Softeq

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Founder of a consumer products & services company

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Designs and sells the world's most advanced pet-tech product for dogs, designed to keep dogs safe and free anywhere you want to take them.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Softeq to accomplish?

• High quality development with minimal bugs
• UX recommendations to make the 'complex' system simple to use
• Deliver functions on time and on budget

SOLUTION

How did you find Softeq?

Past experience

Why did you select Softeq over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget
• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Softeq were assigned to this project?

35

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

100+ 2-week sprints, starting with MVP functionality. Xamarin-based app development targeting Android and IOS. High-availability backend system built on Azure IoT infrastructure. Azure SQL DB for data storage. Development of C-source-level firmware for IoT device to communicate with Azure IoT infrastructure - AND perform on-device business logic, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity peripheral management.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Numerous KPI's involving: quality (bugs, crashes), device performance metrics, user adoption and satisfaction, customer support cases, timeline/roadmap adherence, budget adherence

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

Most deliverables are on-time; if we will miss a deliverable, there is a good reason provided and ample notice to adjust our plan.

What was your primary form of communication with Softeq?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

Softeq is easy to work with, and very high quality output - though perhaps a little slower to progress that we would prefer.

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

If costs were lower, we could ramp up resources and speed up our development roadmap; but, we are limited by the cost of the team.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the CTO and responsible for everything technology- and software-related at Inspection². We specialize in the inspection, conditioning, and assessment of industrial assets using AI computer vision and a range of other software technology. 

We are based in London and have development offices in Rome.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

We needed custom software development. We were going to do a package-based solution to begin with and then stitch a series of packages together. 

There wasn't an equivalent piece of software at the time, so we started from scratch to build the package. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Softeq developed custom software for us from scratch. We provided both technical and functional requirements and a high-level design, including an outline of our data model, screens, and functions — that was the starting point from which they developed everything. 

They then delved into the next level of detail and showed us how the software functioned as a workflow. The main functions began with the creation of an asset, which can be anything from an offshore oil rig to an electric pylon, and that asset is then linked to a particular customer.

The customer then uploads a set of images and data to the system that is then associated with that asset. Then there's a series of visual review tools that customers can go through and view the various images, whether video or static. 

Additionally, there's an engineering template structure, which includes all the questions the engineer needs to answer within the review screen using the images they have in front of them — then the system matches the two up. The final reporting step generates the completed report that then goes to the customer's portal so that they can automatically see it online when it is ready.

We were happy to trust Softeq to handle the design portion since we're a small company with fewer design resources. If they weren't sure about something, they came back to me for feedback. They ran the development and testing and made important project decisions — we didn't spend much time managing them. 

We had 1–2 teammates on our in-house testing team, but we primarily focused on user experience testing, so Softeq handled all the software testing. They dealt with all bugs until the software passed the QA checks and was bug-free. If we identified bugs through our testing, their team quickly fixed them. Softeq also tested the work of our in-house developers. 

We've also utilized their internal resources in the past when we needed to cover a lot of ground — when we wanted a lower cost for a project, we'd pull from their pool of resources.

Next year, we will do a complete system rewrite and update. 

What is the team composition?

There were about 14 teammates involved in the first release. The initial team from Softeq included a project manager, business analysts, architects, front- and backend developers, and testers. 

They also have separate DevOps environment managers that look after the ongoing environment and development operations.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

We went through a pretty standard RFI and RFP process and came up with a set of 30 different companies that we found online. We were looking for a particular skill base in web-based technology that narrowed our search back down to seven. We then sent out more detailed specifications for RFPs, and from that, we chose Softeq since they had a broad range of skills.

We weren't looking for a simple application — we needed a company with a high-tech range of software skills and could inspect industrial assets and process that kind of data through computer vision and 3D. 

We weren't interested in any large companies, but rather a company equivalent in size to us, like Softeq, because we wanted to maintain a quality relationship and be important to our vendor. With big companies, sometimes the deals they present are just too big. 

Softeq had the flexibility that we were looking for. They understood that this was a startup and we needed the ability to move and flex our organization quickly. They were also priced competitively and happy to be technically oriented instead of being involved in business strategy. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with Softeq from December 2014–November 2015. We still have a monthly maintenance contract that covers software support, ongoing development, and maintenance. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The first product release was in November 2015 — they produced high-quality, bug-free code for the project. 

If they weren't delivering for us, we wouldn't be working with them for over seven years now. 

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

For the initial project, Softeq had their own internal project management structure and they stuck to that. Overall, their project management worked well and we knew how their processes worked. Softeq was also very good at meeting timelines and delivered on the promised dates nine times out of ten. 

I still communicate with their project manager and occasionally with their business analyst. If we need to, we can speak directly to the developers whenever we need more technical input.

We communicate over email and Zoom calls when needed. I like being able to give them work and let them deliver once it's done. After seven years, I trust them enough to deliver without additional management overhead, which is a great cost-saving for us. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

The overall quality of the code they deliver is really impressive, which is important to me. I am happy to have a supplier that delivers quality software on time and within budget. 

They are also very good at pricing their work accurately — there have only been 1–2 instances where they've gone over the price they quoted.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Most of the issues that have come up are because of our internal structure. We still have a startup, entrepreneurial, and aggressive development approach. That's how I run our internal teams. It's also what I sometimes need from Softeq.

Sometimes I will need something produced in the simplest and fastest way without any over-complicated solutions. We have certain financial parameters that limit us when we're in the middle of a bid. Softeq doesn't always meet those specifications and they tend to come back with formal project management, a technical analysis, and an over the top solution. They also often go over the bid we're aiming for. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Softeq has an excellent knowledge of software development, and if clients play to those strengths, they'll absolutely get the best out of them. 

My other piece of advice would be to build a relationship with Softeq. If clients do one development project with them and then bid out the next piece, they're not building a long-term relationship. 

It's important to build a proper relationship with a supplier. Even though it might be nice to see how competitive a bid can get, when clients have a relationship with the supplier, they know they will always get the same quality product. 

Clients need to build relationships with Softeq for the long term, work with them, and spend time getting to know them. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder of a medication management platform.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

We needed their team to develop our MVP and cloud service software.

SOLUTION

SOLUTION 
What was the scope of their involvement?

Softeq developed and designed our Android- and iOS-enabled mobile app from scratch. Our MVP, built with a Firebase backend, is a medication reminder and management app that connects customers with their chosen pharmacy. They also integrated a feature that provides pharmacies with a customer management option. Most of the technical requirements were met in cooperation with our internal UX/UI team.

Additionally, Softeq has conducted coaching sessions among our internal members to ensure that they know how to operate the platform well. We continue to rely on their team for technical support, and we're planning to have them implement additional functionalities in the future.

What is the team composition?

We work with a project manager, frontend engineer, web engineer, business analyst, and UI designer from Softeq's team.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

We found Softeq online and chose them over their competitors for their excellent customer service. They showed insight into the best solutions for us as a startup, so we were confident that they'd provide quality service to us.

How much have you invested with them?
 
We've spent $120,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We began working together in January 2021, and it’s ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We're extremely happy with Softeq's work — they've finished the app quickly and resolved any issues that could've hindered its optimal performance.   

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicate via Slack and phone calls, while we rely on Jira for project management. Softeq is keen on providing accurate timeline estimates and clarifying the entire scope of our project.

What did you find most impressive about them?

What stands out most about Softeq is their willingness to understand our needs and help us determine which solutions best meet those.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We're satisfied with how everything's going, so I don't have any complaints.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Take time to understand your needs before relaying these to Softeq's team. Once you've kicked off the project, make sure to provide constant feedback — they're always willing to implement changes.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

My position is the software development manager. And my company is developing an open software to treating video and audio.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Softeq?

We hired Softeq for integrating other video analytics system into our software.

What were your goals for this project?

An integrated system can be released to our customer. And get satisfaction by the customer.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We had some meeting with several software vendors for getting an estimate. Although all vendors provided an estimate, Softeq listened our voice very well and provided the detailed idea. And the cost was also close with our expectation.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

They developed a back end software and frond end software. Although we provided basic software design, they followed the design and solved detail issue one by one. Good thing is that they always asked a direction so that we can confirm if it's correct or not. They also did good test design and execution.

What was the team composition?

At this time, we had small team that is one project leader, one developer and one QA. And they were collaborating well.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project was doing well in time. It was very good for the business.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Project management is a little defensive to avoid task overflow. But since members were very aggressive, it was balanced.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They were very committed. Although there was time difference between Houston and Minsk, they were communicating with me very well.

Are there any areas for improvement?

When they were defensive, it would be perfect if they could give us more suggestion or proposing.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO of Scala Z Media. We work in media, especially games and film.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

We needed them to do the graphics and programming on an app for children.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Softeq provided the design and programming for the game app, based on our idea. The app was built for Android and iOS.

What is the team composition?

There were 6–9 people from Softeq involved in the project at different times. We almost always worked remotely via Skype.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

I was looking in Germany and other countries and I talked to three different companies. I chose Softeq because they were able to describe their services relative to the cost per hour very precisely. We had a small budget, so it was important to have a partner that offered those services precisely within the frame of the budget. Another important factor was that they’d worked on other apps for children and could provide all the services we needed in one place.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with Softeq between January–May 2017.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The quality of the app was very good and the app is very important to our business. We plan to distribute it in schools, and the quality of the app will help us get follow-ups from companies to make similar games.

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

The communication was excellent. I can’t say anything other than that it was serious and that there was no break in communication.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I’m not an expert in games, and I’ve only done three so far, but I can say that they’re working with high professionalism to estimate the work before development in terms of what budget and timeline they’ll need to produce a certain quality.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, not at the moment. We just finished it 14 days ago. Softeq did the best that could’ve been done. The game is now finished, and we plan to test it, go to the public, and get reviews.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

In general, when hiring a development team, it’s important to know what role they’ll play, whether they’ll collaborate on their part. It’s important to define what the services should be before the start and what you expect in terms of them giving advice. Softeq didn’t overwhelm me with their much bigger experience and high professionalism. They gave me room to develop my idea.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the president and owner of an internet mobile media startup with a focus on young Minecraft players.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

We wanted to establish our brand through a gaming app before expanding to Minecraft servers, YouTube, and a broader online presence. We work with a YouTuber that does our marketing so we had an audience we wanted to reach. We needed a development team to design and build the gaming app for us.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We worked with Softeq’s gaming division to build the game from scratch for both iOS and Android. They’ve been involved in all aspects from design to deployment and update and revision. We provided initial guidelines from which they developed the UI. They continue to make updates and add features for monetization, connections to ad networks, and user notifications. They make suggestions for ways to improve usage and retention. They suggest the third-party resources they think we should use and provide information upon which I can make decisions.

What is the team composition?

We have six core team members continuously working on our app. The game design lead is my interface with the developers. I also have a project lead who manages the day-to-day project. We have a main developer as well as a couple of system architects plus an art team.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

I had worked with a YouTuber for a few years on things like online Minecraft servers for his fans. He’d been approached by app developers in the past but we found them to be either self-interested or inexpensive but unreliable. We couldn’t work with freelancers because we couldn’t provide the necessary oversight. We wanted a larger, professional team that would be vested in our long-term vision and brand, and wouldn’t just put out the MVP in order to get paid.

I also wanted a vendor that had a US presence. Softeq has a Houston headquarters so I was able to go scope them out myself. I was really impressed. They were professional, flexible, and reasonably priced. We requested a demo which they built very quickly and very well. That’s what sold me.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent about $300,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in June 2017, and it’s ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re performing better on average than other games—and this is our first attempt. The lifetime value for our iOS app is close to $1 per download and around $.30 per download for Android. We’ve never made games before and they’ve done a great job of building something that works.

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

I speak to development teams for other apps so I know Softeq is doing a great job for us. Based on the time it’s taken and the size of their team, they’ve worked faster than some other companies with larger teams. They’re capable of building something from scratch.

Communications is always effective; they report what’s going on and provide estimates beforehand about what needs to be done and how long it will take. They propose alternatives that might save money or keep development simpler or the app size down. They’re able to run with a basic idea given to them or to respond to detailed guidance. They’re responsive and adjust to the level of involvement I want. I wanted a development team that could handle all tasks from top to bottom; they were able to accommodate that.

Their management team is strong and any internal transitions, like switching between developers, have always been seamless. Their level of effort has been consistent. Their internal team is large enough that we can always access additional resources. For example, I needed a short, animated trailer video for the app that they were able to pull team members in for. That’s an advantage of working with a larger company.

What did you find most impressive about them?

A strength that distinguishes them is that their team is split between Europe and the US. That means they can charge more reasonable rates but it also means they can draw from a broad diversity of ideas from colleagues who work on a wide range of different types of projects. They can handle diverse projects in a highly professional manner.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I've asked them for some difficult things and, with our second version of the game coming out, also discussed adjusting the contractual arrangements. We don’t want to be the app developer; we want to be the media manager at a strategic level with them as our development team. They’ve always been responsive. They’ve been willing to talk to me about the different ways in which we can establish a long-term relationship. They’re flexible and invested in the product and outcomes.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

To get the most out of Softeq, you need to be willing to trust their team. Even if they don’t know something or aren’t sure if something is feasible, if you ask them to try something and are willing to give them the time to think about it, they’ll come back to you with proposals for how it can be done. You’d be surprised at the quality you get even though they’re not billing themselves at the highest rates. They do a great job.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO at 1stQuad Solutions AG, a consulting company in Switzerland. We focus on digital workplace solutions that are based on Microsoft technologies.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

We wanted to develop a mobile application. We have some experience, but this solution was going to be fairly complex because it needed to be integrated with other business systems in the backend. We needed a partner that had the expertise to create the mobile apps, the backend, and the integrations for us. We wanted someone with the experience to set this up in a very short amount of time.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They developed our iOS and Android mobile apps. They used Microsoft Xamarin with extensions for both platforms. It’s a Microsoft Azure hosted backend that runs .NET Core. We’re using different storages in Azure; block storage, table storage, structure storage. We also have an interface, Office 365, SharePoint, and Wizdom Intranet on top of there. Everything runs on the cloud.

What is the team composition?

We work with two Xamarin mobile developers, two backend developers, a QA specialist, and a project coordinator that also serves as a business analyst. The backend developers do the .NET Core backend and integrations.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

We contacted a few companies and went through an evaluation process. Since we knew Softeq prior to the search, we did a proof of concept (POC) with the team. They were communicative and had the vision to solve our problems. Softeq’s creative ideas distinguished them from the other vendors. We spoke with the development team, which convincingly demonstrated their ability to process feedback. Those resources were organized, skilled, and spoke English well. We knew Softeq would be able to guide the development process.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent $200,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

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

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Overall, the results have met our expectations. The app has a very modern microservice architecture. Softeq delivered the prototype on time, which enabled us to promote the solution ahead of our normal sales process. At the moment, we have two customers lined up and several others in the pipeline. We’re going to develop additional modules in early 2019.

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

They use scrum methodology, though they slightly adjusted to our process; we don’t care for strict processes. The team sets clear deadlines, and then meets those dates. They let us know about any scheduling issue. We’re in daily contact.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’ve made it really easy for us to work with them. We visited their development center. The people have a unique spirit. They’re a very motivated crew. It feels good to go there and work with them.

Are there any areas they could improve?

If any, they'd be the test cases. We performed realistic, least privilege-based test quite late in the project. But that means first of all that we define them clearly and instruct Softeq accordingly.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

The enjoy sharing ideas and taking an interest in the customer’s business. Listen carefully to what they say because they often propose better alternatives.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm a product manager at AGU Baby AG. We design baby care products and medical equipment for home use. Our devices make parenting easier.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Softeq?

We have about 15 devices, five of which are connected to apps. We developed our apps with another company. We had no experience with new media and expected more support from our software developer. 

What were your goals for this project?

Software is never finished, so we have more projects in the pipeline. Our upgrades and updates have to be ready on time, which is only possible with competent partners.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Unhappy with our first partner, we switched to Softeq. We were thrilled that they provided a reasonable price-to-performance ratio. The Softeq team was efficient and excellent, and they fit perfectly with our team. It was a win-win situation from the beginning. 

Describe the project in detail.

Once we selected Softeq, we started transferring the project. Our challenge was to transition without interrupting support or developing a completely new app. Transfers aren't normally easy, but ours solved a lot of problems. 

After completing the transfer, Softeq conducted a full review of our project. They explained how to increase stability and provide the best possible customer experience.

What was the team composition?

Our dedicated team includes a project manager, a business analyst, a QA engineer, and three engineers for iOS, Android, and web. We sometimes use other resources like UI/UX designers through a "time and materials" model.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Because of their excellent teamwork, we've achieved our goals. After the first six months of development, they had fixed the most important issues, doubled our audience, and increased the number of installations on both app stores. We greatly appreciated their professional work and quick responses. 

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The communication between our teams helped us find suitable solutions. Their response times fit our expectations, and the understanding between us is perfect.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We're absolutely convinced that we have the right partner. Softeq has lots of experience in software development. We feel secure having such a competent resource on our team. 

Are there any areas for improvement?

There aren't any critical issues.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a project manager at a sports data analytics company. With a focus on the professional and college athletics industry, we collect and create data reports to help teams improve performance and safety.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

We wanted to develop a mobile application that helps coaches and athletic trainers coordinate workout schedules with athletes. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Softeq built the app for both Android and iOS using Xamarin language. It's an app that helps coaches and trainers find specific workouts from our existing website, and assign them to players and athletes. Its primary function allows users to access our web applications through mobile devices.

With the app launched, they’re currently developing enhancements and addressing change requests.

What is the team dynamic?

I worked with a project manager who oversaw a small team of developers. I was also in communication with their quality assurance team and an account manager.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

They may have been a reference from another company, but I'm not sure. Although, we worked with Softeq previously on another application. They did an excellent job, so we decided to hire them again.

How much have you invested with them?

We invested close to $100,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started work in March 2017, and our relationship is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We released the application about a month ago and don’t have statistics available at this time. However, users have expressed satisfaction with the product.

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

They performed very well, meeting all our expectations and milestones. Communication was strong, as we used GoToMeeting to conduct video meetings every week.

What did you find most impressive about them?

One thing that stood out for me was their flexibility. Because they’re based in Belarus, there’s a six-hour time difference between us. While I was initially concerned about this arrangement, Softeq routinely worked around our schedule, even if that meant working at night to accommodate our business hours.

I’ve found them to be conscientious, hardworking, and quick to tie up any loose ends.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything. I’ve asked other team members if they have any suggestions for Softeq, but everyone has been very satisfied with their work.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an independent surgeon who works for a major university.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Softeq?

I had an idea for an app to help surgeons keep track of their cases and the patients that they work with. I do some coding myself and created the first version of the platform. I found that the app was useful and that there was most likely a market for it, but I needed to get some professional help to make a marketable product. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

I had Softeq recreate the app for iOS from the ground up, even though I had already coded the first version. Their redesign was based on the principle philosophies of the original app. I launched the app and support it myself. Occasionally, I go to them for help with updates. The target market is the US only.

How did you come to work with Softeq?

I did a ton of research online and ultimately came to Softeq as the solution based on their proximity to my location in Houston. They have good reviews. I scheduled a meeting with them, got a feeling that they were accurate, and chose to work with them. They were the first firm I met with out of a small group I had chosen. I ended my search after my first meeting with them. I was comfortable that we would be able to work in an efficient and affordable manner to produce a good product.

How much have you invested with Softeq?

I spent $100,000 on the project.

What is the status of this engagement?

The original timeline for the project was four months, but because I added some functionalities to the project, it ended up taking seven months. Our initial discussions were in August of 2016, and the project was completed in March of 2017. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Could you share any evidence that would demonstrate the productivity, quality of work, or impact of the engagement?

The project was successful all around. I’m currently showing the app to individual surgeons and having them try the app. So far, it’s been received extremely well with very little negative feedback. I won’t have any specific stats until I market the app.

How did Softeq perform from a project management standpoint?

This process was new for me in terms of making sure the product was professional, but Softeq made it so easy. They guided me throughout the process. They helped me decide which functionalities to keep in order to stay within budget since I was funding the project myself.

Are there any areas Softeq could improve?

They went out of their way to make the work easy for me. A lot of their engineers work out of Belarus, and they did a great job. I don’t have the expertise to know areas they could improve. I was very happy with them.

What tips or recommendations could you share that might increase the likelihood of success with Softeq?

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what you want your app to do and how you want it to do that. Whatever your idea is, Softeq can make it happen. The more detailed you are, the more information they’re going to be able to give you as far as cost and the way to accomplish your goal.