CrossComm

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president and COO of dooable health. We’re a health and wellness company for employers to offer benefits to their employees. We offer a health and wellness platform for companies to offer their employees.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

Essentially, we were trying to increase our user engagement. We offer one-to-one health coaching, but we utilize our web app and mobile app to get employees to schedule a call with our coaches, and we wanted to make it more seamless. Our web and mobile app was outdated, and we wanted to improve the UX and decrease the friction that it took for users to schedule a session with one of our health coaches.

We had actually gone through our company and realized that we had design debt, meaning that a lot of previous design was done in-house. We needed a third party with a fresh pair of eyes and a UI/UX expert, particularly within the mobile space, to give us unfiltered feedback.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We had an initial discovery call for us to explain our program, existing technology stack, and some of our challenges. CrossComm facilitated the conversation through a discovery session. Afterward, they recapped it for us and recommended that they do a brand and app audit.

They reviewed our existing app’s UI/UX design and compared it with the landscape of our competitors and similar health and wellness platforms. Then, they came back to us with user personas and what they’d need within our app. They also made recommendations about which features to prioritize. Through the collaborative effort of the UX/UI audit, we were able to identify the core needs of our users based on a couple of personas, which led us to the next phase. 

The following phase was a complete redesign of the app, which they executed via Figma. We’d gone through a rebranding process, so they accommodated our new style guide. We also asked them to highlight the section for users to schedule a coaching session as the first action within the app. Outside of that request, we trusted them to recommend all other features and functionalities. 

Once CrossComm delivered the redesign for desktop and mobile, our development team took over for the implementation phase. 

What is the team composition?

We worked with the CEO during the discovery phase and a project manager throughout the project. We also worked with two designers.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

CrossComm was recommended to us, and we did some research. It was important for us to work with a local team, so we appreciated that. We also liked that they had experience in the healthcare field. They’d done projects for healthcare facilities and seemed to have a long history in the mobile space, which we were looking for. 

We only used their UI/UX team, but it was nice to know that they had developers on staff. We felt confident they could make the designs for our internal development team to implement rather than just designing to achieve a pretty look and feel. 

How much have you invested in them?

We spent about $30,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with CrossComm from May–September 2022.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We wanted to rely on CrossComm’s expertise and give our app users a seamless experience. Our goal was for users to log into the newly designed app and feel comfortable, thus, making it easier for them to progress on their personal health journey without the technology getting in the way. CrossComm created an all-new UX/UI, and the redesign has been a huge win for us.

They honored our brand design, guidelines, and style guide while creating a completely new user flow and UI. Before engaging CrossComm, it took up to four clicks to schedule a coaching session. Now, users can schedule a session with one simple click, which is one of the most significant outcomes we’ve achieved.

Additionally, they designed the app to reflect our brand, which sounds simple, but there was a disconnect before we started working with CrossComm. Before, app users didn’t necessarily associate it with the doable brand. Now, it seems like we’re all part of the same company because the brand and app reflect the same style guide. 

The redesigned version of the app has only been live for one month. Since implementing their designs with our user base, we’ve seen an increase in coaching sessions, which has been encouraging. We’ve experienced a 20.2% increase in the coaching sessions scheduled which is what we were hoping for. Although it’s only one month’s worth of data, we’re pleased by the increase. 

Working with CrossComm was a very rewarding experience. It was nice to work on a project with the end user in mind rather than focusing on the internal plumbing necessary for a successful app and platform. The project has positively impacted our UX, and our user engagement and number of scheduled coaching sessions have increased.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

CrossComm made the whole process collaborative, which was nice. They honored our style guide and our priorities, and we were able to work through the nuances. They were also very flexible. At the end of the project, we made a last-minute request because we were going to change the name of the app. Rather than being defensive about it, they worked on it with us; I really appreciated that.

They used an internal project management tool, but I asked them to send us email updates with Figma links to review the designs, which they did. We communicated through Google Meet and email.

What did you find most impressive about them?

From what I gathered, they seemed to have an extensive history in the app industry, which was helpful. They had an appreciation for apps from when the App Store was launched, which evolved into actually having the technical skills to implement designs for other clients.

They also had experience with our specific technology stack, which put me at ease that they were orchestrating the redesign with our technology in mind. I also liked that they had in-house designers. It was nice to know that their core internal team focused on UX/UI rather than outsourcing it. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I could only think of one area for improvement, which I communicated with them. They gave us a list of hours we had to use during the course of the project, but it wasn’t clear if the hours were outside the budget. They provided the total hours but not in relation to the budget, which would have been helpful. For instance, they’d say they’d used 500 hours, and it would’ve been nice to know if it was 500 or 600 hours, so that I had an ongoing report.

We were ultimately within budget, but it would have been beneficial because, as a client, I forget those details. I had a general idea it would be within the range, but sometimes I got lost in the weeds with the number of hours.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I recommend sharing your brand style guide with CrossComm so that they can use it as inspiration to redesign your UX/UI. Using the style guide as a starting point enabled us to kick off the project quickly and maximize our ROI. Also, make sure to leverage their expertise. 

Additionally, it’s helpful to approach the project with a clear goal. For example, we needed to make sure that users could more easily schedule a session with our coaches. Design projects require you to make several decisions, and having a clear goal from the start will keep you on the right path. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the VP of virtual solutions; we’re a software and market research provider.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

One of our clients approached us for a VR project, and we needed to bring on a partner to help us with visualizations.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

CrossComm helped us build software and orchestrate a VR experience for one of our client’s conferences. First, we held a kickoff meeting and shared a PowerPoint deck that walked through the project scope, outline, and objectives. We also shared a script for the VR experience’s look and feel. 

Then, we provided the team with the visual assets required for the 3D experience, and they helped us build the necessary software. After collaborating on project deliverables, we sent the final project to our end client. After that, two team members from CrossComm accompanied us to the client’s conference to help facilitate the VR experience. During the conference, our end client provided Oculus headsets for attendees to access our software. 

What is the team composition?

We worked with Sara (Director of Projects), Yash (Lead Immersive Developer), and Curtis (Immersive App Developer). 

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

We found them through a referral; our CTO had worked with CrossComm in a previous role. 

How much have you invested with them?

We invested about $50,000 in the partnership with CrossComm. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with CrossComm between July–September 2022. We sent the deliverables to the client early September and attended the conference a few weeks later. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We don’t have much to share regarding numbers, but CrossComm played a key role in building our relationship with the end client. Partnering with the team enabled us to confidently take on a complex project, which benefitted our business. Ultimately, our teams worked well together to create a solid, functional output that the client enjoyed using at their conference. Without CrossComm’s support, we wouldn’t have been able to deliver the project successfully. 

Additionally, the CrossComm team was wonderful and delightful to work with. I felt very comfortable and proud putting them in front of our client, which I can’t say for other vendors we engaged. Our end client loved meeting with them and had a fantastic experience with the project; overall, they did a great job.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

CrossComm facilitated a collaborative working relationship and seamless communication flow, which I attribute to our project manager. She was very proactive and never hesitated to ask questions when she was unsure of things. We used Microsoft Teams and emailed to keep in touch during the development process. During the conference, we communicated via text message. 

We worked iteratively throughout each project stage and met weekly to review progress and share feedback. Then, after CrossComm implemented the requested changes, we typically met with the end client together on a biweekly cadence. Together, we were able to execute the end client’s requirements and deliver the project on time and within budget.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I was most impressed by their quality of work, transparency, and honesty. CrossComm set realistic goals and always had a plan B when facing challenges, which was great. They genuinely wanted to deliver on all our asks and presented alternative solutions when they couldn’t. We could tell they cared about our project; they were very dedicated partners. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

Everyone has room for improvement, and CrossComm could be more assertive, but that comes with experience. We faced challenges with the lighting at the conference, which negatively affected how the headsets performed. Since they’re the experts, it would’ve been nice to see them take control and speak up about the lighting.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Since CrossComm is a very communicative partner, I suggest assigning an organized internal point of contact to your project. That way, one of your team members can be responsible for answering their questions and ensuring the project moves forward.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner of a startup that’s developing an educational and entertainment tool involving AR. We’re focused on building humanlike anatomy and personalizing it to individuals.  

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

We needed help in AR development.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

CrossComm has delivered an AR demonstration app that works on Microsoft HoloLens. The tool can take an image and identify the surface anatomical markers of a person standing in front of the HoloLens. It then uses a reference anatomical model within the app and customizes it to that individual using those reference markers. 

I also have some intellectual property that covers different aspects of 3D rendering and customizing to an individual. CrossComm has helped me figure out what’s doable in real-world scenarios and narrow down exactly what should be developed based on the realities of existing technology. 

What is the team composition?

I’ve worked with Don (President & CEO), Sarah (Program Manager), Yash (Lead Immersive Developer), an anatomical 3D artist, and an interface designer. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent a little over $100,000. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working since December 2021, and our relationship is ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The app works as I’ve envisioned it. CrossComm has been extremely quick in developing the tool — I’m impressed with their execution.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

CrossComm’s project management has been going really well. They’re always on time and never miss meetings. If they say they’re going to be there, they will be there — they follow their commitments. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

CrossComm’s technical capabilities are really good — their programming execution capabilities within the 3D, AR, and VR worlds are excellent.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be ready to get moving quickly, and always stay one step ahead of them. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a professor of oncology and the associate center director for translational sciences at Karmanos Cancer Institute. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

We hired CrossComm to come up with an innovative way to educate and engage STEM-interested schoolers from under-resourced high schools in Michigan. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

CrossComm mainly helped us with FocuSSTEM NextGen, a program that engaged at-risk students who were interested in STEM careers. Those students showed up for day-long programs; everything was done in person. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, we wanted to come up with options for students apart from Zoom and other virtual platforms. In that sense, our first project with CrossComm was a brainstorming session to figure out how to work in VR. 

We needed CrossComm’s help to give people a different immersion experience since they couldn’t be in the hospital or the research laboratory. We created three experiences where students had tasks to accomplish. Our group was in the operating room, ICU, and research laboratories — but virtually. On top of that, we created a separate virtual space for students in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, where they were quite isolated from their peers. Through VR, they could meet up with peers that shared the same interests in STEM. 

We used VR headsets to execute this program. I obtained funding for the headsets, which we provided to two groups of 12 students, and our kickoff session was a week-long program where we met in VR. Meanwhile, CrossComm handled all troubleshooting tasks and helped those who weren’t technologically savvy. We also let students keep their VR headsets and asked the CrossComm team to troubleshoot things for them when they were playing games.

As the COVID-19 pandemic wore on, it took a lot to acquire the VR headsets for two reasons; they were always unavailable and were a big dollar investment. Given that, I asked CrossComm what we could do to make the program more accessible to those who didn’t have VR headsets or a robust connection. They proposed using AR instead of VR, and we ended up pulling off a special summit using AR technology. Our brain surgeons, radiologists, and other experts were on Zoom with us, and the audience at home could see what was happening through their smartphones. Through that, we showed things like the brain, red blood cells, and the coronavirus virtually. 

Moving forward, we’ll have other collaborations and pivot again to efforts that can engage high schoolers in STEM education. 

What is the team composition?

We mainly interact with Don (President & CEO), but I also work with Mike (VR & AR Developer) and Yash (Lead Immersive Developer). We also collaborate with Sara (Program Manager).

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

A colleague and I had a project many moons ago where we required an app. That colleague told me about how interactive Don was, so I reached out to his team for a separate project. In other words, we already had an ongoing relationship before this VR project began. Moreover, even when everything was shut down, I continued going to work. It was then that I asked Don if they could help us come up with a more engaging experience for our students. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve invested around $100,000 so far. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started the VR project in June 2020, and we’ve since done other projects with them. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

For success metrics, we do pre- and post-event surveys and debriefings for the students. The program’s alumni can’t say enough good things about the event. A lot of the feedback is subjective, but we do have objective data to show success. For instance, 80–100 students from different states have shown up for the summit. In these times, merely showing up for something is already phenomenal. On top of that, CrossComm has understood our intentions and made everything happen. The students are engaged; they show up monthly and we continue our discussions. Overall, CrossComm takes joy in our success because they understand that the program impacts the students. That makes them a wonderful partner for collaboration. 

Meanwhile, our second major collaboration has required a bit more focus from them, but they’ve also been phenomenal. Don has great people who can figure out how to make things happen for us. This has taken a lot of CrossComm’s bandwidth since this hasn’t been done before. However, they’ve been happy to embrace my request. Other companies can probably do this, too, but they won’t understand why we need it. By contrast, CrossComm has that 1% extra push to make things happen, and it makes the entire experience phenomenal. It takes a company like them to understand and deliver the nuance we require. 

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

CrossComm’s project management is terrific. The team has been organized with the timeline; they always outline deliverables at the end of the calls so that we can review them in the next call. That’s how a project should be executed, and they’ve done it. 

To communicate, we set up meetings with proposed agendas, and CrossComm drives much of it. Sara outlines all the metrics that must be delivered. We’ve also used another third-party vendor to run the program and summit, and Sara has been able to negotiate with them while we’re on the AR and VR platforms. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

CrossComm translates and executes our goals into the deliverables. A product doesn’t always come to life the way we think it should, but that’s exactly what they’ve done. That’s why it’s been pleasurable to work with them.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, there aren’t any. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a researcher at a cancer center.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

We needed someone to develop a web app for one of our research projects.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

First, we discussed our goals for the web app with CrossComm. App development wasn’t our expertise, so they walked us through the process beforehand. They also explained our options and their pros and cons until we finally decided on a solution. Finally, they designed and developed our web app using AWS, guiding us through each step. 

What is the team composition?

We directly worked with two project managers.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

A colleague recommended them to us.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent about $10,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project lasted from January–May 2021.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re still in the testing phase, so we don’t have any hard metrics. However, users like the tool and find it easy to use. 

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

They did an exceptional job and were super responsive. Whenever we had any issues, I would email them, and they’d reply within an hour or even right away. We also had a few video conferences.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They did a great job of explaining things in a way that I could easily understand. We really appreciated that they took the time to translate their processes for us. CrossComm was a true partner who wanted us to be involved in the process.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, there’s nothing they could’ve done better.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Have an initial discussion with them and be open to feedback.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the Director of Engineering at Neuvana. We sell a consumer product that coordinates music with electrical signals through headphones. By synchronizing the two, matching the intensity of the music and the signal, it creates balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. As a result, it creates a calming and soothing effect.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

The first generation of our product had some buttons and controls, but as we simplified the interface, we wanted to harness the processing capabilities in smartphones.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They developed an iOS and Android app that had the same functions as our initial product. It’s also encrypted, has authentication and security features.

What is the team composition?

We usually had 2–3 people working on our team. initially worked with a project manager, but now we work with an Android expert, iOS expert, and a few other people jump on calls from time to time.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

One of the people I work with has a son who works in software development and he recommended CrossComm. We talked with them a few times before we started, liked what they had to say, and decided to do it.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent about $100,000—$150,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in January 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The app just launched on Google Play and the App Store. They continue to help us with our structure. So, we have a free version and a premium version. So we’re hammering out what a consumer expects and what features they need in each version.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

They were very good. We were working on a tight timeline, but they were very upfront. We sat down and highlighted the features we needed, gave them a wish list, and they identified what was realistic. More often than not, they checked off the bulk of the list. Their timelines were also pretty accurate.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were very responsive and hands-on. If we need something urgently, they’re understanding.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I would like to understand the code and software they use better. Not because I think it would make the project better, but because I’m curious.  

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

You should develop an iOS version first and then translate it to Android upon completion.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the head of a technologies lab at a research institute. We work on current VR, AR, and mixed reality technologies. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

My team was designing a game and needed to outsource development work.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

CrossComm developed an immersive VR framework for a 3D game engine and other applications. They trained my company’s in-house developers to use the framework. We continue to engage CrossComm for other projects.

What is the team composition?

My team engaged with project managers and a developer.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

We discovered them online and spoke with some of their managers. They’re also a local company.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent between $25,000–$50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

My team began working with CrossComm in December 2018. Our partnership is ongoing and we have collaborated on multiple projects.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The framework has received positive feedback and works very well. It has become a valuable internal tool for my team, and we are currently deploying it in several projects.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

CrossComm has provided technical advising, design consultation, and user training. They’ve been responsive to our questions and requests. The team offers frequent progress updates and meets all deadlines.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their collaborative approach was ideal for this project, and they fulfilled all of our requirements.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Nothing comes to mind. Overall, it was a good experience. I’ve recommended CrossComm to colleagues. They have a lot of offerings.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder of EAS Ventures LLC. We support positive personal learning and development for both individuals and organizations.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

I wanted a tool to support my services. My work is more on the conceptual and abstract end of the spectrum, so I decided to create an app to make the process a bit more concrete. I hired CrossComm to help me built an app that allows my clients to manage their personal change journey through smart journaling.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

First, I had a discovery phone call with their senior developer. We discussed my expectations and laid out the scope of work for the project. It was important for us to start on the same page. After that discussion, I met with the CrossComm team in their office to go over the high-level design elements. We wrote out an outline that would act as a set of parameters for the application.

Once we were clear on the design, CrossComm started working on wireframes and storyboards. We went through a few iterations before we landed on something both sides were happy with. After finalizing those elements, the team started coding. It’s a native iOS app. Users can electronically write notes or journal entries on their mobile device, then tag each one based on its content. They can assemble a customized in-app dashboard to manage their notes and search using a series of filters and categories. Basically, the app offers a more organized approach to journaling. We’re going to finish up some internal testing and fix any bugs that arise. Then, the CrossComm team will help me launch it on the App Store.

What is the team composition?

I work with a project manager and a developer.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

I searched online for a professional vendor that was based in my area. I wanted to be able to meet in person whenever necessary. I came across CrossComm’s website, which had a chat function. I had a quick real-time conversation with a representative. They were very responsive and had a real personal touch. After a follow-up conversation, I decided to officially partner with their team.

How much have you invested with them?

So far, I’ve spent $25,000 on this project.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working on this in October 2018, and the project is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We haven’t launched the app yet, so we don’t have any concrete results. With that said, initial feedback has been good. Users appreciate the simplicity of the design.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

The workflow was smooth. We had a weekly call to discuss our progress. The CrossComm team met all deadlines and stayed within our budget restrictions.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They made me feel very comfortable. I don’t have a technical background, so their knowledge was instrumental to the success of this project.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I can’t think of anything.

Any advice for potential customers?

Clients should keep their timeframe and budget in mind when setting goals with CrossComm. As a startup, this is very difficult. I wanted things quickly, but I had limited resources. Their team helped me manage my own expectations. I’m happy with the product I got for the time and money that I invested.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the co-founder and chief creative officer of Wallcrawls. We provide customized solutions for augmented reality (AR) apps.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

We lost our development partner and needed another firm to help complete our projects.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

CrossComm uses Unity to create AR experiences and demos for our clients. Instead of just completing assigned tasks, they work with us to strategize and implement the best programs and methodologies to achieve our goals. For example, they assisted in the development of an AR demo for an international hospitality company. After collaborating with us to determine the best solution, they used Unity and ARKit to create a map that pops up and explains aspects of the client’s property.

What is the team composition?

We work with six or seven members of their team both individually and as a group. This includes their owner, a project manager, a developer, a Unity specialist, and an accountant.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

I researched development firms online and found their website. I reached out to them and they jumped at the chance to help. We’ve been working together ever since.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent roughly between $40,000 and $50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We hired them in April 2018 and the engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have a couple of ongoing projects with them that are in different stages of development and client feedback has been positive across the board. Everyone who sees the products are floored by what CrossComm has created. It’s amazing to watch people experience AR for the first time. Also, they helped us overcome an insane deadline that was imposed on us by another firm. They came to our aid and that demonstrated their character and work ethic.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project manager is awesome. He’s easy to get a hold of and quickly responds to questions. He’s also helped train us on a couple of things so we can be more self-sufficient in the future. Open communication facilitates reasonable expectations on both sides. Our work hasn’t yet necessitated the use of project management tools, so we only communicate via phone and email.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Each individual on their team is passionate about what they do. When we bring an idea or client to them, they immediately start thinking about how to create something awesome. I always know they’ll deliver something great because they’re excited to take on the challenge. As a result, that excitement spreads to our team and the client as well. We continue to work with them because they work quickly, communicate cordially, and they produce remarkable products.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I’d advise their future partners to remember that development takes time. If you want good work, you have to be willing to pay for it and wait for it.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an associate professor of oncology and a clinical psychologist with the Karmanos Cancer Institute. We're an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center located at Wayne State University.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with CrossComm?

I received funding from the NCI to build a mobile app that helps patients monitor side effects and manage their adherence to oral cancer treatments.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

I conducted research for several years prior to approaching CrossComm. I provided them with a set of wireframes I had developed with the Office of Technology Transfer at the University of Michigan. I explained the features I wanted to include and we worked collaboratively to outline the app’s specifications.

We worked together on content creation and they then produced a Buddybuild so I could provide feedback throughout the development phase.

I was focused on two key features. First, I wanted patients to be able to compile a detailed report of their symptoms. Based on a list I provided, CrossComm built a function that allows users to monitor the severity and frequency of their symptoms on a daily basis. A similar feature was created for keeping track of medication schedules.

Secondly, I wanted the app to include graphs to convey information in a clear, visual way. The app allows users to toggle between weekly and monthly charts to highlight long-term symptom changes. The graphs also highlight whether patients are adhering to their medications over time.

Patients can show these graphs to their physician, improving the partnership between doctor and patient.

CrossComm submitted our application to the App Store, and while our initial funding applied only to iOS development, we now plan to move forward with an Android version.

What is the team dynamic?

I have direct contact with the owner, Don Shin, as well as three or four other members of the team. We also had a chief developer and a chief engineer assigned to our project, depending on the project’s phase.

How did you come to work with CrossComm?

Our university has a mentor-in-residence who assists staff with technology needs. I worked with him throughout my research, and he suggested a number of developers when it came time for production.

While his shortlist primarily focused on local companies, he also included CrossComm after hearing positive things and meeting the owner. I prefer in-person meetings, so I was hesitant to work with a vendor based outside of Michigan. Still, after interviewing every company, it was clear that CrossComm was easily the best option.

How much have you invested with them?

Our first build cost $60,000, and the subsequent build is expected to cost $35,000.

I'm in the process of applying for additional funding so that we can add new features and expand the app.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in August 2017 and our relationship is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I presented the app to an oncology group that was blown away. They were really excited about using it with their patients. In fact, audience members made suggestions for improvement throughout my presentation, only to find that we had already included their recommendations.

Patients have also responded positively. They say the app is user-friendly and the graphs are easy to understand.

How did CrossComm perform from a project management standpoint?

I meet Don in-person once a month, with the rest of our communication conducted through phone calls and video conferencing. I’ve also worked with a single contact to coordinate the final stages of the project.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re excellent collaborators, listening to your ideas and helping with each stage of development. They're not afraid to give feedback or offer other ideas if they think it can improve the end product.

They also personally invest themselves with their clients to ensure a successful outcome, which speaks volumes about their business philosophy. Of all the companies we considered, they really seemed to care about our project. We were really impressed with that.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Not that I can think of, no. We've been really happy with them.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I was unfamiliar with all the steps involved in creating an app, but CrossComm will explain the process once you develop a relationship.