**BACKGROUND** Introduce your business and what you do there. My company, Repute.ai, is an online reputation management platform where I primarily focus on data engineering and data science. In addition, I am consulting on a project related to big data in the mobile sector. **OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE** What challenge were you trying to address with DB2 Limited? As a software developer, I created a prototype to support a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), but it was not designed for scalability. I reached a point where I needed assistance in enhancing the app with features that would make it suitable for enterprise use. **SOLUTION** What was the scope of their involvement? At the outset, we worked together to design the ideal architecture for the app. DB2 Limited guided me through the various trade-offs of our choices. Eventually, we agreed on a solution that would scale effectively and involve minimal maintenance. I had developed the backend using Django and wanted to stick with that framework to maintain my understanding of its operations. The frontend employed Bootstrap and was hosted on Amazon Web Services’ Elastic Beanstalk. They completely overhauled the app and rebuilt it from scratch. After decoupling the systems, the frontend is now entirely API-driven by the backend, which operates on Node.js. The best way to describe the architecture is through angular2-materialize, integrating Node, Angular, and Materialize. The app performs significantly better now, and I am very satisfied with its readiness for market. As I gather user feedback, they assist me in prioritizing the initial features to introduce. Recently, a customer identified a minor bug, and they are actively working to resolve it while providing continuous support. **TEAM COMPOSITION** What is the team composition? I have collaborated with Denys [CEO of DB2 Limited], along with a project manager, a frontend developer, a backend developer, and a designer. **HOW WE CAME TO PARTNER WITH DB2 LIMITED** How did you come to work with DB2 Limited? I discovered DB2 Limited on UpWork. After reviewing multiple contractors, it was clear that Denys stood out due to his well-rounded technical expertise. He grasped my challenges and recognized the difficulty of sourcing a reliable vendor. His prior experience with similar projects equipped him to tackle my concerns effectively. **STATUS OF ENGAGEMENT** What is the current status of this engagement? We have been collaborating since September 2017. They provide ongoing maintenance and support while continuing to develop new features. I anticipate a lasting partnership with them. **RESULTS & FEEDBACK** What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? I assess the quality of their work based on functionality. My technical background allows me to understand what is feasible. Usually, I first explore the application as a user to evaluate new features, then review the code they have committed to GitHub. After reading their comments, I ask relevant questions. I have consistently been impressed with their ability to write well-documented, efficient, and effective code. **PROJECT MANAGEMENT PERFORMANCE** How did DB2 Limited perform from a project management standpoint? I have experience in both small startups and large enterprises, and I find that their performance compares favorably. The team adheres to best practices without me needing to remind them constantly. They utilize Jira to track the issues I raise and requests I make, allowing me to monitor progress easily. Their communication and responsiveness are excellent. **WHAT IMPRESSED ME MOST** What did you find most impressive about them? I have successfully delegated the product development responsibilities to DB2 Limited, resulting in a live product that is generating revenue. **AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT** Are there any areas they could improve? I consistently offer feedback about the app. Recently, we had a meeting to discuss the team’s advancement, and I expressed a desire for more visibility into the tasks being worked on. They granted me access to Jira, allowing me to view the comment boards and planning processes. However, I realized I lack the time to monitor those details closely. They manage that aspect well, nonetheless. **ADVICE FOR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS** Do you have any advice for potential customers? I would advise that having a high-level vision can complicate accurate estimations. It’s challenging to foresee every potential issue, leading to a tendency to underestimate timelines. As I collaborated more with DB2 Limited, my desired additions for the project grew, expanding the scope. I was aware of this and pleased with our progress. Additionally, having a firm understanding of the technology is crucial. The more thoughtfully you plan the architecture and design, the more precise the specifications they will create. The team appreciates autonomy and avoids micromanagement. I've had positive results by allowing them the freedom to make minor decisions independently.