Red C London

Please describe your company and your position there.

The Haller Foundation empowers rural African communities to live extraordinarily resourcefully from their land. Haller provides the tools, infrastructure and knowledge to farm sustainably.

For what projects/services did your company hire Red C London?

In 2014, The Haller Foundation launched the Haller Farmers web-app - an online, farming manual providing 30,000 smallholder farmers with Haller's 60+ years of agricultural expertise.

However, as the technological revolution advances across Africa, Haller decided it was time to re-develop the Haller Farmers app to make it more intuitive and accessible for the millions of smallholder farmers living across Africa. In 2019, Haller employed Red C to develop an intuitive mobile-application for android smartphones.

What were your goals for this project?

Our goal for this project was to provide the millions of smallholder farmers living across Africa with affordable, organic, and environmentally friendly farming techniques.

To achieve this, we needed to establish that the application was direclty in line with the needs of these rural communities. This meant, working closely with farmers in East Africa and Red C to develop a smart, intuitive, and lightweight application.

Our end goal for Haller Farmers was to create a reliable and effective app that gives farmers the power to lift themselves out of poverty and to create self-sufficient and sustainable livelihoods.

How did you select Red C London?

Having researched several mobile-app development companies in London, Red C stood out from the crowd. With an impressive list of services and previous clients, Red C instantly sparked our interest.

Following an initial conversation, Red C's willingness to re-develop Haller Farmers web-app while being open and flexible to new ideas and features was integral in our decision-making process.

Describe the project in detail.

Haller Farmers – a native, android application – leverages the increasing penetration of mobile technology in Africa to promote sustainable growth across both landscapes and communities. With the thanks of Red C, we have digitised 60 years of local agricultural knowledge and made it open access in the hope of helping to ensure world food security.

To re-develop the Haller Farmers web-app into an effective and reliable mobile application for smallholder farmers in Africa, we needed to be specific and tailor the development and features to the end-users needs. This meant, creating an app that was lightweight and did not require wifi or data to operate.

It also needed to be available in both English and Swahili, while incorporating Swahili audio to overcome the challenge of high illiteracy rates. When developing Haller Farmers, it was vital to ensure the app was engaging and intuitive so users of any age or level of education, would be able to understand the functionality and content within the app.

Part of Haller's model for sustainable development includes working with children to re-engage the next generation of farmers. This was important to reflect in the re-development of the Haller Farmers app.

Red C helped us to achieve this by incorporating the interactive square plot feature - a visual representation of an ideal 1000 square metre plot of land.

It was also fundamental that following the development of the app, a CMS (Content Management System) was put in place so the Haller team in the UK and in Kenya, could incorporate new updates and additional farming expertise as time goes on.

What was the team composition?

The team for this project consisted of a Project Manager - who provided outstanding support and advice from start to finish - and a UX/UI Designer, who was open to working in close collaboration with Haller's long-term designer partner.

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

Following the launch of the Haller Farmers app, we have seen downloads not only in Africa but much further afield in locations across Asia, Europe and America.

This is perfectly in line with the Haller Farmers goal of scaling up our impact and promoting sustainable development across the globe.

Feedback from users has been extremely positive so far - we believe this is due to Red Cs openness and flexibility during the development stage and also partly due to the 3-week period of Beta testing ahead of the launch, where we resolved any minor bugs or glitches within the app.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Considering there were 3 parties involved in this project, Haller, Red C and Pearlfisher (Haller's long-term design partner,) the workflow was efficient and smooth running.

Communication was clear and straightforward and Red C met our expectations fully - especially when working in collaboration around the app design. They were also very understanding when the project was put on hold for a short time due to an unexpected circumstance.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Red Cs adaptability, understanding and willingness to meet the end-users needs was exceptional. This was clear from the get-go and the team still provides on-going support and advice where necessary.

This is something we found to be extremely unique about Red C compared to previous findings. It is also worth mentioning that Red C helped us to launch our app in the middle of the global pandemic, which was a challenge in itself but in the end, was executed perfectly.

Are there any areas for improvement?

Red C's process of development was perfect and outlined clearly from the start. There is little we would change about our experience.

Please describe your company and your position there.

Centtrip - we are a fintech company introducing a new dimension to the banking landscape with our unique technology and unrivalled expertise.

For what projects/services did your company hire Red C London?

We hired Red C to design and develop the Centrrip app, a foreign currency service providing companies and individuals with an easy way to manage their international transactions.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted a stylish and sophisticated looking app which appealed to our target demographic and made the complex process of managing accounts and the buying and selling of currencies simple and intuitive.

How did you select this vendor?

After carrying out extensive research on mobile app development agencies in London and hearing an initial presentation/pitch from the Red C team we felt they would be a perfect digital partner for us. The team stressed that honesty and collaboration were fundamental values taken seriously at Red C which were exactly the qualities we were looking for in a tech partner. During our first meeting, they took the time to find out what our business objectives were to ensure they built a product that would help us achieve all of our business goals.

Describe the project in detail.

Before approaching Red C we had an existing web portal which enabled users to load their accounts and exchange currency. We needed to extend that reach to a mobile app that better reflected our brand in order to make it easier for users to access and use our services whilst travelling. Red C worked alongside our in-house developers to build native iOS and Android apps using best practice security implementation and liaising with our branding partner to ensure that the look and feel of the app matched our web and offline offers. The app helps Centtrip users manage multiple currencies across their Centtrip cards and account. Importantly, the app was built natively to increase security, meaning that users can login with Touch ID.

What was the team composition?

Centtrip team including in-house dev team Centtrip’s branding team Red C team: Senior project manager Primary point of contact who is responsible for delivering all project deliverables and handling general communication/requests. Development project manager Primary Remote team point of contact, responsible for scheduling work to developers & QA as well as escalating issues to the Centtrip team for prompt resolution. 2 x App developers Developers with over 5 years’ experience in their respective development languages specialising in mobile app development.

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

Users are able to view their account transaction, to top up their card or account and buy and sell up to 14 different currencies all within the app.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow between the Centtrip team and the Red C team was extremely effective and cohesive. We continue to work with Red C on future enhancements and developments three years down the line as we have built an exceptional working relationship.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

We have been working closely with Red C for over three years now and we have found their quality of delivery to be excellent and most impressive. We always have a clear sight of progress and they regularly contribute new ideas for our award-winning mobile apps.

Are there any areas for improvement?

No, they have been flexible in their pricing model and allows us to scale up and down quickly as and when our requirements change. We highly recommend them.

Introduce your business and what you do there.

Since opening its first base in 2013 at London’s Fitzrovia, Grad has operated as a Kunsthalle, a platform and a forum for debate while researching, curating, commissioning and producing over a hundred critically-acclaimed projects. Equally known for its historical shows and contemporary exhibitions exploring urgent social realities, Grad instigates intellectual inquiry and builds connections between artists, individuals, and communities from different continents and cultures. Grad challenges cultural bias and preconceptions and champions an experimental interdisciplinary approach with a focus on new media and technologies. Grad's team is based in London and Moscow, but works and thinks internationally.

What challenge were you trying to address with Red C London?

We needed a development firm to help us finalize an iOS app.

What was the scope of their involvement?

While mostly developed by other companies, we hired Red C London to complete and polish our iOS app. This effort included evaluating our code and implementing existing wireframes.

The app is a digital art project which was launched during Art Night 2018. It is a collection of diverse digital narratives created by international artists, which Red C made available via the mobile phone app. To facilitate this, Red C London is developing an intricate file storing feature within the app. The feature will enable users to take photos, record sounds, and write text as they visit the art displays of various creatives. Once development is complete, we hope to work with them on creating an Android version.

What is the team composition?

We interact with their development director, a project manager, and a lead designer.

How did you come to work with Red C London?

I came across their website while searching for service providers. After looking through their references and portfolio, I decided to reach out to them. Their project manager got back to me promptly and we discussed the project further. The engagement evolved from there.

How much have you invested with them?

Our current contract value is around £25,000 (approximately $33,000 USD).

What is the status of this engagement?

They started working on the app in May 2018 and the project is ongoing.

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

Red C London works within strict deadlines to deliver high-quality work. The app has launched, but they’re still adding new features and trying to decrease its file size. The current product received a reasonable number of downloads since the initial release.

How did Red C London perform from a project management standpoint?

All of our contacts are easy to communicate with and responsive. They update us on the project’s progress via phone and email. We also have regular meetings with their project manager.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re flexible and accommodating. It’s an unusual project, but they managed to gain an understanding of the requirements in a short amount of time. We hope to work with them further.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We should’ve considered optimizing the app’s file size much sooner.

Introduce your business and what you do there.

We have developed a gamified relationship app called ‎Luvdup. I am the founder of the company.

What challenge were you trying to address with Red C London?

We didn't have the necessary skills in-house and needed an app developer.

What was the scope of their involvement?

Red C London developed our Android and iOS app.

How did you come to work with Red C London?

We looked at various developers we'd used in the past. Red C London was recommended to my partner through word of mouth. The location was an issue, and we preferred using a partner in London. We went through a selection process and selected Red C London as the best option.

How much have you invested with Red C London?

The cost of Red C London's work was between $50,000 and $200,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Red C London 18 months ago. The app has been in development for little over a year and was launched yesterday.

Could you share any evidence that would demonstrate the productivity, quality of work, or the impact of the engagement?

The app has only been live for one day and has around 200 downloads. We haven't heard a lot of feedback, but it's positive so far. The marketing launch will be started next week.

How did Red C London perform from a project management standpoint?

Red C London has shown a lot of creativity and felt as if they were a part of our team. They came up with ideas for improving our app, which has helped in developing our concept quite a bit.

What did you find most impressive about Red C London?

Beyond just technical development, Red C London has skills on the creative side and has been able to supply a diverse team for our app.

Are there any areas Red C London could improve?

Compared to other development companies I've worked with, Red C London was a bit black and white. On a couple of occasions, the app was developed completely against the plan, due to miscommunications. The results were not sensible in some parts, and it would have been nice if someone had spotted that, rather than carrying on with the development. To be fair, this is common with most developers, and Red C London is better than most on this side.

What tips or recommendations could you share that might increase the likelihood of success with Red C London?

There's a variety of skill sets within Red C London, from their principal to the development team. They have a positive and collaborative environment for working with clients.

Red C London has developed many apps, so we've been able to rely on them for plans around funding, launching, and marketing the product.

Introduce your business and what you do there.

Poplar HARCA is a resident-led, award winning Housing and Regeneration Community Association in East London, with registered charity status. We started out in 1998. Since then, we’ve focused on providing homes and support to residents old and new, helping to create a place where people, communities, and businesses can grow and thrive. With our partners, we are currently leading an extensive place-shaping program for Poplar, attracting £2.1 billion [approx. US$2.6 billion] of investment to regenerate, build, and create opportunities for our community.

I’m the Communications Officer, responsible for digital media including company website, intranet, and social media channels.

What challenge were you trying to address with Red C?

We recently launched a new brand identity to coincide with our latest 5 year strategic plan. Therefore, we needed a new website that not only reflected the new brand and communication style of the organization, but that would also meet our needs as we shifted channels, improved customer service, and supported the organizations goals over the next five years.

What was the scope of their involvement?

Our branding agency had already consulted with staff and stakeholders to create a wireframe and design for the website. The task for Red C was to build the website based on these plans. They provided the Drupal CMS and coded the site to the specification we had provided.

How did you come to work with Red C?

We gathered recommendations internally and from external partners and peers in the housing sector. We then drew up a long list, who we contacted with our proposal. We then conducted interviews off of our shortlist based on their responses. We chose Red C as they were significantly better on price, and value for money was a key consideration. They also assured us that they could deliver the website within the tight deadline we initially provided, on a content management system we were already familiar with.

How much have you invested with Red C?

The project cost about £20,000 [US$ 26259.30].

What is the status of this engagement?

The project started on the 9th of March, 2016. We initially requested a launch date of April 29th, 2016. Due to unforeseen circumstances internally at Poplar HARCA, we pushed this back and launched the website on July 19th. Troubleshooting and debugging has continued since then. Red C is also responsible for maintenance and upgrading of the website going forward.

Could you share any evidence that would demonstrate the productivity, quality of work, or the impact of the engagement?

The website was launched successfully, however it is too soon to have any data on visitor numbers or its effect on customer service.

What did you find most impressive about Red C?

They were very organized and were prompt at working through issues in a language that the layman could understand. This is not always the case with tech projects. They were also a friendly and approachable team, which helped the project run smoothly.

Are there any areas Red C could improve?

There were occasional instances where they went for a quick fix in order to match our design specifications, which didn’t always work. However, these were all very minor issues.

Please describe your organization.

I thought of an app for a free place for anyone to advertise events for disabled people. I'm recently disabled myself, and I couldn't find anywhere to identify sports and events I could take part in. 

What is your position?

I'm the creator and owner of the app.

What business challenge were you trying to address with Red C?

People didn't know where to advertise their events if they were holding them. I asked Red C to help me design and build an app so people would have a platform and place to advertise events, and they'd be easy to find and search for.

Please describe the scope of their involvement in detail.

It's just iOS. Hopefully, someday, I'll be able to get it in other app stores.

How did you come to work with Red C?

I Googled, and I was looking for a while. I did contact a few other people but it was hard to get a reply from many people. If I called or emailed 10 people, I'd only get three or four replies. I looked at Red C's work, and it looked good. Additionally, their pricing was better than others I talked to.

Could you provide a sense of the size of this initiative in financial terms?

All in all, $10,000 to $50,000 with some marketing costs involved as well.

Could you share any statistics or metrics from this engagement?

It's still quite early. We released the app in February [2016], and we had a few problems. We rereleased it in mid-March. I've had good reviews, but I'm struggling with the marketing. I'm trying to do it myself.

What distinguishes Red C from other providers?

Red C was always quick to reply. When the app went live and we had a few problems, they were quick to help me and didn't charge me.

Is there anything Red C could have improved or done differently?

No. Red C did everything I asked for. They also gave great suggestions to make the app better.

Please describe your organization.

I work for a company called PN Daly, a civil engineering company. We do many things but, currently, we work for water companies doing contract management anywhere from leakage to water efficiency and water main cleaning. 

What is your position?

I'm a contract manager.

What business challenge were you trying to address with Red C?

We're the first company to provide water efficiency audits. We needed to build a system to help us monitor and track it. 

Please describe the scope of their involvement in detail.

Red C helped us to build our system, which at its core is an online calendar. It's a web-based system where our field staff can actually access our app from iPads. We have four different streams of field teams. The system connects all the apps and the back-end as well. 

How did you come to work with Red C?

We had been using Red C already a few years before for some of our websites and other things. The reason we stay with them is that they're very quick to turn things around. If we win a new contract, which happens quite a lot, it's very important that if we need a new system built that we can get it done quickly. Red C can usually turn a project around in eight weeks. It's impressive. They're very flexible and quick.

Could you provide a sense of the size of this initiative in financial terms?

Our water efficiency system was £30,000 [approximately $43,800].

What distinguishes Red C from other providers?

If you need a solution for something, Red C will come up with something and for a nontech person, they're great at communicating the details, so everybody understands what's going on.

Is there anything Red C could have improved or done differently?

When you work as a contractor, it's very important that somebody's available very early in case of issues. Our business starts at 7 a.m. Red C starts their day at 9 a.m., so that sometimes is an issue for us. 

Please describe your organization.

My organization is Barts Health NHS Trust, which is the biggest healthcare trust in the country [United Kingdom], with turnover of £1.1 billion and 15,500 employees. We work with organizations across the region and across the country. We needed a health system education platform rather than an organizational one.

What is your position?

I'm the head of education and director of academic health science.

What business challenge were you trying to address with Red C?

The initial goal was to reduce barriers to learning and to hit our requirements to achieve 90 percent compliance with statutory and mandatory training, which we've done. The secondary goal was to make the process of learning much more cost-effective, which again, we've done. We've had very significant productivity savings. The subsequent goals have been much more creative compared to what we can offer and bring to more people in an easier way.

Can you go into more depth on the work that Red C provided you?

We have a suite of apps under development but the first one that's gone live is called eCPD, and it brings educational material through a portal to everyone across the health sector. The apps are available on iOS, Android, and Windows, and will shortly be accessible via the web as well.

Did you consider other companies, and how did you come to work with Red C?

Yes, we did. We went with Red C because they were cost-effective, and they had a very good reputation. We did a bit of due diligence around what they'd done before, and the acid test was that they were very customer friendly. They're very responsive and helpful.

Could you provide a sense of the size of this initiative in financial terms?

It was £50,000 to £200,000 [approximately $73,200 to $293,000] for the whole app suite.

What distinguishes Red C from other providers?

Again, Red C is very accessible, friendly, and responsive. They're fun to work with, good designers, and take a lot of pride in what they do.

Is there anything Red C could have improved or done differently?

I don't think there could have been anything better to date.