What was the scope of their involvement?
They helped me spec out the whole app for Android and iOS. They looked at how every tiny element could work. They went through every function at a high level. They delved into the detail so they could understand exactly what needed to happen at every point and what the user experience should be. In many instances, they explained scenarios that could happen and suggested changes that would make the app better.
Right now, they’re working on the more detailed functionality. The backend isn’t functioning yet, but the frontend is working and it’s beautiful. To the pixel, it’s exactly how I imagined it. They did a really great job of paying attention to every detail and making sure the design is exactly as I wanted, as well as incorporating improvements they thought of. Even though the design is not part of their scope, they’re helping improve the graphic design of things and they added animation.
We needed to integrate our app with the calendar, chat function, and contacts. It's a social app, but it's a private social app. You can’t search for everyone and add whoever you want to your network. On this app, you have to know the people to add them. They helped me think through how that could work to keep it intuitive but still as private as we need it.
What is the team dynamic?
There are two guys that I work with primarily, but I don’t know how many developers work on it — I think at least two others for the coding.
How did you come to work with Make Directory Developers?
I originally worked with a group of developers in India and it was a mess. I paid them a lot and ended up having to throw out all the code.
Some other firms I spoke to were too expensive or the timeline wasn’t right. This is a personal project and so it needed to hit my own personal budget. I was introduced to one of the guys at Make Directory Developers through a friend. I met him for dinner one night and we set up a meeting. I really liked their approach. Since it was through a friend, I trusted them. He introduced me to his partner, Andrew [Head of Operations, Make Directory Developers]. They really proved that they knew what they were doing.
How much have you invested with them?
$25,000.
What is the status of this engagement?
We started working together in May 2017 and the work is ongoing.
The app remains under development, with the frontend functioning perfectly, and the backend functionality still in progress. The team is diligent, thorough, and professional, offering suggestions for improvements, and working hard to ensure every detail is perfect.