Stone Interactive Group

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the president of DBC America LLC. We're a promotional modeling and marketing agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Stone Interactive Group?

I asked them to develop a new front-facing website and a web app for employee and administrative access.

What were your goals for this project?

I wanted to complete these projects.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I conducted four in-person interviews with Stone Interactive Group. I spoke directly with Mark (Partner, Stone Interactive Group) and he seemed capable of delivering the final products. I came across several bad reviews, but I just assumed they were disgruntled employees or impossible customers. Ultimately, I chose to partner with Mark and his company.

Can you go into detail about the services they provided and the scope of the project?

I tasked Stone Interactive Group with developing a new website and web-based application.

What is the team dynamic?

Initially, I spoke with Mark and another developer, but the developer quit. At this point, Mark is working on his own.

How much have you invested with them?

So far, I’ve paid $25,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in March 2018. Mark promised a 12-week turnaround time—we’re currently in week 38.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Describe the impact this engagement has had on your business.

So far, I’ve received no return on my investment. The engagement has lasted three times as long as promised, and Stone Interactive Group hasn’t delivered anything. We’ve tried multiple avenues to get the project back on track, but Mark has not responded to any of our efforts.

How was project management handled?

It’s horrible. Mark does not answer his phone, respond to texts or emails, and he ignores our requests.

In what specific areas can they improve?

Stone Interactive Group needs to follow through on their promises and contracts and improve their communication skills.

What advice do you have for clients with similar needs to yours?

I recommend potential clients avoid working with Stone Interactive Group or any of their associated companies. I’m not happy with my decision to partner with them. I’ve lost money, and I don’t have anything to show for it.