Secret Source

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Marketing and Sales Manager of MinsterWMS

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Minster WMS sells Warehouse Management Software

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Secret Source to accomplish?

• To get HubSpot helping to grow the business
• Create consistent marketing content and messaging

SOLUTION

How did you find Secret Source?

Referral

Why did you select Secret Source over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Secret Source were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Secret Source played a crucial role in refining our marketing strategy, optimising HubSpot, and enhancing our lead generation efforts. They provided expert training, seamless integration, and high-quality content creation while prioritising knowledge transfer to empower our team. Their ongoing support and transparent approach have significantly strengthened our marketing capabilities, enabling us to manage campaigns with confidence and efficiency.

Key Deliverables:
HubSpot Implementation & Optimisation – Ensured seamless setup, automation, and CRM efficiency.
Strategic Training & Knowledge Transfer – Delivered tailored workshops to upskill our team.
Content Creation & Campaign Development – Created email sequences, landing pages, and blog content.
Ongoing Support & Performance Analysis – Provided guidance on campaign refinement and data insights.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Efficient processes, one version of the truth for data, better market visibility, sales improving their effectiveness

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Secret Source manage our projects efficiently, delivering all tasks on time with clear communication and adaptability. They maintain a structured workflow, provide regular updates, and respond quickly to our needs. Their professionalism and reliability make them an invaluable partner.

What was your primary form of communication with Secret Source?

Virtual Meeting

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

Their transparency and willingness to share insights to empower our marketing and sales team. 

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

Not at this moment in time.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm a sole trader working under Mixed Vision Media, providing businesses and brands with powerful video content that connects them to their ideal clients and customers.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

As a company, we create content for our clients but don't currently have the resource to manage campaigns or post content for them. We collaborated with Secret Source to provide an end-to-end service for our clients.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We love collaborating with local businesses and found the whole team very friendly and knowledgeable.

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

As our work is collaborative, Secret Source worked to create a marketing campaign that included video content we produced for a mutual client. Their work involved creating a landing page for the content to be hosted on - with each video going live after a set time.

They also managed driving traffic to this landing page for the client, as well as, I'm sure, much more work that was completed quietly and professionally in the background that made the campaign successful.

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

We mostly worked with Nick however I'm aware the rest of the team were all involved in the specific project as well.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The final landing page created was professionally created and I understand the client was very pleased with the outcome.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We had regular meetings throughout the process on this particular project and continue to stay in contact so that when further opportunities to collaborate come up we are able to arrange to work together efficiently.

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

They won't deliver a strategy a client asks for if, in their experience know it won't get them the results they want. So many agencies bill clients for services they don't need or services that don't give a good ROI, Secret Source, however, only carries out their services if they are confident their marketing strategy will perform well for their clients.

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

Nothing comes to mind

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Video production agency and I am the Director of Business development.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We wanted to build a new website. Its our main lead generator from paid traffic and we wanted to create a slick, modern website.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We spoke to several web companies, Secret source came out top for responsiveness and pricing. We wanted to work with a company with real expertise, who would have creative input into the build and tell us how to best utilise the site for our goals, Secret source ticked all the boxes.

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

We had an initial meeting led by secret source to establish how we use our website and how it can improved. They came back with some design concepts and ideas around user journey. We really liked what was presented and Secret source then built the site. We were delighted with the end product, ease of navigation, the design and the feel.

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

We worked closely with Paul the director throughout the project, we had regular updates and meetings.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We were very happy with the end product and have seen an uptick in analytics, people staying on the site longer, visiting more pages and had more contact forms filled in resulting in more briefs.

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

Regular emails and Teams video calls. Paul and the team led the project throughout as the experts but were always open to feedback and discussions.

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

We were amazed at their expertise in their field, it's why we chose them, and we were not disappointed.

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

No

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the CEO of Opaay, an open banking technology provider offering a payments infrastructure for merchants, e commerce, retailers and B2B partner

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Secret Source?

We required a new website and also branding designs that stood out in a growing market that told the story of opaay and what we do and how our tech infrastructure can support partners in the provision of payment services, whilst also extolling the virtues to other open banking companies of the tech we have that can support their own build.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

I have worked with secret Source on several other sites and marketing requirements and had no hesitation in going to them for this project

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

We held a number of meetings initially with the branding and design team to select a suitable logo, we were presented with a number of options and in a number of colourways, this was refined down to 3 designs and after further work we made our selection. After this we were then given a wireframe design for the site and the relevant headings and pages that were being proposed.

This was well thought out and needed little input or changes from our side. the next stage was for me and the team to provide the content and Secret Source produced a number of different options per page in terms of layout and graphics. These were discussed in detail between the respective parties and we were kept informed at regular meetings and also had access to beta test site so we could review on a daily basis until all agreed actions completed and we launched from start to finish in 13 weeks

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

5 of the team at Secret Source were engaged on the project at various stages, from Owner, MD, brand design manager content writers and the technical lead. The beauty of this weas all were employed staff so no resources outsourced which led to a far more joined up solution and no waiting for a 3rd party to be available to make any changes and no miss communication between parties

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Now the website is launched we see regular activity on the site and have secured a number of partners both in respect of merchants who require a checkout facility and other providers who utilise some of our unique tech within their offer which saves them the time and money of building their own solution

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The whole team are very easy to communicate with and are always available to help and support. Regular weekly meetings implemented from week one meaning we knew the progress at all times and the pressure was kept on both parties to deliver the required elements

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

The logo design and branding team were superb, quickly turning around great quality designs. The knowledge of the web design team and the technical infrastructure design were excellent, they came to us with everything and there was little need for input from us, they truly "got" what we were looking for.

The big differentiator here is all resource in house for every element required meant a far better result and less time back and forth and lack of understanding which you get when using a number of 3rd parties.

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

I do not see any significant areas for improvement,as always things could be done slightly faster as we all want our website tomorrow, however the UI/UX look and feel along with customer journey are excellent

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I own a private consultancy that provides a range of direct and indirect support options across all Key Business Areas. I also provide specific advice on LIVE online video events, allowing organisations to positively exploit through educating & nurturing the relationships their brands have with their client's. We offer Engagement, Planning, Hosting, Production & Director capabilities.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Secret Source?

The services we provide are varied and as a small entity, I needed specialist advice in a range of areas that would improve my own clarity and vision plus practical aspects on utilising platforms to gain more from less. In sum, Clarity of me, my vision, capabilities and practical advice on rebranding/marketing of the same.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Word of mouth recommendation initially working with another client who is supported by Secret Source / Nicholas Carlson. His interest in what I do, what & why I have done and what is possible (where my lead skill is going into industries etc) lead to a number of discussions about where I currently am, what (if any) support I needed in getting there. The rest was easy. We agreed to work together to review ME!

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

1. Nick & Secret Source did a review of my platforms but only after a number of 1 on 1 discussions.
2. We had a series of weekly online meetings/discussions and went into my platforms in depth giving me a detailed understanding of how they work, how to change and adapt my profiles, content et al for an improved image that sold me and all I do better
3. We greed that I would complete & achieve a set amount of tasks/homework (works well for sure) to enable us to get to the next level.
4. These steps were reviewed, discussed at the subsequent meeting, minor amdts if/as required, then we moved forward to the next steps.
5. It was a flexible yet structured approach to improving both myself, my thinking/approach. understanding WHY things would be improved.
6. Every stage was discussed, explained, learned, understood, done & before you know it, there's massive improvements in all aspects.
7. The initial project has now developed somewhat & we will now look at other aspects.
8. The stages of this wasn't defined (or constrained) by standard PM approaches. It started with building a relationship, understanding the individual, the came the requirements I as an individual needed then onto the wider business requirements.

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

I worked directly with the Founder/Director but had access and support from the entire team at Secret Source. Everyone was available for requisite advice when needed. There's no stove piping silos at Secret Source, just a complete team approach. You feel comfortable working with any of the team and you get the same focus, dedication & support as you do from their Founder!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I now have a clarity on what I am about, an online & offline definitive clarity with identifiable improvements in a variety of aspects. I have measures to do in set phases moving forward. It is a journey and one that will continue. My platforms are undergoing complete restructuring to better represent who I am, what I am about and the clients I am (and will work with) will all benefit from this. Those closest to me in my own teams have stated a difference in both myself and my online activities. There are some things that cannot be qualified but you & others know there's a difference, a positive difference.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We originally were both working with the same separate client, helping him to rebrand in specific areas. Through that, our general chats, discussions, issues et al an immense amount was learned from and about each other. That allowed a synergy of requirements. The communications was therefore easy, deadlines agreed because of the mutual understanding. Their taskings for me to do though post meeting emails, requirements capture etc, my own work streams, requirements & deadlines were spot on.

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

It is sometimeS hard to quantify "Unique"............ but Nick Carlson is just that!! He consistently & persistently goes over & above in his work, engagement & focus to achieve the best from his relationships and project. He builds a friendship, gets a clear understanding of the client (me), what makes me tick, my ultimate vision (and tbh, I wasn't sure what that was)..........

why I do what I do, how and with whom and thought-provoked my grey matter into where & who best I should actually be looking to work with & support. In all my varied experiences from ground to strategic level in both hostile and benign environments, this was amazing! I have genuinely only come across a handful of individuals in Nicks ilk! What he does & how he does it, transposes to his company.

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

Not really. I didn't require them to research competitors by virtue of where I am and what I do. That said, Nick knew a great amount in all areas that I required support of, advised how to target my profiles/platforms to achieve where I want to get to. He offered simple, easy to achieve and focused solutions. The "Homework" style he did it in, ensured I went off, learned more myself, did what was required ergo I was far better equipped moving forward than had SS did all the work on my behalf.

That understanding & joint approach is a HUGE foundation for moving forward and suits my personality perfectly. The only aspect that could potentially improve the overall service, is to have a series of short tutorials based on what aspects are covered. Copious notes taken by myself and a detailed follow up email covering areas discussed, actions required etc are superb but a “How To” reminder in the cold light of day (days after potentially) could assist. #SeeingIsDoing etc etc.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Group Head of Marketing of Giant Group

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

GIant Group are leading the industry with global software, services and employment options for over 30 years. Whether you are a recruitment agency, hirer, or contractor, we have tailored solutions for you.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Secret Source to accomplish?

• HubSpot & general consultancy

SOLUTION

How did you find Secret Source?

Referral

Why did you select Secret Source over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Secret Source were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Supporting us with HubSpot, helping with new features, guiding us through any renewals or package questions and generally being an expert POC for anything HubSpot related. We find the Secret Source team help and respond quickly.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

HubSpot usage across the group - which Secret Source has and will share. 

Helping us make sure we get best value for money and we're paying only for what we need.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Honestly no complaints about the whole team - everyone is friendly, responsive and knoweldgable. 

What was your primary form of communication with Secret Source?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

The people. Everyone's so friendly and happy to help, whether it's a big or small task. 

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

no :) 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of Green Assured

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Green Assured helps commercial landlords power their buildings with affordable, smart renewable energy—installed at no upfront cost and paid for through a simple subscription.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Secret Source to accomplish?

• Onboarding

SOLUTION

How did you find Secret Source?

Referral

Why did you select Secret Source over others?

• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Secret Source were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Secret Source were given the lead to buid Green Assureds full end to end CRM process. As part of this process Green Assured needed a soild foundation that the business could grow and expanded its solutions through the CRM applications. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Successfully onboard the SLT and growing team.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Secret Source over achieved on the project as they made sure we always had a bigger vision to help all the team understand the basics and the ability to grow with the platform. 

What was your primary form of communication with Secret Source?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

Can do approach, willingness to talk to us in simple terms.

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

Not at all! 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I have worked on and off with Secret Source for a few years and am thoroughly impressed with their care, attention to detail and professionalism. Nick and Ali have helped me launch a mobile app for a charity, through many calls, careful planning and continued support. We are extremely grateful to all the team and thoroughly recommend working with them.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Secret Source?

App development, marketing consultancy

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Reccomendation

Describe the project in detail and walk through the stages of the project.

I set up a charity for young peoples mental health. Developing an app for peer to peer mentoring. I had no idea where to start, Nick and Ali helped consulting, working through step by steps for developed and further consultancy and help.

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

Nick and Ali mainly

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Working app

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Extremely good

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

Their extensive knowledge and network were impressive.

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

I am unsure about this