Elegant Media

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the director and owner of TeeTime NZ, a software provider to Golf Clubs throughout New Zealand. We provide an online platform to connect golfers and golf clubs.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Elegant Media?

We needed Elegant Media to create an easy-to-use app and website to allow golfers to search all of New Zealand's amateur golf tournaments.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Elegant Media developed a website and app for us. As a new small business with no prior experience building or developing a SaaS platform, we were initially overwhelmed by the process. Elegant Media made the entire journey easy to understand and guided us every step of the way.

What is the team composition?

We worked with a wide variety of experts from Elegant Media.

How did you come to work with Elegant Media?

We found Elegant Media through an online search. Their pricing fit our budget, they were a great culture fit, and their company values aligned with ours.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together from February 2024–June 2026.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Elegant Media delivered an app and a website that aligns with our vision. It is clear, simple to use and streamlines a usually tricky process in looking for tournaments across the Motu (country).

How did Elegant Media perform from a project management standpoint?

We were very lucky to have Anu after an initial period of uncertainty due to numerous staffing changes. She was absolutely fantastic. She quickly became the driving force behind our project, providing clear communication, exceptional organization, and unwavering support throughout the development process. She took the time to understand our vision, explain technical concepts in a way we could understand, and always made herself available to answer questions and address concerns. Her professionalism, patience, and genuine commitment to our success gave us confidence and peace of mind at every stage.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The staff with their diverse skill sets and abilities to solve any problems.

Are there any areas they could improve?

We had initial staffing changes during the first six months of the process, which made things challenging and a little unsettling.

Do you have any advice for potential customers

We highly recommend Elegant Media to anyone looking to develop software, especially startups and first-time founders who need an experienced and trustworthy partner to help turn an idea into reality. If you're fortunate enough to have Anu managing your project, you'll be in excellent hands.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Owner of Socialdog

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

An app that helps dog owners socialise and train their dogs.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Elegant Media to accomplish?
Create the app after an extensive briefing session

SOLUTION

How did you find Elegant Media?

Online Search

Why did you select Elegant Media over others?

The salesman seemed very knowledgeable and convincing

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

In a maximum timeframe of 23 weeks, they committed to creating an app for my project called Socialdog.

This app would include the creation of multiple dogs and owner profiles, the possibility of finding other dogs and owners in your immediate area, and the possibility of connecting with other dogs by adding them as friends and chatting with them, among other functions.

According to their contract, they promised the app would be: 

• Intuitive and easy to use
• Respond well to user commands
• It should be free from errors and bugs

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

A HUGE DISASTER – BEWARE!!!! Don’t even think of hiring this company.

According to the contract, Elegant Media had staff working in New Zealand, could provide a user-friendly, intuitive fully functional app, and was going to deliver my project in 11 to 23 weeks.

After 25 weeks, I started asking them to finish the app, and it took them almost 3 months more to give me something decent to see, with lots of bugs, errors, and problems. But that wasn’t the worst part: the app simply doesn’t work for the common user. It’s not user-friendly at all. Users log in and don’t know what to do. The user journey is wrong and incomplete. Notifications are not connected; nothing is clear to the user.

In the meantime, the 2 people who were working on my project resigned. One of them called me to tell me that (they) were resigning due to “work ethics” being not happy with the way these people were “scamming” clients.

I ended up talking to Sri Lanka and Australia, asking them repeatedly to finish my project, which wasn’t what we agreed to. But the worst part came recently.

After raising the problem of the timeline and the poor functionality of an app with no user journey and lots of bugs and errors for them, they began to gaslight me by telling me that the app was finished for them and looked amazing. Every email that I would send to them with my specific problems, they would answer some days later with a different thing, not addressing the original problem. 

They would tell you that you approved the designs (which I did), but that doesn’t mean anything without a user journey: it looks amazing, but nothing is connected, and customers have no idea how to use my app.
After so many emails sent, the problems still haven't been addressed, and we're now four months over the deadline, I’m refusing to pay my last invoice. I demand that the project be handed over to me so I can finish it with someone else.
I also had to get a lawyer involved ($$) and 3 different software engineers to write a complete QA report of my app ($$$) to prove that the app is not ready to go live because the user journey is non-existent and it’s faulty. 

Their answer is that the app is perfect, and that if I don’t pay, they will sell the IP (MY IDEA) to someone who will pay for it. This was how Anushka (CEO) thinks he can bully his way out of this.

They're bullies, and they'll gaslight you and threaten you to destroy your dreams by selling the IP to someone else.

Tasteless, incompetent, dishonest. I have since heard of several other clients with similar horror stories, we are teaming up to present a bigger demand against them. No one else should fall into the hands of this company again.

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

After a great meeting with the salesman David, who sold me the project and seemed very knowledgeable, the project management was poor from the beginning. The first project manager resigned halfway into the project, stood me up in many meetings, and when the new PM took over, it was 3 weeks and several emails until she was “up to date”.

Her job was also poor. Every week, almost every day, I would ask them for a solution and realistic timelines, re-send information, and be my own Quality check manager because they would send you builds with lots of things wrong.

When I raised the problem of my app not being user-friendly and the user journey not being complete, she started to gaslight me, along with everyone else. She stated the things that were good with the app, nothing but solving the problem.

How can someone be this dishonest and still work there? They are uniquely terrible. The emotional toll the caused me is huge. I’ve been crying for weeks because they RUINED my project. They shattered my dreams.

What was your primary form of communication with Elegant Media?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

How they manage to sleep at night, promising projects they can't complete and ruining the client's dreams.

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

Everything, but a couple of things:

• If you tell a client that their app will be created in NZ, don't send it off-shore
• If you tell your client something will be done by a certain date, do it, don’t go 2 months over and then blame me in a phone call saying that “I should know how projects work, they are usually overdue”
• When you have demonstrated no capacity to complete your work to an acceptable standard, hand over the project to the client (because it belongs to them!) and don’t threaten to sell the idea to another business.
• Don’t be a bully, don’t be a gaslighter. If you are incapable of creating a finished product, so be humble and hand over the project.

There's much more to say, but Elegant Media has wasted enough of my time. I just want to prevent other to NEVER fall for this company like I did. They ruined my project.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Chief Executive Officer of Wirra Wirra

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Wirra Wirra is a renowned Australian winery that produces and markets high-quality wines, particularly in the McLaren Vale region of South Australia.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Elegant Media to accomplish?

• We brought in the talented team at Elegant Media with a unique yet exciting mission in mind. We were looking to create our PerfectPair mobile app, a tool that blends ancient Spanish wine pairing traditions with modern culinary discoveries. Our objective was to give our users the ability to select the food they were cooking or ordering, and have the app advise them on the perfect wine match from our selection.
• We wanted our application not only to provide a recommendation but also shed light on why that particular wine is the ideal match with a chosen meal. The purpose was not only to help our customers find the perfect wine but also to educate them about the art of wine pairing, incorporating both traditional Spanish wisdom and contemporary insights. 
• And of course, all of this encapsulated within a digital platform that feels as sophisticated and enjoyable to use as the process of savoring a good wine itself.

SOLUTION

How did you find Elegant Media?

Online Search

Why did you select Elegant Media over others?

• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Elegant Media were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

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

Our project with Elegant Media, titled PerfectPair, was a delightful fusion of art, culture, and technology. We entrusted them with the task of developing a mobile app that helps users to find the perfect wine to enhance their dining experience.

• First and foremost, the key deliverable was the PerfectPair mobile application itself, which required a user-friendly interface so our customers can input the food they're planning to eat. The app would then suggest a suitable wine from our range to pair with that meal. 
• Second was the recommendation engine. It required knowledge on Spanish wine pairing techniques mixed with modern global cuisine's up-to-date data, so it could suggest accurate wine pairings.
• Thirdly, Elegant Media was to deliver an ‘insight module’ for the app. This was intended to educate our customers, explaining why a specific wine is chosen to match a certain meal - encouraging the appreciation of the strong traditions of Spanish wine pairing incorporated in our brand.

• Finally, we added requirements for rigorous testing, an ongoing optimization plan, and a detailed concept brief increasing our mutual understanding of what we were creating, before drawing the project to a close.

   

  Essentially, we aimed to create a digital sommelier pocket guide with a touch of Spanish passion, a perfect addition to our brand

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Even though our PerfectPair project is currently in the development stage, we can see the progress through a few significant indicators. We've managed to finalize the complete design of the user interface, fine-tuning it to provide an engaging and easily navigable experience for our customers. This is a vital step forward as it sets the foundation for our users' experience within the app.

An initial version of our recommendation engine, the heart of our app, is in place. This fantastic tool blends traditional Spanish wine pairing wisdom with data on modern global cuisine, and initial testing has shown promising results. The educational 'insights' feature of the app has currently a store of introductory pairings and their explanations.

When fully fledged, it will offer users a deep knowledge base explaining why each food pairs well with particular wines from our range. While we are still in development, these significant milestones make me feel assured that the final product will bring a unique, invaluable experience to our customers. It's a blend of culture, tradition, and technological innovation - very much reflective of how we approach our wine production!

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

Working with Elegant Media was indeed pleasant. Their commitment to the project management was simply top-notch and their approach was very proactive and responsive. They organized the project into definable stages, providing clear estimates for each milestone and setting realistic and timely deadlines. They were excellent communicators, consistently keeping us updated about the progress and meeting all agreed-upon timelines.

Problems were swiftly addressed with a cooperative spirit and any feedback we offered was taken into serious consideration, and translated into improved iterations of our product. One key aspect that stood out was their ability to understand our needs. They got the essence of our business, the importance of integrating traditional Spanish wine pairing wisdom with modern culinary knowledge, and they were committed to transforming our vision into reality.

So far, their efficiency, commitment, and exceptional customer service make the whole process smooth and reassuring, and we are thrilled about our ongoing partnership.

What was your primary form of communication with Elegant Media?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

What really sets Elegant Media apart is their perfect blend of technical expertise and cultural sensitivity. This combination is rare in the tech world, but it's been the cornerstone of their approach to our PerfectPair project. From the start, they've shown not only a deep understanding of app development and user experience, but also a genuine appreciation for the cultural storytelling and traditional knowledge important to our brand.

Their capability to grasp the nuanced art of wine pairing, particularly the Spanish techniques and traditions we value, and integrate that smoothly within a modern application is truly impressive. They've shown exceptional creativity, diligence, and cultural finesse. Moreover, their work ethic and commitment to ensuring client satisfaction are admirable.

They maintained open lines of communication at all times, diligently met deadlines, and truly partnered with us instead of being just another vendor. It's like having an expert tech team with a human touch and for me, that’s a unique winning element about Elegant Media.

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

While their adherence to deadlines is commendable, I think it would be worthwhile for them to explore providing more breathing space or contingency time in their project planning to handle unexpected developments. All in all, these are minor points in an otherwise stellar partnership. We appreciate the work Elegant Media is doing and look forward to seeing the final rendition of PerfectPair!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Managing Director of a business services company

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Nova Systems is a global engineering and technology services company specializing in providing innovative solutions for complex defense, aerospace, and critical infrastructure projects.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Elegant Media to accomplish?

• When Elegant Media joined our project, our primary objective was to develop a specialized app that could enhance safety and efficiency along our extensive coastlines. We aimed to harness advanced technology to detect underwater sounds swiftly, addressing hidden challenges such as unauthorized vessels or curious sea creatures.
• Our core goal was to establish a streamlined process capable of conducting underwater sound analysis in real-time, providing prompt feedback for improved response times. Additionally, building a comprehensive database of known sound frequencies to identify potential threats discreetly was a crucial aspect. We emphasized that while we desired a powerful solution, we were willing to grant them the time needed for perfection.
• In essence, we tasked Elegant Media with sound detection, rapid feedback, sound signature database creation, all within a reasonable yet extended timeframe, which they successfully accomplished.

SOLUTION

How did you find Elegant Media?

Online Search

Why did you select Elegant Media over others?

• Pricing fit our budget
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Elegant Media were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

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

Our project can be likened to planting a crop, with Elegant Media responsible for various stages. They began with thorough research and development to grasp the intricacies of our niche theme. Next, they sowed the metaphorical seed by creating a sophisticated sound detection app, designed to be intuitive and accurate with underwater sound analysis. 

Nurturing involved continuous revisions, fine-tuning, and user feedback, ensuring the product evolved to meet our vision. Key deliverables included a specialized, user-friendly app with real-time sound analysis and a comprehensive sound signature database. The final product aimed to enhance safety and optimize navigation by intervening before potential issues surfaced. 

We anticipated full system functionality within 18 months, recognizing the value of patience in achieving a superior outcome.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Measuring the success of our project resembled finding a reliable companion for a long journey, and Elegant Media proved to be just that. Although assessing qualities like reliability and efficiency can be challenging, we established tangible indicators of progress. High user engagement levels upon the app's launch were promising. 

Sea tests conducted independently of our main operations demonstrated the app's efficiency. Real-time data integration with a historical database significantly improved response times. Importantly, Elegant Media adhered to their proposed timeline throughout the project. While exact numbers remain confidential, the partnership yielded positive growth and efficient outcomes, aligning with our vision of sustainable progress through practical technology.

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

Collaborating with Elegant Media was a smooth and excellent experience. Entrusting them with the project felt like handing a horse to an expert handler; they executed the task flawlessly. They maintained transparent communication throughout, ensuring timely milestone achievements. In response to our needs and adjustments, they were highly accommodating, consistently working to shape the final product according to our vision. 

Their ability to manage expectations while delivering valuable insights was commendable. In summary, Elegant Media's management process was characterized by clarity and reliability.

What was your primary form of communication with Elegant Media?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

Elegant Media's standout qualities resemble those of a sturdy River Red Gum tree—rooted in technical expertise and branching out with versatility. Their technical prowess, evident in their coding abilities, sets them apart, enabling them to transform complex concepts into user-friendly applications.

Furthermore, their commitment to steady growth in a world often focused on quick turnarounds was a rarity that resonated with our values. Working with Elegant Media was more than impressive; it was an unforgettable journey, much like the scent of eucalyptus in our bushlands.

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

While seeking areas for improvement is customary, Elegant Media's thoughtful and dedicated approach to our project makes it challenging to identify any notable flaws or areas for change.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Managing Director of KOOKAÏ Australia

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

A women's fashion brand offering a wide range of clothing and accessories.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Elegant Media to accomplish?

• Well, we really had two big goals when we hired Elegant Media. The first was to create an application that can really engage folks who are passionate about sustainable fashion and environmental impact. It had to have features that would keep them coming back – something more than just a shoppings stop. That's why the app needed to have not just a catalog for our sustainable clothes, but also weekly content updates in the form of articles, videos, and podcasts.
• Our second goal was all about encouraging a circular economy. See, we don't just want people to buy our stuff, we want them to participate in the sustainability process. So, we asked Elegant Media to include a marketplace in the app - a place where people can sell or swap old clothing items from sustainable brands. They loved the idea and got to work right away!
• In essence, Elegant Media was hired to help us create an experience. We were looking for more than just an online catalogue... we wanted an engaging platform! I must say, they accomplished it beautifully

SOLUTION

How did you find Elegant Media?

Online Search

Why did you select Elegant Media over others?

• Great culture fit
• Good value for cost

How many teammates from Elegant Media were assigned to this project?

12

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

The scope of work was comprehensive and encompassed several key areas. We opened with a full conceptualisation of the app - we really hashed out the idea, detailing out all the features and services it would offer. This meant storyboarding, sketching screens and figuring out how users would navigate through the app. Then came the design and development phase. This is where Elegant Media flexed their creative muscles. 

They had to create an interface that was easy to use, visually appealing and highlighted our sustainable clothes catalogue effectively. It included everything from designing wireframes and creating realistic mockups to developing the backend that makes it all run smoothly. One major deliverable was the content updating feature. The app needed to offer fresh doses of video, podcast, and article content often - something that hooks and educates our target audience. 

Then there was the marketplace feature. The team at Elegant Media developed a secure and easy-to-use platform where users could sell or swap their sustainable clothing items. In terms of testing, Elegant Media did thorough checks to make sure the app worked seamlessly across different devices and screen sizes. 

They also did performance testing to ensure the app loads quickly and runs smoothly even when several users are accessing it at once. Finally, they put together a maintenance plan for regular app updates and to troubleshoot any issues in the future. All in all, Elegant Media piloted this ship marvellously and delivered results that makes us proud.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Our StyleHug app has only recently been launched through a private link as a beta with our customers and already we're seeing some incredible outcomes. The most delightful bit to see is the user engagement. Within a month of going live, we've had hundreds of downloads and daily active users have been strong. The users are spending significant time on the app, and there's been return visits, indicating that the content being posted every week is indeed engaging. 

Moreover, the marketplace feature has been positive success too. More and more users are posting their older sustainable items for sale or swap. It's evident that people aren't just fascinated by the idea of a circular economy but are eager to participate as well. All these metrics point towards the success of the project and gives us confidence that we made the right decision collaborating with Elegant Media.

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

Elegant Media's project management was nothing short of top-notch. They had a clear roadmap sketched out from the beginning, with each milestone, goal, and deliverable defined to keep both our teams aligned. They were great at sticking to the timeframe agreed upon, delivering what was needed on time, every time. 

Especially considering the complexity involved in developing functionalities like a secure marketplace and interactive content section, their ability to deliver on schedule was impressive. But what I appreciated most was their receptiveness to our requirements. 

There were instances in the project where certain features didn't pan out the way it was initially planned. Each time we hit a bump like that, they were ready to listen, discuss different alternatives, and pivot to meet our needs without majorly affecting the project timeline. 

Communication wise, they stayed transparent throughout the process and always had a proactive approach towards any concerns or adjustments required. Regular progress reports ensured we were never left in the dark about how far along we were in the project. Basically, Elegant Media managed this project brilliantly from beginning to end. Their responsiveness to our needs was top-shelf, and delivering on time was like second nature to them.

What was your primary form of communication with Elegant Media?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

What really stood out about Elegant Media was their ability to just get us. They understood what we were trying to achieve with the StyleHug app. They didn't just see it as another development gig, but rather as a chance to create something meaningful supporting sustainable fashion and encouraging eco-friendly practices. 

Their innovation was also impressive. Every feature of our app merged functionality with simplicity, creating an interface that was as smooth and approachable as it was intricate. They managed to incorporate the educational segment, the catalogue, and the marketplace all in one go without making it feel clunky or overwhelming. And, let's not forget their commitment. 

They gave this project their all, rolling with the punches and quickly adapting to roadblocks along the way. That kind of agility is rare and it allowed the project to move forward smoothly. So, if asked what I find unique about Elegant Media, I'd have to say it's their understanding, innovation and commitment that impressed me the most.

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

Overall, we were really happy with the Elegant Media's work.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the OWNER of Intellect Information Technology

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

We manage existing IT and communication systems, implement new technology and provide ongoing expert care to make technology work for business.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Elegant Media to accomplish?

• Our collaboration with Elegant Media to create SafetyMate was quite the adventure! Our primary objective was to engineer a robust platform for workplace safety and compliance, designed to prioritise the welfare of our dedicated employees.

SOLUTION

How did you find Elegant Media?

• Referral
• Clutch Site

Why did you select Elegant Media over others?

• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Elegant Media were assigned to this project?

6-10 Employees

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

The scope of the work meant several crucial segments, carefully combined into one smart app. These included the creation of an accessible platform for interactive safety training modules, and preparing our team with the necessary knowledge about safety protocols and procedures. These modules were developed to be intuitive, engaging, and supportive, enhancing learning outcomes. 

Key risk assessment tools were also part of the core project's scope. A proactive approach to safety is always our prime focus, and so we needed these tools to have both a wide range and acute precision in assessing potential hazards across various workplace scenarios. And I must say, Elegant Media has done an outstanding job in this regard. 

The key deliverables were an end-to-end digital system that includes training modules, risk assessment tools, an incident reporting mechanism, and a hub for sharing safety directives. And - Elegant Media exceeded all expectations within our nearly year-long journey together. Their dedication to our cause never faltered, their creativity never ceased to impress us, and they met every deadline with time and quality intact.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

Since the launch of SafetyMate, the results we’ve experienced have been quite impressive and give a clear indication of success. One notable outcome has been a significant 20% reduction in safety incidents within six months of deploying the app. We’ve also reduced safety case handling time from about 7 days to 2 days. 

This measurable change clearly highlights how effective the training modules have been for our team—it's clear that they’re better equipped to avoid risks and maintain safety standards. Additionally, we've noticed increased engagement with safety protocols across all departments. Prior to SafetyMate, understanding and accessibility of our safety protocols were somewhat lacking. 

Now, however, over 90% of personnel regularly review and engage with the guidelines and protocols on the app—a remarkable increase when compared to previous engagement rates. Lastly, one of the most exciting outcomes has been the response from our staff. The user satisfaction rate for SafetyMate app stands at a whopping 95%. 

We haven’t just created an application here—we’ve created a platform that our team genuinely appreciates. And seeing their progress in creating a safer working environment feels like the ultimate triumph! All these measurable outcomes point towards one unarguable fact—this project has been remarkably successful!

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

Elegant Media's project management approach was very professional, efficiency-driven, and customer-centric. I was truly impressed by their adept handling of the various complex nuances that our project entailed. Adhering strictly to the agreed-upon timeline, they divided the total project duration into well-defined phases. Each phase had clear and measurable milestones associated with it. 

And these weren't just mere checkpoints – they were small victories that invigorated our collective team spirit. Astonishingly, every single one of those milestones was not only met but at times even surpassed before the deadline. Their consistent communication contributed to an atmosphere of transparency and trust, one that refined our collaboration and nurtured a truly pleasant partnership. 

They also welcomed our feedback and integrated it into the workflow promptly and effectively. In summary, Elegant Media's project management was nothing short of exceptional. They delivered on time while being consistently mindful of our unique needs. Their capability to adapt fast, deliver quality work, and maintain an excellent communication line was instrumental in the successful completion of our SafetyMate project.

What was your primary form of communication with Elegant Media?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

What sets Elegant Media apart, and this I speak from experience, is their unwavering commitment to being customer-centric throughout their design, development, and delivery process. At the crux of their operations is a keen understanding of the customer’s vision. From the start, they took great strides to fully grasp our project’s vision and how SafetyMate could complement it. 

This deep comprehension permitted them to strategise a coherent and bespoke plan for the design stage, one that would cater to our specific needs while empowering our employees. During the development phase, their attention to detail was second to none. They continually engaged us in the conversation, promoting an exchange of ideas that made us feel valued and a part of the journey. 

No matter how complex or minute an element, their dev team explored it with a determined diligence that was truly admirable. The delivery stage was no different in their pursuit of customer satisfaction. Elegant Media didn’t just ‘hand over’ the final product; they helped us and guided our internal teams on the source code handling and management side, as well as account protection. 

In essence, Elegant Media's unwavering focus on their customers, coupled with their seamless integration of design, development, and delivery endeavours, sets them apart in this league - indeed a unique and impressive feat! Their customer-centric approach fostered an enriching collaborative experience that extended far beyond a mere business transaction and into the realm of a genuinely heartfelt partnership.

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

While our experience with Elegant Media was overwhelmingly positive, there is always room for small refinements. One area they could work on improving is the initial phase of expectation setting. While they were very much dedicated to delivering quality, there were a few instances where our teams had differing understanding of certain terminologies and processes which led to minor adjustments during the project.

Another area for improvement might be their app’s promotional strategies. Although the app’s core functionalities were excellently developed, incorporating enhanced data analytics and promotional tools could elevate the user experience even further. Having more eye-catching and relevant graphical interpretations might make understanding trends in safety data more immediate and intuitive for our employees. 

Lastly, while they are very responsive, increased proactivity during trouble-shooting and app piloting stages could help in improving the overall turnaround time of the project. To be clear, these suggestions are about refinement rather than remediation. They have exceeded expectations in most areas and these minor improvements can only enhance their already-commendable approach to service delivery.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Co-Founder of Pyn

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Pyn is a human resources firm that assists businesses in keeping their staff more engaged.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Elegant Media to accomplish?

• We wanted to construct a new internal tool that could serve as an absolute cornerstone in managing our staff's growth and careers. We desired a platform that embraces our belief in nurturing internal talent and elevating employee performance through comprehensive tracking of progress, personalised training strategies and actionable feedback.
• We needed to address the needs of all stakeholders in a user-friendly way. That is, not only addressing our HR department but also offering an encouraging interactive component for all our employees who strive towards improving their skills. We've learned over the years how enabling genuine two-way conversations is vital within organisations, something the groundbreaking project "TalentLight" interfaces sought to foster on constant grounds.
• However, to simplify it further - our objectives came down to development and engagement – cultivating a digital environment that fosters both professional development and daily high-quality dialogues amongst all employees. TalentLight project was born out of this vision and endeavour.

SOLUTION

How did you find Elegant Media?

Referral

Why did you select Elegant Media over others?

• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Elegant Media were assigned to this project?

250+

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

The collaboration with Elegant Media on the TalentLight project required a comprehensive scope of work. It involved designing and developing an internal platform tailored specifically for managing employee growth and development with our staff.

• Skill Tracking: Elegant Media developed an advanced tracking system that allows employees to track their acquired skills, certifications, and competencies. This feature provides a holistic view of an employee's skillset and aids in identifying areas for further development.
• Personalised Training Plans: The TalentLight app incorporates an algorithm that analyses employee skill data and generates personalised training plans. These plans suggest relevant courses, workshops, and learning resources that align with specific skill gaps and career objectives.
• Feedback System: We wanted to create a seamless mechanism for employees to give and receive feedback. The app enables peer feedback, manager assessments, and self-reflection. This feedback loop aims to foster a culture of continuous improvement and growth.
• Career Progression Roadmaps: To facilitate career advancement, our goal was to automate career progression roadmaps within TalentLight. These roadmaps outline the skills and experiences required for different job positions and provide employees with a clear vision of their potential career trajectory.

Throughout the development process, Elegant Media ensured the platform was user-friendly and intuitive, with a visually appealing interface. They also prioritised user experience, data privacy, as employee information and performance data were stored within the app. The completion of the project resulted in a fully functioning and efficient internal platform that harmonises talent development and career growth for all our staff employees.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

The success of the TalentLight project carried substantial transformative impacts internally, driven by measured outcomes in several areas:

• Increased Employee Engagement: Through implementing TalentLight, we observed a significant rise in employee engagement and involvement in their individual professional growth journeys. The app's user-friendly interface and personalised training plans encouraged employees to actively participate in skill development activities, enhancing motivation, satisfaction, and commitment.
• Skill Development and Progress: With the skill tracking feature of TalentLight, employees could monitor their progress and improvement in specific skill areas. This resulted in quantifiable advancement in skill sets across the organisation, positively influencing our overall knowledge base and expertise.
• Efficient Feedback Loop: By integrating a robust feedback system, TalentLight facilitated a culture of continuous improvement and open communication. It encouraged regular feedback exchanges between employees, managers, and peers, which improved performance, aided skill development, and fostered a collaborative work environment.
• Proactive Career Planning: The career progression roadmaps incorporated within TalentLight provided employees with clear paths for advancement and growth. This transparency enabled employees to set meaningful career goals, improve their qualifications, and make informed decisions about their future trajectory within the company.
• Enhanced HR Efficiency and Effectiveness: TalentLight's comprehensive capabilities streamlined HR processes, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity with our HR team. HR team could easily track employee progress, identify skill gaps, and design targeted training programs tailored to individual needs.

Overall, we're experiencing tangible progress and success through these measurable outcomes, validating the effectiveness and value of the TalentLight project.

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

They showcased fantastic control over professional project management throughout the development of TalentLight. Their punctuality with respect to deliverables made the entire process rather smooth and free from unnecessary rushing. There was an underline of respect towards the timeframes initially discussed, eliminating any last-minute rushing or potential oversights. From initial kickoff to final delivery was completed on schedule. Our needs as a company were meticulously attended to.

Elegant Media showed great listening skills and proactive responses. They were receptive to our requests and inquiries, providing clarifications and adjustments as needed with incredible speed and accuracy. Their receptivity, tangled with an acute focus on non-ambiguous communication, helped ensure the project's vision remained conserved.

Moreover, they periodically kept us updated on the project's progression. Regular meetings were scheduled to discuss project dynamics and possible challenges, as well as to share milestones. This rigorous communication approach led to mutual trust and collaboration and narrowed any scope for discrepancies or misunderstandings.

Theirs isn't just an agency-client relationship; I felt they build partnerships that make mutual success and learning their topmost priority. Indeed, their remarkable project management approaches set Elegant Media apart in the world of digital development.

What was your primary form of communication with Elegant Media?

• Virtual Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

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

Elegant Media deeply understands the complexities of internal systems and the significance of nurturing human expertise, as a paramount resource within any organisation. Their ability to envision the meeting of technology, people, and business processes truly left a profound impression.

With TalentLight, they demonstrated that any system can be so much more than just fulfilling a list of requirements: it can be a tool that tangibly elevates human potential, empowers businesses and facilitates favourable growth factors in an internal ecosystem. What really underscores Elegant Media's uniqueness is their approach to developing a platform in light of our dense, multi-tier operational workflow.

They quickly grasped the complex scope of interfacing between performance management, HR, and personal employee growth. This allowed them to align TalentLight's functionality seamlessly with our roadmaps, transforming user experience and rendering it uniformly beneficial for all stakeholders. This didn't just simplify our procedures but crowned them with an intuitive, compelling interface that made the task easier, faster, and altogether more pleasant.

Furthermore, their foresight never ceased to amaze. While primarily addressing the project's immediate goals, they left ample room for future scaling, updates, and features, considering inevitable technological advancements and organisational growth. Their intellect and innovative spirit are evident in their work, which explains why we found them thoroughly outstanding, and their contribution to our company is invaluable.

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

While our overall experience with Elegant Media was highly positive, continuous improvement is a philosophy that we firmly believe in, regardless of the success level. Even though Elegant Media was incredibly responsive, establishing a more structured method for addressing in-depth technical queries could result in an even smoother communication flow.

Being in a highly specialised and technical industry, sometimes our questions require peculiar expertise to address. For clients who have an internal team with advanced technical acuity, arranging regular direct interactions with their development team root could be beneficial. Nonetheless, these improvement points in no way outweigh the exceptional service we have received from them.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

The co founder/creator of a Entertainment Platform

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

We hired on Elegant media on the basis that they create us a high quality, innovative booking platform designed for the entertainment industry.

SOLUTION

How did you select Elegant Media and what were the deciding factors?

Me and my partner had spoke to a few developers before finding elegant media at first they spoke well and really sold us the idea and promised to make a app at a competitive price

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

We had 2 overall prior meetings before commencing where we had spoke to the sales rep Shubh to run through the ideas and concepts we had for our business idea. After agreeing to a flexi plan and both parties agreeing a project of our size would be delivered between 7-8 months we decided to get a roll on.

How many resources from the Elegant Media team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Along the course of our project we ended up having to switch projects managers 3 times. This made things much harder for my partner and I, having to re go through key concepts and ideas and having wasted so much precious time it ended up causing financial loss and mental and emotional stress and frustration.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

We originally we’re promised and sold on the app taking between 28-32 weeks, put the app on hold around 52 weeks in, they tried to make us resume payments and if we didn’t by a certain date our payment would increase by over 1k more than what we were paying a month and what we had agreed upon. Being nearly 4 months over ETA we discussed with our project manager and they said they would need another 4 months minimum to finish the app, and due to how long it’s been dragged out I believe that it would go on longer than 4 months due to what they have done already to us. They will continue to drag out and get as much $$ out of you as possible. The project was often built very poorly and took a lot of back and fourths until we could move on, lots of simple mistakes (spelling errors, poor designs) and often they wouldn’t listen to or forget our requests. Even though they had over promised and well under delivered, they did nothing at all to help resolve our concerns and problems and stated the only way forward was to keep forking out $$$. They failed at providing us with a timeline and structure, and the best answer they always had was “need more time”. If they are good at one thing it’s being able to sell you their service and luring you in. We would always have to ask for updates and rarely got given them. We had switch project managers on 3 occasions. They continue to lie to try and make it out like they are always in the right when they are mostly always in the wrong. They will also make you believe that their work is done in house and locally whilst it’s easy to find out that they actually outsource their work and do not do any work in house. I would advise to stay clear from this company, they have totally mishandled our project and crushed us mentally, financially and emotionally. If anyone would like to reach out I’d be more than happy to chat 0437143396. I have spoken to already over a dozen of people who have experienced the same sad story and have fallen for these fakers. I hope anyone reading this stays clear away from this joke of a company.

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

The project management style was very poor and most of the times my partner or I would need to initiate the conversation, ask for updates ect. When trying to find answers on why the project was being so mishandled and to express that we weren’t happy, they were quick to not care and only ever had one resolution and that was to keep paying them $. Their CEO is almost non existent and will never reply to your questions or concerns. For months. And months. Even after I continue to ask for feedback and ask questions, asking repeatedly to be given honest, realistic timelines, they continue to say that they cannot give timelines and that they can’t tell you when the app will be completed. They repeat the same patterns over and over. Take ages with updates and builds, 0 communication and when they do deliver its always at a poor standard (always needing to be edited and sent back). They long how long it will take to fix and finish. Our project was still talking about wireframes 8-9 months into the projects. Lie about how long it will take to fix it.

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

Their ability to be able to sell their services to my partner and I. Me and my partner not being able to look past their lies.

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

Be honest with your clients, if you can’t provide a service in the time or cost that you promise or state, be honest with your client. Don’t sell your client on the basis that the app is done “in house” when it’s so easy to find that it’s in fact outsourced. If you tell a client 7-8 months, or that things will be completed by a date, do it and don’t lie, communicate. If a client isn’t satisfied with the service you are providing, resolve the situation and make sure both parties agree and on the same page. Be honest There are so many more reasons I can list but I honestly don’t wanna have to put anymore time into this company than what I already have.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am the director of a video and technology company

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

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

I engaged Elegant Media with the goal of porting an iOS app that we had written across to Android

SOLUTION

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

I approached 4 different software development companies with my brief. Elegant Media were the fastest to come back with a quote, and their prices seemed reasonable.

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

The app was to be ported from Swift to Kotlin, with the key deliverable being an as-close-as-possible replica of the iOS version being made available on Android. The project relies heavily on interfacing with 3rd party cameras via BLE.

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

I was assigned 1 local project manager, and to my knowledge, the majority of the code has been off-shored to 1 developer in Sri Lanka.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

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

I was promised the app would be completed within 13-20 weeks. We are now at over 40 weeks and still not finished. The current state of the app shows either a lack of care, or an inability to do quality work. After completely mishandling my project from day 1, they refuse to improve their workflow. They send through app builds with entirely false change notes. Their QA is actually a joke. Even giving their 'very best efforts' they are unable to recognise glaring issues in the app.

I have to do their QA for them, as they simply do not have the desire or capacity to see the flaws in their own work. So now they send an invoice for intermediate milestones. After so many failures, and outright lies about timelines, I am reluctant to give more money to this dubious company. So I ask to wait until I see they can complete the project to a high standard before paying. They so 'no'.

They charge a late fee on the invoice. They down tools, and threaten legal action. For being 2 weeks late on an invoice. They are 20 weeks late on the project. No recourse. But threaten to sue at the drop of a hat. Tasteless, incompetent, dishonest. I have since heard of several other clients with similar horror stories. Please don't make yourself one of them.

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

The project management was for the most part non-existent. I had to initiate nearly all communication. When it became clear to Elegant Media that they had wrongly scoped the project (not sure how they managed this, as they had my iOS source code as a guide), they did not inform me. It was only after enquiring about the lack of progress that they admitted that they would not be able to meet the original deadlines. From there, the project has been perpetually 2 weeks away.

For months. And months. Even after I press and question, asking repeatedly to be given honest, realistic timelines, not simply what they think I want to hear. They repeat the same patterns again and again. Take forever, don't communicate, then deliver sub-standard. Lie about how long it will take to fix it. Repeat. I'm not sure that Elegant Media have hit even the smallest of self-imposed milestones. From failing to contact you when they say they will, to not sending builds on time, they can do it all.

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

They are uniquely terrible. As a business owner, I cannot conceive of how another company can show such contempt for their clients.

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

I don't know where to begin, but I'll try. If I were Elegant Media, I would attempt the following:

• If you tell a client that their app will be written in-house, don't send it off-shore
• If you tell your client something will be done by a certain date, do it
• If you can't do it, communicate that to your client
• If you are more than 20 weeks over your project projections, don't threaten legal action against your client when they are reluctant to pay a milestone invoice, when you have demonstrated no capacity to complete your work to an acceptable standard

There's much more to say, but Elegant Media has wasted enough of my time and headspace.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am a marketer at a multinational manufacturing company. We manufacture and distribute diesel and gas products. I am responsible for our digital marketing efforts.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Elegant Media?

Our company did not have a mobile app as a marketing channel, and we realized it could be used as a value-add for our customers. We hired Elegant Media to develop a mobile app for both Android and iOS, as well as a backend.

What were your goals for this project?

We wanted to give consumers another channel for us to interact with them, and to align with our marketing message. We aim to have 5,000 downloads for the app by the end of the year, as our previous app reached that a few years ago. We anticipate the app will allow us to find more customers who use our product, and let customers know of the services we offer after they purchase their products.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We completed an analysis of the market, researched customer needs, and worked with internal stakeholders to define a workplan/brief. We then reached out to 30 suppliers across a range of prices, whom we found through services like Clutch.co and by word of mouth.

We shortened the list to 20 providers and asked for proposals, interviewing the top candidates based off of a range of criteria. These included price, location, local project manager availability, attitude of account manager, promised warranties and maintenance plans, and how well we thought they understood our vision. 

The process involved myself and individuals from the company who had a range of experiences, from mobile app development and IT to accounting and customer insight.

Describe the project in detail.

The overall scope was to develop a simple mobile app for our customers and technicians to use when working with one of our products. We contributed a general outline of what we wanted feature by feature and developed a basic wireframe so that Elegant Media’s developers would understand our initial vision. We also provided guidelines (with inclusions and exclusions). 

Their team was solely responsible for designing and developing the app. The main features included a lookup function, the ability to work with internal spreadsheets, and the ability to store customer information. They also added maps, contact us information, and a customer inquiry submission form. 

What was the team composition?

We only communicated with the account manager and local project manager, so I’m not sure what their team composition was like or how many resources were allocated to us. But I know their developers were based overseas.
 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

It is too early on to say if any metrics were affected by the app, as it only launched this week. But the general consensus seems positive. Users are happy with the look and feel of the app, and they’ve given some suggestions on its usability, which will be helpful when we improve for future renditions. 

There are no bugs, however, a few things weren’t communicated properly, and Elegant Media is working to rectify that as I type.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

Overall, they were fantastic during the beginning of the project, towards the end, and during the post-launch support. The only negative was the lack of communication. They had some challenges managing expectations during the central part of the project, which led to some significant delays towards the end. 

In terms of tools, we only used email and a Google Sheets document to track bugs/changes. They were helpful with feedback and acted on it quickly. There were no issues with language barriers nor time differences.

What did you find most impressive about this company?

Elegant Media is fantastic to work with, their price was competitive, and their designs were modern and up to standard, which impressed us. I would recommend them to anyone who’s considering an app development company but doesn't want to spend six figures.

Are there any areas for improvement?

The only area of improvement I can give is communication and scheduling. Unfortunately, some of the things that were discussed early on weren't provided in the final product. This is also a lesson for our team to be more vigilant in clearing things up. The timing also was much slower than anticipated and promised. However, the final leg of the project was over the Christmas period, so that is understandable.