Altabos

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the managing partner for an asset management and financial services company.

What challenge were you trying to address with Altabos?

Originally, I wanted to build a technology platform that could be replicated and expanded to serve many advisors in our business.

What was the scope of their involvement?

First, they did an assessment of the existing technology platform we were using. They determined it needed to be augmented, not only for utility, but also for capability. We needed higher data speed and a standardized platform that would integrate with our existing trading partners. Before this, we used different platforms for our varying levels of advisors. We hoped to fit all of that into one solution.

They built both hardware and software for us, and the project wasn't just limited to the technology on our desktops. They reviewed our efficiencies, then we looked at cybersecurity features designed around our integrations. They also did branding and marketing for us. They repositioned the entire firm, and they helped us with a renaming effort and everything related to that. They had a hand in all our client-facing materials and web presence.

What is the team composition?

We work with a team of three or four, and one of our main contacts acts as our CTO.

How did you come to work with Altabos?

They're highly skilled, and their credentials and their cost were both deciding factors in our hiring process. I've known our main contact for years. When we first met with them, their skillset was clearly more strategic and forward-thinking than other agencies we considered.

How much have you invested with them?

We've spent somewhere between $400,000-$600,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

I started working with them late in 2014. We've deployed the products they created, but our partnership is ongoing. We're getting ready to grow again, and they're already ready to help us open new offices and expand into new spaces.

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

When we started the firm, we had $180 million in assets under our management, and now we're closing in on $550 million. We're likely to be beyond $1 billion in two years. The platform they built drives a lot of our growth. It's elegant, definable, and controlled. Our advisors have help whenever they needed.

How did Altabos perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicated with them every other day or weekly, depending on the circumstances. They offer a preponderance of forward thinking, and they always project how the choices they present will impact our business. They're a very powerful team, and they drive our business to do things that we hadn't imagined. We really benefit from their partnership. They're methodical and communicative, and they work very well for us. I have difficulty keeping up with them.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their level of skill and their humility make them a great partner. They're heavily credentialed and very good at what they do.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I would like to see them grow. That would allow them to move more quickly for their other customers, which I think would be good for them. They will become more successful and skilled as they expand.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Tell people what you want, what you need, and what works. Be open with them and you'll get a good product.