How we work
The development process in 9 steps
Here’s what it’s like to develop a project with us. The process is agile, flexible and always tailored to your needs.
Discovery stage
We elaborate, validate and verify requirements, adding more details if necessary. Starting a new project, the discovery stage is the first thing we do. The client describes the idea or problem in their words. We do not provide a standardized brief for filling. It is never a problem for us to spend 30-60 minutes listening to the client to immediately offer quick tips, development options, solutions or thoughts on improving the existing idea.
Discussion of the development process, technology, timing and cost
At the initial stage we provide an approximate development plan, timing and cost. In case of composing a detailed technical description for the development, the percentage of error is significantly reduced, which allows us to avoid possible misunderstandings in the future.
Building project road map, planning, technology and solutions stack, team
We usually use Agile/Scrum or Kanban methodologies in the project. In case of significant growth of the project size (the number of people working on the platform and applications), we can transition to SAFe.
Solution implementation
Each of our solutions requires careful treatment of sensitive data:
- We work only with stable and secured servers like Amazon and Azure with the high standards implemented.
- We interact with the third-parties' clients only through the HTTPS standard.
- Systems that we use or where we store sensitive information are deployed separately (different AWS accounts) to reduce a surface of attack and makethe security audit easier.
- Only the team developer under the NDA has access to the data storage and repository.
- Storage access credentials are managed by dedicated team members.
- Logs messages are checked to avoid leak of sensitive data. It’s done during review of pull requests as well as during testing in the development environment.
- In case some part of data is needed to reproduce a bug - personally identifying information and sensitive information is removed.
- We use the latest software and keep an eye out for any updates that can alter the effectiveness of the development process and data exposure.
- We track all the data processing to keep it safe and secure.
Attraction and supervision of the work of additional specialized professionals
Testing of the final product happens in each development cycle (once every 1-3 weeks), consisting of external functional testing, working capacity check of the product under load and profiling the main modules. This process is critical, detail-oriented and instrumental to ensure that the entire testing effort is successful.
Full testing of the product
Testing of the final product happens in each development cycle (once every 1-3 weeks), consisting of external functional testing, working capacity check of the product under load and profiling the main modules. This process is critical, detail-oriented and instrumental to ensure that the entire testing effort is successful.
- Create and maintain release/project cycle/component information.
- Create and maintain the test artefacts specific to each release/ cycle for which we have - requirements, test cases, etc.
- Establish traceability and coverage of the test assets.
- Test execution support – test suite creation, test execution status capture, etc.
- Metric reporcollection/t-graph generation for analysis.
- Bug tracking/defect management.
Final documentation of the product
During each of the product development cycles, the client has full access to the source code, as well as instructions for installing the product for other developers. Therefore, the client can provide the code for verification by third parties at any time. We maintain complete documentation of the development plan, functions, and operating instructions, if necessary.
Production readiness
When the product is fully tested and the documentation is finally prepared, we will launch the product. This will be followed by our support and maintenance, when needed.
Further product support and maintenance
We provide the 2nd and 3rd levels of product support, the 1st level of support can be provided on demand. We never take shortcuts especially when it comes to security. Our management and staff are constantly examining GDPR laws to ensure the best practices possible. We are working in full compliance with European Union laws in every aspect, including personal data security.
FAQ
- How much does it cost to develop a software product?
How much does it cost to develop a software product?
Each of our products is unique at its core and has its own specific business requirements. Our experience allows us to advise and calculate the budget and terms specifically for your needs, taking into account all possible risks. For this end, contact us and share your ideas.
- How much time will it take to deliver my product?
How much time will it take to deliver my product?
The time frame needed wholly depends on your project. The first step after contacting us is the arrangement of a free online meeting, which will allow us to understand your project's complexity. Once we understand your software requirements, we can provide preliminary information on the costs. Still, the initial timeline is not always observed as some external circumstances may change the final product's release. We will then provide an implementation plan for your project and the steps we suggest to take before actually starting to work on your software solution. This may include online workshops, documentation and in-depth discussions that will allow us to present the final accurate summary of implementation costs and time.
- Do I need to be tech-savvy to work with you?
Do I need to be tech-savvy to work with you?
Of course, no. We are here to help you technically implement any of your business needs, even without your tech background. Having a technical specialist on your side is welcomed but not obligatory. At Acropolium you can get advice on complicated things in simple language. We provide full support from the first meeting till the final product and can even maintain it after.
- How do you guarantee product quality?
How do you guarantee product quality?
We divide the entire development stage into sprints, which are usually lasting two weeks. After each sprint, you can see the finished product parts, check them and express your thoughts and suggestions. We also have a streamlined process of testing and ensuring product quality on each product. You will receive intermediate results and see what you are paying for throughout the entire development period.
- What if I want to be fully involved in the development process?
What if I want to be fully involved in the development process?
It is possible and even necessary. Together we will create a product that will undoubtedly solve your problems and help the business. We have transparent processes, you know each team member who is working on making your product real. You can also participate in our plannings, retrospectives and receive interim reports on development stages, checking them and suggesting your ideas in the development process.
- Are you able to double the size of the team involved in the project if the need arises?
Are you able to double the size of the team involved in the project if the need arises?
Yes, many of our products and businesses scale and grow unstoppably. Acropolium, in turn, ensures the organic growth of the team depending on your current needs. We have been working with many of our clients for more than 5 years. You do not need to worry about scalability. We will provide the complete development cycle and build an exceptional turn-key team.
- Can the software be upgraded in the future as new technology becomes available?
Can the software be upgraded in the future as new technology becomes available?
Of course! Moreover, our specialists have tremendous experience in such cases. We will advise you on the stack of technologies and needed solutions so that your product meets the market challenge and remains modern.
- What if I come to you with a product that I want to improve?
What if I come to you with a product that I want to improve?
If you already have a product and you want to improve it, tell us your main objectives and reasons for your appeal. We will discuss your needs, study your product, conduct an audit and draw up an improvement plan of the entire product or its individual components and finally get down to work.
- What happens after you finish my product?
What happens after you finish my product?
Сontinuation of work on the project depends on your further goals. We are always offering support and maintenance services for the product if the client is interested. When the product becomes scalable, we can arrange a dedicated team for you that will develop the product and ensure its high-quality performance.
- Do you guarantee the security and confidentiality of our intellectual property?
Do you guarantee the security and confidentiality of our intellectual property?
Yes, that is why our clients trust us. We prescribe all the clauses on the safety of confidentiality and IP in the Master Service and Non-Disclosure Agreements between Acropolium and your company. We also sign such agreements with each team member and regularly conduct training courses concerning that topic. There is no reason to worry. Confidentiality, privacy and protection of your intellectual property are the number one priority for us.
- How do you handle change requests from your customers?
How do you handle change requests from your customers?
At Acropolium, we have a standard procedure for handling change requests from our customers. First of all, we ask them to approve any change request. After the customer has approved the request, we conduct an impact analysis. This allows us to provide the customer with a timeline and cost estimate. After having the approval of the estimate by the customer, we implement changes.
- Does Acropolium provide Software Testing Services?
Does Acropolium provide Software Testing Services?
Of course! We have all testing processes adjusted. Each product is thoroughly tested both during development and at the final stage.
- Do you work only remotely or you can come to my place if needed?
Do you work only remotely or you can come to my place if needed?
We usually work remotely and have all the necessary processes configured for this. Visit to your office by our specialists is also practicable. We plan the trip in advance, negotiate the costs and start the journey.
- What is the procedure to start the development process with Acropolium?
What is the procedure to start the development process with Acropolium?
First of all, we study your requirements and offer an estimate for pricing and timing. Having the confirmation from your side, we sign a contract, form a team that will be working on your project, write a roadmap and begin the actual development process.