S-PRO

What was the scope of their involvement?

This first project only involved web development, so the build was relatively straightforward. I had designed all the materials for my client using Adobe XD. At that point, a clickable version of the system was complete. S-PRO assessed that iteration and gave me an estimate of how much it would cost to fully develop. My client accepted the price they quoted, so S-PRO started developing the product based on the demo or wireframe I'd made. The technology stack they use includes a PostgreSQL database, a Django REST framework for the backend, and a React.js library for the frontend.

About two months later, a different client of mine wanted a system that was both web- and app-based. We used the same wireframe process again. After discussing our requirements and technology options, we agreed on the budget and scope. Development has been ongoing for some time now for this much larger system. There were a thousand questions that needed to be answered along the way, but they've made the process effortless and stress-free. I'm quite happy to be working with S-Pro. 

What is the team composition? 

I have one central point of contact at S-Pro along with the project manager they assigned to our engagement. 

How did you come to work with S-PRO?

I found S-PRO on a freelancer page called UpWork. I needed an established software company who could provide both mobile and web development. S-PRO can do both. In particular, I choose them based on positive reviews from past clients. Their proximity to Norway, since they're in Ukraine, was one of the main selling points. They’re one hour of a time zone away from our location.

How much have you invested with them?

The price tag of our first project was a little under $15,000. The second project, which we're still working together, should cost around $80,000. It might even surpass $100,000. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in February of this year. S-PRO finished the first web development project at the beginning of May. They’re still working some hours to add new features and make changes at our client's request. 

What was the scope of their involvement?

We put together an NDA, and I gave S-PRO the specifications to design a platform with backend and frontend components. It involved Python and JavaScript, and was based on Amazon Web Services (AWS). They provided the expertise to deliver this.

After we agreed upon the configuration on paper, they resourced the project adequately and assigned a project manager to liaise all communication with the development team. We agreed on timelines, and they delivered a basic version of the platform in six or eight weeks.

S-PRO developed a backend administration console that allows us to configure certain aspects of the site. The platform has email notifications, and real-time notifications are pushed to its frontend. There are JavaScript calls and integrated social media logins on the frontend of the site, plus a dashboard interface that displays information with real-time calls to the backend. There are integrated notifications, email notifications, and some JavaScript animations as well. S-PRO met all the challenging aspects of the delivery.

They also provided QA services. They had an agile team with quality assurance capabilities. I received access to their Jira instance, and could become involved in development as I saw fit.

What is the team composition?

S-PRO assigned one back- and two frontend developers, one QA tester, and one project manager. Most communication went through the project manager, who was completely fluent in English.

Although some developers had strong English skills, they were more reluctant to speak during calls. Their written English was absolutely perfect, though. I communicated with the developers through written messages on Slack and email as needed, and had Skype calls with the project manager if necessary. All the Jira communication was written as well.

How did you come to work with S-PRO?

We used several channels to scope out development agencies. I am based in Dublin, Ireland, and I approached some local groups to understand their capabilities, deliveries, and costs. I also looked on Upwork.

I narrowed the selection down to S-PRO based on not only cost, but also on the fact that they gave the right signals. The complexity of their development resourcing and capabilities was good enough, especially given how challenging the world of development can be. Their skillsets ranged from simple websites to complex platforms with front- and backend functionalities.

How much have you invested with them?

The cost has been more than €20,000 ($23,000 USD) at this stage. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with S-PRO in October 2017 and the initial engagement lasted two months. I’ve continued working with them based on the quality of work and their ability to maintain an ongoing relationship. They've been commissioned for a second phase of work, which hasn’t been delivered yet.