Futurist Labs

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the founder of an innovative social network.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Futurist Labs?

We were short of staffers on our development team and we needed to get our development moving a little faster.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We added an extra staffer from their team for mobile iOS development. They were integrated with our existing development team to work on the frontend.

What is the team composition?

We worked with one developer from their team.

How did you come to work with Futurist Labs?

We were referred to them. While narrowing our search, we did our own research and found them on Clutch as well. 

How much have you invested in them?

We spent just over $50,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with them from May 2019 to November 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They were part of our daily stand up meetings and they integrated themselves very well into our team. Overall, they were very efficient.

How did Futurist Labs perform from a project management standpoint?

I would say they were very accommodating and flexible with all of our requirements.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were great and were very flexible.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, we were pretty happy. They did everything we needed them to.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

As with any project, you should find exactly what's required. It isn’t something that is specific to them. We defined what we needed, and they delivered what our requirements were.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO and co-founder of Magna Carta Wealth. We provide financial education services and connect high-net-worth individuals with financial advisors.

Recently, we decided to launch EVOLUTIONSapp, which would provide the same resources to the general population over iOS and Android.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Futurist Labs?

We developed the prototype, wireframes, and demo for EVOLUTIONSapp on our own, but we partnered with Futurist Lab to build the MVP and create the app. 

We needed the MVP built quickly as we were on a tight timeline and wanted to get a product out into the stores so we could test, learn, and rework based on feedback.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

The team used a JavaScript framework to develop the app, which has several capabilities. 

It onboards clients and surveys them for information on their financial goals. The app also provides a sample of financial literacy information as well as the ability to schedule a consultation with one of our advisors. 

Futurist Labs has also helped to integrate HubSpot in our CRM, and implemented Mailgun. 

What is the team composition?

My two points of contact were Mark (CEO, Futurist Labs), who handled the business development portion of the project, and Krum (COO, Futurist Lab) who acted as the lead engineer. 

There were several other engineers, developers, and team members involved as well.

How did you come to work with Futurist Labs?

A contact who I trust worked with Futurist Labs in the past and referred them to me. After meeting with the team, we felt they really understood our goals and timeline, so we moved forward with them. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent between $50,000-$55,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We formally began the project in October 2019, and though the app entered stores in January, our partnership is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The MVP is currently in a closed beta period within Apple and Google marketplaces, and so far, we’ve received positive feedback. The team is still working on some development, but so far the app does what it’s supposed to do, so we’re pleased.

We’re going to continue to use Futurist Labs for our development needs in the future.

How did Futurist Labs perform from a project management standpoint?

My background isn’t in tech, but the team has taken care to walk me through processes like taking ownership of the back-end of the site, which was based on Heroku. Throughout the project, we tracked the team’s progress in Jira.

I was originally apprehensive about contracting with an offshore company because I wasn’t sure how the distance would affect our communication. However, it was never an issue and at times even worked to our advantage. For example, if I sent an email with an edit at night, the change would be implemented when I woke up in the morning. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

One aspect of their work that we found to be great business practice was their honesty regarding what they would be able to achieve based on the timeline and budget we’d provided them. 

Hitting our launch date was a top priority for us, and the team was engaged enough to keep that focus in mind. Whenever we proposed a modification that would take us outside our original agreement, Futurist Labs was upfront about how it would change the project and let us decide if we wanted to proceed or not.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. Any of the failings were on our part.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Have a clear idea of what you want from a design standpoint, because their strengths lie as developers more than as creatives.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Budeshte is an assurance company in Bulgaria and as a manager for digital projects i worked with legal, IT, accounting and Futurist Labs to design the first ever in the country mobile app for online change of assurance funds in Bulgaria with integrated databases, online signature and paperless experience on the side of the user.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Futurist Labs?

As we were the first to digitalise a process that was done entirely on paper before, we had to come up with architecture and user interface that made sure all regulatory requirements are met, the user experience made sense and deliver all that in a few months.

What were your goals for this project?

Introduce a seamless digital experience for potential customers, who can switch and review their secondary pension fund in one platform.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I have worked with Futurist Labs before and their extensive tech knowledge and actual understanding of the business made them the perfect partner to design and create something brand new for the Bulgarian market.

Describe the project in detail.

App development for Android and iOS, two option log in, one for becoming client and the other one if you are client, redesign and rebrand. For the becoming client part there was integration with the company website and then linking the application as well as electronic signature from an external verified provider. For the client part besides reviewing savings in real time, the client could also view all the partners programs of the company that they can use, as well as a virtual discount card that does not require to wait for a plastic one. All that was wrapped in new design, that was also provided by Futurist Labs.

What was the team composition?

6 people from Futurist labs (PM, designer, developers, QA) and the points of contact were great, kept us informed as per contract, as well as asking smart questions and giving suggestions where appropriate. The design work was also above and beyond.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We launched a few weeks ago, for a very specific segment of the assurance market, however media interest has been great, we already have people who downloaded and used the app to transfer ( it is allowed twice a year) and we are seeing heightened interest by partners. We have received some feedback that the process can be better explained, so Futurist Labs helped us place additional information strategically, to make it easier.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Communication was great, but we did spend some time before starting work on how we will communicate, how often, iterations, as well as additional work that might pop up. Feedback was given both ways, as to make sure we are not too dry as flow, but also make sure to cover all regulatory requirements. There were also conference calls , but all was always wrapped with an email, so we had a very clear communication.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Second project i collaborate on with Futurist Labs, we already have plans with the company to continue evolving the existing product.

Are there any areas for improvement?

n/a

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Leadership Alliance creates strategies for growth and transformation for firms, leaders, teams, and people. We are a collaborative consultancy specializing in strategic planning.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Futurist Labs?

We needed development of our mobile app.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted an intuitive, easy-to-use app where users can improve their life and work habits.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

They came recommended by a trusted business colleague.

Describe the project in detail.

They distilled our custom user tracking and upgrade system into an iOS app. This included automating all of our previously hand-written data capture and comparison functions into a seamlessly easy to enter, track and learning system.

What was the team composition?

Mark (CEO, Futurist Labs) was our lead liaison, supported by his internal project and design leads.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re currently marketing the finished app.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

They were often ahead of us in development and testing, especially when our own team was pulled in different directions on other internal projects. Their management was very effective.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They really listened to our expectations and it showed in their delivery of an app that reflected our creative vision. They made us feel like their most important customer.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, we’re very satisfied.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am a web developer at Association Tsiolkovsky, a digital platform that strives to educate the public about space.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Futurist Labs?

We wanted to build an iOS platform that looked similar to our website, but with more cutting-edge functionalities. Our overall goal was to reach a broader audience with an easily accessible product.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Futurist Labs was responsible for executing every stage of the project – from building the wireframes, to developing the front- and backend, to publishing the final product on the App Store. They took advantage of our existing APIs to build the native iOS app. The app has already launched, but they are still working on fixing post-release bugs.

What is the team composition?

Their team was comprised of two iOS developers, a QA specialist, and a project manager.

How did you come to work with Futurist Labs?

After receiving a few personal recommendations, we researched their company online. Their portfolio was extraordinary, so we decided to work with them.

How much have you invested with them?

We have spent less than $50,000 for their services.

What is the status of this engagement?

A bulk of their work was completed in February 2018, but they continue to provide regular support and maintenance.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Within a single month, Futurist Labs delivered an outstanding app that met our high expectations. The App Store has approved the latest version, and we expect great success. A few bugs were discovered after the initial launch, but Futurist Labs quickly resolved those issues.

How did Futurist Labs perform from a project management standpoint?

We didn’t realize the amount of work that was required to build the APIs, but they were very patient and worked with us through our difficulties.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The team at Futurist Labs was highly professional, but also incredibly friendly. They keep an open line of communication, which made us feel comfortable during the collaboration. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

There are no troubling areas that stand out.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the CTO of Appzio. We provide a platform for building native apps entirely with backend code, using PHP or NodeJS.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Futurist Labs?

Our client app required a great deal of built-in intelligence to meet our users’ requirements. We engaged Futurist Labs to help us improve the platform’s performance.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted Futurist Labs to turnaround new requests quickly, execute tasks at a high technical level, and use as much of the existing libraries as possible through creative problem-solving.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We evaluated several vendors in Bulgaria based on their references, developer expertise, and previous projects. We wanted experienced developers and good communication. We also assessed them using test assignments. Futurist Labs stood out from the competition in every category.

Describe the project in detail.

Our platform allows developers to produce professional apps only viewing the backend. It also has to make sure that both iOS and Android versions of the app work identically. We first met with the Futurist Labs team to discuss the client-server architecture and project requirements. They then got to work improving our mobile client’s large codebase on both the Android and iOS side. 

What was the team composition?

We work with a project manager, an iOS developer, an Android developer, and a mobile client development familiar with both iOS and Android.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our internal team’s senior mobile developer continually evaluates Futurist Labs’ work and been very impressed with the quality of their code. Futurist Labs’ valuable suggestions and timeliness also stand out to us.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Futurist Labs is excellent at communication. They are proactive and meet their promised deadlines. We work directly with their technical team.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their strength lies in their people; Futurist Labs has a talented and highly experienced team. Every member we’ve worked with has been dedicated to our success.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Futurist Labs could offer some PHP expertise, but we’re highly satisfied with their work so far.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the founder and CTO of AppInMail. We’re developing a new technology that uses email active content (EAC) technology to directly push applications to a user’s individual email address, bypassing multiple registration processes.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Futurist Labs?

We needed to implement a specific feature to connect our mobile app’s infrastructure to technology that allows the app to run within an email environment.

What were your goals for this project?

Internally, we don’t have much experience in the mobile space, so we needed assistance from an expert.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We searched online for a mobile app specialist. We came across Futurist Labs and tasked them with a basic implementation project with Flutter to assess their skills outside of their developed skillset. They completed that trial to our standards, so we decided to move forward.

Describe the project in detail.

Using a provided design and backend API, Futurist Labs worked with Flutter technology to develop both iOS and Android versions of our mobile app. At this point, they’ve delivered the second iteration.

What was the team composition?

We work with a senior developer.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re still working toward the final product. At this point, we’re happy with the results.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The Futurist Labs team is very capable, quickly developing a well-rounded understanding of my needs. Their command over technology is excellent. We provide specifications, and they execute them with skill and efficiency.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

With their level of communication, they were able to adapt quickly to my needs and understand how we wanted to use Flutter in the development process.

Are there any areas for improvement?

We should follow a more organized workflow, but at this point, we’re almost through the engagement.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

LARC TEST is a diagnostic tool for owners of workhorses. It includes an app, a dashboard system, and a kit.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Futurist Labs?

Our challenge was to implement the app and website in a way that helped our business.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Futurist Labs developed our diagnostic tool for Android and iOS. It measures horses’ recovery times after workouts using a formula that analyzes several factors, including weight, weather conditions, workout style, and distance. Some of the data can be entered manually, but all of the vitals are sent directly to the app. The results reveal whether the workout was too easy or too hard for the horse, allowing adjustments to be made.

When we started working with Futurist Labs, we had a small budget, so we only built a product to test the market. Since then, they’ve made several improvements to the app, helped us with several projects, and provided support. They also created website profiles so that distributors can see all the horses and the results.

What is the team composition?

We've worked with several designers and developers from Futurist Labs. Since we’re working with a scientific formula, they assigned a person with more expertise in that area.

How did you come to work with Futurist Labs?

My previous business partner knew them. I’ve changed partners, but I continued working with Futurist Labs.

How much have you invested with them?

The total cost has been $65,000, but we’ve slowly started to increase the budget.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Futurist Labs in 2014, and the collaboration is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Futurist Labs designed a good UX based on our field testing. They listened well and implemented what we wanted. We’ve grown with them, and they’ve helped us have a stronger business.

How did Futurist Labs perform from a project management standpoint?

They’ve closely followed all of the deadlines for each step. I’ve reviewed and tested everything because that’s the way we work. We have meetings to discuss the designs, logic, functionality, and flow of the product. I can discuss anything with the head of their team.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The communication aspect is the most important thing when working remotely. They always reply to our emails and calls so that we can see that they’re working.

I’m happy with the team because of their attitude and work approach. They’re nice people to work with.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the CEO of a healthcare startup that delivers doctors on demand for home services.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Futurist Labs?

Futurist Labs built our platform. The project was new and in a complex industry, so they needed to account for many nuances. 

What were your goals for this project?

We’re launching this project soon and expect to be the first in the market to offer an innovative model that departs from traditional healthcare.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Futurist Labs received good feedback from our partners and has a local reputation for delivering quality. After meeting the CEO, we were happy with the quality of our relationship and their global view of technology.

Describe the project in detail.

Futurist Labs built a website, a CMS, and native mobile applications for patients and doctors. We designed wireframes during meetings with their designer and held weekly meetings to outline the workflow, user journeys, and management needs. Futurist Labs provided not only execution, but also consulting. They helped us every step of the way.

What was the team composition?    

We had meetings with the CEO, CTO, project manager, and designers. Everyone was competent.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re excited about our launch, which will surely disrupt the system. The platform performs well. We’re already planning to scale it up.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We worked closely and shared every step. We communicated every day, either in person or through email. Our point of contact followed up with everything, and individuals contributed when necessary. They became a partner, not just a vendor.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They’re open-minded, forward-thinking, and thoughtful. They brainstormed with us and figured out how to execute our ideas intelligently. 

Are there any areas for improvement?

I can't think of anything.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the founder and CEO of Remunerati, an HR software startup based in San Francisco. We're in the early phases of product development.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Futurist Labs?

We hired Futurist Labs to review our Balsamiq wireframes and design the UI/UX of our application. We have an ongoing relationship with them for design and development.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to get a head start on developing our app. 

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We researched vendors in our area and price range, discovered Futurist Labs, and never looked back!

Describe the project in detail.

I began discussions with Futurist Labs before our CTO joined. As a non-technical founder, I didn't have a development perspective. The team spent several hours with me, discussing options, explaining product development, and advising me on my CTO search. We provided our Basalmiq wireframes, which Futurist Labs translated into beautiful tools ready for development.

We went over each page, discussing my expectations and ideas. The designer took that feedback, created a work of art, and delivered it to us for review. After a series of iterations, we agreed on a final version of each design and moved on to the next.

What was the team composition?

The CEO helped us translate my vision to the UI/UX designer. They bridge the gap and help me think through my questions and considerations. At times, their CTO joins calls to advise me on technical topics. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The designs gave us something to show potential customers and industry leaders before we had anything clickable or deployed on the web. Seeing our wireframes come to life in their beautiful designs was an amazing, energizing experience. They gave momentum to our continued progress. Creating these designs and user interactions has helped us move forward quickly and stay on track to meet our deadline. 

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

It's fantastic. Futurist Labs is dedicated to clear and timely communication, even for U.S. clients. I always reach the team within 24 hours of making a request, and it's typically much less time! The CEO's first language is English, so communication isn't an issue.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Futurist Labs is exceptionally dedicated to delivering the results outlined by their clients. The team is fully invested in meeting my needs and giving us an amazing customer experience. Futurist Labs will always be our partner. We look forward to continuing to work with their incredibly talented and wonderful team.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No experience is perfect, but I can't cite any areas for improvement. Our experience has been great.