Program-Ace

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the business director of a visualization agency that operates in Belgium, Holland, and Luxembourg. We are active in Europe and all over the world. Our company uses 3D technology to create visual products — such as 3D animation, configurations, and interactive experiences — for all sorts of customers.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Program-Ace?

We hired Program-Ace as a subcontractor.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Whenever we have a shortage in operational capacity, we turn to Program-Ace. We have around 120 developers in the company who specialize in different technologies, but when we have too many projects on my progam or in my planning, I partner with Program-Ace to address our lack of developers. 

Our projects involve using 3D technology, specifically Unreal Engine and Unity, and web development software. This is because the 3D projects, in particular, require three main building blocks:

• Creating the 3D artwork;
• Making the 3D artwork move; and
• Integrating the 3D animation into a website.

For each project, I provide the Program-Ace team with concepts and ideas, analyses, and whatever initial product we have already come up with on our side. All that’s left for them to do is to execute the ideas and plans that are laid out by me and my clients. 

A lot of our projects are long-term, which means that it takes a while to complete everything. Once Program-Ace finishes the product, I deliver it to my clients and it’s out of my hands. 

What is the team composition?

My main point of contact is Olga (Strategic Partnership Director). During the acquisition phase, I’m usually in contact with 2–3 people, and in the production phase, I’m in touch with two. The number of people they have internally and how they organize is up to them, as I prefer to interface with only a few people. 

How did you come to work with Program-Ace?

I was looking for a high-end partner in Ukraine or Russia through LinkedIn. We wanted somebody who shared our vision, technology stack, and way of thinking in terms of innovation. 

When I found Program-Ace, I immediately contacted them and was received by two very professional-sounding people. This gave me confidence that I was talking with the right company, so I decided to work with them. 

How much have you invested with them?

Thus far, we’ve invested between €100,000–€200,000 (approximately $116,000–$232,000 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

We started the partnership in October 2020 and it is ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Working with Program-Ace definitely gives me the flexibility to handle more projects, which means that, down the line, I could get more revenue with their help. 

How did Program-Ace perform from a project management standpoint?

I can’t complain about their project management. During acquisition, I usually send them any information I have available via email and we subsequently arrange a formal call to discuss the project. When we’ve come to an agreement, the team will then send me a project quotation. 

Program-Ace then appoints a project manager and sets up a Slack channel. During the actual development, we share files via Google Drive. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

Program-Ace really has the capacity to handle projects that we can’t handle ourselves. They’re very professional and well-prepared for everything, and I’m very happy and confident with my choice of working with their team. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

They could communicate more frequently with us. Other than that, though, there’s nothing for them to improve on.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Communicate. Communicate. Communicate.