What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?
The app just went live in the App Store. I’ve been very happy with their work as far as the development of the database and the search.
Rad knew how to set up GitLab for continuous integration and the architecture and best practice. He’s also an expert in search and he’s got e-commerce experience. I’m always looking for his input on architecture and strategy. He’s been a pivotal part of the team and the buildout.
How did Squash Apps Private Limited perform from a project management standpoint?
Primarily, I manage the development of the project. We have a Trello board that I throw tasks in and they accept those tasks and execute. Rad is able to step in if needed and take more control of that. They’ve been a pleasure to work with.
They send me a commit link and I review the code. If I have immediate feedback, I send it. I’ve also instructed them to test everything thoroughly before they ever send it to me. Sometimes I’ll still find things or it’ll be my fault that things don’t work because I haven’t set my configuration properly. There have been a couple of times where I’ve been stressed out or in a rush, and they’ve always been very patient with me.
If I had trouble with a developer in terms of communication or expectations, Rad facilitated communication. We get daily updates with links to what was done, the commit links in GitLab, questions, and the plan for the next day. He’s cc’d on everything and he’s almost always available on Slack. We also communicate via email. I can ask the developer questions directly. He’s not trying to shield his team from me because he’s worried about me stealing his team. There are none of those politics. He’s been a real pleasure and he’s very knowledgeable. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough.
They’re in a different time zone. Sometimes there are some late nights. Rad is usually available in the morning to follow up. If I plan ahead of time, he’s been available if we set up an appointment.
There was a point when we had to take a break while we searched for further investment, and that was no problem. He told us to let him know when we were ready to start again. We’ve since ramped back up. He pulled the previous developer we were working with off of another project and put her back on ours because she was already up to speed.
What did you find most impressive about them?
Rad communicates clearly and effectively. He steps in when necessary to guide the developers to see a successful execution.
Are there any areas they could improve?
They could improve with iOS native apps; they’re not set up to do them. They mostly do web and Android apps. They have one iPad, but they’re not set up with a suite of devices that they can test on. If they were going to do more native app development, having more devices to test on would be my only advice.
Do you have any advice for potential customers?
They come highly recommended. The more information you give them to work off of, the more you’re going to get.
Since the product’s launch, the user base has expanded. Stakeholders are pleased with the final product. Squash Apps Private Limited is timely, communicative, and attentive. The team’s honest and approachable manner has expanded the scope of the partnership.