NS804

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CTO of ChiroDestiny, which is a chiropractic consulting company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We looked into creating an application for communications such as sharing materials with our clients. A company built an initial application for us but did so poorly. It failed all of the time and not all users received push notifications, which was a core functionality. We wanted an agency to assess whether or not the product was salvageable.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

NS804 looked into our application and got it up and running in one day, which allowed us to show their team how we wanted it to function. From there, they put together estimates of the cost to fix the platform versus building a new one. We landed on overhauling the current app to stabilize it.

Eventually, they rebuilt the iOS app so that it works exactly as expected. Their team fixed the push notification feature so that all users can receive them. They also implemented smart login credentials. If a user enters an email but has forgotten their password, they’ll be prompted with a forgot password link. 

NS804 also cleaned up the backend portal that our team uses. We’re able to track information such as how many users we gain in a given month and whether they added themselves or we manually entered them. It also allows us to filter the list of users, export them, and make them inactive or active.

Recently, they launched the Android version of the app. It’s in review currently, so we’re waiting for it to be published by Google Play. We have a maintenance contract with them in place and they’re working on mockups for the second version of the app.

What is the team composition?

Lauren (Bookkeeper) was our project manager, so I communicated with her mostly. I was also in contact with Nick (CEO) who kicked off the project.

How did you come to work with NS804?

We originally found NS804 on a freelancer’s platform. I googled the company and reached out to Nick outside of the platform. We had a conversation via phone and he seemed like a good fit. After he met with our two partners, we signed a contract with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

NS804 started working on this project in December 2019 and our collaboration’s ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

From our testing, the Android app does exactly what we want. They improved the speed of the app, which was important because we lost many users to long loading times. I have nothing but nice things to say NS804.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

We had two weekly check-ins with Lauren: the first at the beginning and the second at the end of the week. The review process with Lauren was spot-on. She sent versions that we tested and then I sent notes. She responded to them with any questions and notes about whether or not my feedback was implemented. Their team’s communicative and super helpful.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Unlike competitors, NS804 provides a personalized experience. Their team was also willing to work with our budget, our point of contact, and our review process. They checked in often to make sure that we were happy with everything that we received. Other companies just tried to plug our project into their models. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I’m happy with their work and the turnaround time.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Come up with a thorough list of features that you want. You could also create a list of apps that you like as samples. Basically, the more information that you provide upfront, the faster you’ll get the results that you want.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner and CEO of Pope K9 Services, a company that deals with dog training and breeding.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

The paper processing time for dog events normally takes hours and hours of preparation. We wanted to create a mobile app and web portal that’d eliminate the processing time for dog events.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Using mockups, NS804 designed and built the app for private use on Android. We wanted the app to function for multiple types of users — one significant group being the dog judges. During an event, a judge is able to submit real-time scoring. Once the judge enters scores on a particular dog, that data is immediately transported, stored, and recorded in the database.

What is the team composition?

My main point of contact was Nick (CEO). There was a student from a school involved in the project so Nick was the liaison between us.

How did you come to work with NS804?

We had some pre-established relationships with local web development companies and reached out to them. After explaining our concept and goals, we narrowed them down through a long process. NS804 was selected.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve invested around $25,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our ongoing partnership started in October 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve appreciated the flexibility and ability to speak to them directly. They’re very responsive to our requests and needs.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

Nick made it very easy for all of us to collaborate and work together smoothly.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They produce solutions on a professional level.

Are there any areas they could improve?

During the project, it was sometimes difficult to understand the technical language. Making correspondence as visual as possible for non-technical customers would be helpful.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

They usually do pretty well, but make sure they communicate clearly if you’re non-technical.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

We’re a regional company that specializes in packaging craft beer and similar products into cans. For the most part, we’re mobile-based and have service people in trucks across the Eastern United States every day. I’m the president of the Southern Division and the head of technology.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We needed them to integrate a system that we developed in-house to QuickBooks for automated invoicing.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We had an existing cloud-based ERP web app. When they came on board, they took the code and integrated it into QuickBooks through their open APIs and authentication mechanisms. The solution is a private system used by our crews on the road and our back-office team. More than anything else, this was an integration effort. 

What is the team composition?

I worked primarily with Nick (President, NS804) and Lauren (Bookkeeper, NS804).

How did you come to work with NS804?

We tried several other outsourcing firms, but we were having trouble finding high-quality firms to handle our project. I had a friend that had past experience with their team, and he recommended them to us. They seemed very professional, so we decided to hire their team.

At this point, the project has been completed. We’ve contracted them for a year’s worth of support for the system. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $20,000–$30,000 on their services.  

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in August 2019, and our collaborations are ongoing.  

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Overall, they came pretty close to their timeline and cost estimates. From a functionality perspective, there were few bugs. The ones that were present were quickly addressed. Additionally, the userbase is extremely pleased with the end result. 

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

We ran about a month late on the project, so communication could always be more streamlined and more informative. Overall, I’m happy with the service that we were provided. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were very eager to satisfy the customer, doing whatever it took to meet our requirements and expectations. Everything was very straightforward, and they provided a quality end product. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

We could’ve developed a clearer plan with more testing upfront. That would’ve helped, but they were otherwise a great partner. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

To get the most out of the relationship, you’re going to need a project manager. That will best leverage their technical skills. If you have a resource to best plan, manage, and execute their technical experience, you’ll benefit.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

CSG is a wireless hardware distributor and solution provider and I am the owner of the company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire NS804?

I hired NS804 to help us design an eCommerce website so we can begin to have a direct on-line storefront presence.

What were your goals for this project?

I needed something clean, crisp, and easy to manipulate over time. It was important to not only be a sharp looking website, but functionality and ease of use was key.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Vetted through multiple channels.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

NS 804 helped us choose a basic template or design that we liked and then integrated our solutions into that design and helped us design and integrate a web-based storefront that we feel represents us as an organization very well.

What was the team composition?

He had a team of 4 working the project.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are just now launching the storefront, but Nick and his team were able to get exactly what we wanted accomplished without us having to allocate internal resources onto it.

In this situation to do so would have cost my team invaluable time and resources and it was imperative it was done in a timely manner by a 3rd party but also meet our high standards for quality. All was accomplished.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Most communication was from the owner Nick himself direct to me and my team which felt like we were a priority.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their ability to work on their toes and make changes without incessantly asking us questions was great. They were able to think on their own to help us reach the goal.

Are there any areas for improvement?

None whatsoever on this job.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner of a winery membership card called Virginia Wine Pass. Our company gives our members discounts, savings, and other perks at over 150 wineries throughout Virginia.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We had a basic AppPresser app that was linked to our existing website, however, both were extremely limited. We wanted to separate the two and create a reliable app that would help us grow.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement? 

NS804 developed our new wine pass app for iOS and Android. After rebuilding the entire backend, they referenced our website to inform the overall content, design, and look and feel.

What is the team composition? 

We had some confusion because there were so many people coming in and out. Originally, I’d worked with Nick (CEO, NS804), who was fabulous and a good communicator. Lauren (Bookkeeper, NS804) is now my new project manager, but I’ve also worked with some others on and off.

How did you come to work with NS804?

I did a fair bit of research for a local development house before finding NS804. I looked at their previous work, talked to a few people, and collected references. When I contacted Nick, they just seemed like a good fit for us.

How much have you invested with them?

The project definitely went overbudget. We spent about $23,000, which is a big deal for a company as small as ours.

What is the status of this engagement?

The bulk of the work lasted from March–August 2019. They’ve just finished the app, and we're waiting on Google and Apple to approve it, now.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Overall, they did a really good job, and I’d hire them again. There were a lot of unanticipated issues that came up along the way, which caused the project to drag on and go over budget. These had to do with our website’s limitations and the logistics of trying to link our current members into the new app.

At the end of the day, their team listened to what I had to say and were diligent about problem-solving those issues.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

Lauren did a great job. She gave me weekly email updates and facilitated communication between me and the developers. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

Although things didn’t always pan out the way we’d expected, they were always cognizant of our tight budget and did their best to work with us.

I’d also like to reiterate that Nick did a really good job at problem-solving when something came up. If I got in touch with him about a situation, he’d handle it immediately, and I appreciated how much personal attention he gave us even though he was working on a lot of other projects.

Are there any areas they could improve?

A lot of our issues were due to our individual circumstances that other clients wouldn’t necessarily have to deal with. They worked around our situations really well.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder of a company called Carpe Diem Social LLC, and we are a social networking and entertainment company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We worked with NS804 to develop our first product, which is a dating app.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We used NS804 as a one-stop-shop to design and develop the beta version of our app from scratch for both iOS and Android devices. They worked from wireframing in EnVision, to UI/UX, all the way through fully coding the app.

The distinguishing feature that they built for us is that it features video chat before texting, so it includes an integrated video platform within the app, and then a chat platform behind that. It also has a calendar feature that allows users to schedule calls ahead of time, and then other basic dating features like profiles, match lists, criteria setting, geo-locating, etc.

What is the team composition?

I worked with one of their in-house designers who was in charge of developing the app, as well as with Nick (Owner, NS804).

How did you come to work with NS804?

I interviewed about six different companies before narrowing it down and ended up selecting NS804 because of their competence, competitive pricing, and proximity to our company’s headquarters.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent $100,000 with NS804 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We began working together in June 2018 and are continuing to do so.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are pleased with the app’s design and capabilities. The quality of the build is very high, and it functions much better than some dating apps that have had way more funding and are at a later stage of development.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

They are quick to respond if we have any issues. At the beginning of the process, we had some issues with meeting deadlines, but it has improved significantly over time. The problem was more an issue of having the appropriate staff to manage the project, so once Nick acquired new talent it made a noticeable difference. Not only did internal continuity of the deliverables increase, but the overall quality did as well.

We mainly communicate via email and call, for which they are very flexible and responsive. I am also able to talk directly with the developers to walk through any requests or issues, and occasionally one of my advisors and I will drive down to their office to meet in-person as well.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their team does a great job of turning around last-minute requests. As a solo founder of a startup, it can be very difficult to manage everything and plan far ahead, so it’s really helpful to be able to send him a request for a graphic or a piece of code for an ad or something and get that turned around almost right away.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Any time we have any issues, the NS804 team does a good job of working to improve it, so I don’t think there is anything in particular that I wish they did differently.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

It can be very beneficial to figure out a payment structure that works for you ahead of time, not just considering the business side but also accounting for the possibility of delays in development.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder & CEO of RIVVIR. We’re a startup for a peer to business model for purchasing drinks and other items at festival events.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We hired NS804 for app development. Our main goal was to build a back office and establish a link from there to our app.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We provided NS804 an MVP and wanted them to rewrite the application for iOS, using the original code. The app allows users to gather tickets to purchase items on their phone. Our team had an idea of how we wanted the transaction to take place between a customer’s phone and an iPad. They performed tests with several options we supplied them and gave recommendations on how to move forward. The second part of the process was their team establishing a connection through a unique use of technology to have the app work with the back office. They also had to build up the back office.

What is the team composition?

Nick (CEO, NS804) was my main point of contact.

How did you come to work with NS804?

We’re a startup at an incubator based in Richmond. Nick was a mentor there, and we followed up with him later socially. When it came time to build out this project, he was the perfect fit.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our engagement started in October 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re working with NS804 daily to introduce the app into the App Store. As of last week, we received the current version on our devices, so we’re ready for the first stage. While there are no results on the iOS app to report, we previously tested the MVP with users. The app is a unique technology for commerce and has received phenomenal feedback. In conjunction with the industry and the frustration level because of the inefficiency of POS and ticket systems, we’ve shown a substitute with this product.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management style is excellent. We communicate through phone, email, and in-person. I have a great relationship with Nick and work with him directly.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I appreciate that NS804 is enthusiastic about the project. Sometimes when something unique and different is being developed, there isn’t a comfort level. NS804 has the comfort level and belief to listen to what we want and build it out accordingly.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I think they could be more collaborative during the build process rather than finding a solution and presenting it so we can fine-tune it to our needs. It would be nice for it to be collaborative along the way.  

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the owner of Award Home Inspections, a company that does commercial and residential inspections.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

Our reports are detailed and contain lots of pictures with all of our findings, and it was taking hours to upload pictures into our program. We needed someone to develop an app that would allow us to upload the pictures as we took them on the site and automatically put them in the report.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We discussed our needs and goals with NS804, and they explained what technology could best solve our problem. We told them what we wanted it to look like, how we wanted it to work, and what features it needed, then they built the iOS app. They also incorporated talk to text, which automatically transcribes our field recordings into notes. Now that the app is finished, they provide maintenance and hosting.

What is the team composition?

We mainly communicate with the owner.

How did you come to work with NS804?

We met through a networking organization. Their owner showed me some of their previous work, and we had a good relationship, so we hired them.

How much have you invested with them?

Building the app cost around $13,000, and maintenance and hosting are about $200 a month.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in August 2015, and the partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They exceeded our expectations and integrated features that I didn’t even know we wanted. They solve bugs quickly and promptly deal with any technical issues. Because of their app, we streamlined our process, increasing appointments and minimizing clerical work.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re have excellent communication and are incredibly organized. We communicate in-person and over the phone.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re responsive and have a vast technological knowledge.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. Whenever we have issues, they proactively try to solve them.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the clubhouse manager at Jefferson Lakeside Country Club.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We contracted with NS804 to build a mobile app that would enhance the member experience at our country club.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Our team only came to the table with an idea of what we’d like the app to feature. NS804 designed and developed the app from there. The app is built for Android and iOS and includes elements relating to our food and golf services. Our members can order food through the application and have it delivered to them on our grounds with the help of a pinpoint location feature. On the golf course, the app can be used as a range finder and also offers virtual golf games. Members can also pay their membership dues through the app.

What is the team composition?

We interfaced primarily with the owner and a project manager.

How did you come to work with NS804?

We found them through an online search, but they are also located nearby. They had positive reviews, and the owner was very communicative.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent between $140,000–$150,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our engagement lasted from September 2017–June 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We held a soft launch with our board of governors to have them determine what bugs existed and what needed to change. That testing period and the process of fixing those issues took about a month, and then we introduced the app to our membership.

We have received promising feedback from our members. They are responding well to the food and golf features. Some of our members are senior citizens, and they’re still learning how to use it, but overall they’re finding it easy to use.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

We launched the app in the summertime, which was in accordance with our goals. NS804 was easy to work with in how they organized the project.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They are great communicators. NS804 kept us updated regarding all of their progress.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. This was a hassle-free relationship.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

We could have eliminated the soft launch and ensuing testing process if we had outlined our needs in a better way at the beginning of the project.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CTO of CarLotz, Inc. We provide vehicle consignments for individuals and businesses. We also offer dealerships for people to purchase cars.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with NS804?

We hired NS804 to develop a mobile app prototype using the Microsoft Power development platform.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

NS804 built a working prototype that processes condition reports of vehicles. The solution takes photos, records damage, and links directly to our Microsoft Dynamics 365 implementation. First, we met with the team to discuss requirements. We then held follow-up meetings to review progress and work through any issues.

What is the team composition?

I work directly with Nick (CEO, NS804). I’ve also interacted with a developer who is no longer at the company.

How did you come to work with NS804?

The team had visited our office to discuss their development philosophy and portfolio. Meeting Nick made me comfortable with the decision to hire them.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent around $5,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in April 2018 and the partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The app was simple and not overdone. Although the platform is new, NS804 was able to get up to speed quickly.

How did NS804 perform from a project management standpoint?

NS804 communicates clearly during the check-in meetings, which are always succinct.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They understood the content and hit the ground running.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I can’t think of anything.