Crafton

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the Technical Product & Project Manager at a digital marketplace built on the blockchain to create independent access to a new age of capital markets.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton, and what were your goals?

We wanted help in development of our product. We needed help in Frontend development of some components built in ReactJS.

SOLUTION

How did you select Crafton and what were the deciding factors?

They quoted less price and estimated very short time for the completion of work.

Describe the scope of work in detail, including the project steps, key deliverables, and technologies used.

We gave them the task to develop a few codebases for us. Codebases include dashboards, investment flow, signup flow. We started with kickoff meetings in which we presented our business idea and prototype wireframes (all designs). The deliverables were set according to the designs.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

According to them, 3 people. 1 Project Manager and 2 Developers.To

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any measurable outcomes of the project or general feedback about the deliverables?

Their services were pathetic! I don't regret anything more professionally than hiring them for these tasks. 90% of the components had problems and we had to fix all this in house. We had to hire one in house developer to fix the mess.

They always used to shift sprints work to the next one and tried to charge us more money to prolong the cooperation.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timelines.

Communication was good from their project manager, but it was too optimistic, which includes false promises. We have always got all our deliverables late.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

That how they assure you all work will be done and on time. But it doesn't happen.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Yes. For the starters, they can start saying the truth when the tasks will be finished. And also, would be great if they complete what was given to them without shifting the work to next sprints and ask for more money.

Company Responses

The vendor responded on November 30, 2020.

This review serves as a private vendetta and does not represent the opinion of the company. Crafton delivered a complex project for this company in 2018. The project has been delivered with very good quality and within the agreed timeline. We have gained an appreciation from the company's Co-founders - they have spoken highly of us on our Social Media. (examples: https://www.dropbox.com/s/k5txccpe18g1scf/stokr%20copy.jpg?dl=0).

In 2020, we worked with this reviewer, a low-level Project Manager, who offered us his private development services as a side hustle of his. Unfortunately, he was not able to deliver anything of good quality and failed to deliver the work in the agreed timeline. We have requested a refund of the down payment that we have made. As a part of his private vendetta, he has decided to undermine our reputation by issuing this unfair and untrue review (not to mention that in November 2020, he is issuing a review for work that we have delivered in 2018).

We have informed the reviewer's superiors about his conduct and are waiting for their swift reaction.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I play the role of a Digital Projects Coordinator in a well-established Creative Agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton, and what were your goals?

Our goal was to find a specific partner for a specific set of technologies. Crafton was pre-selected amongst other candidates and a series of projects, or parts of projects, were sent out to Crafton to analyze different criteria, which would define the future of the partnership.

SOLUTION

How did you select Crafton and what were the deciding factors?

We did reach out to them based on our detailed research. We were impressed by their reaction time, communication and follow-up skills. They were also very flexible - at the very beginning of our cooperation, the time was of the essence - Crafton’s team was at our disposal even in the late evenings.

Describe the scope of work in detail, including the project steps, key deliverables, and technologies used.

The scope of the work included support, maintenance and revamping of already existing websites. Crafton did provide us with Front-end and Back-end Development with a strong focus on WordPress.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Over the course of our projects, we have been provided with a dedicated team of developers led by a Project Manager. We have also worked with Head of Business Development, who made sure that we are satisfied with Crafton’s work.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any measurable outcomes of the project or general feedback about the deliverables?

We were very happy with their work – they have always delivered top quality in the agreed timeline. I also value the fact that Crafton’s team are proactive and constantly come up with new ideas to make the workflow and product better.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timelines.

Very effective. The communication is always direct and transparent. Crafton kept the deadlines and they have always delivered quality results.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

We are impressed by the quality, spirit and friendliness of the people working at Crafton. They are a perfect mix of professionalism and fun!

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Nothing comes to my mind.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am an IT Specialist in the governmental entity under the Ministry of Justice.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton, and what were your goals?

We had a previous version of our internal Intranet system, but it wasvery outdated both in terms of functionality & design.

This is why we have decided to create a new Intranet platform from scratch, and we believed that Crafton will be a good fit to cover all needed services, including security solutions.

SOLUTION

How did you select Crafton and what were the deciding factors?

We have worked with them in the past on our website – I have found them to be easy to work with, flexible and commited. I was sure that they have what it takes to put our idea into life.

Describe the scope of work in detail, including the project steps, key deliverables, and technologies used.

They have provided us with software engineering, testing and coding in both Vue.js and PHP Laravel framework.

Their team worked with both Front and Backend development. The project was developed according to the timeline, whereas the whole work process was very flexible and open for adjustments.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

We’ve worked directly with two software developers, Project Manager and Account Manager.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any measurable outcomes of the project or general feedback about the deliverables?

The delivered product is a completely new quality for us and our employees. It’s very well thought, user friendly and great in terms of performance.

The new Intranet system boosts our everyday effectiveness..

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timelines.

Project management process was very good – they asked questions, sought out our feedback. We were in a constant communication with the use of a dedicated Slack workspace.

They continuously presented us with the results of their work in alignment with the iteration plan.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Their communication skills and flexibility in meeting our changing expectations was truly impressive.

Crafton surely knows how to put their Clients’ need front. With Crafton, you can rest easy over the whole course of your project.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

N/a

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m a marketing specialist at Stary Browar, a contemporary shopping center.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton?

We worked with Crafton twice. The first time they prepared a responsive website for us. The second time, we chose them for the website redesign and to develop a mobile app.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted our website to be user-friendly and cover relevant content. In both cases, the project included providing information about mall events and sales. Our goal was to create a service built on intuitive structure. It also included a useful map of the gallery. By increasing usability and design, we wanted to attract people to use our website on a regular basis.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

After doing some research for the first project, we came across Crafton. Their offer and portfolio were promising, so we met with them. We liked their philosophy and the story they had to tell. When we decided to do a redesign, we already knew who to choose.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

The project stage included several parts: first tests and research with website users, then creating a wireframe and main concept, and finally making mockups and a universal layout. During the primary stage of usability research, they conducted analyses of customers' preferences and expectations, from which they’ve optimized the users’ path. As part of the work on the renewed version of the website, they changed the graphic design, so that it would be compatible with the new branding of the shopping center and fit in with the latest trends in design. The platform has also been fully integrated with the Stary Browar mobile application. The website was implemented bilingually according to responsive web design best practices.

What was the team composition?

The team included UX designers, web developers, frontend and backend developers, a project manager, and an account manager.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

As an outcome of the intense design phase, each time they delivered a modern website that fulfilled all of our business objectives. The currently implemented version of the website stands out from the competition with an excellent layout, optimal information architecture, and stable performance. All these elements reflect the idea behind the functioning of the Stary Browar, therefore ensuring the balance between the key elements for the mall (trade, art, and business). Advanced functionalities (i.e.: a display of events, a special offers panel, dining information, interactive sliders, and the use of parallax effect) enhance the aesthetic values of the website.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Crafton’s team took care of most of the project. In case of any problems, they responded quickly. We had contact with an account manager on a regular basis. Thanks to the complexity of their service and their initiative, we didn’t have to have many meetings.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

There were two things that impressed me the most. First is their knowledge about UX. For every project, they did dedicated research which proved to be extremely effective. The second outstanding thing is how they organized their work; they didn’t require much supervision. They knew how much time each stage would take, so there were no delays.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, everything was irreproachable.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m a senior communications specialist at NEUCA Group, a leading wholesale pharmaceuticals distributor in Poland.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton?

My company hired Crafton to develop Suplindex, a web application with a database.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to create a solution that would help users find safe diet supplements and monitor their health.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I had been impressed by Crafton’s efficiency and the results of their work when I partnered with them at a previous job. Also, their impressive portfolio spoke for itself. I knew they were the perfect vendor to fulfill our needs.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

Crafton conducted an in-depth analysis of our website concept and pursued UX research and usability tests. Using this information, they developed the web app’s frontend and backend. They also did web and UX design. The Crafton team built a database, a blog, and quizzes within the web app.

What was the team composition?

My team worked with a project manager, front- and backend developers, and UX designers.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The complex database with search and filter capabilities meets our customer’s needs. Because of the convenient and intuitive interface, users can easily find information. The success of this engagement compelled us to reengage Crafton for another project.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Crafton’s work was transparent. Their project manager coordinated our teams effectively; we had regular meetings and frequent phone calls, and we were confident that our needs were understood. We developed a great business relationship.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Crafton expertly handled nearly every aspect of the project, from backend development to UX testing. The team’s innovative ideas were crucial in helping us create this solution.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, we didn’t have any major issues.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the business development manager for a company that offers LED lighting solutions. We serve retail companies, warehouse and distributions centers, logistics parks, and car parking facilities.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Crafton?

After going through a large-scale expansion, we found that our website no longer represented our business well to our target markets. We needed to come up with a solution that was more in tune with our business strategy for the next couple of years. We were also keen to explore different types of media and internet solutions.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Initially, we met with Crafton’s team to discuss our strategy and concept. We also talked about the type of information that we needed to have on our website, including upcoming key events and exhibitions. Crafton came up with a full marketing proposal and explained how the roadmap would fit in with our business strategy for 2019–2020.

Before, our website had disparate sections that did not effectively convey our brand story. Crafting created a new website concept and marketing tool, turning it into a professional and visually pleasing marketing platform. They highlighted key elements and improved the user flow so that customers can identify our business strategy and products. It was almost like storytelling for our brand.

What is the team composition?

We had a direct point of contact and several people working on the project behind the scenes. Our internal marketing and IT teams interacted directly with the Crafton team.

How did you come to work with Crafton?

About two years ago, we asked Crafton to design part of the website for a separate part of our business. We were quite happy with the outcome, so we wanted to work with them again for this project.

How much have you invested in them?

We spent between $50,000–$100,000 on their services.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from December 2018–March 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Crafton delivered above and beyond what we were expecting. They understood our vision and complied with our tight deadlines. We signed the contract in December and needed it delivered by—in time for an exhibition. This was the first of several European exhibitions and events, so it was crucial that the website was ready by then.

The initial responses from our clients have been positive. People have told us the site is quite pleasing and easy to navigate.

How did Crafton perform from a project management standpoint?

It was a seamless interaction, almost as if they were part of the company. This is quite rare in this market. We typically communicated via email, phone calls, and several meetings. The communication levels were exactly what we were expecting. I also had no complaints from my team.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were exceptional. Crafton helped us save a lot of time and money, thanks to their quick understanding of our goals. They provided top service, managed our expectations well, and made us feel supported.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We can’t fault them in any way. The project was seamless from start to finish.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Crafton has an excellent portfolio and the pricing that goes with it. However, don’t always look at the cost. Instead, consider what a company can deliver and within your time frame. Clients need to weigh the benefits of having a solution delivered that is fit for purpose.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm an IT manager at a real estate development group.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Crafton?

We wanted to build an application that we could use to manage our properties. We needed a vendor to help us.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Crafton built a web application for us. We have agents in different cities in Poland, and the app helps us keep track of rent payments, send messages to our clients, and manage electronic applications. The backend is built with PHP and Laravel, and they used Java, HTML, and CSS on the frontend. They also managed the graphic design and the user experience for us.

What is the team composition?

We worked with their business development team, a product manager, two frontend developers, and two backend developers.

How did you come to work with Crafton?

We did some research and Crafton's approach seemed the most professional to us, so we hired them.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent about $75,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with them between February–September 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project was definitely a success. We now have a fully functioning application, which saves our internal team a lot of time.

How did Crafton perform from a project management standpoint?

We did most of our communication through a product manager, and we had biweekly calls where we discussed the progress. It was a very smooth process, and they delivered everything on time.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The quality of their work is very high. They're able to propose their own ideas and complex technologies to the people who don't have advanced technical skills. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can't think of anything.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Have regular meetings and don't be afraid to ask them questions. They can explain the whole process to you.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m an IT specialist at Apsys. We’re a global operator in commercial real estate, designing and building retail and leisure destinations like shopping malls.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton?

We brought Crafton on board to plan, design, and develop a complex new website with an internal application.  

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to improve our web service’s usability and UX and redefine the image people have of our company. Metrics-wise, we wanted to increase visitors to the site and decrease their bounce rate.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found Crafton on Clutch. They’d worked on shopping mall websites before, and we liked their stated results, so we requested an offer from them. Their terms were fair, and the rest of their portfolio was impressive.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

The website and dedicated web app were based on PHP and Laravel. Crafton began by producing and presenting several mockups. They designed the website and integrated several mall services via a CMS. The web app helps our clients manage their stores. All of their work was based on UX research.

What was the team composition?

We had direct contact with a business development manager, but the team also included a project manager, UX designers, web developers, and several front and backend developers. The size of the team was stable and fit the project's need.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Crafton delivered a wonderful web service that presents a positive image of the shopping center and impresses our customers. During the design stage, Crafton combined ideas from the industry with their own unique insights to create a highly user-friendly site.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

We had daily contact with an account manager and project manager, and they kept us updated on everything during the development stage. The project manager served as our connection to the developers. All problems were solved smoothly, and we met weekly as a full team.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their emphasis on UX and analytic approach were fascinating to observe. They were subject-matter experts and they demonstrated strong initiative. Compared to other companies, we rarely had to tell them what to do. They came with their own suggestions.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, I don't think so. Working with them was a great experience.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are the publisher of a local portal in the city of Poznań. epoznan.pl has over one million unique users each month.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Crafton?

We wanted to change the design of the home page and news view.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to increase our reader engagement by having improved UX and aesthetics.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We asked for offers from several companies.

Describe the project in detail.

After they did competitor analysis, Crafton prepared the UX project and graphic design. The final stage was the preparation of codes for all parties.

What was the team composition?

Crafton assigned five people who worked with five of our internal staff.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Given our fairly high traffic, it is difficult to show an impressive increase within 2–3 months. However, we are satisfied with the final output. The site has also received lots of positive feedback.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

It was excellent. We had regular emails, almost every day, at every stage of work. We also had called them at key moments of the project.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We were impressed with the involvement of Crafton’s employees. They respected our suggestions.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a project and UX manager for a consulting and business information company in the department for assessing needs and growth. We provide a couple of services and websites including e-commerce, startup accelerators, financial solutions, etc.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Crafton?

Each one of our services has its own homepage, and we also have our mother company’s page. We were trying to address design and development for our products.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They helped with the design assets in the beginning, they created high-fidelity designs, and then they worked on coding. Crafton helped with developing most of our websites into a CMS in order to easily update content and assets. The idea behind our latest project was having a page that was always fresh and being updated. Our director was keen on creating a responsive and good-looking website.

We like to market our services through the homepage of our company; it displays testimonials, events that we’re participating in, and Twitter feedback from some of our users. When opening the page, visitors can see the services we provide and how powerful and valuable they are. They will also see short descriptions of our past projects as they scroll through the page which include the number of users each product has and the value it brought.

What is the team composition?

There were two developers, one project manager, and one designer assigned to our work, plus the CEO, who was available in the beginning whenever we needed support. He also attended some of our meetings toward the end, making sure that the communication was going well, and everything was aligned.

How did you come to work with Crafton?

I’d worked with them before on other projects. I reviewed some of their work and found it impressive, so I chose Crafton.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Crafton in December 2015. They’re still working with us.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Crafton is extremely creative and they make great designs. They always come up with great ideas and listen to the client’s needs. They understand our stakeholders’ business goals, and they’re patient whenever we request a change. Even if the work was done, they redid it and made sure we liked it.

How did Crafton perform from a project management standpoint?

We work in agile through Jira. They review what needs to be fixed, they assign the tasks to their developers, and they deliver right away. We talk to them daily via Slack.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re quick and creative.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Communication needed to be improved in the beginning, but it was resolved by the end. We had a couple of meetings with some of them, but, when the project manager came in, she needed to be briefed again, which slowed us down, but we picked up the pace again.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

It’s important to have a clear scope before starting the work. Even if it changes, it’s good to go back and see what changed.