What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?
The design they created was everything we wanted. We only had to make a few minor tweaks to the visual elements. It was simple and streamlined, making it incredibly user-friendly.
Unfortunately, due to limitations with the Cornerstone platform, we weren’t able to go live with the product. It wasn’t DePalma’s fault, though; we were unable for the end user to authenticate their credentials in the system. We learned too late that what we wanted wasn’t possible within Cornerstone without a massive change to the scope.
How did DePalma Studios perform from a project management standpoint?
I was acting as the technical lead, and my boss was the project manager. Any time DePalma anticipated a delay or issue, they let us know right away. They kept us in the loop about everything. Most of the time, they accomplished tasks ahead of schedule.
They use real-time boards to do the layouts, and we got quick access to their in-flow design. If they were making changes, I could see them in real-time. If I saw they were going in the wrong direction, it was easy to give feedback.
We had regular calls to discuss the project’s progress. If they needed more information to complete an assignment, they’d engage us and ask questions.
What did you find most impressive about them?
They created a user experience that was better than anything we could’ve done alone. When we realized we’d be unable to use their UX, I ended up doing it myself, and it’s not nearly the same caliber as theirs.
Their customer service and desire to find a solution was impressive. They paid attention to our budgetary restrictions and guidelines, which we appreciated. When we told them their design wouldn’t work, they adjusted the billing even though it wasn’t their fault.
If they couldn’t provide the solution we needed, they didn’t like to charge us. That’s not typical with third-party vendors, and it meant a lot. They even gave us credit for 60 hours that we can use in the future. We enjoyed the partnership, and their customer service is stellar.
Are there any areas they could improve?
It would’ve helped to have a technical person do more discovery at the beginning of the project. If someone on the team knew more about APIs and their limitations, we would’ve realized sooner that our project wasn’t possible. The last time I spoke to DePalma, they were in the process of hiring a more technical project lead. Overall, it was a fantastic partnership and probably the best experience I’ve ever had working on a project that didn’t pan out.
Unlike other agencies, DePalma Studios provides feedback and suggestions to make a product as good as possible. They work quickly and have consistent communication. End users are satisfied with the products, and the whole team has a strong work ethic.