

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Abbacus Technologies?

Redevelop my website

What were your goals for this project?

To revamp and rebrand an existing website. To offer customers a simple and easy sales process.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Research and communication led me to Abbacus. I had a phone conversation with Michael that gave me confidence in their ability to deliver my goals.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

Full revamp and rebrand on the existing website. SEO Technical support Ongoing website development and support

What was the team composition?

The team comprised of a dedicated Account Manager, plus 1-2 developers working on my project at any given time.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

The website was completed successfully and to my brief The website is now Live I now have a fully operation E-Commerce business

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Mainly via Skype and phone calls. the communication became easier over a period of time. I found the process to be smooth and effective

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The Skillset of the web developers is very good. They have a detailed understanding of Magento platforms, as well as website design. They also offered advice on product placement and overall look and flow of the website. I was also updated weekly on my workflow.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No specific areas for improbvement.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner of a web development agency based in Liverpool.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Abbacus Technologies?

We have an ongoing relationship with them for various technical developments.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They typically work in PHP and are responsible for integrating bespoke web designs into WordPress sites. 

What is the team composition?

They assigned us a project manager and a technical lead. There are two main developers on the account. 

How did you come to work with Abbacus Technologies?

They called us and it seemed to be the right time for us to bring on a new partner. We’ve worked with several companies, but I liked how they structured their teams for their partners. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent roughly $25,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started our collaboration in September 2017, and it’s ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Our developers evaluate their code and team. They always deliver, and we’re satisfied with the work they’ve provided. The team has easily integrated into our processes. 

How did Abbacus Technologies perform from a project management standpoint?

They accommodate us when we’re in need of assistance on projects. We’ve structured a strong communication cadence, and they’re very responsive. I’m able to be hands-off, as they can manage their work independently. Skype is our main channel of communication. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re responsive, dedicated, and reliable.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Our time zones are different, so it would be ideal if they had a presence in the United Kingdom. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Understand what you want them to do for you, and deliver a tight brief. That’ll help with communication moving forward.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

One man show project / idea. I work on the finance industry and Fairy Tail Labs is a company I own as a side hustle. I publish games, application, and books. The company works a lot with outsourcing different parts to the most suited freelancer or company. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with the vendor?

Software development is always a bit of a headache to deal with, especially when the project is complicated and will require ongoing support. In addition software development is quite expensive. So the challenge was to find suited candidates to work with at a fair price for the long run.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement? 

To start with, I went to them with a blueprint that described my idea, as well as the concept which I was going for. With that as guide they manage to complete the development.

The full development and technical support of the project. The initial agreement was for the development but eventually we expanded our deal.

What is the team composition? 

I was introduced and work with a few people. A main person for all the new stuff I wanted an offer, as well as any other problem occurred. Not sure what is the title of that employee.

Then two additional people on technical stuff one of which is the person I talk every week of so for any open work or problem/ bug requires attention. Additional staff was introduced to me for specific purpose, like art works and technical suggestions.

So, I would say, each client was a tem of 2-5 people work on an order, from the pricing to the execution level.

How did you come to work with the vendor?

I did a few months search and did talk to a few companies and freelancers, mostly for upwork platform and other verified 4-5 Star companies from Europe, USA, Asia, as well some other places like Russia.

In the end the had the best value for money ( not the cheapest) and seemed to be the most organized and trustworth. Trust when outsourcing is always an issue. 

How much have you invested with them?

The do run the bulk of the project in terms of development. I thought to have more than one developer as safety, but I find that not necessary after a point. 

What is the status of this engagement?

The project is a living organism, so, we still work on different aspects, bugs and expansions of the offer of the product.  So, status. : Ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

After almost a year (10 months) and around 15.000 users in the two main platforms (iOS n Android), I got no major bugs, around a dozen minor ones and very few crushes per month (around 10 per month in both platforms).

So, for something so new I can say it was a job well executed on a technical level, which was and still is my priority. 

How did the vendor perform from a project management standpoint?

Above average and above expectations. When outsourcing you are more or less prepared of having a few issues and delays, but impressively the delays were acceptable and justified. No additional charges of any other issued occurred. 

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The value for money. The quality of work I get per dollar is amazing.

Are there any areas they could improve?

A better product testing procedure. That is before I get my product to test in myself and give feedback, there will have gone through some internal testing. I find that part a bit lacking.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be specific on what you want. If you do that, they can execut it great, but if you are not specific or your instructions are a bit vague, you will have to deal with delays and a lot of back and forth. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner of a design company. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Abbacus Technologies?

I needed to have an app created. It allows people to create and design without needing to go to design school.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Abbacus Technologies developed a mobile app for Android and iOS. I provided most of the wireframes.

What is the team composition?

Michael (Business Development Manager) is my main point of contact. Umang (Senior Business Analyst) creates flow charts, Kalpesh (Project Manager) leads a team, and Paresh (UI/UX Designer) is included in all communications.

How did you come to work with Abbacus Technologies?

They were recommended by one of my computer techs. She knew of some work they had done.

What is the status of this engagement?

We began working together in fall 2019, and it’s ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

Abbacus Technologies is willing to accommodate my needs. I’m very satisfied with the work they’ve done.

How did Abbacus Technologies perform from a project management standpoint?

While it may take a little longer to explain things, due to a small language barrier, they are very competent. We use Skype and email to keep in touch.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re very accommodating. My wireframes used a specific technology, and they brought in a specialist to work on the project. Abbacus Technologies is a great company; I like them a lot.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They could use more project management tools, such as Basecamp. It would also be good if they had someone assigned to work during US business hours.