WallTree

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a start-up company developing an insights engine using NLP which we are commercialising as a SaaS app having both an API and a web UI. I am one of the co-founders and responsible for the product.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire WallTree?

We initially hired WallTree to revamp our UI, starting from designs to implementing them in Vue.js. In the mean time, we've integrated one of their developers in our team, closely working together to integrate new features not only in the UI, but in the backend as well.

What were your goals for this project?

The frontend needed to offer a clean, simple UI on top of our backend. For now, our focus is mostly on desktop environments and effort is put into offering the right amount of options to our users, but still keeping it intuitive enough so people think can start using it right away.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We contacted 3 different vendors with a toy exercise to demonstrate their thinking to us. WallTree by far delivered the best results and showed that they understood our problem domain better than the competing companies.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

1) Designs for our whole UI - starting from a demo from our old UI and a description of the features we want to have in the new one, they came up with a completely refreshing UI. 2) Implementation of those designs - given the aforementioned designs, implementing them in HTML / CSS / JS (Vue.js) and connecting the UI to the existing backend. 3) Integrating new features, in both front- and backend as well as designs for the UI parts of these features as well.

What was the team composition?

We have one full-time software developer and a designer which is allocated ad-hoc on an hourly rate (we do not have a full time need for designs).

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The new UI was used to convince new customers and convince them of our capabilities. We are actively working on further improvements as well.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

We incorporated the developer into our internal development process, which is SCRUM-based. We talk to each other on a daily basis (multiple times a day if needed) and communication is fluent. The designer is less integrated in our daily working since we only request work for him in batches. If needed, we meet with him, describe what we need, ask him for an estimate and follow up afterwards. Until know, this worked perfectly. Overall follow up (finances, administration, ...) is done by another team member of WallTree and is sporadic (not much need for it if everything is running smoothly). We use Azure DevOps for task tracking, git hosting, and CI/CD, MS Teams for communication as well an in lesser frequency Slack and email.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They're able to think with us and design a nice web app capturing the essence of what we offer to our customers. On top of that, they were nice enough to offer a some more flexibility during the worst part of the Covid-19 crisis, which really helped us to navigate it more smoothly.

Are there any areas for improvement?

At the very beginning, there was some confusion about the developer we were going to work with. But after that was fixed, everything was just fine.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the head of the development team for an incubator company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

I needed a partner to develop platforms for our startup clients.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

WallTree develops iOS, Android, and web-based apps for entrepreneurs working with our incubator. After helping entrepreneurs create mockups and user stories for their applications, we present the idea to the WallTree team. If the plan is technically viable, they begin development.

Looking at all of the projects they’ve worked on so far, their focuses span across a variety of sectors, from agriculture to children’s education, to hospitality. They’ve developed features for booking, video display, geolocation, and data synchronization, to name a few.

What is the team composition?

We have one central point of contact, but I’m in connection with an additional three resources. There’s a larger background team on their end, but I don’t speak with them. Despite our different locations, we still communicate with someone from the WallTree team daily.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

My boss introduced them to our company. We considered other agencies, but we trusted WallTree’s capabilities more than our other options. Also, they offered a competitive price.

How much have you invested with them?

So far, we’ve spent $70,000–$80,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together sometime in 2016, and the partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve completed seven applications with WallTree’s help, but we don’t have any conclusive metrics.

How did WallTree perform from a project management standpoint?

They’re doing very well. Someone from their team is always available; I can contact them whenever and expect a quick response.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Sometimes, when working with the same partner for a long time, the quality of service will start to deteriorate. With WallTree, we continue to see a consistent level of quality.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They could work on how they handle change requests. Occasionally, we’ve been charged for extra features and would’ve appreciated it if WallTree sustained those costs.

Any advice for potential customers?

Clients should be descriptive when interacting with WallTree. Their team will answer any questions that come up.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the CTO of Zugara, an augmented reality company based in Los Angeles. All of our projects relate to computer vision, augmented reality and pattern recognition.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

I’ve worked with them on a number of projects over the last 2 years. We do have a development team, but we outsource all interface work, which accounts for 60% of our projects.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

I’ve worked with WallTree on an augmented reality project for medical applications, specifically remote breast cancer diagnostics. They were my only partner, and they built the entire biometric-data application. It was developed for Windows, Android and iOS, and distributed as enterprise software.

They’ve worked on a facial recognition functionality, application login, and pulse detection, which was a sophisticated feature. They used my algorithm for it.

They didn’t provide marketing or strategy services.

What is the team dynamic?

We made a statement of work with our own client, breaking the process down in technical documentation. I delegated a part of the project to WallTree, and created another statement of work and technical documentation. We have an internal UI/UX designer working on this project, who provided wireframes to WallTree.

There were 4 people from their team assigned to the project. My main point of contact was Peter Voloshchuk, [co-owner] who acted as project manager. We spoke on a daily basis.

We’ve used project management software, email and Slack for communication on a daily basis.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

There are 8 other companies I’ve used from time to time, based on their skillsets, and I also have a 7-person internal team. All development mostly occurs in-house, but we do need additional resources from time to time, and we prefer to outsource instead of hiring developers.

Peter approached me on LinkedIn about a potential collaboration. I had another team working with my company, and, when I had a couple of projects running at the same time, I decided to give WallTree a try with a smaller task. I liked their performance, and gave them a bigger project. I also liked Peter’s personality, and the fact that they provided their own opinions on the technical aspects for our second project. I was appreciative of this, since I needed someone who was able to doubt my own decisions, and tell me I’m wrong.

How much have you invested with them?

WallTree’s work has been in the low 6-figure range.

What is the status of this engagement?

I started working with WallTree a couple of years ago. The current project started in January 2017, and was soft-launched in June.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The diagnosis application has had substantial results already, by increasing the likelihood of identifying breast cancer by 400 times. Our client has been extremely happy with the app.

How did WallTree perform from a project management standpoint?

They handled the documentation part well, but had some issues with understanding certain terminologies. This was easy to correct. I would give them an 8.5 out of 10, but it must be kept in mind that I used to work for the military, and have high-level criteria for my teams.

Everything was delivered on schedule and budget.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They have critical thinking and always challenge my business decisions, offering different approaches. Some work well, and some don’t, but I appreciate the effort.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Project management can be improved. The language barrier may have been a factor in this. Having a project manager with a better understanding of the business part and terminologies within different industries would be good, but it’s not a critical aspect. Generally speaking, I’ve been satisfied working with them.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

I am responsible for the technical side of projects, and I evaluate WallTree’s technical team before the work starts. I can vouch for their great team.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the CEO of Softum (previously called GV Soft), an Israeli-Ukrainian IT company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

We worked with them on an Israeli municipality project, where we were developing a web platform and mobile application. WallTree had knowledge in this kind of software, and their principal knew Hebrew, so they could assist us with project management and QA as well.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They worked on a web platform made in C# and .NET, with a Microsoft SQL server. The client part was built using Objective-C on iOS, and Java on Android. The application has an admin panel through which users can customize their own experience, add and exclude features, change the background, and so on, similar to a WordPress dashboard, but for mobile.

There was business development in place as well. WallTree helped us find new leads.

I only worked with Michael Israel at that particular time. I don’t know the other people involved. They have a business development department who provided leads. He acted like a contact person, and we had conversations twice a day for half an hour. We still keep in touch.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

We initially found them on a Ukrainian Upwork-like platform. I posted on a bid from WallTree, and we got in touch. They were searching for qualified developers, and I recommended my company. We obtained our contract with the Israeli company through WallTree.

How much have you invested with WallTree?

The cost of the project has been around $20,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them around 2016. The collaboration between WallTree and the client is likely longer. Our relationship is ongoing. After delivering the current project, we have started work on 2 others in the Israeli space.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project has been delivered. It was a big undertaking for the municipality, and we continue to support it.

How did WallTree perform from a project management standpoint?

We used Google Docs, Trello, and JIRA for managing tasks and the communication between developers. We have used business analysts to communicate the tasks between the client and the developers. There was QA in place for checking every feature which we were aiming to deliver.

Michael has been available to translate tasks and provide prompt answers. He has a good background in IT as a tester.

What did you find most impressive about WallTree?

It’s hard to find something impressive about a company, after working so many years in this field. WallTree is good at client communication, QA, and project management.

Are there any areas WallTree could improve?

We always need to improve ourselves in this area. Technologies change constantly, and we have started to focus on the .NET Core platform, which I think is the future of development.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the CEO and a co-owner of a software consulting company with eight offices in Sweden, and more in Norway, Denmark and Finland. We build web and mobile apps.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

We are working on a new product using our own designers and architects in Sweden. We needed a team of developers which could build the product, so we went to WallTree.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

WallTree is developing an Android and iOS app, as well as a web version and the backend of the platform. They assigned a 10 member team, including designers and frontend and backend developers.

We gave WallTree a list of requirements and the initial flow of the app. We wanted them to collaborate with our own designers and architects, and I was impressed by the team’s creativity and ideas. I made sure that we could work together in order to come up with the best architecture and design possible.

We’re working on an advanced video editing tool with analytics capabilities, which is a core part of it. The product is also heavily dependent on social media sharing. It’s complex but easy to use at the same time, and through it, we’re trying to find a new use for existing technology. It’s based on existing platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, but it’s using the technology in a much different way.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

We had outsourced to Bangalore, India in the past, but not being able to visit the developers in person was a problem. Their performance was okay, but it was still difficult to get detailed information and have the team do exactly what we wanted. We had some problems and additional costs, and I couldn’t simply leave my work here and jump on a plane to see the team. I didn’t trust their quality and wanted to find a place where I could go and meet everyone working on our project.

I had a friend who had used a company in Ukraine, which I was considering along with Bulgaria. I found the former to be cheaper and they offered very good quality at reasonable prices, compared to Bulgaria. During my research, I actually got messages from around three companies, including one of WallTree’s sales managers. I replied to all three and got in touch with their owners. The price was a factor in the decision, so I shared my idea and got estimates from each one, and WallTree's was the best. We went from there.

How much have you invested with WallTree?

The cost of WallTree’s work has been between €50,000 and €60,000 [US $55,902 and $67,082]. We have been paying in installments.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started the initial discussions in November 2016. The work fully started in January 2017. The platform is 90% completed. It was supposed to be done by May, but we added more features. We will start testing and hope to finish everything by the end of June.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

WallTree has a team of young and very eager people. They have a lot to share and are very creative. The quality of the work and their level of expertise are unquestionable. From the start, everything was spot-on and smooth in terms of development. WallTree has been giving me exactly what I’ve asked from the onset.

I had been disappointed by two companies in India before, so I needed to make sure that this didn’t happen again. WallTree has been able to understand what I mean before I even finish explaining, and can make suggestions to actually make it better.

How did WallTree perform from a project management standpoint?

We understand each other. We receive regular updates from WallTree on our progress and have frequent communication. This was a main requirement from the start, and they’ve not disappointed. Had anything reminded me of my past experiences, I would have raised that point, but it didn’t happen. Project management-wise, WallTree is performing well. I am involved in the process along with my own team, and the collaboration has been smooth. They also speak good English, which has been refreshing.

What did you find most impressive about WallTree?

When I request something to be done in a particular way, WallTree will come up with ideas. I was not getting this before with my Indian friends. I needed to spell out every detail and wasn’t getting anything back in terms of how things could be made better. With WallTree, there are constant improvements coming from their part.

When I initially presented the project to them, they came up with a monetization possibility which we hadn’t thought of. It’s become one of the key parts of the business model, and it’s blown my mind.

Are there any areas WallTree could improve?

With my team in India, I had access to a platform through which I could monitor every feature being worked on. This is something that WallTree is working on implementing, and it will be an improvement to email. It’s not affecting our work, and I can get the feedback I want from them. There could be other things for WallTree to improve, but I’ve been generally happy.

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

Finding a way to monitor the work being done on a project and getting constant feedback is important. I’m not sure if every client would need this, but I liked having it with my previous Indian team.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am working for a software solutions provider in Slovakia.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

We were developing a desktop solution for a client.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They worked in the front-end development.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

We had several companies in the panel; we asked them all to make an estimation and propose some solutions. WallTree was the most flexible and creative, understanding our needs and willing to do something great.

How much have you invested with WallTree?

Sorry, this is confidential.

What is the status of this engagement?

This project lasted from January 2016 to December 2016. We believe in the partnership we have with WallTree; they are reliable, and we wish to do more business with them.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We delivered the solution that met our customer expectations in a short period of time.

How did WallTree perform in terms of project management?

They did well regarding project management.

What did you find most impressive about WallTree?

Their polyvalence, reactivity, and availability were amazing.

Are there any areas where WallTree could improve?

Documentation is something they could work on.

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

WallTree is a skilled company that can help you on a range of projects, from simple to really technical ones.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

We are a Slovakian software house focusing on integrations, custom development, and mobile applications. I am a project head.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

One of our customers wanted to develop a better user interface for an Android and iOS app. We focus on integrations and we also have internal mobile developers, but only for Android. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

WallTree was brought in to work on the iOS application. The applications needed to be integrated into the overall existing system, but I can't name any specific tasks assigned to WallTree.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

We were looking for a partner for iOS development. Our main criteria were rates and proximity, which is why we chose WallTree.

How much have you invested with WallTree?

WallTree did the whole iOS app for our client according to the already existing Android app. Overall costs for that iOS app was around 20,000 USD.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with WallTree in October 2016. We have only run 1 project so far, but it will serve as an opener for our collaboration with WallTree. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The application hasn't been published yet and we have an NDA with our client, so I can't share any results. 

How did WallTree perform from a project management standpoint?

We've worked on a fixed-time and fixed-price contract with WallTree. We have worked with strict specifications around a web UI and mobile app which needed to be recreated on iOS. WallTree's reaction time was fast, they had good communication, and they delivered the product on time.

What did you find most impressive about WallTree?

I appreciated WallTree's work speed. The quality was also good.

Are there any areas WallTree could improve?

The quality could be improved, but WallTree fulfilled the strict definitions we gave them.

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

Communication is key. WallTree needs to work off of good and transparent specifications. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the owner of a software company that focuses on developing games, websites, and 3D animation.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

We needed additional app development support to build our games.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

WallTree delivered a great functioning iOS and Android app for a good price and with great support terms.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

I don't remember exactly, but it was probably just an online search.

How much have you invested with WallTree?

We have invested about $50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in 2014, and I'm in the process of giving them more work now.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I don’t have anything in particular, but the apps were indeed designed well and received good customer feedback.

How did WallTree perform in terms of project management?

WallTree did very well. They communicated frequently with us and followed the Agile process.

What did you find most impressive about WallTree?

The communication was excellent. I know WallTree's owner well, so it was very easy to talk to him about our work together.

Are there any areas where WallTree could improve?

Yes, as with most things, testing can always be improved. I'm not sure how they do testing for specific things, but I wish we could get more accurate testing more often.

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

Nothing in particular comes to mind, but make sure you communicate your scope and expectations clearly.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the chief executive officer of a software development company that works mainly with Israeli clients.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with WallTree?

We work with software teams from all over the world, including WallTree. Our main project at the moment is on behalf of an Israel-based client building a hydroponic system.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

WallTree is developing the software that communicates with the hardware created by the client, including mobile applications and a backend.

How did you come to work with WallTree?

I've known one of WallTree's founders for a few years, since the time we were working together for another company. Because I had worked with him many times, I already knew the level of work he could provide. I had some active projects with a different developer but wasn't satisfied with them, so I decided to move to WallTree.

How much have you invested with WallTree?

WallTree's cost depends on the project and the number of developers required. We're working on an hourly basis.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with WallTree in the early part of 2016. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

WallTree worked with the code developed by my previous company. Many of our functionalities didn't work as well as they should have, so WallTree's developers made a list of issues and solved them. They handled the task professionally.

How did WallTree perform from a project management standpoint?

I have solid technical knowledge so I act as project manager. I work directly with the developers from WallTree.

What did you find most impressive about WallTree?

I traveled to WallTree's location in Ukraine 1 week ago to meet the developers. I was impressed with the team's involvement in our project. 

Are there any areas WallTree could improve?

Nothing comes to mind.

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

It's very important to make the team understand what each project is about.