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Award-winning XR / AR / VR / MR solutions

4.9
12 reviews

Groove Jones is an award-winning creative technology company that produces next-generation experiences for world-class brands. We are best known for our award-winning work in AR (Augmented Reality), VR (Virtual Reality), ML (Machine Learning), and AI (Artificial Intelligence) Application development.

We work with some of the most recognized brands in the world – Amazon.com, AT&T, Comcast, Ford, Google, HP, IBM, Intel, Lexus, Mastercard, McDonald’s, Nestle, Samsung, State Farm, Toyota and Under Armour.

Our team hails from diverse disciplines – from creating location-based entertainment and amusement park rides, developing enterprise Apps and video games, to directing broadcast commercials and feature motion pictures.

We are artists, musicians, thinkers, creators, tinkerers, technologists, gamers, strategists, innovators, rebels, developers and most of all, digital fanboys (and fangirls) with a common interest: consistently delivering amazing, effective work for amazing clients. We love what we do.

GrooveTech™ is our proprietary group of technologies that we’ve developed as a base for many of our productions. Our platform is secure, reliable, and flexible – allowing our team to configure solutions that will support our client’s marketing objectives. Our system is built upon best in class technology providing a comprehensive and speed to market solution.

  • Strategic Planning and Consulting for Next-Generation Technologies
  • AR Lens and Photo Filters – Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram
  • Fan Engagement Experiences and Interactive Installations
  • AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) 
  • Mobile App Development and Design
  • Camera Filters and Social Share Apps
  • 360º Content Creation – 360 Videos and Interactive Applications
  • CGI and Animation
  • Multi-Touch Surfaces and Gesture-Based Reactive Interfaces
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$50,000+
 
$100 - $149 / hr
 
10 - 49
 Founded
2015
Show all +
Dallas, TX
headquarters

Portfolio

Key clients: 

7 Eleven / AT&T / Amazon / Amgen / Capital One / Comcast / Conagra / Constellation Brands / Cheerios / Dallas Mavericks / Denver Nuggets / Fiat / Ford / Foxwoods Resorts / FX / General Mills / GNC / Google / HP / Henkel Loctite / Hulu / IBM / Intel / FX / Johnnie Walker / Kaiser Permanente / Lexus / Mastercard / McDonalds / Modelo / NASCAR / Sabre / Samsung / Sleep Number / Slim Jim / Toyota / Wingstop / Western Union / Wingstop / VisionWorks / Zimmer Biomet

Slim Jim Turns Fans into Randy “Macho Man” Savage at Comic-con with AR Camera Effect on Snapchat

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/slim_jim_macho_man_ar/

The legend of the Randy “Macho Man” Savage continues. Mattel, WWE, and Conagra are celebrating Savage’s time as a spokesperson for the Slim Jim brand and their memorable television commercials with a new action figure that is being released at Comic-con San Diego.

Groove Jones was

…
brought on board by the agency B.I.O.S. to help them with the launch of this momentous, retro nostalgia event by creating a digital camera experience which turns fans into Randy “Macho Man” Savage!

How popular is retro pop culture in today’s world? Well, the action figure sold out online immediately after Sports Illustrated announced it. OH YEAH!!! The only way you can now get the action figure is at the Mattel booth at Comic-con.

 

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Using Augmented Reality to See Fashion and Fitness Everywhere

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/amazon-ar/

Celebrating the New Year – Using Augmented Reality to See Fashion and Fitness Everywhere

To celebrate the new year, Groove Jones helped Amazon use AR (Augmented Reality) at a health and wellness event. The private event was held in New York and included some of the top fashion social

…
media influencers and bloggers. iPads were set up around various stations at the event for the guests to interact and engage with the AR experience.

The experience was built using Apple’s new ARKit technology. This technology enables iPhone and iPad devices with iOS 11 to view and interact specially built AR content. Social Share the AR Experience The AR App allowed guests to select different workout routines as well as different outfits. The guests could then record and share the fun they were having with these AR lenses to a variety of different social platforms.

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Ford Motor Company is Using a Gamified VR Experience to Demonstrate the New Co-Pilot360™ Safety Technology

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/ford_co-pilot360_vr/

We were asked by GTB and Ford to create an immersive and interactive VR experience for the public and press to get a firsthand look at the deep suite of Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety products. 

Consumers and the press got a chance to take a VR driving experience in the 2019 Ford

…
Edge and Explorer vehicles, that took them on a journey from their home, a drive on a busy highway and then into the city. This five-minute interactive experience put them in a variety of scenarios where they faced numerous obstacles and hazards to demonstrate safety technology.

The users attempted to react to the hazards and obstacles with a game controller to see how they measure up against the Co-Pilot360 technology. This was achieved by programming eye tracking into the experience to accurately understand which obstacles they noticed versus the ones that they missed.

These new DAT (Driver Assisted Technologies) are becoming an important part of your everyday life. This was the first time an automaker demonstrated the technologies in a side by side comparison, giving drivers a firsthand experience to test their abilities and compare against a DAT ride along.

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ARKit Use Case with American Airlines – Digital Wayfinding

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/american_airlines_arkit/

AR Consumer Journey: A Use Case Demonstrating why Augmented Reality is a Game Changer for Digital Wayfinding.

We recently had the opportunity to work with American Airlines and Locus Labs on developing an AR enabled App using some of the new features available with

…
Apple’s ARKit and Google’s ARCore. Groove Jones developed the AR in collaboration with American Airlines and Locus Labs.
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Sleep Number Celebrates Super Bowl with Biggest VR Football Game Created

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/sleep_number_super_bowl_fan_engagement/

Fans of all ages got the chance to step out onto the 50 yard line and compete in the biggest VR Football game ever seen. This was all part of the 10 day Super Bowl Live event leading up to the big game in Minneapolis, MN. The experience is part

…
of Sleep Number’s fan engagement at the game.

Nearly 6000 People Played

Nearly 6,000 people took part in the VR experience, while countless others look on through the glass front. 

Sleep Better. Play Better.

The game experience is fun but it has a message. The first part of the game sets the stage, you have 60 seconds to throw as many passes as you can at targets down the field. The further the target, the higher the points.

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Dallas Mavericks Commemorates Dirk Nowitzki’s Retirement with a 41.21.1. Augmented Reality Fan Engagement

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/dallas_mavericks_dirk_nowitzki_ar/

The Dallas Mavericks commemorated the retirement of the legendary Dirk Nowitzki on April 9, 2019, by releasing four unique augmented reality experiences at Dirk’s last home game at the American Airlines Center in Dallas Texas. Groove Jones was asked to take part in

…
this huge event in Dallas sports history, making it the 3rd AR campaign with the Dallas Mavs this season.

The Final Home Game – Commemorative Ticket

For the final home game on April 9, 2019, the Mavs created a commemorative ticket (22,000 printed) that fans can scan with their phone to unlock the AR experience. Once scanned, the ticket turns into a Dallas Mavericks branded basketball court and a giant 3d video screen appears playing highlights from of Dirk across all 21 seasons.

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Rinnai American Using VR to Demonstrate How Easy is it to Install Their Tankless Water Heater to DIY'ers and Home Improvement Audience

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/rinnai_america_vr/

Rinnai America Using VR to Demonstrate How Easy It Is To Install A Tankless Water Heater

Rinnai America hired Groove Jones to create a VR experience for DIY’ers and professional installers to see how easy it is to install a tankless water heater. The VR experience was launched at

…
the 2018 International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Atlanta to rave reviews.

For those that have heard about tankless water systems, but are overwhelmed by what it takes to install one, this VR experience is the key to overcoming those fears. In no time, you get a first hand experience of installing Rinnai’s newest system while a crowd cheers you on at the IBS trade show.

 

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Covestro is Using VR to Transport its Customers into the Year 2030

Case study - https://www.groovejones.com/covestro-future-of-mobility-vr/

The automotive market is going through rapid and fundamental changes with autonomous driving, ride and car sharing and vehicle electrification. Covestro is a leading producer of advanced polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and around the world. The company has been looking into the future of mobility to guide

…
its development projects and ensure its automotive materials can meet the needs of tomorrow.

Groove Jones worked with the Covestro Future of mobility (FoM) team launch a new VR (Virtual Reality) experience that allows you to step into that future.

The Covestro team predicts that autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and vehicles built for ridesharing purposes will shift the focus from the driving experience to the riding experience, which will requiremore high-value material solutions for vehicle interiors. GrooveJones worked with the team to illustrate that story through a dynamicand interactive VR experience.

 

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FX Network’s American Horror Story VR Experience at Comic-Con San Diego

Case Study - https://www.groovejones.com/fx-american-horror-story-fearless/

IGN Called This the Most “Terrifying” VR at Comic-Con San Diego

Welcome to the nightmare world of American Horror Story. This year FX Networks launched a VR experience at Comic-Con San Diego to tease the latest season of the horror franchise. Fans of

…
the show got the chance to step into the AHS world with the HTC Vive.

Debuting publicly for the first time just outside the convention center at the Hilton Bayfront Park, FX built an immersive American Horror Story VR experience for fans inside a dark ominous looking silo.

North Kingdom, the creative agency, selected Groove Jones as the VR studio to help bring their vision to life. This was not an experience for the faint of heart. This was top notch horror and fans were given a glimpse into what was ahead in this years super secret season.

After entering the silo, fans are taken into a room and asked to lay down on a bed structure.

Sounds of screaming can be heard outside of the silo.

Huge Success

  • +200,000,000 social impressions were generated at Comic-Con
  • +440,000,000 media impressions
  • 2017 Winner of Best VR at the Shorty Awards
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Reviews

4.9
12 reviews
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XR Development for Leading Automotive Company

"Groove Jones surpassed everything, delivering a production-ready prototype."

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Jun. 2018 - Aug. 2019
Project summary: 

Groove Jones developed an AR kit for a famous car line as a way to efficiently train dealers within the company. The team created a product that details vehicle features for iOS, using image capturing and 3D technology.

The Reviewer
 
40,000+ Employees
 
Plano, Texas
Portfolio Manager, Automotive Company
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Groove Jones went above and beyond the scope of work and contract. Their work will change the market. The team delivered an innovative and high-quality visual product. They work rapidly, meeting deadlines. Their team goes outside of the box to bring experimental ideas for their clients.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m one of the managers at an automotive company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

Groove Jones developed an AR kit for one of car product lines. The goal was to provide a dealer training tool so dealer personnel wouldn’t have to be sent out to different sites in order to learn about new vehicle features or rollouts.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

In the beginning, we decided that it would be easier to use the vehicle as the classroom and supplement it with an AR product. As we were going through this, we quickly realized that we were building a sales tool that acts as an experience between a potential buyer and salesman. On an iOS-type device, it walks through all of the safety features and other functions. We took it one step further when we realized that the more advanced user wouldn’t have to come to the dealership for that experience. It could be a pre-sales experience where they learned about the vehicle before arriving at the dealership.

Once we managed to identify and conquer those three user cases, we started solving the customer service problem. The product was a three-for-one type product. Because of what we have within the dealership, it needed to be built for iOS. Their team had to reuse content that we already had on the website by finding a way to make it innovative. They worked in image capturing and used their own proprietary methodology for the 3D model they created.

What is the team composition?

To my knowledge, we worked with three members from their side, while I was the primary interface from our end.

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

At a local meetup, I ran into Dan (Founder & Partner, Groove Jones) where he was introducing ideas behind XR. As I began researching them and other companies, it turned out that Groove Jones was the creative engine behind all of our marketing. Our providers subcontracted them, so they had been working with us for years, and no one knew about it. I was also looking into who was winning industry awards. If a company is winning awards for innovation and product design, then they’re the right fit for me.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent less than $80,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with Groove Jones from June 2018–August 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Groove Jones surpassed everything, delivering a production-ready prototype. Development took around 20 weeks. It was a rapid prototype that came out perfectly.

The detail within the product is phenomenal. We can count every stitch in the leather and visualize the texture. The icons were perfectly designed, matching the guide. It looks like it came off one of our plants, instead of work done by a third-party.

As a result of this collaboration, we’ve redefined the way we market, sell, and educate people about the product. We’ve eliminated print materials, brochures, quick reference guides, and even training classes because of the AR kit. It’s revolutionized our processes. We plan on starting another project with them shortly. It will be a product that visualizes accessories on a vehicle that are for sale.

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

Their team uses a rapid application development model. I received weekly updates where they showed images and snippets of codes. As the functionality was being developed, they asked our opinions frequently. The team at Groove Jones was open and easy to work with. All the deliverables were clearly defined and met. In fact, this resulted in a joint patent which will take a few years for the patent office to clear it up. As far as project management goes, it was spot-on, and there are no issues.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Groove Jones not only kept to statement of work in regards to deliverables and timelines but weren’t afraid to think outside of the box. The team worked outside the four corners of their contract. They did tasks that they weren’t asked to do because they were in a constant experimental and learning mode. For one of the prototypes, they introduced machine learning, which was phenomenal. Their team also altered the photography techniques to build a 3D image that was integral to the process. Groove Jones went well beyond the original scope.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, they’ve been the perfect partner. Communication was excellent as far as coming to a statement of work and developing a price quote. If anything, their team was the one putting up with us. They were also able to adapt much quicker than other companies.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    They were able to meet the published schedule. They also could adjust to any changes.
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
    We received a stunning beta product and patent that allowed us to make further investments for the final version.
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
    Their quality was above any of the competition. It was superb product.
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer
    I’ve definitely referred them to friends and competing companies.

AR App Dev for Healthcare Education Publishing Company

“They're very good at helping us solve problems.”

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
4.0
Cost: 
4.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
Apr. 2019 - Ongoing
Project summary: 

Bringing an existing application to the next level, Groove Jones developed a new AR app for iOS and Android. They recommended using coded icons and added new features to improve the user experience.

The Reviewer
 
11-50 Employees
 
Dallas, Texas
Customized Communications
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

The in-house team is happy with the design and the functionality of the new app. Groove Jones went above and beyond to meet all needs and come up with innovative solutions, while their accessibility and responsiveness helped them establish a seamless process. 

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I work for Customized Communications.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We were looking for a vendor to develop a new app for us. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We used to have an augmented reality app that scanned photos and played videos. Groove Jones helped us take our app to the next level. We're currently adding new features that would make the experience more fun for our patients. The app is available for both iOS and Android. 

What is the team composition? 

We've met with all four members of their team, but I work closely with just two members. 

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

A colleague of mine recommended them.

What is the status of this engagement? 

We started working with Groove Jones in April 2019 and the relationship is ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have an app now that looks much sleeker and functions much better than our previous app. The direction we're heading in is very exciting, so we anticipate a lot of new features.  

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint? 

The communication has been great. Groove Jones is able to schedule a meeting with us any time we request one. We also talk a lot on the phone and via email. They've met all of our deadlines. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

They're very good at helping us solve problems. When we first started, we were trying to use images as the scan feature. Our patients had to scan an image in order to bring up a video. Over time, we realized that that caused problems with the functionality, so we started thinking about QR codes. There were issues with QR codes as well. It was Groove Jones that suggested we use coded icons, and we were very happy with that solution. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can't think of anything. 

5.0
Overall Score
  • 4.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 4.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

AR/VR Experience Dev for Marketing & Advertising Company

“They're incredibly creative and tech-savvy. … They met and exceeded our expectations.”

 

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Nov. 2018 - Jan. 2019
Project summary: 

Using a Magic Leap headset, Groove Jones helped develop an AR/VR experience that enables users to choose a golf club from a drop-down menu and watch a 30-second video recorded by a famous golfer.

The Reviewer
 
200 - 500 Employees
 
Dallas, Texas
Kyle Oliver
VP, The Marketing Arm
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

The feedback from users has been positive and the traffic is on the rise. Groove Jones went above and beyond to find a solution to a challenge that seemed technologically impossible, while their ability to engage their whole team helped them work quickly and effectively. 

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the VP of experiential activation at The Marketing Arm. We're a sports agency. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We needed a vendor to help us with AR/VR development.  

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We've been working on a golf activation with AT&T, and we've been using a 360 dome experience. Inside that experience there are a lot of activations. When you're leading something with AT&T, they want to be on the forefront of the technology. But we also wanted to tell their story within the golf world itself. We were planning to use Magic Leap goggles to create the AR experience for our users. However, the promises that were made to us by Magic Leap were not technologically possible. Groove Jones helped us bridge that gap and bring us where we wanted to be. 

Once our users put on their headsets, they can look at a certain golf club and see 30-second video pieces that famous golfers had recorded. Groove Jones also developed a drop-down menu using Magic Leap headsets, so the consumers can scroll down to the golf club they choose and bring up the content they're looking for. 

What is the team composition? 

We worked with six members of their team. 

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

We were looking for a local company in Dallas that had experience with AR and VR. Groove Jones seemed to be a true expert in the space, so we decided they'd be a great fit. 

How much have you invested with them?

We spent a little less than $200,000.

What is the status of this engagement? 

We worked with them between November 2018–January 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Groove Jones essentially saved us from the service that was overpromised and underdelivered by another company. We had high input through the traffic and our daily average figures increased significantly compared to the previous year. 

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint? 

They were all very hands-on and engaged in the project, trying to figure out the best solution. Communication was great and they were very responsive and timely. Their owners were heavily involved in the project, so we could talk to them if there was an issue.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They're incredibly creative and tech-savvy. AR, VR, and gaming are definitely their strengths. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

Their rates are a bit high, but they’re definitely justified. They met and exceeded our expectations. 

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer
    I recommend them all the time.

VR Experience Dev for PR & Advertising Agency

“Groove Jones fulfilled every responsibility on their end perfectly.”

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4.5

Quality: 
4.5
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
4.5
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
Nov. 2018 - Jan. 2019
Project summary: 

Groove Jones developed a VR-based experience on Oculus Go wireless headsets. The product showcases the benefits and functionality of driver assisted technology without needing users to be in a car. 

The Reviewer
 
3,000+ Employees
 
Detroit, Michigan
SVP, Director Content Hub, GTB
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Groove Jones produced a VR experience that has secured unanimously positive user feedback. It serves its purpose at an automotive event flawlessly. Despite unexpected challenges that arose internally, the reliable team provided critical support to see the project through to a successful completion.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

GTB is a full-service advertising agency in Detroit. I am the director of the content hub for the PR side of the business. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We were trying to figure out a way to show how driver-assist technologies can benefit consumers without them actually having to drive a vehicle. Once we decided to create an AR/VR experience, we hired Groove Jones to develop it for us. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Groove Jones helped us create a VR experience with wireless Oculus Go headsets we could use for PR purposes. Rather than putting customers in a car to navigate an obstacle course, we can give them the headsets to see how driver-assist technology works and the benefits it can provide. We can also use the VR experience for consumer events, like when they're waiting in line to be part of an experience at dealership events or auto shows throughout the year. 

What is the team composition? 

Quite a few developers from Groove Jones worked on our project. We worked on a regular basis with three teammates in particular. They assigned us a large team who could work very quickly because we needed to finish building our product in time for a specific auto show. 

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

We initially connected with Groove Jones through our producer. He had worked with the team before and recommended them; he said they were the perfect people for the job. 

We faced some challenging changes on our team mid-project, and Groove Jones couldn't have been a nice, better, more helpful or collaborative partner. Their support was key to figuring out how to bring our idea to fruition. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in November 2018. The original part of the project wrapped up in January 2018. Currently, we’re deciding if we need a second wave and how we would make that happen. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Everyone who has put on an Oculus headset has loved the concept that we can give them the experience without having to step foot in a vehicle. They all learned a lot about how the technologies worked and the benefits they offer people. Groove Jones delivered a VR experience that was well-received at an important automotive event. An impressive number of attendees tried it out there. 

We're greatly looking forward to sending our VR experience out to the media to get coverage from a PR perspective. While we haven't done so yet, we've already seen positive reactions from individual users in the media. 

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

We didn't use any tools or software, but Groove Jones set a specific schedule for when we would see different parts of the project and met every deadline. They developed production calendars for us and met every deadline. 

Groove Jones fulfilled every responsibility on their end perfectly. The team was very willing, collaborative, and quick to make any adaptations we needed. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

Because of the changes to our team, the whole experience could have been disastrous. Groove Jones made it an excellent one despite the odds. They even took multiple phone calls over the holiday break. We had a highly positive experience overall.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Groove Jones completed everything we needed. I don't have anything negative to say.

4.5
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 4.5 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 4.5 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Mixed Reality Development for Sports Marketing Firm

“They create set schedules, stay on top of deadlines, and keep us updated throughout the process.”    

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Apr. 2018 - Ongoing
Project summary: 

Groove Jones supported an activation for a new airport by creating a mixed-reality golf experience. They developed the AR technology using Unity and an HTC Vive headset.

The Reviewer
 
1000+ Employees
 
Stamford, Connecticut
VP of Innovation, Octagon
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Groove Jones produced best-in-class deliverables that secured a renewed engagement from the account the following year. Across numerous projects for several high-visibility brands, they’ve consistently surpassed expectations with an outstanding caliber of work.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the VP of the innovation team at Octagon. Our business is a sports and entertainment agency. We represent talent like Michael Phelps and Steph Curry. On our brand side, we represent major brands like Delta, BMW, and MasterCard with extensive, experiential activations. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We hired Groove Jones to help us with a component of an activation that needed an innovative, technology-driven edge. Our company always turns to Groove Jones for their expertise in that respect. 
 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Our most recent project together was an AR mixed-reality golf experience for an airport activation. We approached them specifically for their expertise in mixed reality. They used Unity as a programming language and an HTC Vive headset. 

What is the team composition? 

In the past, the team from Groove Jones has generally included 1–2 developers. 

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

When I first saw Groove Jones at an award show, I was impressed by their case study and the way they presented themselves. 

How much have you invested with them? 

We spent over $75,000. 

What is the status of this engagement?

Our project started in April 2018. 
 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The final result of our engagement with Groove Jones has been increased repeat business from our client. The team's ability to support us on this component of activation helped us secure the client again this year. 

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

Groove Jones' project management method is very good. We haven't used any tools with them before. They create set schedules, stay on top of deadlines, and keep us updated throughout the process. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

Concepting is one of Groove Jones' greatest strengths. They have a strong ability to design and bring the concepts they brainstorm to life. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

There are none that I'm aware of right now. 

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    They've met deadlines and stayed on schedule for every project we've ever worked on together.
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
    Their costs make sense for the work they do.
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
    Everything from the concepting and scoping phases to delivery on site has been exceptional.
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer
    I'm very likely to refer them. They're a great company.

Virtual Reality Dev for Science & Natural History Museum

“They leverage the talent and knowledge of each team member to produce high-quality results.”

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
Mar. 2018 - Apr. 2018
Project summary: 

Groove Jones created a VR experience for a new exhibition at a natural history museum. The team used a paleoanthropologist’s 360-degree footage to create an immersive display for the Gear VR and Oculus Go.

The Reviewer
 
200-500 Employees
 
Dallas, Texas
David Humphries
COO, Perot Museum
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

The VR project was well-received by all audiences. Groove Jones carefully collaborated with a team of explorers to accurately replicate the original scene. Efficient communication and a professional approach to the project expedited progress and assured it was completed by the deadline.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am the chief operating officer of the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. We are an established science and natural history museum in Dallas, Texas.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

As part of our newly redesigned, and prehistoric themed, exhibit hall, we wanted to showcase a new hominid species found by a paleoanthropologist in a South African cave. We wanted to provide a VR experience that allowed our audience to visit the site of the specimen’s discovery.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Groove Jones integrated Unity software to create a VR experience compatible with the Samsung Gear VR and the Oculus Go. The team used 360-degree visual footage collected by one of the research expedition’s explorers to create an immersive, realistic, and accurate experience for audiences of all ages.

What is the team composition?

We worked mainly with a team of six representatives from Groove Jones. They provided additional resources when necessary.

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

Our companies had an established relationship, but have never actually collaborated. Groove Jones had previously expressed interest in working on a display for the museum, so we reached out for assistance with the VR exhibit. We knew they had an impressive portfolio and we liked that they were local.

What is the status of this engagement?

Development work lasted from March 2018—April 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Groove Jones’ VR experience earned high praise from the original exploration team. The head of the expedition was unable to fit through the cave’s small crevices, so this technology allowed him to see the discovery site for the first time. His passionate and enthusiastic reaction validated Groove Jones’ detailed and skilled work on the project. Additionally, both children and adult audiences love the addition to our exhibit. We are able to educate our visitors on natural history through an exciting and engaging platform.

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicated with their team consistently through emails and phone calls. Groove Jones performed remarkably well under our tight deadline. We scheduled check-ins throughout the project timeline to regularly assure that progress remained on track. Their team worked with us to prioritize accuracy in the experience and promptly made changes or improvements.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Groove Jones has mastered a relatively new craft. They leverage the talent and knowledge of each team member to produce high-quality results.

Any advice for potential customers?

Help them visualize your goals by being as descriptive and comprehensive as possible in articulating the desired experience. You’ll be blown away by the result.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

VR App Dev for Marketing Agency

"They look at the project and look at you as individuals, and then do their best work regardless of size.”

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
4.5
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$1,000,000 - $9,999,999
 
Aug. 2016 - Mar. 2017
Project summary: 

Groove Jones and Boyden & Youngblutt created a VR experience for a solutions platform with a suite of products and services. The intended goal of the offering is to create efficiencies and better patient outcomes for hospitals. It ran through an iOS and Android app and it premiered at a tradeshow. It appeals directly to doctors, surgeons, hospitals and healthcare administrators.

The Reviewer
 
11 - 50 Employees
 
Nashville, Tennessee
Jerry Youngblutt
Principal, Boyden & Youngblutt
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

The experience drew nearly 2,000 people into the exhibit and compelled them to explore other parts of it as well. Groove Jones’ philosophy of transparency and collaboration as well as their deep level of engagement, regardless of the size of the client, makes them stand out in the industry. They are highly communicative.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

Jerry Youngblutt: I am the principal of Boyden & Youngblutt Advertising and Marketing. We provide advertising, interactive media planning, and strategic communications services.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

Our client was introducing a new offering to the medical device marketplace, and we felt that total immersion was the best way to do that. We tasked Groove Jones to help us create a experience through a VR application.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

R2: We had multiple target audiences that we had to connect to. It was a service-based product so we not only needed to connect with people who were going to buy it, but also the sales team and internal employees of our customer company, so that they could understand it and explain it to potential customers. It had to be pushed out onto both iOS and Android.

Both: The experience premiered at an international tradeshow. People would register on one end of the booth and then go into a movie theater. They would then walk around from station to station with people from the medical device company, who explained each piece of their new product.

What is the team composition?

R2: We had four to six people from their team dedicated to it, but there may have been people behind the scenes that were working on it as well.

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

Both: We interviewed a couple of other companies and formed a pretty good shortlist. We liked the look of their work and we liked what others said about them. When we interacted with them, they were actually engaging. They listened as we spoke, and they had a flexibility that we found encouraging, given the timeframe that we had to pull this off in.

How much have you invested in them?

Both: We spent between $1.1 million–$1.4 million.

What is the status of this engagement?

R2: We worked with them from August 2016–March 2017.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

R2: We debuted the experience at an international orthopedics tradeshow. The goal was to have 2,000 people come through the booth and experience the VR project. At the opening of the show, 200 people had already registered. Through word of mouth and pulling people in, 1,800 were sent through the experience.

Both: We wanted people to come out of the theater and take the VR experience, but we found that it worked in reverse. People would come up because they were shy - not sure of what they were getting themselves into - and take the VR experience. As it turned out, it was so compelling that they went back to the beginning to go through the whole experience.

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

R2: We had production schedules and communicated on a daily basis because we were working with a tight timeframe.

Both: They were really good. There weren’t any dates missed, and it all pretty much went according to plan.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Both: Groove Jones has some pretty big names on their roster. We aren’t a very large agency, but we felt that they treated us as if we were; that isn’t always the case in the industry. They look at the project and look at you as individuals, and they do their best work regardless of size.

There’s always a more expensive way to do something, but they did a good job of laying things out well when it came to cost. Given the fact that the project was a little bit exploratory and had some tricky problems to solve, they were really impressive. They were very accommodating to any additions we wanted to make.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Both: It was really great all the way through.

5.0
Overall Score When they work with a smaller agency like us, they are bringing in a lot of expertise. It has been terrific.
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    We didn’t have any hiccups or missed deadlines.
  • 4.5 Cost
    Value / within estimates
    They hit the number they said they would. Given the amount of time they had to pull it off, they did a really good job.
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
    They try to understand your creative vision and make it happen. They treat their clients with respect and hit deadlines while staying on budget.
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Virtual Reality App Dev for Interior Design Company

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4.5

Quality: 
4.5
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
4.5
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$200,000 to $999,999
 
Jan. 2017 - ngoing
Project summary: 

Groove Jones developed a VR software/station and VR mobile app to showcase products at a tradeshow. They also provided technical support and are currently working on VR environment technology. 

The Reviewer
 
50-100 Employees
 
Dallas, Texas
Ken Salyer Jr.
CEO, TRI-KES
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Highlighting the future of the industry, the VR stations impressed customers and led to further engagements. With their expertise VR technology, Groove Jones continues to constantly communicate to perfect the details of the product into a VR experience.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am Ken Salyer the CEO of TRI-KES, a wall covering and fabric distribution/conversion company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We wanted a virtual reality program to showcase our new furniture fabrics and wall coverings for a tradeshow in Las Vegas.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Groove Jones developed VR software and a mobile app to showcase our fabrics and wall coverings. For our tradeshow, they used the software to create and set up three VR stations to demonstrate our products to clients. They trained and walked through the process of using the stations to our regional managers and marketing team. Their team also maintained the stations whenever any issues arose.

They are currently working on a potential VR environment technology, which will allow our fabrics to be seen on furniture in a VR space.

What is the team composition?

We work with about 3-4 developers, and a project manager.

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

I met one of their employees at a retailing seminar. They impressed us with their presentation on new upcoming technologies in our industry.

How much have you invested with them?

We invested around $200,000-250,000 so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started the project in January 2017 through September 2017.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We are gaining ground in achieving our primary goal to be a thought leader and gathering understanding and experience in the VR field. We are waiting for the technology to evolve and preparing to later use the technology in a daily business setting. The setups showed the future of our industry to our clients, who were very impressed and led to future potential engagements.

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

We are in constant contact with them and their team always give us a vision of how to make the VR technology into a functional reality. They are amazing at executing on a business level— where clients can really interact with your product.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They take the time to understanding what exactly our vision is, and they support us throughout development and even after the presentation.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I don’t think there are any areas they can improve so far. They worked very hard on the color calibration of the fabrics with a hard deadline and managed to do a great job. 

4.5
Overall Score They did a very good job.
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    We hit our tradeshow deadline.
  • 4.5 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 4.5 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer
    I definitely recommend them.

Virtual Reality & 360 Video for Telecommunications Company

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
4.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
Jan. 2016 - Mar. 2016
Project summary: 

Groove Jones filmed, developed, and produced a VR experience to immerse and entertain viewers. To reach a large audience, they created a 360° video that was uploaded to YouTube.

The Reviewer
 
45,000+
 
New York, New York
Former Marketing Manager, Telecommunications Company
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Produced within budget, both video versions successfully generated positive press coverage and provided fans a unique way to enjoy the content. Over 1,000 people participated in the VR installation within the first day of launch and the 360° video swiftly received over 65,000 views on YouTube.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a former marketing manager for a telecommunications company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We needed to produce a VR video for a large auto racing company.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

At different races, we set up a large booth and offer an experimental opportunity for fans to come up and have a lot of fun. There’s a lot of different aspect to it, but Groove Jones helped us develop a VR experience as a key attraction. Attendees put on a headset and experience the race as if they’re in the passenger seat while the driver’s on the track. There’s also a sports overlay allowing users to track all the drivers and their stats. It’s truly a different experience than what’s offered on other platforms.

In addition to filming the race, Groove Jones recreated the driver’s suit and other footage that couldn’t be obtained. They compiled the content into a VR video, and later a 360° version.

What is the team composition?

My direct contacts were through the agency that hired Groove Jones on our behalf. While we did communicate with Groove Jones, I can’t be sure of their team’s details.

How did you come to work with Groove Jones?

We used another agency to hire Groove Jones and people from both parties knew each other. The agency was recommended to me by colleagues whose judgment I trust.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with them from January–March 2016.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We launched the video at a major annual race and had over 1,000 fans and drivers participating in the VR experience across three stations. We uploaded the 360° video to YouTube so that viewers could appreciate the content. The video quickly got 65,000 organic views and that number continues to climb. Overall, the project received 12 million earned media impressions and got press coverage as well.

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

They adequately managed the project and performed well. We communicated more than my other experiences of working with a production company through an agency. We typically don’t communicate directly with the production team, but in this case, they were definitely involved.

What did you find most impressive about them?

It was our first VR project and we didn’t have a huge budget for it. Groove Jones worked within our budget constraints and produced a great film. The portion of the video they recreated is indistinguishable from the filmed segments. They made everything look as real as possible.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. None that I can think of.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
    They worked against an aggressive timeline and they met it. They did very well.
  • 4.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

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"They over-delivered."

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5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
Mar. 2016 - May 2016
Project summary: 

Groove Jones created a virtual reality experience for event attendees to play games and decorate the inside of a Happy Meal box.

The Reviewer
 
10,000+
 
Chicago, Illinois
Former VP of Digital Engagement, McDonald's
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Groove Jones successfully delivered a crowd-pleasing experience and brand recognition with their innovative development. The fun encounter generated great press and positive social media buzz. They exceeded expectations with their excellent communication and speedy delivery within a short timeframe.

A Clutch analyst personally interviewed this client over the phone. Below is an edited transcript.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I was the vice president of digital engagement for McDonald’s Corporation.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Groove Jones?

We needed a virtual reality (VR) experience representing our brand at South by Southwest.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They developed a high engagement VR experience using our Happy Meal platform. The attendees virtually went through games inside a Happy Meal box and decorated the inside of the box with virtual paint brushes, balloons, and lasers.

What is the team composition?

My team was in touch with a project manager and worked with their team every day.

What is the status of this engagement?

Starting in March 2016, we worked together for 8–10 weeks.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

It was well-received by the public. People lined up to participate. Their amazing work resulted in a lot of press about the Happy Meal VR experience. The number of articles that came out of it, the positive sentiment, and the social sharing tweets were great. It was rated one of the top experiences at South by Southwest. The experience spoke for itself.

How did Groove Jones perform from a project management standpoint?

Even with the compressed timeline, they met all the milestones. Within only a few weeks, we were live in demo and ready to go. They were great at communicating and incredibly responsive.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They exceeded expectations. Our leadership was stunned by what we were able to do in such a short time with them, and they were highly regarded by my team.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No.

5.0
Overall Score They over-delivered.
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer