• Visit Website
  • CONTACT
    Marina del Rey, CA

IT & Marketing Consultancy for Global Brands

4.9
14 reviews
Gold
VERIFIED

We are a custom software IT consultancy in Los Angeles, CA, that helps modernize businesses of all sizes. Our clients range from funded startups to Fortune 50 global brands. Our talented team of consultants work very closely with clients to understand challenges and deliver the perfect custom solutions for their needs.

Our capabilities include management consulting, marketing consulting, custom web app design and development, desktop apps (Mac or Windows), mobile apps (iOS and Android), Alexa Skills, Internet of Things, and installations.

READ MORE...
 
$25,000+
 
$150 - $199 / hr
 
10 - 49
 Founded
2014
Show all +
Marina del Rey, CA
headquarters
  • 1 Bora Bora Way
    Marina del Rey, CA 90292
    United States

Portfolio

Key clients: 

Google, Microsoft, Disney, Netflix, Foursquare, Hulu, General Motors, Coca-Cola

Reviews

4.9
14 reviews
Sort by

Shopify Dev for Men's Clothing Brand

"I appreciated how customer-focused Wildebeest was."

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$10,000 to $49,999
 
June 2018 - Jan. 2019
Project summary: 

Wildebeest built an e-commerce website to direct sales. The team designed and developed the platform from scratch, using Shopify. They also assisted with SEO. The site is set to launch in several weeks

The Reviewer
 
1-10 Employees
 
Oakland, California
Landon Nash
Founder, Tact and Stone
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

The Shopify platform is ready for launch. Wildebeest met all expectations. Their transparent and communicative approach supplemented their professional management style. They were dedicated to providing an exceptional product. Their expert design and development skills were noteworthy.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO and founder of Tact and Stone, a sustainable menswear brand.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

I wanted a well-designed and functioning e-commerce site that directed consumer sales. Wildebeest seemed like the right fit for the job.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Wildebeest built the Shopify platform from scratch. The team covered all design elements and assisted with SEO. We worked together customizing the site based on the options Shopify made available. A personalized aspect they integrated was a water savings feature.

We’re fully sustainable and plan on being the top sustainable menswear brand on the market. The water savings tracker monitors savings for the customer on a per garment basis and the lifetime savings of each consumer.

What is the team composition?

Ran (Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Wildebeest) was our main point of contact. We talked to the development and design teams, but everything came through to Ran.

How did you come to work with Wildebeest?

Wildebeest was referred to our team by someone we worked with on branding. We interviewed several studios and a few individual developers. We felt that Wildebeest was the perfect fit and could execute what we wanted.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent around $26,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked with Wildebeest from June 2018 to January 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We’re launching within the next few weeks. Our experience with Wildebeest has been excellent. The website came out how we wanted.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

Ran was on top of everything, making the process move seamlessly. He was readily available and clear in his expectations. We communicated mostly through phone and email but used Google Hangouts and screen shares when necessary.

What did you find most impressive about them?

I appreciated how customer-focused Wildebeest was. Their team made sure we were satisfied throughout the entire process. They set expectations at the beginning and understood how we were going to work together throughout the engagement. It’s also fantastic that their design and development teams are under one roof. Other agencies we reached out to didn’t have this, which isn’t efficient. Wildebeest owned the project from start to finish.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, I don’t think so. I was pleased with Wildebeest and their team.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I suggest spending time with Wildebeest and making sure they’re the right fit. They worked well with my company. I enjoyed having every service under one roof and having set expectations. Their team communicated timelines and other aspects of the project efficiently. It was an excellent experience working with them.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Alexa Development for Advertising Agency

“Their work ethic and craftsmanship is exceptional."

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Nov. 2017 - May 2018
Project summary: 

Wildebeest developed a custom Amazon Alexa skill for a client, allowing users to set schedules and access certain data based on set preferences.

The Reviewer
 
51-200 Employees
 
Cleveland, Ohio
Jason Mitton
Partner/VP, Digital Production, Marcus Thomas
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Wildebeest built a meticulously refined Alexa skill that's received positive feedback from the client, as well as a wide adoption rate. Their team's attention to detail and expertise with Amazon's Alexa interface sets them apart. They were both proactive and timely throughout the engagement.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm a partner and the VP of digital production at Marcus Thomas, a full-service marcom.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

We engaged Wildebeest to assist us with building an Amazon's Alexa skill for one of our clients.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Wildebeest executed our concept within the Amazon Alexa platform, allowing users to access weather data and create schedules based on their preferences. We provided wireframes, userflows and specifications, and they provided the full development and technical consulation for the project.

What is the team composition?

We worked with four people, mainly the project manager. The others included strategy/creative and developers.

How did you come to work with Wildebeest?

Brady Hurt of Obsidian Reps connected us.

How much have you invested with them?

We invested approximately $90,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together around December 2017, and it went live in early May 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our client is very pleased with the Alexa skill Wildebeest developed. Even though we haven't started promoting it, it’s in public beta, the skill has been well received. We look forward to working with Wildebeest for the next iterations.

The experience they brought to the table in helping us navigate through some of Amazon's approval issues was invaluable. They were a great partner and helped us be successful in an area we were previously unexperienced as creators/publishers.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

They performed very well. They were very proactive from start to finish; their team was better about reaching out to us to follow up on tasks than we were, and able to maintain timelines.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their work ethic and craftsmanship is exceptional. They genuinely invest themselves into their work and are very detail oriented. Their QA goes beyond basic fixes; they're meticulous about ensuring the functionality of the final product.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No. I've been very happy with their work.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

The more complete the premise of the idea and scope of work is going into the relationship, the faster their team will be able to bring it to life with fewer complications. This is universal for any team you partner with.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    They never missed a deadline.
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

WordPress Dev for Computer Software Company

"[W]e feel they excel at project management."

See More

4.5

Quality: 
4.5
Schedule: 
4.5
Cost: 
3.5
Willing to refer: 
3.5
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Feb. 2018 - Ongoing
Project summary: 

Wildebeest designed and developed a WordPress site from scratch for a software development company. The site includes an Initial Coin Offering (ICO) page, and multiple features for user engagement.

The Reviewer
 
11-50 Employees
 
New York, New York
Project Manager, Computer Software Company
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

While initial designs were well received, project partners elected to redesign the site from scratch. Despite this, Wildebeest’s project management skills have stood out, helping an arduous process run as smoothly as possible.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I am a project manager at a computer software company in New York.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

We were trying to build a responsive and interactive website.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Wildebeest built the website from the ground up using WordPress, including all of the backend and most of the design for our main webpage and our Initial Coin Offering (ICO) page. We provided them with a number of design elements, most of which they incorporated or recreated and made better. The backend of the site has the ability to hide and show various elements on demand, and the frontend includes small features such as moving objects that interact with users as they scroll. So far only the ICO page has been launched, and we are preparing to launch the rest of the site in the next few weeks.

What is the team composition?

I work with two project managers that serve as the middlemen between the developers and myself.

How much have you invested with them?

We have invested upwards of $90,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

We have been working with them since February 2018.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We were very happy with Wildebeest work, but our partners didn't like the design of the site and have decided to completely redesign it.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

They were fantastic. If I have a question at any hour of the day I receive a quick response. We communicate through telegram, email, and Zoom, and although sometimes things do not happen as fast as our partners would like, we feel they excel at project management.

As a whole, their company offers great customer service. If someone's unavailable, they'll put us in touch with another employee within two hours. That's the best we could ask for, especially considering the time zone difference.

What did you find most impressive about them?

This has been a long process with a lot of changes, but they have been very willing to work with us to make those changes.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We felt that their price was exceptionally high for what was delivered. I understand that there have been some hurdles like adding a whole new page to develop would add to the expense. I have a lot of experience designing websites, however, and I have not experienced these kinds of prices. We've held discussions lately that clarified the timeline. They were given the schedule prior to my role here. While I still think the cost was quite high for what we received, we had and still have a great business relationship.

4.5
Overall Score
  • 4.5 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    They delivered what we agreed to in the amount of time they proposed. Any delays came more so from our end.
  • 3.5 Cost
    Value / within estimates
    We’ve had discussions to clarify the timeline they were given before my role here, but I still feel like the cost was incredibly high.
  • 4.5 Quality
    Service & deliverables
    They delivered what they promised at a high quality of service. They send quick responses and are always willing to have a conversation.
  • 3.5 NPS
    Willing to refer

Fan Engagement App for New Music Release

"They really understand tech and balance creativity with execution very well."

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$10,000 to $49,999
 
Jan. - Mar. 2017
Project summary: 

Wildebeest created a web-app that connected music fans from around the world featuring a live ticker that displayed global reactions. They also developed a USB key that linked to a specific Facebook page.

The Reviewer
 
1-10 Employees
 
Los Angeles, CA
Founder, Tacia Publishing
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Internal reviews are overwhelmingly positive and fans now have higher expectations. Wildebeest tailored their communication and engagement depth to project requirements, exhibiting their flexibility and ability to work independently. They weigh creative and pragmatic concerns and desires carefully.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the founder of Tacia Publishing, an independent record label for singer-songwriters.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Wildebeest?

One of our artists had a new release coming out and wanted a website to involve fans through online content. We needed someone to build the site for us.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to increased fan engagement.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We liked their work with larger entertainment brands and we were really inspired by the creative ideas they brought to the table.

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

Users could input how they were feeling at that moment and a ticker would show the aggregation of those feelings. We also worked with Wildebeest on an earlier release to create a USB key that - when plugged into a user's computer - would take them to our artist's Facebook page, where an app would give them a free download after liking the page.

What was the team composition?

I worked directly with the managing partner on both projects.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The site they created for us blew the team away and encouraged fan engagement around the world. Our fans now expect more of us when it comes to new releases, but that's a good thing. Wildebeest really helped us raise the bar.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

We worked pretty closely at first through their discovery phase, but after that, it was just a handful of questions and check-ins until they delivered the apps.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

They really understand tech and balance creativity with execution very well. I told them we wanted more engagement, talked about the track that was coming out, and they came back with some amazing ideas.

Are there any areas where they can improve?

If they could find a way to deliver even faster, that would be great, but I know good work takes time. Overall, I’m really happy with their team.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

iOS Dev for Traditional Advertising Agency

“There’s no end to their desire to go above and beyond.”

See More

4.5

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Mar. 2018 - Ongoing
Project summary: 

Wildebeest is developing an AI-powered mobile app for iOS. They were an integral part of refining the product concept. While currently in beta-testing, they’ll likely build the Android version in the future.

The Reviewer
 
501 - 1,000 Employees
 
Detroit, Michigan
Executive Producer, Traditional Advertising Agency
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Response to the app's beta version has been largely positive. The Wildebeest team consists of expert-level developers that work diligently to deliver an excellent product. Their product manager adapts to new industries and facilitates a collaborative experience. They genuinely enjoy what they do.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m an executive producer for a traditional advertising agency. I oversee the digital aspects of the business.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

We wanted to build an AI-based mobile app that could function as a digital lifestyle companion to its users. We have an extensive roster of partners that we work with on content creation and marketing engagements, but due to the complex nature of this project, we needed to hire an experienced development firm.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We initially intended for a standard development process and sent out an RFP with a defined scope of features to be built into a prototype. However, during the course of the project, Wildebeest’s involvement became more significant. They were more involved in the concept phase of the project than most developers we’ve worked with in the past. For example, they flew out to a two-day workshop with us to help further analyze the concepts, establish feasibility, and ensure that we were developing the right features for our clients. They communicated strategies to yield long-term app stability and suggested an optimized development approach that could quickly produce a functional prototype.

They’re currently developing the mobile app for iOS and assist our internal team with its design. The app’s AI component learns the user’s schedule and eventually suggests activities of interest outside of their usual routine. The product is meant to be a gentle reminder for users to explore new experiences throughout their day. It’s currently in closed-beta with 50 active testers. We’ll increase that number to 300–500 testers during the next development phase. We intend for Wildebeest to recreate the app for Android once the iOS version launches.

What is the team composition?

Wildebeest’s project manager is our primary point of contact, but we also interact with their owner and a lead developer.

How did you come to work with Wildebeest?

A representative from Wildebeest reached out to us. We engaged a triple bid process and they clearly understood the assignment more than the other candidates. They were excited about the project’s potential and seemed like the group that could execute.

How much have you invested with them?

We’ve spent $150,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

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

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The beta version has received fantastic feedback thus far. Testers express potential features for the app going forward instead of unfulfilled expectations or bugs. In my experience, receiving mostly positive feedback on an early build is a rare occurrence. That’s a testament to the quality of their work.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

Their lead project manager is absolutely fantastic. He understood his role in bridging the divide between our two companies. He goes back and forth between both parties and comprehends both sets of industry jargon. We communicated mostly via phone and email, but also hold video conferences with the whole team several times a week.

What did you find most impressive about them?

Enthusiasm is their most noteworthy attribute. I’m accustomed to sales reps or vendors that feel the need to be overly energetic throughout the entire process. The Wildebeest team is more subdued than most vendors, but their passion for the project is genuine. There’s no end to their desire to go above and beyond. They came to the table as partners, which we appreciate.

Are there any areas they could improve?

They’re a little trepidatious is certain situations. I understand that they need to be protective of their resources and scope, so I wouldn’t count that against them as a negative.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Start the engagement without assuming your concept is finalized and that you have all the answers. They’re experts in their field and can improve upon what you think you have.

4.5
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
    Other vendors would charge us more.
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Web Development for Graphic Design Studio

"I really enjoyed the direct collaboration and communication with the developers."

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
May 2018 - May 2018
Project summary: 

Provided with a user experience design, Wildebeest developed a website to showcase a portfolio and drive business leads. Wildebeest also provided SEO and other analytics services.

The Reviewer
 
1-10 Employees
 
New York City
Michael Mitzman
Designer & Art Director, MITZ.NYC
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

The new website has resulted in an increase in business and inquiries for future collaboration. Wildebeest’s team executed the project with technical precision, and their communication made for an easygoing engagement. The final product serves as another example of Wildebeest’s impressive work.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I operate a small graphic design and creative practice out of New York City.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Wildebeest?

I was in need of a unique website that reflected my style and breadth of my work.

What were your goals for this project?

My ideal site would be visually appealing and demonstrate my abilities and portfolio. I wanted a user interface that seamlessly tied everything together.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

I had previously worked with Wildebeest on several other projects. I knew they do great work, were reliable, and had great communication.

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

I had created the UX and visual design for the site, as well as documenting functionality, and I brought it to Wildebeest to develop. They developed the site and assisted with SEO, analytics, and overall optimization.

What was the team composition?

The team consisted of about four developers and a producer all working together but each on different aspects of the site. The team size fluctuated with what the needs were at specific times.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Since launching my site, I have experienced an increase in new business and inquiries about business in the future.

How was project management arranged and how effective was it?

Their project management was impressive. Everything was organized through Slack, and I was able to see specific tasks, their deadlines, and when they were completed. I really enjoyed the direct collaboration and communication with the developers.

​​​​​​What did you find most impressive about this company?

Their reliability and communication set them apart. While their technical abilities are top-notch, the consistent communication made me confident about the project, and I think as a result, everything went smoothly and led to a great final product.

Are there any areas where they can improve?

No, there were no issues, and my final product was excellent.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Web Dev For Interior Design Company

“They understood exactly what we were looking for from a UX/UI perspective.”

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
2016
Project summary: 

Wildebeest developed the wireframes and then built a new website, managing UX/UI design. They created a quiz that is hosted on the website and developed the algorithms and scoring systems.

The Reviewer
 
11-50 Employees
 
Los Angeles, California
Director of Operations, Interior Design Company
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

They designed a user-friendly quiz, accomplishing all the stylistic goals. Their laid-back approach of a small team does not prevent them from achieving results quickly. Staying up-to-date with new trends, they know exactly what customers are looking for. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I work at an interior and product design company based in Los Angeles. Originally, it was a design company in Manhattan that designed a lot of high-end residences and boutique hotels. Recently, we moved into product design and started our product line. The idea behind our brand is to bring boutique experience to modern families. I'm the director of operations.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

We saw a hole in the market: many people had an idea of the pieces or the room they liked, but couldn't pair things together or make a room out of products. The goal of our project was to help people discover their style so that they could shop for products for their homes. We wanted to create a quiz that would serve as a guide map for them, so we were looking for a company that could build a website for us.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We worked with them on creating a system of scoring and identified multiple factors for each photo that is graded. Essentially, we created an algorithm that determines a person's style. 

We wanted the quiz to be user-friendly: you swipe left if you don't like an image and swipe right if you do like an image. At the end, the quiz gives you one of 12 design styles.

The website they built is a standalone website, but we've discussed integrating it into other software products, which will be phase 2 of our project.

What is the team composition?

We worked with 3–5 people.

How did you come to work with them?

They were recommended to us. We met with several developers and chose Wildebeest because they were not only incredibly talented from a tech standpoint, but they were also in tune with the pop culture and the design that young people were looking for. We felt they would be a good collaborator as well as a structural component, and they were.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project happened in 2016 and the whole thing took about six months.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We got a lot of feedback through social media because that's where we launched the site and promoted it most. Our customers reported that the quiz changed their idea of what their style actually is. After people completed the quiz, we gave them an Instagram account to follow. We wanted them to get inspiration from it and further expand their knowledge of design because many people who took the quiz aren't exposed to brilliant and exciting designs on a daily basis.

How did they perform from a project management standpoint?

They were very responsive and on time. They delegated tasks to different team members, so it was clear who was responsible for what. Everyone was up-to-date with their tasks and the status of the project – no matter who we spoke to (usually, by phone or email), they either helped us or pointed us to the right person who could handle our question. They were extremely detail-oriented and explained everything.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They understood exactly what we were looking for from a UX/UI perspective. They have a great aesthetic and accomplished our goals with no hurdles. They're a pleasure to work with – they’re laid-back but still able to achieve results quickly.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, not at all. They were fantastic.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

They're a perfect company if you're looking for a team that is hands-on and transparent. We're a small company and so are they, so it was a perfect match. I would trust them with any future projects.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Web Development For Advertising Agency

“The quality of their work is excellent, especially for the cost.”

See More

5.0

Quality: 
4.5
Schedule: 
4.5
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
$50,000 to $199,999
 
Aug. 2017 - Ongoing
Project summary: 

Wildebeest fully redesigned a tire company's vendor education website, and developed custom features. Further efforts focused on simplifying the backend management.

The Reviewer
 
201-500 Employees
 
Huntington Beach, California
Eddie Kuo
Senior Digital Producer, INNOCEAN USA
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

With very little upfront assets or information, Wildebeest created a site that is exactly what the client was looking for. The team’s professionalism, prompt delivery, and impressive value for the money continue to inspire trust.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

My name is Eddie Kuo. I'm a senior digital producer at Innocean USA, an advertising agency.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

Our client, Hankook, has a website for tire vendors to learn about the product, take exams, and become certified dealers. We don't have an in-house development team, so we needed a digital agency to redesign the site.

The goal was to make the site more user-friendly for dealers and make the backend simple to manage. We also wanted to increase the completion rate of exams taken on the site.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Wildebeest was responsible for the design and the backend development. They were also responsible for the user experience [UX] and the UX flow of the new site. Once we signed off on the UX flow designs, they went to the client for final approval.

Next, the team began developing and updating the interface. They set up the backend so that the client can add content without needing a developer or knowing how to code. They used a custom CMS [content management system] and API and leveraged MailChimp to pull in transactional emails.

We proposed giving gift cards to vendors for completing exams, and they created the system to provide the certification and rewards upon completion.

What is the team composition?

I worked primarily with Ran [Craycraft, Managing Partner, Wildebeest]. When necessary, he pulled a developer into our discussions.

How did you come to work with Wildebeest?

Via a recommendation from my boss.

How much have you invested with them?

We spent between $75,000-$80,000.

What is the status of this engagement?

The project began in early September 2017 and we launched the site this week [early December 2017]. Work continues throughout this month as they make sure it runs smoothly. We may go back to them in the future if the client requests any updates to the site’s functionality.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Wildebeest created a site that was exactly what the client was looking for.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

The digital producer was very clear in his communication as to timing and schedule. He did a great job explaining everything and walking us through the project. Even if there were no big updates, he would let me know where they were in the the development process.

There was a lot of back and forth from the client’s side, which caused us to miss some deadlines. Wildebeest was very flexible and understanding. They were always ready to go and proactive in letting us know if we were falling behind schedule.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The quality of their work is excellent, especially for the cost. Normally a project like this would cost more, but they were willing to work with us on a lower price.

The team is small but they deliver strong customer service. They give a lot of time, attention, and care to whatever they're creating.

Also impressive is their ability to execute an idea while being provided with few assets or information.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Be sure to understand payment options and timing. Bigger production houses are able to start work without any upfront payment, but Wildebeest requires 50% of the total cost before they begin.

5.0
Overall Score I really enjoyed working with them, and hope to work with them on additional projects.
  • 4.5 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
    They provided everything on time.
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
    The cost was was great for us and the client.
  • 4.5 Quality
    Service & deliverables
    They did a really great job, working with limited information.
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer
    My concern with the small team size disappeared as soon as the project started.

Web Development For Graphic Design Studio

"Wildebeest built a custom backend on WordPress [that] was easy to update, and brought our designs and ideas to life."

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
5.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Confidential
 
2015 - 2016
Project summary: 

Wildebeest built a user-friendly, easily modifiable Wordpress site, and targeted SEO improvement. The companies collaborated on a mobile app and website redesign for two high-profile clients.

The Reviewer
 
1-10 Employees
 
Los Angeles, California
Matt Titone
Creative Director, ITAL/C
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

SEO efforts yielded significantly improved rankings and several new clients within a year. With complementary design and web dev skill sets, the companies formed a strong partnership. Effective communication and a positive, receptive attitude made for an efficient workflow and quality results.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I'm a partner and the Creative Director of ITAL/C, a graphic design studio.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

As exclusively a graphic design studio, we didn’t have web resources in-house. We needed to outsource development for our company website. When budgets are feasible, we partner with Wildebeest for bigger branding projects for our clients that include web dev. We’ve worked together on an interior design app for a celebrity couple and a redesign for Salon.com.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They built our website. Since we're a design studio, we created graphics for the site’s look and feel. Wildebeest built a custom backend on WordPress. It was easy to update, and brought our designs and ideas to life. They built us such a good site that we don’t require much ongoing support.

They used cutting-edge technology for Salon.com, a political news with very high traffic. Gratis, the app for celebrity couple the Novogratz, was more of a mobile site experience. The platform tests and analyzes your interior design style, and pairs you with a designer who specializes in that look. It had similar functions to Uber.

What is the team dynamic?

We worked primarily with Ran Craycraft, the head producer and a managing partner of Wildebeest.

How did you come to work with Wildebeest?

While conducting a sort of “meet and greet” with potential partners, Ran actually found us. He was seeking to collaborate with companies who had different strengths. Having seen the quality and method of their work, we knew they would be a good fit for our website project.

How much have you invested with them?

They performed $50,000 worth of work on our website.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together over the course of two years, from 2014-2016. Our last project together, for Salon.com, wrapped up last year.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Even without having specific metrics, I’ve seen definitive benefits from their work. In all our years of business, we’d worked from word-of-mouth referrals. Within the past year alone, most new clients indicated that they’d found us via web search.

Recent growth is absolutely due to their SEO work and the quality of our new site. It’s yielded dramatic benefits; we’ve risen to the top of search results. We hadn’t been aware of how important these efforts were, and it was excellent to see such unexpected results.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

Their work was very efficient and always completed on time. Although we didn’t see behind the curtain much, they were effective at communicating. Ran relayed information to a team of developers, and was our main point of contact.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They were a pleasure to work with. We generally avoid the harrowing production process inherent to working on our website. It often feels like developers constantly dismiss our ideas, and give long-winded responses to why certain things won't work.

This was never the case with Wildebeest. They were always very positive. Rather saying “that will take longer” or “that costs more money,” they’d present better alternatives to solve the problem.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I don’t have any feedback for their work on our website. Maybe they could set client expectations better for other projects, like Salon.com.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Know that their strength is in development. They’re the best at that part of the process and will be the first to admit that they're not designers or branding experts. When they gave us commissions, they were transparent with clients about outsourcing that portion of the work.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 5.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer

Web Dev For Surfing Nonprofit

“This partnership has given me a sense of security regarding how my site data is maintained and stored.”

See More

5.0

Quality: 
5.0
Schedule: 
5.0
Cost: 
4.0
Willing to refer: 
5.0
The Project
 
Less than $10,000
 
July 2017 - Ongoing
Project summary: 

Wildebeest took over managing existing content for a surfing nonprofit. They perform backend maintenance and create additional pages on three interconnected websites.

The Reviewer
 
1-10 Employees
 
San Francisco, California
Matt Warshaw
Founder, The Encyclopedia of Surfing
 
Verified
The Review
Feedback summary: 

Their experienced, highly responsive team delivers professional results, even on a limited nonprofit budget. Content additions (e.g. new donation page) mesh well with preexisting content and help engage users.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

My business is called the Encyclopedia of Surfing, and it's a nonprofit group dedicated to preserving, archiving, and celebrating surf history and culture.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Wildebeest?

I needed a team of coders I could count on. I've always tried to get by with volunteers since we're a nonprofit with a limited budget, but we grew to the point where we needed something more professional.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

The Encyclopedia of Surfing is actually three different sites under a single title, so it's a sizeable project that's complex and a bit tricky to manage. Wildebeest stepped in to oversee our preexisting content. They started out doing maintenance — we built our site in WordPress, and there were a lot of unnecessary old plugins on the back end that they’ve cleaned up — and they've also built new pages as needed.

One recent project involved adding a donation page, which is critical for me as a nonprofit. I had just put up a paywall on the sites when Wildebeest came on board, and we’d been using Stripe for our subscription payments, so they were able to integrate that easily when they built the donation page.

What is the team composition?

When I traveled from Seattle to meet the team, I worked with the owner, Ran [Craycraft, managing partner, Wildebeest], and Matt Wilkes, one of his colleagues. I'd assumed I would only be working with Matt, but Ran often provides ideas and suggestions. I know they have additional staff who perform the actual coding, but I haven't worked with them.

How did you come to work with Wildebeest?

I was evaluating three or four other companies, and all of them would have been fine choices, but I received a personal recommendation for Wildebeest that indicated they'd be a good fit for my project. The only catch was that they don't usually work on projects as small as mine. The minimum commitment they initially wanted was more than I could afford, but we were able to negotiate an arrangement that worked with my budget.

How much have you invested with them?

I pay $1,090 per month in exchange for 9 hours of work.

What is the status of this engagement?

We agreed to a 6-month trial period, which is wrapping up, and we'll likely renew from there.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I've realized over the years how valuable it is to have the site built well, by someone with the right expertise. This partnership has given me a sense of security regarding how my site data is maintained and stored. If anything goes wrong, they'll respond right away and solve the problem, and the cost is worth that peace of mind.

How did Wildebeest perform from a project management standpoint?

I'm fairly sure I'm their smallest client, and part of me was worried I was going to get lost in the shuffle, but they've been amazing. Matt will often check in as they're working through a problem, even when I'm not expecting to hear from him. They’re highly responsive and also take time out to explain their process before they start a new project. That level of communication was lacking with some of the coders I'd had before.

What did you find most impressive about them?

They understand that running this website is a one-man show and I have some innate anxiety about it, so they've been incredibly supportive in getting me through those concerns. They've embraced the project so thoroughly that I’m mostly hands-off now, other than monitoring the site and occasionally testing it for bugs.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

If you're planning to splurge on anything, do it on the company that's doing your coding because your site has to be dependable and you need to know that you're in a position to fix it if something goes wrong. It's the best investment you can make.

5.0
Overall Score
  • 5.0 Scheduling
    ON TIME / DEADLINES
  • 4.0 Cost
    Value / within estimates
  • 5.0 Quality
    Service & deliverables
  • 5.0 NPS
    Willing to refer
Verification

Clutch verification provides an additional layer of data to help you make the right purchasing decsion of business services. Learn more

Verification Level
Gold
VERIFIED
Business Entity
Status
Active
Jurisdiction of Formation
California
ID
C3750922
Date of Formation
Jan 28, 2015
Source
California Secretary of State
Last Updated
Jan 19, 2019
Payment & Legal Filings
Bankruptcy
No
Tax Lien Filings
0
Judgement Filings
0
Collections Count
0
Source
Experian
Full Business Credit Report
Last Updated
Dec 26, 2018
Client Reviews
VERIFIED CLIENT REVIEWS
14
OVERALL REVIEW RATING
4.9
Source
Clutch
LAST UPDATED
January 24, 2019