App-Scoop

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the founder of TaskBee, which is an online service connecting communities together to accomplish odd tasks and errands in their area. This platform services Canada and is set to launch in the coming months.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire App-Scoop?

We needed them to develop a web platform for clients and maintain the site’s needs after launch.

What were your goals for this project?

I wanted to see them finish what my previous development team could not. Our main goal was to have the platform launch ready within a matter of months. They had to understand the previous team's code and my site needs and goals for the platform.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I conducted an online search and read reviews. I was speaking with the owner of App-Scoop for several months during my issues with the old team I had hired. The owner was extremely knowledgeable and helpful in dealing with the problems I was facing. He made the transition from the old team to App-Scoop very easy. My dealings with him before even hiring him and the amount of help and advice he offered me is what ultimately made my decision, as I knew I could trust him and his team to bring my vision to life.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

They found the most feasible solutions to benefit our business in the long run. They integrated payment solutions and came up with a flow that would make the most sense for users. They implemented a start-to-finish process for when users post a task, apply for one, and complete one.

What was the team composition?

I have one main point of contact, who is the project lead. The owner also checks in to make sure that things are going smoothly and that I am satisfied with the work being done. The project lead communicates with the development team, so everyone is on the same page.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our platform is close to launching now, which it was nowhere near before. Without App-Scoop, I'm not sure where we would be in the development process. They really brought everything together to make my business idea a reality. They have been helpful with suggestions that would make the platform more efficient as well. They’ve shown that they care about the success of my business and given advice based on their own experiences.

They worked in a very efficient and timely manner to bring the development timeline back on track. The App-Scoop team has a wealth of development knowledge. It makes leaving the entire development process in their hands very stress-free, as I know my expectations will always be met.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

I was extremely impressed with how organized everything was. From using tools such as Trello for project management and Slack to communicate, I learned a lot and felt at ease during the entire process. I always knew what was going on, what was being worked on and when things were expected to be finished. They respond right away when we message them with a question or concern. They have tools such as Uber Conference, so if we can’t get into the office, we can voice call and screen share on there to show exactly what we’re talking about. Overall, their exceptionally organized setup has made my experience working with them really great.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I went from a terrible experience with a prior company to just being blown away by App-Scoop. They care, they know what they are doing, and I'm really thankful to have come across them to handle the development of my first venture. I don't see anyone else taking my platform to the heights they can. I plan to work with them for the entirety of this business and any other business I venture into in the future. They know just what to implement and which third-party company is best for my particular needs.

Are there any areas for improvement?

There really isn't anything I can think of that needs improving. From my initial discussions to starting on the development to where we are now, it has been a really great experience.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are an IoT company in the refrigeration and transportation industries. I am the lead developer.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire App-Scoop?

We required a complex routing algorithm on our existing web application that a previous team had already started working on. We also needed an iOS mobile application to interact with our web application. Our tight timeline and specific routing requirements demanded additional resources to complete our project on time.

What were your goals for this project?

The web application was an existing codebase, so it had to be completed with our stack of Laravel, Vue.js, and MySQL. The routing algorithm had to account for many factors and optimize delivery routes. The web app frontend and mobile app designs had to be clear and straightforward while providing all of the functionality and interaction of our platform.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We contacted five vendors and met with them over the course of a couple of weeks. App-Scoop had completed projects similar to ours in the past and had by far the best communication out of everyone. Before making our final decision we contacted a few of their customers, who gave excellent recommendations, prompting us to move forward with them.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

App-Scoop designed, developed, and launched an iOS mobile application. They also took over a portion of our web app, designing and developing both the backend and frontend for our route- planning module. Communication throughout the project was excellent. The team always took feedback positively, provided suggestions based on their experience, and accommodated all of our requests.

What was the team composition?

The web team had four developers, and the mobile team had two. There was also a project manager.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

This outsourcing project helped us solidify and streamline various features, which will help us attract a variety of customers.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

The project manager was in constant communication with us. We had multiple in-person meetings as well as Slack, Jira, and GitHub communication.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

App-Scoop’s communication was excellent. Their accommodation of our feedback was a close second. Their attitude was consistently positive and friendly, and they were always available.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Their proficiency with PHP and Laravel was not as high than we expected, but ultimately it wasn’t an issue.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm an executive director at Taking Root. We're a nonprofit that develops reforestation projects with farmers in Latin America.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

We monitor thousands of farms, which can be very costly if we use our non-customized tools. We were looking for a vendor to build a customized mobile app that would help us automate our process of data collection.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

I created a document that outlined what we needed and App-Scoop came up with a proposal to meet our objectives. Then, they built our app from A to Z and integrated it with our pre-existing online platform. It's an Android app that helps us monitor our farms and the activity that is done in the field. The code includes geospatial data, so it's possible to create maps and synchronize the data about our fields with our system. We have hundreds of fields and we're now able to process the data and send it back much faster. App-Scoop uses the process where they propose the design and we come back to them with our feedback, so it's a very collaborative project.

What is the team composition?

We mostly deal with their CEO and a project manager, but there is a team of people dedicated to our project.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

We were referred to them. We considered five companies and App-Scoop was a great mix of outsourcing and insourcing. They have a team in Vancouver, Canada, and a team in India–we interact with their local team, but our development work is done in India.

How much have you invested with them?

We've spent about $60,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in October 2018, and the relationship is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The app is still in development, but we’re happy with the results so far. App-Scoop uses an agile development process, so they release the product to us after each build and we can provide our feedback. All issues were addressed immediately. We're currently using the app internally and we plan to license the system as a whole to third parties as well.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

They're great communicators. We talk a few times a week and we use Slack to stay in touch. We've also met them in person a few times. It's been a very smooth process.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They're very receptive to our feedback and adapt to changes easily. There have been a few times when we changed our mind and they always accommodated us, making sure we were satisfied.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We had some challenges when we communicated with their local team and they passed our ideas on to their development team in India. A few times our message wasn't communicated properly, so what we got back wasn't exactly what we had requested. But the issue got resolved successfully.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I'm not a developer, but they walked me through the entire process and explained everything. I don't think it could have been clearer if I was a developer. They're programmers more than designers, so if your main focus is the design, hire a designer first and then give the specifications to App-Scoop.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the vice president of operations for BGGoPlan, Inc., a technology company that provides emergency management and response solutions.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

We wanted to improve our technology, adding more features and modules that would enhance the services we deliver to our clients.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

App-Scoop provides frontend mobile app dev and also backend web dashboard support. We worked together to create a roadmap for what we wanted to achieve and how to migrate clients to the new technology. After that, they began working, task by task, to achieve those goals. The framework was already in place; App-Scoop helps enhance the product by providing subject matter expertise.

They’ve addressed some bugs to eliminate dynamic coding and make the product more scalable for iOS and Android. The app is built in an ionic framework, and App-Scoop helped with the code in our GitHub Repository. They’ve also improved our documentation process, integrating Trello to serve as a ticketing system that tracks bugs and work progression.

What is the team composition?

I have one main point of contact.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

They approached us. We need subject matter experts and to outsource some of our work, so the timing was perfect.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent $100,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We partnered in February 2019, and the work is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They’ve exceeded the number of tasks we thought they’d be able to address at this point in the engagement. They’ve finished over 50 independent tasks, which is impressive.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

We have in-house project managers, and App-Scoop is performing to our satisfaction. We use Trello, Slack, and video conferencing to communicate.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We’re in a unique, niche market, and App-Scoop has put in a strong effort to understand our business. Their quality of work is excellent, and they’re extremely motivated to help us succeed.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Because of the different time zones, the communication strategy could probably improve. There’s also been somewhat of a language and cultural barrier, but they’ve navigated it well.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

Meet key individuals and ensure they understand your business. Have a definitive roadmap that outlines a clear scope of work with objectives and a timeline.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO of ActivScout, a social networking platform for athletes and coaches.   

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

We hired App-Scoop to augment our internal development resources in anticipation of a specific launch date.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We provided wireframes and an outline for our desired mobile platform. App-Scoop has developed the solution while our in-house resources complete the UX/UI design. The team is now working on a third-party API integration for a facility booking platform. 

What is the team composition?

The team includes two engineers, one project manager, and the overall manager of the project. Their management team oversees the development team and also communicates with us.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

I became familiar with a member of their team through a series of meetings. He was trustworthy and assured me that they could deliver high-quality work.

How much have you invested with them?

We've spent around $50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project started in February 2019 and the partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The team has introduced us to new development processes that allow us to reach our goals more quickly. We maximized results by combining best practices from both sides. I’m still reviewing their work, but our leadership has already given positive feedback about the code.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

Collaborating with a single point of contact on our side, App-Scoop has demonstrated thorough knowledge at each stage of the engagement. We can always trust them to deliver results on time.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The team is reliable because they consistently meet deadlines. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I’m in the process of reviewing the team’s work, but so far I’ve been happy with everything I’ve come across.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

While I can't speak on others' behalf, working with App-Scoop would surely be a rewarding experience.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the co-creator of the SPRK, an upcoming app that serves as a location-based networking hub. I handle business operations while my partner oversees the technical side.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

Although my business partner has some knowledge of C++, it wasn’t enough to produce the high-quality app that we envisioned. We needed a company that could build us a user-friendly app from scratch.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

As our main app developer, App-Scoop’s scope of work was all-encompassing. They began the process by asking us a stream of probing questions to fine-tune our vision. Their team didn’t hesitate to provide insight on more effective methods for an engaging experience. We originally wanted to use the proximity setting on the map plugin to drive the app’s functionality, but they showed us how allowing users to check into locations would make for a better experience. They also incorporated our specifications. We wanted to attract more sophisticated users, so their developers designed an eye-catching UI with an elegant color scheme and logo. The selfie sign-in is one of the more innovative features; users are prompted to take a current photo to access their account. Once the login feature and chat lobby are developed, we plan to release the app on Android and iOS platforms.

What is the team composition?

They have a designated project manager who serves as our main point of contact, but there’s also some occasional crossover with App-Scoop’s CEO.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

We were initially looking for a local app developer to take on the project, but we found that most were charging exorbitant prices for mediocre work. Instead of settling, we decided to shop around until we discovered the perfect fit. Coincidentally, I ran into a friend who was also building an app. She gave App-Scoop a glowing recommendation, so I immediately researched them and their past work. Their portfolio was extensive, diverse, and high-quality. After reaching out to them, they responded to us quickly with a competitive quote.

How much have you invested with them?

So far, we’ve spent $16,000 to develop a basic version of the app. Once we’re ready to build a full version, the price is expected to increase to more than $30,000. We currently have a payment plan that offers bonuses when sprint goals are reached.

What is the status of this engagement?

They’ve been working on the app since July 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our investors responded positively to the wireframes that we presented to them. They were mostly in awe of the clean, sophisticated UI. We were also able to play around with a beta version of the app. A few pages required more animation, but the overall design is stunning. The user-friendly navigation was also a great sign that the final product will meet our expectations.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

We were immediately impressed by their organizational skills and their overall approach to management. They mapped out the project’s timeline at the beginning of the project and worked diligently to stay true to the estimated time frames. Whether they were answering our questions or providing status updates, they maintained frequent and honest communication with our team.  We also appreciated them for asking us to clarify specifications that confused them instead of blindly developing an incorrect feature.

What did you find most impressive about them?

App-Scoop made it clear that they’re determined for success. Whereas most vendors would listen to our idea and build the app to specification, their team asked us in-depth questions that helped us reshape our original vision into a more engaging product. Their attention to detail is a great asset to their extraordinary organizational skills.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don’t have any legitimate issues with them, but I wish their office were closer to ours. We’re constantly interacting with them, so it would be nice to have the option to meet them in person.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Having a fully-developed app concept before entering the project will help make their information gathering process less intense. However, it’s also important to be flexible with the vision. Our best ideas were conceived after receiving their feedback. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president and co-founder of a cryptocurrency company in the e-sports space. Our goal is to become the standard cryptocurrency in the industry.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

We needed to build an application for iOS and Android devices that acted as a wallet for our cryptocurrency.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

App-Scoop is building our app from start to finish. The team created the wireframes for the platform and designed its interface. They’re programming the frontend and backend to support all of the functionalities we requested. The app allows users to send and receive our cryptocurrency, but also supports another mainstream currency like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. In the app, users can stake our tokens to earn more on their investment.

What is the team composition?

I am in contact with a project manager and about four representatives from App-Scoop, but I’m sure there are more in the background.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

We found them through a Google search, along with about four other agencies. We interviewed each and ultimately decided to work with App-Scoop based on their responsiveness and their level of potential. They seemed to have the necessary capabilities to complete our project.

How much have you invested with them?

We started working together in June 2018 and the project is ongoing.

What is the status of this engagement?

So far, we’ve invested between $50,000–$200,000 on this project.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Currently, we’re still in the testing phase. The App-Scoop team is conducting internal tests and based on their feedback and some screenshots from the app, I’m happy with the direction in which we’re headed. They are receptive to my comments and we consistently collaborate to produce high-quality results.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

The communication between our two teams is consistent and organized. We schedule weekly phone conferences, but reach out via email if we have any immediate questions or needs.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their level of communication is key to our partnership and the success of our project.

Are there any areas they could improve?

App-Scoop is still relatively new to the blockchain space, but it’s such a new industry that most companies are in the same position. They could benefit from a little more experience, but we are all growing together.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am a consultant for ROVE Fitness. We are introducing a piece of full-body fitness equipment into the home gym marketplace in October 2018.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

We are creating a mobile app and a web app that can support the users of our product. We think it's very important that the user has access to videos to utilize the fitness equipment because it's a unique system. We want the app to make the equipment more user-friendly.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We held initial discovery meetings for us to outline how our ideal mobile app would function and be designed. They presented us with options for the wireframes, and we supplied them with logos and video content to be incorporated into the app. The app will contain assembly instructions in addition to video workouts for certain parts of the body, different days of the week, and even for different sports. The app is made for both Android and iOS, and all content can be accessed using the web app, as well.

What is the team composition?

My main points of contact are the founder and a senior sales consultant. There is also a team of developers behind the scenes.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $50,000-$60,000 Canadian dollars ($38,000-$45,000 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

Our project started in February 2018 and is ongoing. We have yet to fully implement the video content.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The work they’ve done to this point is impressive. The user journey within the app, and the overall design, is well-done. The wireframe that they’ve provided functions well. We have not reached the testing stage yet, but given their performance so far, I have no concerns.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

The bulk of our communication is through conference calls and emails, but they have also come to our offices. We’re not a technical group, but App-Scoop has been helpful in guiding us through this process.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They run their business with passion. They are organized, communicative, and personable. They have truly listened to us and understand what our goals are.

Any advice for potential customers?

I have people in different industries that I trust because they are reliable, reasonably priced, and organized, and App-Scoop is one of those firms. I rely on them and would highly recommend them.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the CEO of In App Dynamics, a company that offers mobile templated app solutions.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

Our programmers have some limitations in certain markets, so we needed a partner to find a better way to deliver our creative team’s solutions.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We had a blueprint for a couple of features we wanted to add to our platform, and App-Scoop walked us through how to deliver them in a cost-effective way while also improving them. Our app already existed, but App-Scoop enhanced the product, making it a more effective B2B templated app solution. They worked on the UX, design, and logo creation.

What is the team composition?

I have two main points of contact, and they had a team of developers under them.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

We found App-Scoop online and were considering three other companies, as well. When I spoke to App-Scoop face-to-face, I was impressed by what they could do and the quality of their services compared to the other firms. We had a tight deadline to deliver the new features, and App-Scoop was the only agency that could guarantee they’d finish on time, so we hired them.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent over $200,000 CAD ($150,684 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working together since December 2017.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our partnership has been extremely positive. Our partners and investors have been more than happy with App-Scoop’s work. Their insight has been valuable not only for delivering better customer engagement features but in making sure we stay within budget. Their code is high-quality and more than satisfactory. We haven’t had any problems with them.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management is incredible. They promptly solve any issues that arise. We’ve met in person a few times but mostly communicate via email or phone.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They executed on our blueprint beyond anything we thought it would be. They’re easy to work with and aren’t afraid to speak their mind. They offer suggestions and opinions to make the product as good as possible. We’ve had a fantastic relationship.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

Have a clear vision of your project goals. Ask for their feedback and suggestions because they have great ideas.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the creative director for a company that builds different apps, effects, and augmented reality installations for the creative sector. Our work is at the intersection of art and technology.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with App-Scoop?

We had an Android and iOS app with some technical issues. We needed a partner to solve them and to do some software integration, as well.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

App-Scoop has been in charge of both iOS and Android development from the beginning of the project. Our team also works with them on UI/UX. They developed an interactive map feature and a specific backend that integrated with our systems toolkit (STK).

The app is like Yelp for influencers—it tells people about places to go in different cities that are suggested by certain individuals. We just finished the beta version and are currently onboarding different influencers as we do our soft launch.

What is the team composition?

They have eight people on their team. I communicate mainly with the project manager and the lead developer.

How did you come to work with App-Scoop?

A reputable tech company in our area introduced them to us. We reached out to App-Scoop, spoke a few times, and moved forward together.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $100,000–$200,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We partnered in December 2017, and the project is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The backend and design have allowed us to smoothly conduct onboarding with influencers, partners, and clients. The test users love the app and say it works great. App-Scoop reviews and tests every release to find and fix any bugs.

How did App-Scoop perform from a project management standpoint?

App-Scoop addresses issues in a timely manner. We use project management tools to track updates, reporting, and progress. We have new releases every few weeks, and App-Scoop makes sure new features are incorporated and bugs are fixed.

We’ve met with their team a few times in person, and they’ve been fantastic every time. Communication with both the project manager and lead developer is consistent and flows well.

What did you find most impressive about them?

App-Scoop is attentive and gets things done as discussed. They take feedback well and never make excuses. They even work on tasks that aren’t necessarily in the original scope, going the extra mile to please their clients.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

Talk to them, and they’ll tell you exactly how they can help. They have competitive pricing and are a great group to work with.