OptiSol Business Solutions

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the Founder of Freer. Freer is a mobile application that creates self sustaining communities through the smart consumption of everyday items. Instead of buying an item to use infrequently, it is highly likely someone in your community has that item they are not using. Freer connects these people so they can lend and rent to one another

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire OptiSol Business Solutions?

Optisol were referred via a technology contact to deliver an MVP app again a specification. This is the first iteration of the application and needed to be more than a working demo but not a fully functioning application. It needed to be delivered so real users could enter data and search for items and then lend or rent those items to fellow community members

What were your goals for this project?

To deliver an MVP+ application that was capable of being put into production and recruit users into the app.

SOLUTION

How did you select OptiSol Business Solutions?

They were referred through a technology contact who had worked with them before.

Describe the project in detail.

There are a number of facets of the project. The design templates were already created via an agency and provided to Optisol. These were the style guides for the remainder of the project.

• Users needed to be able to register for the app and then follow a process to be verified by another 3rd party using ID and biometric data.
• Users needed to be able to create a profile and also be able to add products to the marketplace.
• Users needed to be able to communicate with one another through the app.
• Users needed to be able to understand any issues with renting or lending including late returns or other matters related to the product.

The team provided the frameworks based on the designs provided. The app was a hydrid app using React Native and was required for Android an IOS. There were limited technical integration points

What was the team composition?

Although the team changed over time there were central figures who persisted throughout. The lead developer and BA were consistent and test and other development resource came in and out of the team.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The app is not yet live so there are no hard metrics. Part of this is due to remediation issues needing to be be undertaken in no small part to the API and related security measures. Overall the look and feel of the app is quite well received and they implemented the style guides as suggested albeit there seemed to be a transition when a number of elements of app are not at all delivered to the style guides provided

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Generally there was reasonable effective communication between the teams and we used Slack effectively. In terms of approach it became apparent that Optisol could have benefited from spending more time up front asking questions and understanding how the app was going to work and the work flows. This would have saved time later.

Language in general was not an issue. Generally the team were quite responsive until later in the project when were were looking to solve outstanding issues when it definitely took longer for them to respond to issues.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They are certainly very dedicated, made themselves available for late-night calls, and clearly worked long hours.

Are there any areas for improvement?

More time up front understanding the conceptual basis and asking questions on how the app would work. The app only really came together right towards the end. Version control is clearly an issue. Items that worked in a previous release did not work in following releases. Overall the app is good.

The issue for us lies in the APIs. Clearly different teams with different capability and skills worked on this. The APIs are causing ongoing issues and challenges that we are still looking to resolve.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the director of a software development company. We specialize in digital transformation, mobility, and cybersecurity services products.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol Business Solutions?

We were looking for a development partner.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

OptiSol Business Solutions provided software development services for us. Their team helped us with the modernization and advancement of a web portal using the latest technologies. The managed security services portal was specifically built around the security products we sell. Our teams use Mongo, Angular, Node.js, and more. They also occasionally provided UI/UX design services.

What is the team composition?

We worked with 2–3 members of the OptiSol Business Solutions team.

How much have you invested with them?

We invested $40,000–$50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our engagement ran from November 2018–June 2020.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are very satisfied with the result we received. The resources they provided to us were very great and they excel at the services they offer. I have already recommended working with them to a few of my friends and colleagues

How did OptiSol Business Solutions perform from a project management standpoint?

We had multiple communication channels to ensure we’re always on the same page, including Slack. Our teams also used Jira as a project management tool.

What did you find most impressive about them?

OptiSol Business Solutions was flexible and available. If we ever had any questions and needed to contact them, they got back to us very quickly. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, we were completely satisfied.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I highly recommend OptiSol Business Solutions.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

We’re developing an aggregation platform for students.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol?

I went to them to build the entire platform. I had experience on the business side, but I needed help transforming the proposition into a viable system.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

OptiSol translated my concept into milestones. They’re using open-source technologies for development, and the aim is to make the platform as accessible as possible.

What is the team composition?

I have a six-person team at OptiSol, with one business analyst, a solution architect, one frontend developer, and two backend developers. One of their directors is involved at the interface level. He helps me maintain clarity over the product.

How did you come to work with OptiSol?

I got references from other customers of theirs. I got in touch with them, and we went from there.

How much have you invested with them?

Once it’s finished, I expect the cost of the MVP to be 20–25 lakh Indian rupees (approximately $26,000–$33,000 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

I started working with OptiSol in August 2020, and our engagement is ongoing. I’m looking to have the MVP out within about three months.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I haven’t seen too many slips from them so far. They deliver on time. 

How did OptiSol perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re very strong technically, and they’re good at project management. We recalibrate expectations as the product matures and we come up with new ideas. We discuss what changes to make and what the right timeline for them is. We keep a backlog, and we have constant discussions on Slack. 

They’re always responsive, and they get back to me whenever they’re stuck on something. I’m not a technical person, so they’ve held my hand throughout the process. I appreciate that, and I have no complaints so far.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The process is easy and consultative. OptiSol takes the time to explain things to me. I don’t understand technology, but they’ve run me through it patiently. I’ve made some changes, but they didn’t require additional money for those. They’re committed to building my platform, and they’re passionate about the process.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They have a good team of designers, but they could still improve in that area. Their designs aren’t bad at all, and they’ve met my expectations. It’s a good start.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

OptiSol is a good choice in terms of technical expertise.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the director of Spotted Ltd. Our company allows supercar sponsors to engage with vehicle owners, creating connections and networking to enhance their portfolios.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol Business Solutions?

Our company is mobile app-based, but we needed someone to build the app for us.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

After providing them with a rough outline, OptiSol Business Solutions built both an iOS and Android app from scratch. Their team took our designs and integrated them with their own idea on how to best build the platform. 

What is the team composition?

I first spoke to Soniya (Digital Transformation Consultant, OptiSol Business Solutions) who helped talk me through the stages of process for development and provided a timeframe. I then had a main point of contact who would liaise with the developers, graphic designers, and technical team for me. He was the core of the whole project. 

How did you come to work with OptiSol Business Solutions?

I contacted OptiSol Business Solutions based on their previous work for other clients. Their location-based applications were particularly impressive, and all of the reviews were outstanding so I chose to work with them. 

How much have you invested with them?

We have invested about £6,000 (approximately $7,300 USD)

What is the status of this engagement?

Our ongoing engagement with OptiSol Business Solutions began in May 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our work is currently ongoing, but their entire team has been efficient with the workflow. Everything they created is better than I ever imagined. 

How did OptiSol Business Solutions perform from a project management standpoint?

OptiSol Business Solutions uses Pivotal Tracker, which allows me to see exactly what they’re working on or where they are in the build. We also use Hockey, which allows me to download the build and have it on my phone. Their team introduced me to InVision so I can comment on their designs.

I am managing the project, but I haven’t had to do too much because everything they have shown me has looked great. Due to the language barrier, I’ve done some of the text writing, but they’ve done an amazing job. 90% of the ideas they’ve come up with haven’t needed to be changed at all. They’re almost always spot on.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their commitment to the project is second to none. OptiSol Business Solutions consistently brings forward good ideas and hard work. Their dedication has shown through every step of the way. It allows you to put your 100% trust that your investment is going to come out great.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. It’s my first time making a mobile app but they’ve been wonderful to work with. They couldn’t improve in any way 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Go for it. You will get the product that you want with OptiSol Business Solutions. Have a vision, but be open to their ideas because they know what they’re talking about. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the founder of a startup developing a consumer-facing social app.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire OptiSol Business Solutions?

We needed app development services.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to create an MVP for our app.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We found them on Craigslist and selected them after a phone interview.

Describe the project in detail.

They developed our iPhone app from scratch, including designing the screens and UX and building a backend database. We went through multiple iterations.

What was the team composition?

We worked with a team of 5–8 people.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The beta version of the app is available to download in the App Store. It achieved the goals we set at the beginning of the project and includes all functionalities required by the scope. Because of Optisol's quality, we’re going to continue working with them for the next phase.  

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Their team was responsive and communicated seamlessly, which is especially impressive given the time difference between us. Workflows were carefully planned and led to flawless execution. Transparency was a top priority for them, so they provided daily and weekly progress reports. These ensured objectives were clear and that we were on the same page.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Both my points of contact, as well as Optisol’s technical engineers, were extremely competent at delivering work goals. Optisol resolved issues promptly and stayed calm in the face of unforeseen challenges. They were proactive about offering valuable suggestions for improvement.  

Are there any areas for improvement?

I would encourage them to put more creative ideas through the development process and pay increased attention to detail.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the director of software development at a waste management company. We provide services across the United States and Canada.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol Business Solutions?

I needed a cost-effective and dedicated solutions provider for a long-term partnership.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

On an ongoing basis to supplement work from another US-based vendor, OptiSol Business Solutions provides services for web and mobile development. They’ve built an end-to-end customer service portal, which is one of our flagship products for interacting with our customer base. In addition, the team developed a custom CRM when we ran into obstacles working with Microsoft Dynamics.

Most recently, they built a mobile app for purchase orders and requisitions. The app also complements their work in the Microsoft Dynamics AX ERP space. Specifically, OptiSol Business Solutions is implementing an ERP system for Microsoft when we don’t have any vertical support for waste management in the ERP system. As a workaround, they’re building an extension on that ERP platform. Once that’s completed, we will be able to retire all of our custom applications and move them on to the ERP.

We’re trying to release at least one product every year. The portal went live three years ago, the CRM launched about 18 months ago, and mobile development finished in May 2018.

What is the team composition?

There are 25 people on the team. There’s a director who is directly involved in the project.

How did you come to work with OptiSol Business Solutions?

I found them when they were a small company. We were their first enterprise client in the United States.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $2.5–3 million.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in January 2012 and the partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

OptiSol Business Solutions makes us a priority and the products reflect that dedication. Moreover, the team has quality people and their success has aligned with our success. To that end, the customer service portal became our key product and has received positive user feedback.

How did OptiSol Business Solutions perform from a project management standpoint?

We have our own project manager on site. They have a very mature team, which includes functional and technical consultants that constitute a separate group. The team is accurate with scheduling estimates and delivers accordingly. OptiSol Business Solutions follows agile methodology and uses Google Tracker to manage the project. The team is dedicated and works long hours. However, there is room for improvement. More experienced project managers would have enhanced the mobile and web development projects.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The team’s dedication, focus, and responsive service distinguish them from other providers. OptiSol Business Solutions hires quality people and retains them. They also go after contractors who work for big companies and employ them full-time.

Are there any areas they could improve?

As a growing company, OptiSol Business Solutions should find a mature project management methodology and better communication methods. The team could make documentation clearer, as well as engage client-side stakeholders in a better manner.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the managing director of an application for iPhone and Android.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol Business Solutions?

The existing codebase had deprecated. Therefore, we needed to refactor the code and rebuild the application from scratch, essentially.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They did all of the development on this particular project—Native iOS and Android apps—from scratch. They had access to an existing repository for the deprecated code and did some iterative work to develop the new applications. It now has current libraries and refactored code. I specifically asked them to develop a recording feature where users can remove existing vocals from a song and record their own voice on top of that, but also keep the original backing track.

What is the team composition?

I believe it’s three or four, but there’s probably additional support staff I haven’t had actually have contact with. I connect through an agile project manager or agile delivery manager and occasionally have contact with developers when asking for specific things.

How did you come to work with OptiSol Business Solutions?

I had an issue with an existing Indian supplier, and it so happened that OptiSol sent me a random e-mail on the day I was screening new suppliers.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent $20,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve been working together since March 2018. I’ve just done final testing on the current version and we’re going through an analysis to add some functionality before we launch in the app stores.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve had few issues as far as crashes and bugs with this particular code. They’ve done other projects for me—Android apps—where that has not been that case, but this one seems to be particularly solid. They’ve also done quite remarkably well with the stripping feature.

How did OptiSol Business Solutions perform from a project management standpoint?

They could have tighter disciplines, meaning they're not as agile as I’d like.

I have a tendency to be regimented by process as opposed to thinking on my feet, but that's also a bit of a cultural issue. We usually use Slack to communicate.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Compared to other Indian developers, they’ve been fairly easy to deal with overall.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They could get better at their understanding of code deployment and versioning.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder and CEO of a mobile app startup called Wait4me. With our app, users can hire people to perform the waiting portion of daily errands such as standing in line or receiving packages. Conversely, users can also become waiters and make money in their free time.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol Business Solutions?

I approached them to design and build my app from the ground up. They were involved in solidifying my idea and translating it into a functional product.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We held several discussions to go over the concept and define the requirements, looking at the format, layout, and overall project roadmap. This allowed us to get a better sense of what did and didn’t work in terms of design. We also decided to build the first iteration of the app in iOS because it was more efficient and cheaper than starting with an Android platform and translating it later. We’re currently in beta testing and are scheduled to launch the first build soon. Once we complete the second iteration, we’ll create a corresponding Android app.

What is the team composition?

They assigned a dedicated project manager who served as my main point of contact. I also collaborated directly with three other team members.

How did you come to work with OptiSol Business Solutions?

I posted an ad on Craigslist, looking for an app designer who could help me convert my idea into an app. Many companies replied, but OptiSol Business Solutions had an impressive portfolio of well-known apps. Their contact had a pleasant demeanor, and I liked how he was able to explain the process to me in a simplified way. In terms of cost, they were about a third less than other quotes I’d received.

How much have you invested with them?

I spent just under $20,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

Their work lasted from October 2017–May 2018 for the first build. We took longer than expected due to financing challenges on my side.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re about two weeks away from launching the app, so we don’t have any current metrics. However, the app ran smoothly in beta tests. We only had to work out a few bugs on some of the features.

How did OptiSol Business Solutions perform from a project management standpoint?

I can't speak enough about how pleased I am with their process; it was seamless and efficient. Although they assigned a project manager, I was also in direct contact with the team. They involved me in every facet of the design phase and were transparent, explaining complex processes in a way that made sense.

We used a tool that allowed me to view the project’s progress in real time, make comments, and reach out to individual people. That way I could make quick adjustments and prevent the design/wording from straying too far from my vision. We also communicated via email, phone, and Skype.

In terms of timelines, they did a great job of keeping me on schedule. It can be easy to let a project drag on if you don’t feel like anything is happening. However, they pushed the app to the forefront of my radar and regularly showed me progress. I appreciated that they empowered me to understand multiple aspects of development, from design and structure to programming. They made me feel like I was in command and gave me the energy to push forward.

What did you find most impressive about them?

What stood out the most was their personalities and how much they cared about the project. Often, there can be a gap when working with people who aren’t in the office with you. It’s hard to personalize those relationships, and you can quickly just become another client, and they another vendor.

However, I really connected with OptiSol Business Solutions’ team, and we had several great conversations. Beyond development work, we also talked about cultural differences, holidays, my daughter, and how this app could benefit my family. They really took an interest in who I was as a person and wanted me to be successful.

Furthermore, I’ve had several investors express interest in my app, but my technical knowledge just wasn’t up to par. Despite the time difference, they went out of their way to speak to the investors so that I could secure more funding. They even assigned their best English speaker.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, nothing comes to mind. If I had to say something, it would be the language and cultural barriers. Some things were lost in translation, and it took a few tries to get them to understand my perspective. That being said, they made a strong effort to understand me, so I commend them.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the CTO of a construction company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol?

We formerly had in-house developers, but reduced our staff because of attrition, personality issues, and budgetary concerns. We needed someone to work on our project, and decided to seek an offshore programming partner.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Using PHP and MySQL, OptiSol has worked on a website that manages many aspects of our business. They also provide business analysis to identify ways in which we could improve the software’s workflows.

What is the team composition?

My primary contact is their business analysts. I’ve also had frequent calls with their data science director and our two current developers. We’ve worked with three other developers on an as-needed basis over the collaboration. I’ve also had frequent conversations with the tech lead, who has been on the project since day one.

How did you come to work with OptiSol?

We were initially looking for contract developers, not offshore groups. Someone from OptiSol responded to our post, and we decided to try their services. Rather than just having our software needs dictated to them, they’ve been actively involved in the architecture of the platform.

How much have you invested with them?

The total cost of their services has been around $40,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

Our first contact with OptiSol was in April 2017. We formalized the agreement in May. They are continuing to provide new feature development and maintenance. We will likely engage the team for years to come.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I don’t have any statistics, but I do know that when we started the project, the platform was not suitable for public launch. OptiSol has brought it to where it needed to be. We could not have gotten to this point at the same cost without them.

How did OptiSol perform from a project management standpoint?

Our experience has been excellent. They’ve done a great job of managing the workflow and our expectations about when things would be delivered.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I haven’t worked with other offshore teams, so I couldn’t say if others are as good as OptiSol. I doubt that they are, though. The thing that distinguishes them in my mind is that they’re good people. I look forward to our weekly conference calls because they’re fun to talk to and understand our business.

With every call, they announce the progress they have made. Compared to the lack of progress we saw with in-house developers, it’s like night and day. I’m happy with OptiSol, and I hope that the relationship will continue like this for a long time.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I’ve painted a rosy picture of the relationship so far, and it has been good overall. It did take longer than expected to get the first deliverables from them, but they still delivered more than what we would have gotten from our in-house developers. We were still happy, but the initial challenge existed because OptiSol underestimated the complexity of our project. They promised some code earlier than they could deliver it, but the ultimate result was functional and required very few bug fixes.

We occasionally encounter some language issues, but they are not roadblocks to our progress. In general, it’s been an overwhelmingly positive experience.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I own a company called Amazing App. We are a personal development mobile application.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with OptiSol Business Solutions?

OptiSol Business Solutions helped me develop both software and a mobile app for iOS and Android.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

OptiSol Business Solutions completed the entire design, backend and frontend development for an app with a built-in affiliate program. It’s designed to help people who are interested in personal development. The team aggregated several related categories into one web tool. Users can access it online or through a mobile device, and both versions communicate with each other.

While we were launching the app, I was both running and preparing to sell another company I owned. The sales fell out twice, which limited the amount of time I could allocate to this project. During the numerous times when I fell behind in sending materials, they were always patient. It was always a simple process to request even unforeseen changes.

What is the team composition?

I worked with a few different project managers, including Roger Smith, Praveen Kumar, and Vadlamani Madhu.

How did you come to work with OptiSol Business Solutions?

Roger Smith contacted me after I posted about this project online. He was my original project manager, and might also be a sales rep. I interviewed a dozen companies, and he was better than anyone else at understanding my goals. It really felt like I was meant to work with him.

How much have you invested with them?

We've spent about $25,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project started in April 2016, and we have an ongoing working relationship. They currently handle maintenance and tech support and make any required updates. We're still making changes before next month’s public launch.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Their team is incredible and did an amazing job of translating my concept into an actual working product. I don't have any financial statistics, but I doubt the app will fail. If it does, I know that wouldn't be their fault. Their work was phenomenal from every angle, including both what the user sees and the inner workings that help everything flow together.

They have a really cool fee schedule where we paid them as they hit certain milestones. Many companies want half the cost or more upfront, which requires a blind leap of faith that they'll do a good job. With OptiSol Business Solutions, you pay for performance and have a consistently transparent view of their work.

How did OptiSol Business Solutions perform from a project management standpoint?

Each of our project managers was well-chosen for our project. I wasn’t in direct contact with any of the developers, which would have been challenging. They did an amazing job of both understanding exactly what I wanted, and translating requirements to the programmers. At times when I was off schedule, they were great at getting me back on track.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The team is super helpful, immensely professional, and always understood my exact ideas. The payment milestones program was excellent. I appreciated how often they asked how they could help us reach our goals. If there’s ever a breach in dialogue, there are so many team members that you never feel alone.

Are there any areas they could improve?

My work with other companies involved limited resources, so a weak line of communication signaled almost certain disappointment. That's just not the case with OptiSol Business Solutions. I have no negative feedback, which is a rare thing to say about a company.