Accion Point

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an IT systems manager at a local bank.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Accion Point?

At that time, the bank had obsolete technology. We used legacy systems, etc. Because of this, it was very hard for the bank to meet the legal requirements requested by the central banking institution. We started a digitization process that involved a change of our core banking system. This is why we hired Accion Point.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They implemented a system called Bantotal, which is based on Genexus.

What is the team composition?

In the initial kickoff, we worked with about 20 people. Later on, we worked with a team of five people for knowledge transfer. Currently, we’re working on a permanent basis with two people from their team.

How did you come to work with Accion Point?

We had an RFP process and three companies participated. After some consideration, we decided we wanted to implement the Bantotal system. Accion Point is their local representative, so they introduced them to us.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in 2008, and our engagement is ongoing. Now, they provide continued support and other development work.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve seen a very positive impact. The implementation of the new core and everything that came after meant a transition of not being able to meet with the legislation for having obsolete systems to fully comply and stepping up to have good score levels in evaluations. That has meant a disruptive improvement of the bank's work and processes.

How did Accion Point perform from a project management standpoint?

As this is a partnership project, we have to manage some things with Bantotal’s founders themselves and others with Accion Point so the communication has been diverse. With Accion Point particularly, we communicate via email and have fluid communication. They’re permanently in contact and always show professionalism. We’ve encountered some delays every once in a while but it’s a shared responsibility.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their use of agile methodologies has produced great results.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We always want to have better prices but that’s something that happens with all service providers. Besides that, I really couldn’t say anything.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the IT systems manager at a financial company based in Argentina. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Accion Point?

We hired Accion Point to change the core of our banking system.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Accion Point implemented their own system that they’ve used with other financial institutions in the past. We spent the first few months planning the project. Then they spent a little over a year working on implementation. Once that was complete, they went through a QA process and made corrections.

At the moment, we are working on a digital app that makes sure that all of our new digital developments follow central regulations. They have continued to support us by making all the changes that are required by legislation.

What is the team composition?

In total, we must have worked with 40 people, but the team changed at different points throughout the engagement.

How much have you invested in them?

We’ve spent between $3–$4 million.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project started in March 2016 and lasted between 15–18 months. However, we’re still working with them on various tasks.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are very satisfied with the system’s performance so far.

How did Accion Point  Perform from a project management standpoint?

They did a very good job with the project management. The project timeline was extended but that is very common for these kinds of projects.  

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’ve met all of our requirements and have made any adjustments we’ve needed. Overall, they’ve done a great job.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Some of their personnel were more skilled than others, which led to some delays in the project. They also could have also provided better training for our team.
 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the general manager at a health and sports nonprofit.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Accion Point?

We have a multi-step plan to transform our digital processes. So, we established a technology upgrading agreement with them.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They’re supporting out digital transformation process. Their work includes improving our website, creating a mobile app, building a crowdfunding platform, and more.

What is the team composition?

We worked with 20–25 people.

How did you come to work with Accion Point?

Another company referred them to us. I contacted the company’s CEO and had a good connection with them. We also reviewed their portfolio and experience before selecting them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in August 2019 and the collaboration is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project is very important — renewing the website is key to our digital transformation. By working with us, they’ve helped us find many new partners. The website has also helped us communicate our actions better. Now our nonprofit has an even greater impact than it did before.

How did Accion Point Perform from a project management standpoint?

We meet up every 15 days to define our schedule and monitor the progress from both sides. By executing through sprints, we have a greater dynamism and control. They’ve also delivered on time.

What did you find most impressive about them?

From the CEO to the last technician involved, their involvement has been great. Their responsiveness and communication are outstanding.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I honestly couldn’t say anything we’ve had a great experience.