Stoke Ventures

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Vice President of Maholla Products, Inc.

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Maholla Products, Inc. designs and manufactures premium, innovative, and sustainable products with the goal of providing customers with high-functioning, quality products that last a lifetime.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Stoke Ventures to accomplish?

• Design unique, custom hardware components within our specifications.
• Produce an ergonomic product that meets our desired audio and comfort quality.

SOLUTION

How did you find Stoke Ventures?

Referral

Why did you select Stoke Ventures over others?

• High ratings
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

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

We contracted Stoke to help us progress our development of an audio product. Our product platform is such that we can't use standard component and required custom hardware/parts to achieve the sound quality and performance needed.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Stoke was able to complete the project within our timeline and budget. The designs fit seamlessly into our platform and even allowed for easier assembly than we were expecting, which will save us on both manufacturing and assembly.

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

We found working with Stoke to be very enjoyable. They are clearly very knowledgeable about product design and brilliant engineers. We were happily surprised with their communication. Our experience with other firms is that good communication is rare. Stoke was very clear about the process and made it easy for us to explain our needs, ask questions, and exchange information.

What was your primary form of communication with Stoke Ventures?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

The quality of the work was impressive and the communication was equal to it.

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

No.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of OcuTrap Inc

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

OcuTrap makes internet-connected animal traps.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Stoke Ventures to accomplish?

• Circuit Board: Enhancing functionality, reliability, and cost efficiency, preparing OcuTrap for extensive field testing and commercial use.
• Firmware: Developing firmware to enable user interaction and control over the trap, ensuring the ability to receive, process, and execute commands while communicating with the AWS IoT cloud.
• Protective Enclosure: The enclosure will house the device's internal components, protecting animals and environmental factors while ensuring the operation of key features such as animal distance measurement, motor connections, day/night vision camera capabilities, and cellular connectivity. An essential aspect of this objective is developing a mechanism for secure mounting the enclosure to the cage.
• The overarching goal is to drive OcuTrap towards commercialization by enhancing its efficiency, streamlining user interaction, and promoting humane animal treatment.

SOLUTION

How did you find Stoke Ventures?

• Online Search
• Alumni

Why did you select Stoke Ventures over others?

• High ratings
• Pricing fit our budget

How many teammates from Stoke Ventures were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

1. Detailed Design and Engineering Phase (estimated competion time 5-7 weeks)
   1.  Circuit Board Design and Engineering
   2.  Develop detailed schematic files for the circuit boards.
   3.  Create Gerber files for PCB manufacturing.
   4.  Generate a complete Bill of Materials (BOM) listing all components required for the circuit boards.
   5.  Firmware Development
   6.  Design and code the firmware necessary to operate the circuit boards.
   7.  Ensure the firmware integrates seamlessly with the device’s hardware components.
   8.  Camera Functionality
   9.  Develop and document the code to ensure proper functionality of the camera integrated into the device.
   10. Conduct initial testing to verify camera operations and troubleshoot any issues.
2. Prototype Development Phase (estimated competion time 4-6 weeks)
   1.  Prototype Assembly
   2.  Assemble the initial prototypes of the OcuTrap device using the designed circuit boards and components listed in the BOM.
   3.  Integrate the developed firmware and camera functionality into the prototypes.
   4.  Protective Enclosure Design
   5.  Design a protective enclosure to house the internal components of the device.
   6.  Ensure the enclosure meets the specifications for durability and environmental protection, suitable for wildlife trapping scenarios.
   7.  Testing and Quality Assurance
   8.  Conduct thorough testing of the assembled prototypes to ensure all components function correctly and meet the design specifications.
   9.  Address any issues or defects identified during the testing phase to ensure the prototypes are fully operational.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

These are the outcomes were basing out project success on, none of which were fully completed. 

The contract stipulated we pay in two parts. 

• 50% of the total to get started ($18,600)
• 50% balance of design/engineering when the design/engineering is complete, before the dispatch of specification files ($18,600). 

We paid in accordance to the contract the second payment and confimation from Andrew that the design/engineering was complete. After payment we learned that much of what we had paid for was not, in-fact, completed.

The timeline started in May 2023, paid second part in October 2023. By 2024, we had lost confidence the project would ever get completed on any level, so we hired another firm to start the project over from scratch. 

1. PCB Design and Engineering: Detailed schematic files, Gerber files, and BOM for the PCB design. All deliverables will be in standard industry formats for easy review, assessment, and future manufacturing. – DELIVERED IN INCOMPLETE FORM
2. Firmware Design and Engineering, Command Processing: Fully documented and commented code for the command processing module and relevant testing reports. – NOT DELIVERED
3. Firmware Design and Engineering, Connectivity: Fully documented and commented code for the command processing module and relevant testing reports. – NOT DELIVERED 
4. Firmware Design and Engineering, Power Management: Fully documented and commented code for the power management module and relevant testing reports. – NOT DELIVERED
5. Firmware Design and Engineering, Sensor Integration and Management: Fully documented and commented code for the sensor integration and management module and relevant testing reports. – NOT DELIVERED
6. Firmware Design and Engineering, Motor Control: Fully documented and commented code for the motor control module and relevant testing reports. – NOT DELIVERED 
7. Firmware Design and Engineering, Camera Functionality: Fully documented and commented code for the camera functionality module and relevant testing reports. – NOT DELIVERED
8. Enclosure Design and Modification: 3D CAD files of the enclosure, technical drawings, and modification design specs for the existing hardware enclosure. – DELIVERED IN INCOMPLETE FORM

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

Stoke Ventures consistently failed to deliver items on time, with extensive delays beyond the agreed timeline. Communication was poor, with sparse updates and unresponsiveness to our inquiries, leaving us in the dark. 

Despite our attempts to engage, they showed a lack of urgency and responsibility. We have now passed the one-year mark since the project's start on May 23, 2023, far surpassing the mid-August completion estimate. We had to hire another company to complete the project, which we are currently field testing.

What was your primary form of communication with Stoke Ventures?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

Small US based product development firm.

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

Stoke Ventures failed to fulfill the contract, forcing us to hire a lawyer and demand a refund. They need to establish regular communication, implement stricter project management, and enhance quality control. Ensuring transparency, proactively solving problems, carefully vetting contractors, and documenting deliverables thoroughly are crucial. Clear refund policies and honoring commitments will help maintain trust and client satisfaction.

Company Responses

The vendor responded on January 10, 2024.

Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback about your experience with Stoke Ventures. We take great pride in our work and in delivering an exceptional service and experience to our clients. We treat every project as if it’s our own, and we are very fortunate to work with many incredible entrepreneurs to successfully bring their products to market.

I want to acknowledge the specific issues raised here. This project encountered numerous client change orders that delayed the project significantly and were contrary to the recommendations of our engineering team regarding mechanical and hardware changes. We know that in business and in life communication is critical to success, and although we maintained constant communication throughout the process and answered every question that came up, we continuously work on optimizing our communication with clients.

We’re proud that we delivered all agreed upon deliverables for this project, and completed a prototype (which we were never paid for). We wish you the best of luck moving forward with all endeavors!

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

Solo entrepreneur

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Stoke Ventures?

New product design

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Creating a new product design, video and images

What is the team composition?

Single developer

How did you come to work with Stoke Ventures?

By recommendation

How much have you invested with them?

About $10,000

What is the status of this engagement?

Project complete

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The quality of Stoke Ventures’ work was pretty good. However, although the project’s result was acceptable, the design wasn’t ready for manufacturing — it was an idea. When I took my idea to the next level, it didn’t go through because it wasn’t designed for manufacturing. 

How did Stoke Ventures perform from a project management standpoint?

Very well, no issues

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Quality of end product

Are there any areas they could improve?

More communication about the costs early on would have helped. At some point, I didn’t know how many modifications were allowed within the budget or which ones I would get charged for. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I suggest asking how many modifications are included in the first round and when these changes will imply an extra charge. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am an Entrepreneur and the Founder of a Digital Marketing Agency in Wake Forest, NC

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Stoke Ventures, and what were your goals?

As a client, my company hired Stoke Ventures to develop a mobile app called "Fitness Tracker" that will provide users with a personalized and easy to use platform to track their fitness progress, set goals and get daily reminders to keep them on track. Our goal for this app is to create a user-friendly and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to track their progress and reach their fitness goals.

Additionally, we want the app to be fully customizable, so users can tailor it to their specific needs. We also want the app to be able to sync with other fitness-related devices and apps, such as fitness trackers, to provide users with a complete picture of their fitness journey. We believe that by providing users with a comprehensive, customizable and easy to use app, we will be able to help them achieve their fitness goals and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

SOLUTION

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

As a client, we selected Stoke Ventures as our vendor based on a thorough evaluation process. We first identified a list of potential vendors that had the necessary skills and experience to develop the Fitness Tracker app. We then narrowed down the list by considering the following factors:

1. Technical expertise: We evaluated the vendor's technical capabilities and experience in developing mobile apps, specifically in the fitness and health industry.
2. Portfolio: We reviewed the vendor's portfolio of past projects and case studies to get a sense of the quality and complexity of their work.
3. Communication and collaboration: We evaluated the vendor's ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with clients, as well as their ability to understand our needs and goals for the Fitness Tracker app.
4. Cost and timeline: We reviewed the vendor's proposed cost and timeline for the project, and assessed whether they were realistic and met our budget and schedule requirements.

After evaluating all the above factors, we decided that Stoke Ventures was the best fit for our project. They had a strong track record of delivering high-quality mobile apps and had the necessary technical expertise and experience in the fitness and health industry. They also demonstrated clear and effective communication and collaboration skills, and provided a realistic cost and timeline for the project.

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

The scope of work for the Fitness Tracker app project includes the following project steps and key deliverables:

• Project initiation: During this phase, the project team will hold a kick-off meeting with the client to review the project requirements and goals, and to establish a project plan and timeline.
• Design: During this phase, the project team will work on the app's design and user interface, creating wireframes and mockups of the app's screens, and working with the client to finalize the design.
• Development: During this phase, the project team will begin developing the app, using technologies such as React Native or Flutter for cross-platform development, and Firebase or AWS for the backend. The team will also implement features such as:

1. User registration and login
2. Goal setting and tracking
3. Daily reminders
4. Syncing with other fitness devices
5. Data visualization and analysis
6. Push notifications

• Testing: During this phase, the project team will perform various types of testing, including unit testing, integration testing, and user acceptance testing, to ensure the app is functioning correctly and meets the client's requirements.
• Deployment: During this phase, the project team will prepare the app for deployment and work with the client to submit the app to the app stores (Google Play and App Store)
• Maintenance and Support: After the deployment, the team will provide maintenance and support for the app, fixing bugs and addressing any issues that arise, and releasing updates as needed.

The key deliverables for the project include:

1. A fully functional and user-friendly Fitness Tracker app for both iOS and Android platforms
2. User manual and documentation
3. A detailed testing report
4. All the source code
5. A deployed app on the app stores

The technologies used in the project include React Native or Flutter for cross-platform development, Firebase or AWS for the backend and other technologies depending on the client's requirements.

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

The number of resources from the vendor's team that worked on the Fitness Tracker app project was 6. The team was composed of:

1. Project Manager: Andrew, who was responsible for overseeing the project, managing the project timeline, budget, and resources, and serving as the main point of contact between the client and the vendor's team.
2. Developers: Michael and Lisa, who were responsible for the technical aspects of the project, such as coding and testing the app.
3. Designers: David and Emily, who worked on the app's design and user interface, creating wireframes and mockups of the app's screens, and working with the client to finalize the design.
4. QA Testers: Sarah and Alex, who were responsible for testing the app to ensure it meets the client's requirements and is functioning correctly.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Measurable outcomes and feedback are important to track the success of a project, and we set specific, measurable and achievable goals for the app to track them throughout the process. Some of these goals were:

• Number of downloads
• Number of active users
• Retention rate
• User satisfaction rating
• Revenue generated

These metrics can be used to evaluate the success of the app and make any necessary adjustments to improve its performance. As we are currently looking at the right time to release the app, we are gathering feedback from our beta users to understand their experience with the app and identify areas for improvement. This has been done through surveys, interviews, and customer service interactions.

As the app is still in Beta we are monitoring the app performance, fixing bugs, and releasing updates to keep it up-to-date with the latest technologies and user's needs.

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

Stoke Ventures, uses a project management style that is focused on clear communication and collaboration with the client. They use a variety of communication tools such as email, phone, video conferencing and project management software to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and involved in the project at all times. They typically schedule regular check-in meetings with the client to review progress, discuss any issues or concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to the project plan.

They also use agile methodologies to manage the project, which allows them to be flexible and responsive to the client's needs and changes. In terms of timeliness, Stoke Ventures placed a high priority on meeting project deadlines and delivering the project on time. They have a dedicated project manager who is responsible for monitoring the project timeline and ensuring that the project stays on track.

They also have a clearly defined process for identifying and addressing any potential delays or roadblocks, so that the project stays on schedule. They also have a transparent process of communication with the client, with clear timelines and milestones, as well as a clear and concise reporting system that gives the client an overview of the project status, progress, and any issues that need to be addressed.

Stoke Ventures project management style is focused on clear communication, collaboration and timeliness, agile methodologies, and they have a transparent process of communication with clear timelines and milestones, as well as a clear and concise reporting system.

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

• A strong portfolio of successful projects
• Proven experience in multiple industries
• A dedicated and experienced team of developers, designers, and project managers
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• A transparent and flexible project management approach that allows for adjustments and changes as needed
• A clear and concise reporting system, with a transparent process of communication with clear timelines and milestones
• A good reputation and positive feedback from previous clients
• Competitive pricing and a realistic project timeline
• A pro-active approach to problem-solving and risk management
• A strong emphasis on user experience, and design thinking
• A comprehensive and clear understanding of the client's needs and goals
• A willingness to go above and beyond to ensure client satisfaction

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

Nothing comes to mind.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a self-employed entrepreneur focused on consulting.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Stoke Ventures?

I was exploring the possibility of creating a new product.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Stoke Ventures helped me with product design; I came up with an idea based on my research and a concept I created, and their team helped me take it a step further. To jumpstart the process, I gave them a drawing I had and the goals I wanted to achieve.

What was the team composition? 

I only worked with Andrew (Founder).

How did you come to work with Stoke Ventures?

Andrew reached out to me via LinkedIn, and I chose him for this project based on my initial conversation with him.

How much have you invested in them?

We spent around $12,000 with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from January–April 2022.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Stoke Ventures provided a solid product design that will help me develop what I’m looking for to move forward. Overall, I can say that I got what I was looking for.

How did Stoke Ventures perform from a project management standpoint?

In terms of communication, we used email and phone calls.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were attentive and understood exactly what I was looking for, enabling them to deliver according to our requests. Their team was also clear and transparent with the process and the costs.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I didn’t think there was anything they could improve on because everything was perfect.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Ensure you know what you want and be clear when communicating with them about your goal. Moreover, be open to any suggestions they may offer if you’re unfamiliar with product development processes.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Inventor of TBD

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We produce indoor houseplant pots.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Stoke Ventures to accomplish?

• Rework and improve an existing CAD design
• Create a fully functional prototype

SOLUTION

How did you find Stoke Ventures?

Online Search

Why did you select Stoke Ventures over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned
• Great Consultation

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

I had a CAD design done by a freelancer and originally requested to go forward with 3D printing. Stoke Ventures noticed some design flaws that could affect the quality and functionality of the product. After a thorough consultation, they were able to make my vision into reality. In addition to providing an improved design, they offered similar options. 

After making a selection I moved ahead with the prototype. Stoke Ventures consulted with me on materials, colors, production parts, durability, etc. As I near the manufacturing phase Stoke Ventures was able to connect me with a trusted manufacturer with a competitive price. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

My prototype is fully functional and aesthetically pleasing (home decor). In addition, they negotiated on my behalf for much better deals with trusted manufacturers. 

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

As a budding inventor, this process was completely new to me. Stoke Ventures went above and beyond to answer my questions, provide full disclosure of the process, promptly return my emails, and include experts who specialize in the industry I'm trying to enter. 

The entire process has been smooth; I'm positive they were the right choice.

What was your primary form of communication with Stoke Ventures?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

They have experience with more seasoned clients but as an absolute beginner to this process, they gave me peace of mind that other places didn't. I did several consultations with other companies and my questions were not answered and I was often left hanging.

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

I cannot think of anything.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am an executive at Poured Handmade Creations

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We make cremation urns via concrete casting.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Stoke Ventures to accomplish?

• We needed five new parts designed.
• We needed the parts to fit snugly.

SOLUTION

How did you find Stoke Ventures?

Online Search

Why did you select Stoke Ventures over others?

• High ratings
• Close to my geographic location
• Pricing fit our budget

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

We asked Andrew at Stokes to design five unique parts, which were to be used in the course of our production process.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We worked through some trial and error, and eventually wound up with what we needed, completely perfected. We were very happy with the flexibility, communication, and output from Stoke Ventures!

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

Andrew at Stokes communicated well with us, in a timely manner. The original design needed few tweaks, and Andrew was very open to taking care of this for us until we got exactly what we needed.

What was your primary form of communication with Stoke Ventures?

Email or Messaging App

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

Great attitude!

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

No

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the N/A of a consumer products company

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

I don’t have a company

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Stoke Ventures to accomplish?

• Design a holster

SOLUTION

How did you find Stoke Ventures?

Referral

Why did you select Stoke Ventures over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me

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

I asked Stoke Ventures for assistance with the product design. A finalized product was produced and ready for manufacturing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

A 3D printed prototype. The actual substance of a product

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

Every request I had, they delivered. There was never a period when I went uninformed.

What was your primary form of communication with Stoke Ventures?

Email or Messaging App

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

Their customer service. It’s becoming more and more rare to interact with people who understand how important customer service is.

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

Not that I can think of

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the CEO of steth 'n go, a magnetic stethoscope holder company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Stoke Ventures?

We needed Stroke Ventures to help modify one of our STEP files so that the product was more user friendly for customers.

SOLUTION

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

It was a referral.

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

In my first meeting with Stokes Ventures, I met with Andrew over zoom to discuss the product and he helped provide suggestions on how to improve it. He modified the STEP file and printed samples and had them shipped to my office so that I could try them out. In the end the product turned out great.

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

I worked with one person, Andrew.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The product is working out great.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Workflow was fantastic. Andrew responded to text messages and emails and if needed we discussed the project over zoom.

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

They were very patient and helpful in understanding a problem and finding a solution.

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

Nope. nothing.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Medwell Dynamics is healthcare company located in Virginia. We promote wellness for everyday living to our clients through the use of adaptive equipment. I am the CEO of the company and product inventor.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Stoke Ventures?

Stokes Ventures was hired to turn my sketched copy of an idea/ product into a 3D illustration and prototype. The graphics were excellent and accepted by the U.S. Patent Office .

SOLUTION

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

Stokes Venture was highly recommened by others in the industry. I selected them because their professionalism, affordable prices and location.

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

Intial meeting to discuss details for this project was the end Oct 2020. I submitted the drawings to Stokes Venture. Andrew and his team caught the vision of the product and its intended use. We had 2 follow up meetings for my approval.

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

I mainly worked with Andrew. He was the project manager.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Their grahics easily demonstrated the functionality of the product. This was important for the manufacturers of the equipment.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The product manager provided us with clear communication and frequent updates.

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

My encounter with Stoke Ventures began during COVID 19 pandemic in 2020. Yet, they consistently progressed with completing my project in a timely manner and within the agreement timeframe. Stokes Ventures consists of a knowledgeable team of professionals who take pride in their craftsmanship.

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

I was well pleased with the final product and the great customer service experience.