Qualium Systems

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a Marketing Agency that provides Strategy, Creative and Development services to medium-sized to enterprise-level brands and corporations.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We were tasked with creating an engaging, fun, sharable promotional program to showcase our client's sponsorship of a major league sports franchise. After brainstorming with Qualium and the client, we landed on an application that would create a "virtual bobblehead" of the consumers' face mapped onto a toy bobblehead, with the teams uniform.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

We have worked with Qualium numerous times before, and have always appreciated their skills, attitude, attention to detail, and processes. This was a very high-profile project, with no room for error, so we wanted the very best team available.

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

Essentially, there were several separate components to this project;

• The scripts to accurately and effectively capture and isolate the consumers' face, accounting for various hairstyles, skin tones, and other variables.
• The process of mapping that image onto a 3D representation of a "bobblehead" doll, and adding behaviors to that doll so that it 'bobbled' in a realistic and engaging manner
• Back-end data management to capture user info, and engagement metrics - an attractive and intuitive
• Front end interface to facilitate the process, and encourage users to share on social media. Qualium developed, tested, deployed and managed all technical aspects of this project.

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

Our primary lead contact was Dmitriy Stetsenko, but we also worked closely with Olga Krivchenko, Dimitry Khristenko, and several other members of the team.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The client was very happy with the program, and with the results that were generated, and we deployed 4 more iterations of the program in the subsequent year.

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

We had weekly status calls, regular updates, shared 'live' documents, and leveraged all the appropriate tools and procedures to manage remote development. The client was obviously a bit nervous on launch day, because it was a high-profile, live event. And Qualium made sure that they were available and in touch, in case anything went wrong, even though it was the middle of the night their time.

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

There's a scene in 'Better Call Saul' when Gus and Mike are interviewing contractors to build their underground lab, and each one confidently says that can deliver the project without any concerns. Then they meet Werner, who points out all the challenges, identifies the risks, is cautious about the timeline, and doesn't sugarcoat it. When I saw that episode, I immediately thought of Olga and Dmitriy. They look at all the angles, are very thorough, identify risks, and ensure that they deliver a quality product. They don't BS you, or sugarcoat things by telling you what you want to hear.

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

Sincerely, I can't think of anything. We have worked with Qualium numerous times before and since, and they are our go-to team for challenging high-profile projects. So why don't we use them for everything? There are some tasks for which they are not a great fit (and they will tell you if something is not in their wheelhouse) or for which they are frankly over-qualified, and there might not be the business case for their budget. But I certainly would not fault them for setting their fees compensorate to the value they bring to the table.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder and CEO of Glisser, a virtual and hybrid events SaaS company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Qualium Systems?

We worked with Qualium Systems a couple of years ago while building and scaling our product. At the time, we had a CTO in-house, but we had no other developers, so we needed to expand our development team.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Qualium Systems helped us expand our development team to build the second version of our product. Their task was to convert our prototype product from an iOS and Android app into an entire web app. Thus, with our CTO’s guidance, they took our MVP and created the web app we needed.

During the entire project, they acted as our core team and supported the entire process f delivering our product.

What is the team composition?

Overall, we worked with 5–6 people from Qualium Systems, from whom Olga (Co-Owner) was our main point of contact. Their team included a project and sprint manager and 3–4 full stack developers.

How did you come to work with Qualium Systems?

Another startup founder recommended them to me. We had used other developers previously, but their skill set was limited. However, Qualium Systems had a very broad skill set. Additionally, my CTO reviewed their code during some trials, and it was the best work he had seen, so we hired them.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent around £70,000 (approximately $76,000 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from January 2016–December 2019. It was a four-year engagement during which we worked on various projects. However, we then hired an internal development team, so we ended our partnership.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Throughout our engagement, we kept reviewing Qualium Systems’ code, and the quality was very good.

How did Qualium Systems perform from a project management standpoint?

In addition to code quality, we also evaluated Qualium Systems’ ability to meet our deadlines. For every project, we set out a project plan, and we measured whether they stuck to that plan or it slipped. By and large, we found that they worked very efficiently and on time.

Overall, working with Qualium Systems was excellent. My CTO and UX designer spent some time over in Ukraine with them and got together very well, which made things very easy. Additionally, we used email and Slack to communicate, and we had video calls once per week.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Qualium Systems was very smart, and they really understood what we were trying to achieve. They didn’t simply follow instructions; they were very engaged in the project and really cared about the outcome we were trying to achieve. Additionally, they suggested excellent technological ideas, acting as true members of our team.

Are there any areas they could improve?

It would have been great if they maintained consistency in the people they assigned to the project. Sometimes, the people we were working with had to change projects, so we then had to work with the second best option.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

It’s all about communication. The more collaborative you allow them to be and the more involvement they have in the product’s design, the more value you will get from the outcome as a result.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Space Nation is a cross-media startup that produces an international competition. Using a mobile app, viewers select a cast for a TV broadcast. The winner goes to space. I was CTO until September 2018.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Qualium Systems?

Using React Native, Qualium Systems implemented our cross-platform mobile app for Android and iOS. 

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to build a world-class mobile app for space enthusiasts while sparking interest in the Space Nation contest. The app was one of the cornerstones of the project.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

Qualium Systems contacted me when we were looking to implement the app. The process took half a year, and we met in Finland before starting anything. I considered a few companies, but Qualium Systems stood out because of their spirited attitude.

I contacted their previous and current clients, who convinced me that they were a viable partner. They had the right technical knowledge, adequate English skills, flexible team sizing, and the right timezone. Cost was also an important factor, since we were a startup with limited funds.

Describe the project in detail.

We designed the UI and implemented the backend APIs in-house, working with scriptwriters, graphic artists, video producers, actors, and NASA. We created the the UI specifications, animations, and the backend API, although our documentation was poor. 

Qualium Systems handled architectural design, implementation, and maintenance. They produced in-game content using Javascript, HTML5, and CSS, but only some parts were published.

What was the team composition?

They provided two developers, one tester, and a part-time project manager. Our team changed a bit during the project. I was their main contact. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

In terms of software production, the project was successful. We were satisfied with the app's performance and received good feedback on its core functionalities. From a business perspective, however, the app didn't gather the momentum we expected.

The project scope was unfortunately not fixed, although I thought it would be. Our designs changed radically throughout the project, which caused issues with implementation. The app was originally intended to complement a TV series. We later decided that it should stand alone, but changed our emphasis too late. If I started this project again today, I would use a game engine rather than React Native.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

We used agile methodologies, Github for source control, and JIRA for workflow management. I regularly contacted Qualium Systems about the project. They addressed any issues brought to their attention. The language barrier did become a problem with one developer.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Qualium Systems was as enthusiastic about the project as we were. It was easy to communicate with them, and they weren't afraid to say that our process needed improvement. That blended well with our Finnish communication style.

Their developers had high standards for code quality, and they showed great commitment to our project when things got tough. We're forever grateful to them. 

Are there any areas for improvement?

At the beginning of the project, we should have been completely sure of our goals rather than rushing into development. That's a point about our team, though, not theirs. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm the owner and managing director of Infinium Systems. Our company is based in Vancouver, Canada and was established in October 2005. We provide web design and mobile app development services to clients across North America, including Canada and the US.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Qualium Systems?

After securing a new client, we didn't have enough resources to provide the work they needed or achieve their goals. We partnered Qualium Systems to provide the best possible service and product for our new client. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Qualium Systems has helped us with web and mobile app development projects for several private clients and government organizations. Their developers help us with system integration, building web applications, and migration to a service-oriented architecture. We also partner with their team for smaller-scale engagements for private companies which often require a different approach using new technology to attain the goals. 

We have a choice as to what technologies they use, but typically use the set Microsoft provides or open source options like PHP and JavaScript. They often use Linux on the backend and MySQL or another database depending on the client's preference. 

They provided wonderful work when we built a geographic information system for the city of Seattle. We've also collaborated for the government of British Columbia government on a healthcare project with the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA). One of our engagements for the Attorney General related to liquor distribution across the province. 

What is the team composition? 

I've worked with the owner and technical lead. The team includes about five different developers plus QA testers.

How did you come to work with Qualium Systems?

When I was looking for additional resources, I assessed numerous vendors based on the value they could provide. I also considered how they advertised and the response they've received from past clients. I checked references and verified feedback. Based on these factors, Qualium Systems provided high-quality services and offered the best value for our purposes.

How much have you invested with them?

We've spent around $90,000 so far. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We've been working together since 2014. Currently, we're creating a plan to develop a new product.  We actively communicate and share ideas. Our business relationship is ongoing, and we plan to continue it in the future. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Qualium Systems has a skilled and reliable team that can help us with any project we need. Since we have a mutual client, our primary shared goal is to deliver high-quality work. We conduct code reviews to assess their programming work. 

Based on the metrics we consider, they definitely provide the right level of quality. Qualium Systems delivers their work on time. They've always been responsive to our needs when we've had unexpected changes beyond the scope of the original technical requirements documents. 

How did Qualium Systems perform from a project management standpoint?

Qualium Systems uses a modern approach and has up-to-date expertise. I think highly of their project management skills. We use tools like Slack, Skype to communicate with their team and track progress and software bugs with Jira.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Qualium Systems employs personable, active young people who travel often and have robust social lives. I’m always impressed with their ideas and enjoy their personalities. On a personal level, they're a team of wonderful people.

Are there any areas they could improve?

There are always ways to improve resource management. Any company owner could potentially perform slightly better. We haven’t had any issues so far, though. Qualium Systems uses cost-effective methods to manage their resources. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Future clients should be open and straightforward, define what they need, and communicate effectively. Everything will get done on Qualium System's part. I was very impressed that they went far beyond the technical scope of our agreement. I also suggest planning carefully and working diligently together. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I own Green Mango Systems, a software consulting firm.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Qualium Systems?

I was doing high-level consulting and needed a development team to build out custom software for one of my clients.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

The product was a web-based risk management software for financial portfolios on the Node.js stack. We provided Qualium Systems with the design software specifications. They iterated on that software and managed the cloud infrastructure. The team then designed initial prototypes and did backend work around loading data from other systems. This process included verification to ensure Qualium Systems had loaded the data correctly. The team also completed five integrations, including the initial sales traction that came in on the platform.

What is the team composition?

The number of people varied throughout the engagement. At most, we had up to 10 people including part-time employees, but otherwise about six or seven full-time resources. The full-time team included a backend software developer, a frontend software developer, a project manager, a QA specialist, and a resource that worked on the quantitative analysis system.

How did you come to work with Qualium Systems?

The company I worked for at the time asked me to hire an offshore developer for cost reasons. I talked to about three or four companies and then hired the teams to test them out. An acquaintance had recommended Qualium Systems and I reached out to include in the consideration process. I hired Qualium Systems multiple times since that first project with the other company. They always outperformed the companies.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent close to $1 million.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in 2015 and the partnership ended in late 2017.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Qualium Systems followed instructions very well. As long as our side was clear, the deliverables came back exactly as we expected. Unlike other offshore teams I’ve worked with, they asked questions whenever they had concerns or needed clarification. I always appreciated their questions because they asked about things I hadn’t even considered—and I’ve thought about this a lot.

How did Qualium Systems perform from a project management standpoint?

We used a Kanban board for part of the project but mainly used task lists over email to track progress and monthly deadline releases. The team used a bug tracker as well.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The quality of the product stood out.

Are there any areas they could improve?

The timezone difference was the biggest issue. That was my only complaint, but the team was very good at communicating. I can’t think of anything else. We had a really successful experience with them.

Any advice for potential customers?

Clients should know how to communicate with the remote team. Relationships benefit from as much face-to-face communication as possible. We used to do Skype video calls, but in-person meetings were always important to the partnership.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Factotum of Spectre Assets AS

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Spectre is one of Norways largest suppliers of technical equipment and crew for concerts, festivals, events and other types of productions.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Qualium Systems to accomplish?

• Start selling our own second hand equipment
• To become the best in our segment on second hand sales
• Open for others to sell through our platform

SOLUTION

How did you find Qualium Systems?

• Online Search
• Referral

Why did you select Qualium Systems over others?

• Good value for cost
• Referred to me

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

A highly customized platform focused on the sale of used audiovisual equipment in Norway and nearby countries: audio, lighting equipment, and the stage itself. By providing a wide array of exclusive options for partners, it offers a safe and unique environment for both buying and selling.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project was launched at deadline, and the following sprints have all been in the same manner. We have managed to sell heaps of second hand equipment to happy customers both locally, nationally and abroad. Several partners have registered on our site and is using it as their main tool for trading second hand equipment.

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

The project management has been splendid. Quick response, easy communication and always on time. Our needs are met, and we also get constructive feedback and good questions back from their developers.

What was your primary form of communication with Qualium Systems?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

The ability to deliver a good product on time while the Russan Invasion was going on in their country.

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

The tools that are used for managing this project has switched back and forth a couple of times.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CTO of Arundo Analytics AS

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Arundo provides purpose-built, readymade products that identify crucial data patterns, enabling organizations to optimize their operations.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Qualium Systems to accomplish?

• Team augmentation

SOLUTION

How did you find Qualium Systems?

Other

Why did you select Qualium Systems over others?

• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from Qualium Systems were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

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

Development support of a SaaS software product to help management of distributed IoT Edge devices, including: 

• Backend API development 
• Data modelling and SQL development
• Notifications 
• Frontend development

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Product maturity and feature completion

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

The Qualium engineers worked as regular team members with the product team. All engineers were used to work agile and using Scrum.

What was your primary form of communication with Qualium Systems?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

I was pleased with their high-quality software engineering skills. Culturally very aligned and always available.

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

No

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

Me2we Finland Ltd built an university industry collaboration platform. I was one of the company cofounder. I was working as a CEO.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

Qualium Systems helped us designing and building the platform.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Simply, it was really easy and pleasant to talk with Olga and her team. They were very professional from start to finish.

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

Our CTO would be the best person to comment here.

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

2-5 Scrum master, designer, frontend developer, backend developer

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

University Industry Collaboration platform was in production.

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

Our CTO had daily meetings with the team.

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

Professionals. Easy to collaborate. Down to earth.

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

No.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the VP R&D for Incentives Solutions. We manufacture cloud-based off-the-shelf Sales and Service Performance Management (SPM) platforms.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Qualium Systems?

We needed external full-time development resources to create our product.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We did a LinkedIn search.

Describe the project and the services they provided in detail.

Qualium Systems does full-stack development using JavaScript libraries and the .NET platform.

What was the team composition?

The team includes three developers and a lead.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

We completed the project, which pleasured our internal stakeholders and investors.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

The team’s skills in this area distinguish them from other vendors. Qualium Systems regularly complies with deadlines; they communicate delays well in advance. We did experience unexpected turnover, but they kept it from affecting progress. We use Skype and Kanbanize.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

The team is highly professional.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No. We’re completely satisfied because the team immediately fixes problems.