SKYCATCHFIRE

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Director of Marketing and Communications of Besa

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Besa is a Columbus-based nonprofit dedicated to powering a wave of civic engagement that lifts us all. We fulfill critical needs by connecting people to community service. Every day, we make giving back easy—and transformative.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

• Build a new website for our nonprofit

SOLUTION

How did you find SKYCATCHFIRE?

Referral

Why did you select SKYCATCHFIRE over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Good value for cost
• Referred to me

How many teammates from SKYCATCHFIRE were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

SkyCatchFire worked with our graphic designer to build a new Wordpress website. Our old site was built in HTML code and required the support of our tech team to make any changes or updates. The Wordpress site is more functional, engaging for the user and simplifies processes internally.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our website is much more engaging and easy for users to find information about our nonprofit. It also simplifies our internal processes so making changes to the site is quick and easy!

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

The SkyCatchFire team was amazing! They kept us on top of deadlines when some things started to take a bit longer on our side. They were always professional, knowledgeable and quick to respond to all communications.

What was your primary form of communication with SKYCATCHFIRE?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

The team was very deadline-driven and kept our project on track. Communication with the team was also super simple, and they were incredibly responsive to questions, issues and concerns.

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

Nope. It was a great experience working with SkyCatchFire.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the President

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Manufacturer of LED video panels

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

• Replace our existing Project Visualizer
• Add ability to have user accounts
• Add capability of creative BOM's and real time quotes.

SOLUTION

How did you find SKYCATCHFIRE?

Referral

Why did you select SKYCATCHFIRE over others?

• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned
• Their quality of work

How many teammates from SKYCATCHFIRE were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

SkyCatchFire built from the ground up an online tool that replaced our existing tool called Project Visualizer. This online tool allows a user to build their LED video wall project, and get all the technical data required for the system design. They added the ability for our dealers/resellers to get instant BOM and quotes.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

SkyCatchFire works in deliverable timelines they call "sprints". At each sprint they review with us where they are in the process, gets our input, and sets expectations for the next sprint.

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

They delivered on their Sprint timelines as promised. It was very impressive how efficient and on task they were through the process. When we did have input, or a change, the communicated quickly with clarity.

What was your primary form of communication with SKYCATCHFIRE?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

We manufacture and sell a highly technical niche product. My team was impressed with SKYCATCHFIRE's ability to quickly understand our product, how it is used, and how it is packaged for sale.

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

We have zero complaints.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the executive director of a nonprofit organization focused on assisting families to select their best-fit public school.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

Our current school finder tool was a custom-built platform in 2018. Unfortunately, the custom platform hit its useful life because it no longer worked well with WordPress. Skycatchfire’s challenge was to create a school finder tool that used basic WordPress applications that would grow with us into the future and make the editing and updating process significantly streamlined for a small team to maintain.

SOLUTION

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

Our organization had created a clear and concise RFP outlining cost estimates and needs. We had several companies respond to the RFP, but we ultimately selected Skycatchfire because they were the most willing to work with us in brief sprints to show and share progress, which allowed us to receive feedback from end-users to make sure we were hitting our overall goals.

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

Cleveland Transformation Alliance wishes to develop the system and software needed to address the needs of parents and caregivers—ensuring that every child in Cleveland has access to high quality schools and leveling the playing field for families, students, and neighborhoods that have been historically marginalized.

Cleveland Transformation Alliance wishes to create a scalable, self contained, and transferable solution connecting ALL Cleveland parents and caregivers to quick and easy-to-access data and resources about area schools. CTA aims to arm parents and caregivers with the information they seek, to confidently choose the right school for their child. Our recommendations are based on the following assumptions:

• The end solution is ADA compliant and multilingual–casting the widest accessibility net possible.
• All data storage is cloud-based, secure, scalable, and accessible to all common integration methods.
• All data is EASY to search, customize, view, and assess by any parent or caregiver with access to mycleschool.org.
• The core application driving all search, rate and review functionality is self-contained. It can be packaged and sold to any community for full use. It can be integrated with any website that meets the minimum requirements for integration.
• The end solution will think fast, act reliably, and foster data equity with intention.
• The end user application will be designed mobile-first from the start.

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

Three:

• the organization’s president
• project manager
• web developer

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Everyone that has seen the demo site appreciates the small details, which will modernize what we currently offer. They were flexible and able to shift focus as we needed to as the client.

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

Very communicative and open to feedback. All deliverables have been on time. They were very willing to hear from us and be flexible as we needed to move some aspects of the project forward.

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

The ease of the entire experience is what has impressed me the most. You often hear horror stories of working with web companies, which has been incredibly easy and comfortable.

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

None that I can think of. They know their strengths and are very honest about what they offer. They also understood that we are a small nonprofit with many different things pulling our attention. They would offer gentle nudges to keep our project moving forward without being pushy or checking out.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the senior producer of Mills James, a video production company. We do live events, video work, post-production, and AV, among other services.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SKYCATCHFIRE?

We wanted to create a new format for a lottery tv game we produce. The software of the current game at the time was out of date, so we needed a fresh start for it, but our programming developer that was responsible for programming the previous version wasn’t able to help us out.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

SKYCATCHFIRE helped us program a brand-new game for the TV show we produce. To jumpstart the project, we started by giving them the format overview, a few different logic documents we put together, and all of the game graphics and sound effects for them to implement. After understanding its logic, they programmed everything from scratch — the game is very audited, so it had to be completely random. Regarding technologies, they used Docker and React.

Regarding functionalities, SKYCATCHFIRE’s team recommended we be open to going with a web-based platform that could be completely secure and more current so that more developers could be familiar with the coding.

What is the team composition?

We worked with Matt (Product Manager), Ryan (Founder), Zach (JavaScript Application Developer), and Brent (Developer).

How did you come to work with SKYCATCHFIRE?

Someone from our engineering team reached out to them inquiring about their services, so we set up a meeting and went from there. The task was something they had never done before, but they were very eager to give it a shot and enthusiastic about working with us, so we felt confident that they had the skills to make it happen.

How much money have you invested in this partnership?

We spent around $180,000 with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from March–October 2022.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our client’s TV show just aired using the new game format that SKYCATCHFIRE created. Moreover, we received only positive feedback on Facebook and YouTube from the show’s viewers, which was great because that was our main concern. Overall, everyone loved all the new features and looks of the game.

At first, our team wasn’t comfortable with moving to a web-based platform, but SKYCATCHFIRE’s team ensured to show us that this was the right approach, and we ended up going with it.

How did SKYCATCHFIRE perform from a project management standpoint?

Their team was great to work with because they were very organized during our sprint phase. We had biweekly meetings to review the process and develop solutions for any issue that could arise. They were very easy to work with, thanks to their collaborative approach — it was a fun and smooth process, which was critical in helping us work through any challenge.

Regarding tools, we used Basecamp and Zoom calls — they were always available for us when we needed them.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were dedicated, enthusiastic, and personable during the process. Moreover, they were a young and eager team that demonstrated their passion, which is important because they invested a lot of work in our needs by thinking outside the box.

Are there any areas they could improve?

The timelines fluctuated a bit, and we went over budget because it was a new venture for them, so they didn’t know how to scope the project. Nonetheless, this was a great collaborative experience, and we’d work with them again — they’ll probably have a better idea of how to scope the project correctly by then.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be open and upfront with them in terms of communication — the more information you give them, the better.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a professor at Case Western Reserve University.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SKYCATCHFIRE?

We worked with SKYCATCHFIRE on a project designed to make better connections between farmers’ markets and their shoppers, especially with people shopping with food assistance benefits. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

When we started working with SKYCATCHFIRE, we already had wireframes for our product. We collaborated with them throughout a series of sprints to build version 1.0 of the web app.

In terms of features, the app had two types of end users: the farmers’ market managers and the consumers. The farmers’ market managers could access an administrative platform where they could share information about their market location, products, payments they accept, and incentive programs. They could also promote events there and communicate with customers.

On the consumer side, the users could check the markets, subscribe and receive market updates, and create a shopping cart based on available products. They could also indicate if they wanted to sign up for an event at a market. A recipe portal also allowed them to highlight healthy cooking ways with the products available at the market. 

What is the team composition?

We worked with five people from SKYCATCHFIRE, including a program manager, a content expert, a technology expert, and the leader of the organization. 

How did you come to work with SKYCATCHFIRE?

As a university, we needed to conduct an RFP process. We searched around for organizations and invited them to submit their proposals to us. We found SKYCATCHFIRE that way. 

How much have you invested with them?

We spent around $50,000. 

What is the status of this engagement?

This phase of the project lasted from July–September 2022. We’re testing the product and may bid again for another update. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’ve heard great feedback from end users as we tested the product; the people liked it — they felt excited about it. The app addressed some of the users’ pain points, and its technology worked. Overall, we received positive feedback for the product, which was great for us. 

How did SKYCATCHFIRE perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management was great; they delivered work on time and within our budget. They were responsive, too. In terms of tools, we used Basecamp. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

The product could be more graphically appealing. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Coming in with a clear plan for what you want to accomplish together will make the partnership work well. SKYCATCHFIRE has quick timelines — they do two-week sprints —so if you don’t know what you truly want, those two weeks can fly quickly.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the principal of a full-service design agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SKYCATCHFIRE?

We hired them to develop an extensive backend for an e-commerce website.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Initially, SKYCATCHFIRE helped us with web development, but as the relationship and needs of our client grew, we went into e-commerce and then custom application development. Their team has developed a custom database using Google Firebase and integrated ERP software to the website. Also, they’ve built the site with Drupal.

What is the team composition?

We work with approximately four people.

How did you come to work with SKYCATCHFIRE?

We met them through a networking event. We decided to go with them because of their expertise and level of capabilities.

How much have you invested in them?

We’ve spent between $50,000—$200,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in September 2019, and our engagement is still ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Everyone has been happy with the results so far. 

How did SKYCATCHFIRE perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicate primarily through Basecamp, especially when communicating with clients. We have recurring Zoom meetings, as well as a shared Slack channel. Overall, the communication has been excellent and open — nothing is left unsaid.

What did you find most impressive about them?

We’re impressed with the level of care and attentiveness to details they’ve shown in this project. They also communicate well and provide the right solutions to problems.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I can’t think of anything.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Make sure to tell them what you want to accomplish and how you want to accomplish it.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner and CEO of FoxTrot Insight LLC, a project management software company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SKYCATCHFIRE?

We were looking for someone to develop our product. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

SKYCATCHFIRE is developing our Android, iOS, and web app, and they’ve also designed our app’s UI/UX. Beyond that, they provide us with advice and creative input and help us shape our product. Our app can track time and attendance, and it also offers high-level scheduling and task management. 

We’re already in the final stages of development, and some of our apps are already available on app stores. 

What is the team composition?

We’re working with two developers; Ryan (Founder & President) is our project manager. 

How did you come to work with SKYCATCHFIRE?

I heard about SKYCATCHFIRE through word-of-mouth. I called them, and we had an excellent initial conversation. 

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent about $150,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We’ve started working together in August 2021, and it’s ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

SKYCATCHFIRE’s development process has been iterative and collaborative. Their timelines are accurate, and we’ve been satisfied with their services. 

How did SKYCATCHFIRE perform from a project management standpoint?

SKYCATCHFIRE has a very solid project management system put together that’s based on Jira. Ryan is good at breaking tasks into smaller subcomponents and estimating the required time to finish. 

We’re developing three apps, but SKYCATCHFIRE has remained on task and keeps everything well-managed. We communicate through text messages, phone calls, Basecamp, and in-person meetings. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

SKYCATCHFIRE is a small company, but they are organized and effective. They have the ability to stay on track despite the abstract nature of our project. I also like having direct contact with their decision-makers. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

SKYCATCHFIRE can be more proactive at predicting future troubleshooting resources. Their team can also improve on defining end-points and creating product milestones. We will also appreciate a more thorough internal testing before releasing features. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I highly encourage working with SKYCATCHFIRE. Clearly outline your goals from the beginning and create concrete milestones for testing. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I was the former VP of business development and strategy at TTL Systems, a transportation technology company. 

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with SKYCATCHFIRE?

One of our clients needed to link their ERP system to an iOS, Android, and web app. We needed to create a strategy in creating the link between the ERP system and the app; our team also had to build the app itself, and we needed SKYCATCHFIRE’s help with that. 

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

With SKYCATCHFIRE, we created a progressive web and mobile app. We worked with them using an agile process, presenting them the scope of work and the challenges faced by our end client. Then, their team walked us through sketches and designs, which we reviewed with the customer.

When the customer approved the designs, we started doing six-week sprints with SKYCATCHFIRE. We had multiple touch points every week, and our teams used an iterative process — we kept creating new ideas in each iteration. SKYCATCHFIRE resources brought in ideas on what was possible in terms of the website, the app, gamification, GPS, and everything else that was integral to the strategy and execution of the project. 

At present, I continue to engage SKYCATCHFIRE. The company has also done multiple separate engagements with the end client while continuing to deliver iterations of the app. 

What is the team composition?

We worked with SKYCATCHFIRE’s owner, a project manager, a backend developer, and a UI/UX designer. 

How did you come to work with SKYCATCHFIRE?

We found them through Google. When we met them, we knew that they worked for some high-end clients in the past. They also specialized in white-glove development, where they created apps for marketing agencies, consultants, and other firms instead of working directly with a client. To be clear, they had the capability to work directly with customers, but their niche was in supporting others. As a result, we hired them. 

How much have you invested with them?

The company has spent between $100,000–$150,000. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in June 2020, and their engagement with my former company is ongoing, although I’m not there anymore.  

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We measured success in terms of sprints and deliverables — they never missed a deliverable. Moreover, SKYCATCHFIRE had an honest way of understanding what could be accomplished in each sprint. I’d worked with other vendors who’d hooked us in but underdelivered. By contrast, the SKYCATCHFIRE team was honest about what was happening in each sprint. More importantly, they never missed a deadline. On top of that, the team knew their technology. They were also available whenever there were issues. 

How did SKYCATCHFIRE perform from a project management standpoint?

Their project management was exceptional. In terms of tools, we mainly used Trello. To communicate, we used many channels like Zoom, Google Meet, and Slack. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

SKYCATCHFIRE’s business acumen was impressive. They weren’t only UI/UX designers or backend developers. They had a strong business sense, so they could easily understand where our customer was coming from in terms of deliverables. 

Overall, they used all of their app and web experience to bring value into the equation. They weren’t simply an execution house; they were an integral part of creating the app and delivering the end result we wanted. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, there weren’t any. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Treat SKYCATCHFIRE as an equal partner and allow them to interface directly with the customer. The more they’re involved, the greater value you’re going to get from them. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

We are a design studio

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We worked with them to deliver a complex e-commerce site to our client

SOLUTION

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

We connected with them through a personal relationship. Their expertise was on point and they were great to work with.

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

We designed the product and they helped build it out.

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

We worked with 5 people ranging from strategy to managing and then build out.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The project launched successfully giving the client a brand new stream of income. Everyone was pleased and it lead to a multi-year project renewal.

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

They communicate promptly and every issue and change is tracked through Atlassian tools and Basecamp.

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

They have a depth of understanding that is hard to find. Further, they are easy to work with. That is a rare combo.

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

No. I have worked with a lot of different companies over the years and they are by far the easiest to work with.