Melsoft

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm an executive at Indlovu Media, a video production company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Melsoft?

 We needed help with website development.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Melsoft developed a website for us as a way to market our services. The team created the entire UX and uploaded all of our information to the site.

Initially, they referred me to Aeden (Frontend Developer), who builds websites for other businesses. I explained what kind of template we were looking for and what we wanted our potential customers to see on the landing page. We also talked about the colors to use and the information that needed to be included.

After giving them the brief, Aeden created the first template, and we built it from that. The whole process didn't take more than a week. The website features included a contact page, an About Us page, some examples of our work, and a link to our YouTube channel.

What is the team composition?

We only worked with Aeden. The project didn't require many teammates to be involved because we were looking for something really simple.

How did you come to work with Melsoft?

We were filming near Melsoft's offices, and I bumped into Larreth (Founder); that's how our relationship started. After that, we featured them on a podcast.

How much have you invested with them?

We have a small business agreement. We use a barter-type system, as it is normal among entrepreneurs in South Africa. We didn't pay the full rate because we also did some work for them and didn't take anything in return; it was a service exchange. Their normal rate for building a website could range from $300–$400.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked on this project in May 2024. However, we've had multiple engagements with Melsoft. We've done some work for them as well, and we basically have an ongoing professional relationship.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Melsoft was very efficient and helpful, and we loved the final product. Our new site was very engaging and colorful and represents what we do well: videography and photography work. Thanks to it, we started getting about 100 visitors per month.

When users search for our name on Google, our site is the first thing that pops up. Since launching it, we were able to share it with potential customers whom we were actively pursuing. Having a solid website showcasing our work was very helpful, allowing others clearly see what we do.

Moreover, having that portfolio helped us secure clients, display our work, and get our foot in the door. Basically, having this website was crucial, and Melsoft truly helped us get it. I hope to do more work with them because they serve a really important function in the entrepreneurship space.

How did Melsoft perform from a project management standpoint?

Working with Melsoft was one of the best experiences I had working with software developers. Although I had worked with another company before, Melsoft's professionalism and work quality surpassed my expectations. I was very happy with what they did in such a short timeframe.

We managed this project in a very simple way. They were professional enough, and I knew what I was looking for, so we didn't need elaborate communication tools to get the job done. Using WhatsApp was sufficient for us.

Are there any employees from the service provider's team that you would like to give a shout-out to in this review?

I would like to give a shout-out to Aeden.

What did you find most impressive about them?

One of the things that Melsoft does best overall is their education. I'm very familiar with their academy because I've attended their workshops and even taken photographs at one of their events. The team excels at driving the spirit of entrepreneurship across Africa, empowering young people to find career opportunities in the tech and software development spaces.

Melsoft is a team of young and very passionate people who strive to achieve greatness. The founders are very passionate about helping young people become employable, which is a passion I share. Overall, their work is commendable.

Are there any areas they could improve?

It's very hard for me to compare Melsoft's strengths and weaknesses because I don't work with them directly, so I don't know how they could improve. I've only been impressed with what I've seen from my interactions with them.

Do you have any advice for future clients of theirs?

Clear communication is always important in any interaction with other businesses so that they understand what you're looking for. I also recommend looking at Melsoft's work on LinkedIn and their website, following their social gatherings, and engaging with Larreth, who is very responsive. Knowing what you're looking for and being proactive at it goes a long way.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the ICT system administrator at ERWAT, a wastewater treatment company based in South Africa.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Melsoft?

We needed help advertising our services through a website.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Melsoft has provided WordPress website development and hosting services for us. We’ve started by providing them with all our materials for our existing website so they can migrate the platform to their hosting environment.

What was the team composition? 

We work with two members of Melsoft’s team, including Hunter (Co-Founder & CTO) and Larreth (Founder & CEO).

How much have you invested with them?

So far, we’ve spent around $1.1 million with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in August 2021, and the engagement is still ongoing. We have a 36-month-long contract with Melsoft.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We feel satisfied and have no complaints about Melsoft's work. The team is also doing well, according to our latest performance evaluation.

How did Melsoft perform from a project management standpoint?

Melsoft delivers on time.

Are there any employees from the service provider's team that you would like to give a shout-out to in this review? 

Larreth provides great services whenever we want to make any changes or give maintenance to our website.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Melsoft could improve their communication by hiring more people for their service desk contact center to assist someone with a serious request immediately. Nonetheless, we know they try their best.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I recommend people working with them because Melsoft is not a greedy company in terms of pricing, which enables them to offer good value for money.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the director of Zimzet Financials, an accounting, tax consulting, and coaching company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Melsoft?

We were looking for a software design company to help us design our website.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Melsoft designed our website from scratch.

What is the team composition?

I worked with two teammates from Melsoft.

How did you come to work with Melsoft?

When I was shopping around for trustworthy software design companies, I came across Melsoft’s profile online and was intrigued by the simplicity of our interaction. Understanding what they would do for us was very easy for me. Thus, their communication, more than anything else, was what made me decide to go with them.

Their team simplified what they would do for us in terms of designing our website. On top of that, they were great at answering questions when there were things that I didn’t understand, such as the general terminology. Additionally, the quote was right for our needs. Overall, they made it very easy to trust in them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together around February 2023, and it took them about a month to complete the project.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The impact of Melsoft’s work on my business was very positive. Initially, I was operating as a small company with a low profile. Thus, for this project, I wanted Melsoft to focus on the services I provided because I wanted to launch my company to the general public. They helped me a lot towards accomplishing that, and I’m now benefitting from the outcomes. Now, people can reach out to my company instead of me searching for them.

How did Melsoft perform from a project management standpoint?

I was very happy with everything. Considering the work they did for me, the cost of the project was very fair. I would recommend them to other people needing IT services similar to those I needed.

Additionally, Melsoft delivered within the agreed deadline. They had to accomplish something massive in a short amount of time. Still, they were able to meet my request and deliver everything on time. Initially, they told me they would need more time to meet the deadline, but they still went the extra mile to get the work done in the timeframe I required.

Melsoft was also great at communicating. They were available whenever I needed to check something, even if it was outside office hours, which was impressive.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I was happy with their work. The way they did things was very professional, and their work culture was impressive. In fact, when Melsoft presented what they could do for me, they told me that I wouldn’t pay a deposit. They would send me an invoice once the project was completed to my satisfaction. The fact that they were more concerned about the satisfaction of their clients than getting money was a great quality.

Are there any areas they could improve?

There was nothing Melsoft could have improved on.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Even though I wasn’t too familiar with their industry, there wasn’t something that I needed to know beforehand that didn’t come from them, which made them perfect.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Chairman of Zimbabwe Immigration Federation

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

The Zimbabwe Migration Network Program is a community network of Zimbabweans residing in South Africa under the Zimbabwean Special Exemption Permit. We offer tailored services like visa assistance, transportation, classifieds, job boards, bus and ticket purchases to Zimbabwe.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Melsoft to accomplish?

• Develop a comprehensive ecommerce mobile and web app to digitally provide a range of services to our community, including selling bus and flight tickets, setting up a classifieds platform, and creating a jobs board and a radio service for Zimbabweans.
• Enable people in the diaspora to send goods to any location in Zimbabwe through our platform.
• Generate revenue through the platform by selling services and facilitating transactions.

SOLUTION

How did you find Melsoft?

Online Search

Why did you select Melsoft over others?

• High ratings
• Great culture fit
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Melsoft were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

The scope of work we commissioned Melsoft to undertake was multi-faceted and extensive, aimed at creating a digital platform that would cater to the diverse needs of our community. Here's a detailed breakdown: 

1. E-commerce Platform for Ticket Sales: The development of an e-commerce platform for selling bus and flight tickets was a primary objective. This required the integration of a secure payment gateway and the systems of various transport operators to ensure real-time ticket availability and booking. 
2. Classifieds Platform: The project included the establishment of a classifieds platform where our community members could buy and sell items. This involved the creation of a user-friendly interface for posting items, interacting with potential buyers, and carrying out secure transactions. 
3. Registration Forms: Part of the work involved designing and implementing digital registration forms to facilitate member sign-ups and maintain an organized database of community members. 
4. Jobs Board: We tasked Melsoft with creating a digital jobs board. The purpose of this platform was to provide a space where community members could discover and apply for job opportunities that matched their skills and interests. 
5. Radio for Zimbabweans: The project also included the integration of a radio service into the app and web platform, offering community members access to news and entertainment from Zimbabwe. 
6. Goods Delivery Service: The last key deliverable was a feature to enable people living in the diaspora to send goods to any location in Zimbabwe. This required the development of a system for order placement, tracking, and delivery coordination. 

These deliverables were all designed to work together to create a comprehensive platform that met the needs of our community members and generated revenue for our organization.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Here are the measurable outcomes that demonstrate the progress and success of the project: 

1. User Engagement: Since the implementation of the app, we've seen significant user engagement, with over 100 orders coming in through the app on a weekly basis. 
2. Revenue Increase: As a new venture, the platform has allowed us to generate a revenue stream through the sale of bus tickets and other services, marking a successful entrance into the digital commerce space. 
3. Operational Efficiency: The automated invoicing feature of the app has reduced administrative tasks, freeing up our team's time to focus on other important aspects of our operations. 
4. Positive User Feedback: Users have expressed a lot of love for the app, with the radio feature being a particular hit. This positive feedback indicates that the app is meeting the needs of our community and providing value. While we are yet to see an increase in the number of people in the diaspora using the service to send goods to Zimbabwe, the overall progress made so far points to a successful project. 

The benefits we've seen in user engagement, revenue generation, operational efficiency, and positive user feedback serve as a testament to Melsoft's excellent work.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Melsoft's project management was absolutely top-notch. They adopted an agile approach, which allowed for a highly collaborative and flexible process. What was truly impressive was their timeliness. They not only delivered on time but actually completed the project four months ahead of schedule. This sort of efficiency is a testament to their strong planning and execution abilities. 

In terms of responding to our needs, they were incredibly proactive. Regular feedback meetings and Zoom calls were part of our routine. They kept us in the loop every step of the way, ensuring that any adjustments or changes we wanted were promptly addressed. In short, they were responsive, efficient, and consistently exceeded our expectations. Their approach to project management certainly contributed significantly to the success of our project.

What was your primary form of communication with Melsoft?

• In-Person Meeting
• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What really set Melsoft apart for us was their speed of execution. They were incredibly efficient, finishing the project four months ahead of schedule. But it wasn't just about the speed—they didn't compromise on quality or detail. They were able to quickly understand our needs, translate them into a high-quality app, and deliver it faster than we could have imagined. It was truly impressive and shows their commitment to providing excellent service.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Melsoft could have done differently?

While Melsoft did an outstanding job overall, if there's one area they could improve upon, it would be the user interface of the app. It was functional and user-friendly, but aesthetically, it felt a bit plain. A more visually appealing, perhaps more dynamic and modern design could further enhance user engagement and make navigation even more enjoyable.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the systems administrator at Mercuri International, and we're a professional training and coaching company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Melsoft?

We hired Melsoft to assist us in upgrading our mobile app.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Melsof is building our app for iOS and Android platforms; the product is a coaching app where users submit the competencies of the person they're coaching, determining whether they are eligible for the training program or not.

What is the team composition?

We've worked with Andrei (CEO) and their development team.

How did you come to work with them?

We found them and other providers through a Google search, but we ended up with Melsoft.

What is the status of the engagement?

We began our partnership in January 2022, and it's still ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They're quick at fixing any bugs that arise, so we're delighted with their services.

How did Melsoft perform from a project management standpoint?

The communication is good, we have daily conversations, and they're great at meeting our timelines to deliver what we ask them. In addition, their turnaround time is very fast, so we don't wait on them to fix other issues. Regarding tools, we use email, phone calls, and a personalized platform they suggested.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They're time efficient compared to our previous service provider and prioritize our needs. I understand they have other companies they work with, but it's nice to know that they work with us as if we are the only ones.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don't think there's anything they can improve on — they're a good company, and we're satisfied with their services.

Any advice for potential customers?

Communicate a lot with them and provide all the right documentation

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Popsoko is a multi-vendor marketplace where buyers and sellers meet to buy and sell their products. As the Founder & CEO, my role is to oversee the company’s strategy and operations

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Melsoft, and what were your goals?

We wanted a multivendor marketplace website where anyone can sell their products on our site. Our goal is to grow and compete with big brands like Takealot and Alibaba.

SOLUTION

How did you select Melsoft and what were the deciding factors?

Melsoft was referred to us by a friend who worked with them before.

Describe the scope of work in detail, including the project steps, key deliverables, and technologies used.

they used woocommerce, dokan pro and payfast as a payment gateway. They also designed the site's user interface for us in adobe xd

How many people from the Melsoft's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

2 people. the founder and his chief technical officer

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any measurable outcomes of the project or general feedback about the deliverables?

we have received great feedback from stakeholders and we have started approaching vendors to sell on our site. everyone is impressed with the design and functionality of the site

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

we mostly communicated via whatsapp but they also used slack and trello boards so we could see what their working on

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

They know a lot about e-commerce, and they overdeliver to exceed the client's business goals. so many things they did were not even in our contract, we are very impressed with them

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

not at the moment

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We provide software solutions and personal finance/accounting information in an accessible format for all. The reviewer is a Director of the company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Melsoft?

Development of the main website, Development of a custom software app, and Development of a Chrome browser extension

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to develop a comprehensive software solution as per our specific requirements as well as develop a website for the purposes of hosting informational content.

SOLUTION

How did you select Melsoft?

We used web searches, referrals and enquiries in order to make a list of relevant web developers and after reading through reviews of prior experience with several developers and seeing their work, we selected a few final potential developers. After initial meetings with the developers, we were impressed with the insights and passion of the Melsoft team above the rest, hence our decision.

It was clear from the get-go that they were committed to providing quality service.

Describe the project in detail.

After the initial meeting, a timeline was provided by Melsoft with project goals and deadlines on the various components of development. Our team worked together very closely with the Melsoft team, with a member of our team working almost daily with Melsoft on the development throughout the project. The Melsoft team was very accommodating of our presence in the field and willing to share insights and lessons in the development process, for which we are thankful.

Design of the website and software, branding, all copy and content creation was provided by our team - Melsoft was responsible for the development of the software and website to our requirements, as well as for the set-up of the back-end of the site and application.

What was the team composition?

One Melsoft team member completed the website development requirements, whereas the application and Chrome extension had two Melsoft team members working on the development - a lead developer and a secondary developer. As mentioned before, a member of our team worked very closely with the Melsoft team on the development too, of which they were very accommodating.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We have just launched so do not have any hard quantity metrics available to share at this stage, although we have had great feedback on the design and functionality of both the main site and the application. The developed software works well to our requirements and we are happy with the outcome.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Communication was a treat with the Melsoft team. It is very apparent that each member of the team takes pride in customer service and was willing to make themselves available to assist with any queries we had. We had consistent update meetings and the team attended each and every meeting punctually and with full attention, which we appreciated very much.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Two things presented themselves as exceptional from our experience with Melsoft: The passion of the team in terms of developing and delivering software with great customer service is impressive. Although we had some ups and downs throughout the course of the project, we always felt as if they were genuinely invested in providing a quality product with great service.

The insights of the team into our software requirements was also impressive. The team was able to develop the software tailored to the design needs as well as provide good tips to our team for better performance and solutions for issue which came up on the fly.

Are there any areas for improvement?

We had some pain points around the project deadlines agreed upon and Melsoft not being able to meet those for a variety of reasons - however, the relationship developed between our teams from working more closely together during the development delays was ultimately a net positive. And whilst there may have been delays, it was apparent at all times that Melsoft was committed to quality service.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the CEO of Situated. My company aims to advertise to university students accommodation sites that they could live in during their studies.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Melsoft?

Our company is a startup and needed a website with only one page that details what the company is about and what services we offer.

What were your goals for this project?

To create a holding page for Situated.

SOLUTION

How did you select Melsoft?

I searched on the internet for web development companies in South Africa. After having meetings with various companies, I decided to partner up with Melsoft.

Describe the project in detail.

As the company is a startup, before building the main website, we need a small site just to display the company description and the services we offer. We would use this web page when approaching accommodation sites for them to learn a bit more about the company.

What was the team composition?

The CEO of the company handled our project. The size of the team did not change during the project, as the task at hand was fairly a small one.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

My team is certainly happy with the web page and how it turned out. We have certainly got compliments from friends and peers.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Gmail and zoom were the two tools used during the project. The CEO was always punctual, respectful, and definitely delivered on the goal at hand.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

One of their strengths is that they know what they are doing from a development point of view. It is very easy for customers to follow and understand how they build the product.

Are there any areas for improvement?

From this moment there is nothing I can recommend from an improvement point of view, service was excellent.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the Founder & Principal at S Gunuza Attorneys.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Melsoft?

We needed to have a website up and running that showcases our services and gives our prospective clients information about us.

What were your goals for this project?

Our goals were to have a professional looking online presence. Having a website is integral for any business out there and we wanted to follow suit.

SOLUTION

How did you select Melsoft?

Initially, Melsoft hired us for drafting their business contracts and some legal issues they were having. Larreth then told us about the importance of having a website and we decided to allow his company to do it for us as I loved their previous work as well as Larreth's character.

Describe the project in detail.

Melsoft did everything for us. This includes web design, copywriting, logo, brochure, company profile, letterhead, email signatures and so much more. All we had to do was pay and let them work and it was a great experience.

What was the team composition?

Not really sure who is in the team as we only communicated with Larreth himself. He was very hands on with the project

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

After having the website, we have received more calls for our services and inquiries through the website contact form. Our existing clients have also complimented our improved branding.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

They performed extremely well from a project management standpoint. Communication was clear, regular and effective. We only used WhatsApp and voice calls to manage workflow.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I was very impressed with this company's passion and dedication. They managed to have the site and branding materials ready within a week's time. They have a very passionate team and this company is surely going places.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Not that i can think of.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are specialist nationwide commercial renovation contractors. Our works vary from small one-off specialist projects through to large comprehensive major refurbishment packages. As the Managing Director, I am responsible for the Strategy Formulation & Implementation.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Melsoft?

We needed a website for our company. We also needed a customer portal where we can communicate effectively with our customers.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted a beautiful site which would convince users that our business is serious, and Melsoft delivered a very well designed and easy to manage solution. We also needed to improve our customer satisfaction and a customer portal was necessary.

SOLUTION

How did you select Melsoft?

Melsoft was reffered to us by a family friend. We asked to see their work and we were impressed. They also offered us great payment terms and a money-back guarantee that convinced us to select them as there was practically no risk in doing so.

Describe the project in detail.

Melsoft did everything for us, from Domain Registration, setting up the hosting, writing the content and building the website.

We required a call to action on the site as well as a contact form for inquiries and everything was delivered splendidly. All i was required to do was give feedback and input where necessay.

What was the team composition?

I only had a single point of contact, so not sure how the team is composed off. He would only chat with me directly as well and i found this approach wise as there was effective communication.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The site has led to our business gaining a multitude of inquiries. Before the lockdown, we would get 10-15 new leads each month from the website alone, and this is a great return on the price we paid for the site.

Our customers are also happy with the easy to use portal and we use it everyday.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Everything was made so simple as we communicated daily on WhatsApp or phone calls. The project was delivered way ahead of schedule and I was surprised at how quickly these guys work.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The design is extremely eye catching, and i think our website is definitely the most attractive among our competitors. I was also very impressed with the Project Management and effective communication during the development.

Are there any areas for improvement?

The cost seemed a bit high for a simple 4 page site but it was very worth it. Quality can never be compromised and Melsoft's services are high-end.