Twin Sun

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the e-commerce manager of a furniture and appliance rent-to-own company with 110 stores called Rent One.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Twin Sun?

Rent One built their e-commerce platform on a program called October, which isn’t found in the majority of retail environments. As a rent-to-own transaction’s different than a retail transaction, we built a custom program and then lost our programmer of 14 years.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Twin Sun learned the program that we wanted to use, October. Once acclimated, their team began to work on many different projects in the funnel.

At one point, they worked with our SEO team. Their team solved issues with the movement of information and customer-facing issues. Currently, they’re working to solve employee issues.

They have full access to the front- and backend of our e-commerce platform. Their team’s cleaning up the product to make it better.

What is the team composition?

I primarily work with Chris (Business Development & UI/UX Design). Dave (Technology Development) dug into the program and figured out that he could help us.

How did you come to work with Twin Sun?

I found them through word of mouth because Knoxville, Tennessee isn’t a terribly large town. I initially reached out to a local company that had no interest in working with October but recommended Twin Sun. I called Chris and the rest is history.

When I first worked with Twin Sun, I was director of advertising for a company of 42 furniture and appliance rent-to-own stores. In that role, I worked with them for about a year. As I knew Twin Sun from this position, I tapped them to step in and help us.

How much have you invested with them?

On this project, we’ve spent somewhere in the neighborhood of $40,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

This engagement started in May 2020, and it’s ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Twin Sun was willing to acclimate themselves to our program, which was major. No other vendor wanted to do that. 

When you’re dealing with an e-commerce platform, you measure a project's success by whether or not the product works. When you make a change to a website function, it has to be spot on. Twin Sun understands our ideas and puts them into a functional solution.

They’re willing to partner with us in our approach to projects. We’re able to combine our knowledge and work towards a profitable solution together.

How did Twin Sun perform from a project management standpoint?

We communicate via email, but they’re willing to accommodate their customers. Chris and I text and video chat. Their communication and ability to meet deadlines are fantastic. They’re so great that I asked my new company to believe in Twin Sun, and we keep going back. That’s a testament to their team.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I’m most impressed by their diligence. Their commonsense approach is why we continue to work with them.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, it’s oddly enough been perfect.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Know what you want. You can’t expect a company to give you what you want if you don’t know what that is. Do your homework and prepare for conversations. Good customers create good partnerships. It’s important to keep communication channels open.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the founder and owner of Artful Agenda. It’s a web-based calendar application, and we’re currently developing corresponding iOS and Android mobile versions. Users can customize their calendars with stylish skins, covers, stickers, and fonts. Basically, we take the creative aspect of paper planners and implement them on a digital calendar.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Twin Sun?

We’d invested a good sum with a developer, but their team started to miss deadlines and go over their estimates as we moved through the project. The relationship went downhill fast, so I took the code they’d finished and started looking for a new development agency.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We brought in Twin Sun to get us back on track after the negative experience with the previous vendor. They used the code we had to recreate the website as it was before we switched vendors and analyzed the work. After fixing all of the problems that arose, the Twin Sun team continued with the development, delivering an MVP for us to launch on the market. Their work included a lot of custom coding with JavaScript and PHP technology, setting up connections with iOS, Google, and Outlook APIs, and integrating various calendars and additional functionalities. After the website was finished, they modified the UI design to make it mobile friendly.

They helped us beta test the website and made any changes that we requested. Then, we started working on the iOS and Android mobile applications. Currently, there developing those versions and still providing support for the web-based platform.

What is the team composition?

I worked with the project manager, the main developer, and about three other resources.

How did you come to work with Twin Sun?

Our UI designer had been friends with the Twin Sun project manager for a while. As our relationship with our previous developer worsened, he encouraged me to get quotes from other vendors to finish the project. I spoke with three companies in total, one of which was Twin Sun. Their team was comfortable working with the code we had and showed genuine excitement about the project. Additionally, they offered a fixed rate for the project, which we appreciated.

How much have you invested with them?

So far, I’ve spent between $90,000–$100,000 on their services.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in February 2018, and the project is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Before working with Twin Sun, my platform’s interface wasn’t functional, and it didn’t reflect our envisioned design. There were multiple broken links and bugs—it was disastrous. The Twin Sun team came in and immediately got us back on track, then expertly built out the rest of the site. Any time we run into an issue, they quickly fix it. Our users praise the web platform. So far, the iOS and Android versions seem to be headed in the same positive direction in terms of their look, feel, and functionality.

How did Twin Sun perform from a project management standpoint?

Project management is one of their most notable strengths. The team is consistently professional and transparent. They go above and beyond to assure a smooth and stress-free experience on my end. The Twin Sun team is very timely, finishing their work before the estimated completion date. Whenever I come to them with questions or suggestions, they respond promptly.

When we were working exclusively on the web app, we used Jira to track our progress. I could log in and see what they were currently working on at any point. Now, we use Critic to share support tickets with their team. Otherwise, we communicate through email with occasional in-person meetings to discuss new contracts or plans.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They’re very respectful and consistently go out of their way to meet all of my needs and requirements. I trust that they always have my best interests in mind.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, it’s been a positive experience so far.

Any advice for potential customers?

Clients should know what they want before partnering with Twin Sun. Because I clearly communicated what I wanted from the start, their team was able to deliver exactly what I was looking for. It’s been a very smooth process.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the owner of a nightlife mobile app called Niteplug.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Twin Sun?

I reached out to Twin Sun to take my idea and bring it to life. They developed our app for iOS and Android and helped launch it to the App Store.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Twin Sun provided full-cycle development services, from the scope and business requirements to the design, development, and production. I gave them my functionality specs, and they built the app for iOS and Android using a cross-platform tool. We’ve just launched the iOS version to the App Store.

What is the team composition?

One of their partners served as my main point of contact, but there were about 4–6 team members total working on the project.

How did you come to work with Twin Sun?

Another development firm referred me to Twin Sun, so I reached out. After a few impromptu interviews and conversations, I decided to go with them because I liked the team’s personality.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent about $60,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

Their work lasted from January–December 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

They did an outstanding job, and the final product is bug-free. If there were any issues, Twin Sun’s team found and fixed them during testing.

How did Twin Sun perform from a project management standpoint?

We primarily communicated via email, text, and biweekly phone conferences to ensure that everyone was up to date. They maintained a high level of transparency from the beginning, and I appreciated that they always kept me in the loop, regardless if we had good or bad news.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Besides being transparent, Twin Sun stayed within the budget without trying to upsell unnecessary add-ons. They promised they would complete the job, informed me of any changes, and delivered as expected.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I can’t think of anything, right now.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Often, a client has a vague idea of what they want to build but can’t quite put that to paper, which makes it extremely hard for the developers. A vendor can’t deliver something if you don’t tell them exactly how you want it. Being prepared to go into the engagement and providing detailed technical docs or wireframes will help save time and energy.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

US Framing, one of the largest wood framing sub-contractors in the nation, specializes in multi-family housing and rough carpentry. As the company’s financial controller, I assist with financial operations and asset management.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Twin Sun?

We wanted to refresh our outdated website, but we didn’t have the necessary resources to redesign the platform in-house.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Twin Sun revamped our antiquated website by integrating a modern web design on the frontend and refining the backend for seamless functionality. They also curated and developed original content for our site.

What is the team composition?

One contact assists us with design and development, which another helps us manage our content.

How did you come to work with Twin Sun?

We interviewed several developers, but Twin Sun was the only company whose vision aligned with our own.

How much have you invested with them?

The web design project cost us less than $10,000 to complete.

What is the status of this engagement?

They began working on the website in March 2017, and they concluded in March 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Twin Sun delivered a stellar website that brought our company into the 21st century. We’ve received several compliments from our vendors and business partners.

How did Twin Sun perform from a project management standpoint?

They set realistic expectations, so their work pace was never a concern. Their punctual team managed to meet every deadline, despite our last-minute adjustments to the timeline.

What did you find most impressive about them?

In addition to being honest and hard-working, they are highly collaborative. They made brilliant suggestions to enhance our website, but they also stayed true to our original concept.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We didn’t notice any red flags while working with Twin Sun.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CMO and president of It’s Your Birthday!, based in Nashville. We’ve created a mobile app for sending video birthday cards to loved ones.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Twin Sun?

After working with an inadequate company for over a year, we were short on our budget, timeline, and overall morale. When we decided to find a new agency, the app was about halfway through development. We were hoping for a company to pick up where our previous developer left off, so our time and money wouldn’t be wasted. Ultimately, we wanted an agency to finish development, launch the app, and build an Android version later in the process.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

When Twin Sun came on board, they began by reviewing the code our previous agency had implemented. Once they decided the existing code was usable, we had a deep-dive session. We identified the areas where the other developer fell short, and the steps Twin Sun could take to fix the issues. They produced an MVP for us within six months, and we launched it to the App Store. Once we were comfortable with how the app functioned outside of beta testing, we re-engaged them for several tasks. We wanted them to update the iOS app while creating an Android version. To save time and money, they decided to use Google’s cross-platform framework, Flutter. They’ve also been reformatting the backend and performing an overhaul of the API our previous agency developed.

What is the team composition?

Chris (Sales Representative, Twin Sun) is our project manager and my main point of contact. We work closely with their lead developer, as well.

How did you come to work with Twin Sun?

Twin Sun are local to Nashville, so I had heard of them before. Once we parted ways with our previous developer, I reached out to Chris and explained our situation. After hearing they could salvage the app, we chose them for the project.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent around $250,000, so far.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in August 2017 and we’re continuing to update and develop our app with them.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our biggest measure of success is that Twin Sun was capable of launching a functional product into the App Store. Our overall company morale, confidence, and trust are immensely higher.

How did Twin Sun perform from a project management standpoint?

Twin Sun have been excellent communicators—they ensure we follow their process and all of our options. Because they’re local, I’m able to meet with the entire team and we email frequently. To make sure we have an equal understanding of the project, they simplify complex industry terms and keep us informed.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their extensive knowledge of failures in the development industry gives them the motivation to be a fix for anyone’s issue. Their help has been miraculous—where other companies see a wall, they see an opportunity to find a solution. They are focused on providing a better experience and ensuring they have a healthy relationship with their customers. They validated that we had a bad previous engagement, and made it their goal to treat us differently than our last vendor did. Additionally, they are groundbreaking communicators— I’ve worked in customer service for 20 years and have rarely encountered companies as patient and thorough as Twin Sun.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I haven’t had a single unsatisfying experience with them.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

The best thing for anyone to do is to be honest about your fears, failures, and expectations. Twin Sun wants to meet you where you’re at in the process and help you find success.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I’m the co-founder of a mobile matchmaking app. We aim to connect our users with compatible travel companions.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Twin Sun?

We needed a vendor to develop our app.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted an app that fully aligned with our vision.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We researched a series of developers and ultimately landed on Twin Sun.

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

Twin Sun is responsible for the full development process. They implemented all of our requested functionalities, and we’re currently finishing up the beta testing phase.

Once we launch, users can create a profile with details about themselves. There’s a function that allows travelers to search the platform using a variety of filters. We also offer in-app messaging. Our users can create trips and fund other travelers that plan to be in the same location at the same time.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any information that demonstrates the impact that this project has had on your business?

With Twin Sun’s help, we’ve been able to get our business off the ground.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

The process was extremely effective. They met all of our deadlines.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

I appreciated their availability. It was clear that they were invested in our success.

Are there any areas where they can improve?

No, they're awesome.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the CEO of Recycle NOW

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Recycle NOW provides industry leading doorstep trash and recycling collection for apartments.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Twin Sun to accomplish?

• Stabilize our app
• Optimize performance
• Add new features

SOLUTION

How did you find Twin Sun?

Referral

Why did you select Twin Sun over others?

• High ratings
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Twin Sun were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

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

The Twin Sun did an amazing job stabilizing our app across multiple platforms. I would highly recommend using them! 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The loading pages on our website loaded considerably faster, our team members were consistently able to login, and our AWS costs dropped significantly.

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

They used Jira for project management, and did a great job with emails, calls, and Google Meet.

What was your primary form of communication with Twin Sun?

Email or Messaging App

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

They genuinely seemed to care and solved our problems.

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

Not that I can think of.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the CTO of a financial services company with offices across the United States

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We need a massive overhaul of a legacy Rails application that needed to be brought into modern times.

SOLUTION

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

I knew many of their people from previous endeavors so I didn't have to do much research.

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

The project scope was an entire review of the product from the ground up to improve security, supportability, and performance. It's still ongoing with 2 major releases, countless smaller ones, and more yet to come. It's been a resounding success with little interruption to production users.

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

We had 2 constantly assigned with several in advisory roles. The advisors came and went when their particular expertise was required.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The effort has continued and will for some time, but each milestone has been met and has had no negative effects on production or our users. The benefits are more a secure and better performing product.

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

We used Jira for task management, but the day to day management is not something we needed to do. Our internal IT teams managed the rollout timing. We were pretty hands off on the day to day and just counted on the team to deliver on time, which they did.

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

I believe this team works best when you give them the goals, move out of the way, and let them get it done. When I outsource I don't want to spend a lot of time dealing with "issues" with the outsourced team. I didn't have any "issues" with this team, they just did the work and got it done.

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

I can't really imagine asking for anything more from them. They did exactly what they said they'd do and I believe we asked for a lot.