Filmrobot Systems

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president of Great Canadian Van Lines.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Filmrobot Systems?

We were building custom software to replace the existing software we had. The new solution was aimed at creating a more convenient and efficient dispatch system.  

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

To build out this solution, we provide them with requirements and instructions. Then, they create code to program the software. We handle most of the design, and they focus on development. 

In our ongoing phases, we set up an initial dispatch and sales forms online. They’re directly connected to each other, so it can handle everything from an invoice through sales to an actual bill of lading on the transport end. Our transportation department uses that file to create a manifest for a drive, and then the entire dispatch system works off of that initial invoice. 

Every month, we’re adding new components and layers to the system. For example, we’re now redoing an estimate form that customers can use to get data and information through to our salespeople and ultimately our dispatch team. It’s a long-term, ongoing project.  

What is the team composition?

I work primarily with Jay (Developer, Filmrobot Systems), Mark (Co-Founder, Filmrobot Systems), and Patrick (Owner, Filmrobot Systems).

How did you come to work with Filmrobot Systems?

We found them through referral. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent a few hundred thousand dollars on this project over the course of our partnership.  

What is the status of this engagement?

We started our engagement with them in 2014, and our teams are still working together.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The solution they created completely streamlined the business. Efficiency has gone way up. We’ve also been able to reduce our dispatch team size as a result of the robust automation. There’s no longer much manual extry. Most of our processes now have an automated flow, making operations more efficient.  

How did Filmrobot Systems perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re very responsive. We used to work through management software, but now we communicate over email. Our teams will also have meetings in our office, which is where we start working after devising initial ideas. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

Essentially serving as our IT department, they’ve done a great job of making themselves available to us. I really like their quick response rate. No matter when I contact them, I can rely on a quick response. That allows me to tackle issues and problem solve. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

The occasional project takes longer than expected. This is not a regular occurrence with them. Out of ten projects, only one or two take longer than expected to complete. The odd project takes longer, which is expected in all business.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Make sure you have a designated project manager that you actively communicate about the project, deciding on expected response times. When you’re starting up with some projects, it's important to have a key point of contact.