We partnered with the Client to transform their vision into a market-ready SaaS platform. Our engagement spanned from initial system architecture advisory to full product delivery and handover.

1. Platform architecture: Understanding the Client’s vision and existing core algorithm, our architects worked to translate these into a tangible implementation plan. This involved creating a comprehensive System Design Sketch. This foundational document presented a draft of the main architecture for the SaaS platform. The architecture was designed around multiple independent services, strategically divided between those operating in the Cloud and those essential for on-premise operation directly within the Factory. A key Client requirement was the ability to store data in designated data centres, potentially assigned by country, to comply with specific legal conditions. Furthermore, the cloud component was designed to enable centralised monitoring of various globally distributed factories from a single cloud interface. The Factory component was crucial for real-time collaboration with very high-speed cameras, necessitating a portion of the image processing to occur directly on-site to meet performance demands. This distributed approach aimed for scalability, cost-efficiency, and real-time performance where needed at the factory level (using technologies like MQTT for inter-process communication). The design also detailed deployment strategies, including Docker containerisation for the Cloud and robust A/B software update schemes for the Factory component. This initial advisory and design phase defined the overall system architecture, addressed the integration of Cloud and Factory elements including high-speed camera data processing and regional data storage requirements, recommended appropriate technologies (primarily Microsoft Azure), designed for scalability and security, estimated cloud costs, and prepared the technical foundation for subsequent delivery.
2. Agile Delivery: With the architecture and technology stack defined, a detailed product roadmap was established, breaking down functionalities into multiple iterative releases and two-week sprints. A SCRUM methodology was implemented to manage the project’s complexity and dynamic nature. This involved:
   • Dedicated team: A 12-person dedicated team was assembled, comprising Business Analysts, a Project Manager/Scrum Master, an Architect, and Developers (Python and C++). This team was rapidly formed to meet the Client’s tight timelines and was responsible for refactoring and enhancing the core algorithm code.
   • Core team as a bridge: The core team (BAs, PM, Architect) acted as a crucial liaison between the Client and the development team, translating business vision into epics, user stories, and actionable tasks. The Project Manager was responsible for Scrum implementation and establishing project management processes.
   • Iterative value delivery: Recognising that the initial System Design Sketch provided a high-level architectural draft, we embraced an agile approach to collaboratively define and refine all product functionalities with the Client. This iterative model was crucial, allowing us to jointly detail new features in regular ceremonies like Backlog Refinement and Sprint Planning, and then present tangible progress during Sprint Reviews to gather immediate feedback on delivered increments. Our full openness to continuous concept changes stemmed from the understanding that we were co-creating the optimal solution with the Client, ensuring the end product truly met their evolving business vision and market needs. Quarterly strategic onsite meetings further solidified this partnership and alignment.
3. Culture fit and startup mindset: We understood that partnering with a startup required a specific approach. Their culture was characterised by a high degree of autonomy, which also meant navigating elements of chaos, fewer established processes, and frequent changes in direction. A key aspect was the focus on delivering product value quickly, with less emphasis on perfect code from the outset. Our Project Manager actively worked with our team members, conducting 1-on-1 sessions to instill the appropriate mindset and explain the nuances of a startup environment, including this pragmatic approach to development. This ensured our team inherited and seamlessly integrated with the Client’s dynamic culture, fostering a productive and adaptive collaboration.
4. Product handover: Version 1.0 of the unified product platform, encompassing both product genuineness verification and manufacturing quality control functionalities, was successfully delivered. The comprehensive handover to the Client’s in-house team included the source code, detailed documentation, and the full implementation of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) processes, including the established SCRUM framework. A key aspect of this phase was a thorough knowledge and know-how transfer, ensuring the Client’s team was fully equipped to take over. To further support this transition and retain critical project expertise within the Client’s organisation, we facilitated the transition of certain members of our team to join the Client’s team directly. This thorough transfer of knowledge, assets, and talent empowered the Client to independently manage future development, allowing them to focus on sales and customer demonstrations.