RebelDot Steepsoft AI development

RebelDot future-proofs services line by acquiring the market leader in AI capabilities, steepsoft

Cluj-Napoca, Romania – RebelDot, the leading European software development company featured by Financial Times’s 1000 fastest-growing companies, announces the acquisition of steepsoft, the leading AI development company based in Romania. This strategic move allows RebelDot to offer its clients the latest artificial intelligence innovations such as Large Language Models, Data Science & ChatGPT / GPT 4 as part of their digital products.

“We are thrilled to welcome the steepsoft team to the RebelDot group. This acquisition represents a significant milestone in our journey to become a leading player in the global software services market. The addition of steepsoft’s expertise in AI development will enable us to provide our clients with a broader range of solutions and help them stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.” said Tudor Ciuleanu, CEO of RebelDot.

RebelDot will integrate steepsoft’s team of experienced AI developers and their cutting-edge technologies into their existing services line, combining it with RebelDot’s expertise in software experience and software engineering in industries such as healthcare, finance, engineering, and manufacturing.

“We are thrilled to join RebelDot to bring our AI expertise to clients across Europe. Together, we will be able to provide our clients with the latest artificial intelligence and software experiences and help them achieve a step change in productivity, transform to new AI-driven business models and address important topics like sustainability.” steepsoft’s CEO, Vadim Fintinari, echoed the excitement of the merger

Together, RebelDot and steepsoft are creating a new European powerhouse for software experiences powered by artificial intelligence which will help clients harness the opportunity of the Age of AI.

About steepsoft

steepsoft is the leading European AI-focused development company based in Romania. Their team of experienced developers specializes in building cutting-edge solutions that leverage the latest tech in Artificial Intelligence.

About RebelDot

RebelDot, a fast-growing European software development company with an outstanding NPS score of 91.7, specialized in delivering software solutions and experiences to global brands. By adopting a product and user-centric mindset approach, RebelDot has earned a strong reputation for providing high-quality solutions that enable clients to reach their objectives.

software development company vs product development company

The Ultimate Showdown: Software Development Companies vs. Product Development Companies for your next digital project

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, choosing the right technology partner can make all the difference between success and failure for your project. With a plethora of options to choose from, understanding the differences between software development companies and product development companies is crucial to ensure you’re making the best decision for your specific needs. As a leading product development company, RebelDot is uniquely positioned to help you navigate this complex landscape, whether you’re a startup founder looking to launch a digital product or a Product Manager at an established company aiming to digitalize processes.

This article aims to demystify the differences between software development companies and product development companies, providing you with valuable insights to make an informed decision when selecting your technology partner. We’ll cover everything from the core services offered to project management methodologies and industry expertise, all while highlighting RebelDot’s commitment to delivering exceptional product development services. By the end of this read, you’ll have a clear understanding of what sets product development companies like RebelDot apart from the rest, and why partnering with us could be the key to unlocking your project’s full potential.

Master the Key Terms: Software Development vs. Product Development Companies

It’s crucial to distinguish between software development and product development before exploring their differences. Software development involves creating, designing, programming, and testing computer programs or applications, tailored to specific client needs. Examples include crafting a mobile app, developing a web-based platform, or building a custom CRM.

In contrast, product development is a comprehensive process that includes software development and other vital aspects like user experience design, market research, product strategy, and ongoing management. A product development company, like RebelDot, adopts a holistic approach to deliver complete, market-ready solutions to its clients, from startups to established businesses.

Recognizing the distinction between software and product development companies is critical for choosing the right partner for your business. Software development companies specialize in technical aspects, while product development companies, like RebelDot, offer a broader scope of services and deeper involvement in your project.

Collaborating with a product development company ensures that the final product aligns with your brand, appeals to your target audience, and drives business growth. Instead of just providing functional code, a product development company conducts user research, crafts engaging content strategies, and offers ongoing support for your product’s success. By understanding these differences, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right partner for your unique needs and goals. Partnering with a company like RebelDot can inspire confidence and bring your vision to life, providing the expertise and commitment your project deserves.

The Core Difference between Software Development Companies and Product Development Companies

When choosing between collaborating with a product development company versus a software development company, it’s essential to understand the main differences to make the best decision for your business.

Scope of Services:

A software development company focuses on the technical aspects of building a digital product, such as coding and programming. They deliver the product you ask for based on your specifications.

In contrast, a product development company provides a comprehensive range of services, including UX/UI design, product management, and marketing, in addition to software development. Their multidisciplinary team works with you from ideation to launch, ensuring your digital product’s success in the market.

Client Involvement:

When working with a software development company, you act as the creative director, product manager, and market researcher, guiding the project and making crucial decisions.

With a product development company, you have a more collaborative partnership. Their team of experts helps you shape the business goals, deeply understand user needs, and develop a digital product that genuinely appeals to your target audience.

Focus on Business Impact:

Software development companies tend to measure success based on technical metrics like lines of code or story points, focusing on delivering a functional product.

Product development companies measure success by the business impact of the digital product. They optimize every decision throughout the process to maximize the product’s market potential and align with your overall business goals.

Adaptability and Skill Set:

A software development company may have limitations in expertise, which could result in having junior developers with less experience assigned to your project.

A product development company offers a multidisciplinary team that can adapt to your business’s changing needs, providing the right skill set for every stage of your growth.

Investment and Long-term Value:

A software development company might fit within your estimated budget, but the limited scope of services could lead to additional costs if you need comprehensive support for product launch and maintenance.

While a product development company may require a higher initial investment, they provide long-term value by ensuring a seamless development journey, market success, and ongoing maintenance of your digital product.

Moreover, by employing an Agile mean of collaboration, seeking fast product-market fit, these increased initial investments will translate into cut costs along the development process, as a product development company will constantly optimize based on real-time feedback from the market, hence saving time and valuable resources.

Define Your Goals and Objectives: Make the Right Choice for Your Digital Project”

When looking for a digital partner, being aware of your specific needs and goals will help you make the best decision for your business. Here are some examples and scenarios that illustrate the types of information and needs that a potential customer should consider when selecting a digital partner:

Project Scope and Features:

Clearly outline the scope of your project and the desired features for your digital product. This helps you assess whether a software development company, focused on executing your vision, can meet your requirements or if you need a product development company to provide additional support in refining your product’s scope and features.

Example: If you are planning to build a mobile app for your e-commerce store, consider whether you need only the basic functionalities (browsing products, placing orders, tracking shipments) or if you require more advanced features, such as personalized recommendations, in-app messaging, or integration with third-party services.

Market Research and User Insights:

Determine your level of understanding of your target market and user needs. If you have limited knowledge in this area, a product development company can help conduct market research, gather user insights, and develop a product strategy that resonates with your audience.

Example: If you are launching a digital health platform, you should understand the needs of both healthcare providers and patients. A product development company can help identify the pain points and preferences of these users, ensuring your platform addresses their needs effectively.

Design and User Experience:

Assess your in-house capabilities for UX/UI design and the importance of user experience for your digital product. If design and user experience are critical for your product’s success, partnering with a product development company that offers comprehensive UX/UI design services could be the right choice.

Example: If you are creating a fintech app that simplifies personal finance management, a user-friendly design and seamless experience are crucial to keep users engaged. A product development company can provide expertise in crafting a design that meets user expectations and sets your app apart from competitors.

Post-launch Support and Maintenance:

Consider the level of ongoing support and maintenance your digital product will require after launch. If your product needs regular updates, improvements, and troubleshooting, a product development company can provide end-to-end support and ensure your product remains competitive in the market.

Example: If you are developing a SaaS platform for project management, continuous updates and improvements will be essential to stay ahead of competitors and meet evolving customer needs. In this case, partnering with a product development company can help you maintain and scale your product effectively.

Experience Personalized Problem-Solving: Comparing Approaches of Software and Product Development Companies

When selecting a digital partner, it’s crucial to consider their approach to problem-solving, as this significantly impacts your digital product’s success. In this section, we will discuss the differences between the execution-focused solutions of software development companies and the comprehensive product development consultancy role played by product development companies.

Execution-focused Solutions:

As you explore your options, remember that software development companies concentrate on executing individual projects or digital products. They contribute to your company’s overall digital innovation by addressing technical challenges and developing features based on your specific requirements. If you have a clear product vision and in-house expertise for other aspects of the project, partnering with a software development company might be the ideal choice for you.

Software development companies are an integral part of the global IT services market, which was valued at $1.19 trillion in 2020, with a projected CAGR of 8.5% from 2021 to 2028 (Source: Grand View Research). This indicates a strong demand for technical expertise in executing digital projects. A 2019 survey by the Project Management Institute (PMI) found that 89% of organizations use some form of project management for software development, highlighting the importance of execution-focused solutions in the industry.

Comprehensive Product Development:

On the other hand, product development companies, focusing on all aspects of digital product development, work closely with you from ideation to launch, providing guidance and expertise at every step. Their multidisciplinary team ensures a well-rounded, market-ready product that addresses technical challenges, user experience, market fit, and overall success. A 2020 McKinsey study revealed that companies excelling in product development and management practices are 32% more likely to achieve higher revenue growth and 50% more likely to achieve higher total returns to shareholders, highlighting the value of a comprehensive product development approach. With a 2020 Gartner survey finding that 76% of organizations have increased investment in digital products and services, the growing importance of product development companies in the market is evident.

Uncover Cross-Industry Expertise: The Benefits of Diverse Teams in Software and Product Development

Industry expertise

When looking for a digital partner, it’s important to consider whether you need a company with industry-specific expertise or one that can provide cross-functional insights. Software development companies often specialize in specific industries, catering to the unique requirements and regulations of those sectors. For example, you may find a software company that specializes in healthcare, creating solutions that comply with industry-specific privacy and security regulations like HIPAA. Or you may find a software company that concentrates solely on Automotive, having a marketing offering consisting of in-house developed products as well as development capabilities for other By focusing on a particular industry, these companies gain in-depth knowledge and expertise that allows them to deliver highly specialized solutions for clients like you.

On the other hand, product development companies often work with cross-functional teams, which allows them to cater to a wider variety of industries. These teams consist of experts with diverse skills and experiences, enabling them to create innovative solutions that transcend industry boundaries. As a potential client, this broad experience allows you to benefit from best practices and insights from one industry applied to another, resulting in unique and competitive digital products that stand out in the market.

Tech Stack Specialization

As you search for a digital partner, remember that most companies, whether software development or full-product development, tend to have a specific tech stack around which they cater their services. By focusing on a specific set of technologies, companies can build expertise and deliver high-quality solutions within their chosen tech stack.

For example, at RebelDot, we chose to specialize in technologies such as .NET, React Native, Flutter, and A.I & Blockchain development. This focus enables us to provide you, our client, with cutting-edge solutions that leverage the strengths of each technology.

.NET offers a robust, scalable, and secure platform for web development, while React Native and Flutter enable the creation of high-performance cross-platform mobile applications. A.I & Blockchain development opens the door to innovative solutions in areas like data analysis, automation, and secure transactions. By concentrating on these technologies, we can offer a comprehensive and competitive range of services that cater to your diverse needs across industries.

In addition to our main areas of expertise, our engineers at RebelDot continually expand their knowledge by staying updated with the latest industry trends and broadening our tech stack. Some of these complementary technologies include Node.js, Angular, Amazon Web Services, Azure, and Firebase. Node.js is known for its efficient and scalable back-end development, while Angular excels in creating dynamic, responsive web applications. Amazon Web Services, Azure, and Firebase offer powerful cloud-based solutions for storage, computing, and various other services, ensuring your digital product can scale effortlessly and maintain high performance.

As we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt and grow, ensuring that we can consistently deliver exceptional digital products tailored to any specific needs, regardless of the industry, over the years we’ve worked on developing a diverse and ever-evolving tech stack. As a result, we became a reliable and innovation-driven technology partner, a product development company you can trust, ready to tackle any project and help you succeed in the digital landscape.

Foster Effective Collaboration: Agile Project Management in Software and Product Development companies

When working with a digital partner, effective collaboration and communication play a crucial role in the success of your project. The way software development companies and product development companies interact with you and your team can significantly impact the overall experience and outcome. Agile project management methodologies, which emphasize collaboration, flexibility, and customer feedback, can also shape the communication and collaboration dynamics in the project.

Software development companies typically have a more focused approach, concentrating on specific tasks within the project. Agile methodologies, which many software development companies employ, involve working in sprints—short, time-boxed iterations where the team focuses on completing a set of prioritized tasks. Regular meetings, such as sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and sprint reviews, are integral to the Agile process, ensuring clear communication and progress tracking. While this can lead to efficient execution, it might limit the scope of discussions and interactions, which could affect your ability to provide broader input on the overall product vision.

On the other hand, product development companies take a more comprehensive approach, involving you and your team in all aspects of the product lifecycle. This means that communication is more extensive, covering areas such as product strategy, design, user experience, and marketing, in addition to technical development. Agile principles are often applied in product development companies as well, but with a broader focus that includes multidisciplinary teams and a wider range of stakeholders. In this context, Agile practices such as sprint planning and reviews may extend beyond technical aspects to encompass other dimensions of the product development process. This collaborative approach ensures that all stakeholders are aligned on the product vision and goals, fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility.

Ultimately, the type of collaboration, communication, and project management methodology that works best for your project depends on your specific needs and expectations. Understanding the differences between the communication styles and methodologies of software development companies and product development companies, and the impact of Agile practices such as working in sprints and regular meetings, can help you choose the right partner for your digital product journey, ensuring a smooth and successful collaboration.

Optimize Your Investment: Exploring Pricing Models and Budgeting for Digital Projects

One of the most significant decisions you’ll need to make is selecting the right geographical region for your project. We’ll be focusing on Western and Eastern Europe, two regions with distinct characteristics and advantages. Western Europe has a long-established history in the software development industry, while Eastern Europe, where RebelDot is based, has emerged as a dynamic and rapidly growing tech hub. Both regions offer unique benefits and challenges, and understanding these differences is crucial when deciding on the best partner for your digital project.

When it comes to pricing models and budget considerations, it’s crucial to understand that costs can vary significantly between Western and Eastern Europe. Both regions offer software development and product development services, but the differences in labor costs, taxes, and general expenses can impact the final price you pay for your digital project.

In Western Europe, the cost of hiring a software or product development company can be higher due to higher labor costs and expenses. Small and medium-sized software development companies may charge between $100 and $200 per hour on average, while larger companies can charge between $150 and $300 per hour. On the other hand, Eastern European countries, known for their growing tech hubs, offer more affordable options. Small and medium-sized companies in Eastern Europe might charge between $40 and $80 per hour, while larger companies could charge between $80 and $150 per hour. Collaboration models with both types of companies can be either fixed-price, time and materials, or a mix of the two.

While budget considerations are essential, it’s also crucial to factor in the quality of work, the company’s reputation, and the specific expertise required for your project. Western European companies might have a longer history and more established reputation, but Eastern European companies have rapidly gained recognition for their skilled developers and cost-effective services. Ultimately, it’s essential to carefully weigh your options and choose a software development or product development company that best fits your needs and budget, regardless of the region.

Unlock Your Project’s Full Potential with RebelDot’s Expert Product Development Services

In conclusion, choosing between a software development company and a product development company ultimately depends on your specific needs and goals. While software development companies focus on executing individual projects with technical expertise, product development companies take a more consultative approach, diving deep into every aspect of your business idea to launch the best product for your target users. Each type of company has its own strengths and advantages, and the right choice for your business will depend on factors such as project scope, budget, and industry requirements.

If you’re looking for a product development company that offers a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for your digital project, consider partnering with RebelDot. As a trusted partner, we strive to understand your business goals and help you create innovative, market-ready products that resonate with your target audience. Our multidisciplinary team of experts will work closely with you to develop a tailor-made solution that fits your unique needs and objectives. With RebelDot, you can be confident in our commitment to delivering exceptional results and supporting you throughout the entire product development journey. Let’s work together to turn your vision into reality and create digital products that make a difference.

Custom AI development

Harnessing Custom AI Development to Boost Process Efficiency for Companies

I. Introduction

Brief overview of AI development in recent years

The emergence of big data has been a crucial factor in the advancement of AI. With its vast store of digital information, the internet has provided researchers and developers with a wealth of material to use as part of their machine-learning projects. As such, it is now possible to create algorithms that can evolve and become increasingly sophisticated when given additional data. A standout advancement in recent years has been the expansion of deep learning capabilities. This subset of machine learning uses neural networks incorporating multiple layers to properly process intricate data sets. Advances in image recognition, speech recognition, and natural language processing have all benefitted from this technology, allowing machines to now perform tasks that were previously only possible by humans. Revolutionary advancements in artificial intelligence have led to its implementation in various aspects of life, from healthcare and finance to education. AI is capable of transforming the way we work and live by providing medical professionals with diagnosis capabilities, enabling financial consultants to provide individualized advice, and furnishing students with an opportunity for a tailored learning experience.

The need for custom AI solutions in companies

Companies today increasingly turn to bespoke AI solutions to better meet their specific needs. Using Artificial Intelligence to enhance operations and processes can give companies a major advantage over the competition. An end-to-end product development company using AI has the potential to unlock powerful insights that can help companies make smarter decisions. An AI custom software development company can provide a creative way to streamline processes and optimize their systems, so they are running at maximum efficiency. Using AI technologies, companies can offer their customers an improved experience. Automation of processes and personalized advice are enhanced by A.I. solutions that decipher customer behavior and preferences, enabling businesses to create products and services that meet the specific criteria of individuals. Through the implementation of AI systems, businesses have the potential to cut back on costs due to automated processes that reduce the amount of human labor needed. This can potentially lead to improved productivity, accuracy, and faster processing times – all of which generate cost savings for organizations. As AI is a developing technology, companies that build custom AI solutions for their operations can remain at the forefront of this industry and plan for long-term success in an ever-changing environment.

Importance of improving process efficiency

In the near future, AI technology is set to have a profound impact on how we work. AI can be found everywhere and its applications are becoming ever more widespread. Companies around the world are taking advantage of this new tool to boost productivity and cut down on costs. AI is here to stay, that is for sure. No matter the size or industry, companies need to maintain efficient processes in order to be successful. Cost savings, increased productivity, and satisfied customers are all possible outcomes of optimizing and reducing waste. In the competitive business world we live in today, it is essential for companies to stay ahead of the curve by constantly re-examining and improving their workflows.

II. Benefits of Custom AI Development for Process Efficiency

Businesses are increasingly realizing the potential benefits that AI can offer, but most small and midsize businesses aren’t using the technology because they don’t know where to start. Reports from TechJury indicate that 30% of organizations across the globe have already begun utilizing AI, while another 42% are actively researching its possibilities. Custom AI software development can offer several benefits to companies looking to improve their process efficiency. Gartner anticipates a 25% rise in customer satisfaction in 2023 among firms that make use of AI to streamline processes.

Enhanced automation

Custom AI software development for increased automation presents a great opportunity to revolutionize businesses, making them more efficient and cost-effective while also enhancing customer satisfaction. Machine learning and natural language processing are just two of the AI technologies that can be pressed into service to automate activities that would have been unfeasible in the past. For example, chatbots powered by AI stand ready to provide round-the-clock assistance, eliminating the need for manual work and cutting response times drastically. Furthermore, AI algorithms are capable of scanning through large data sets in order to detect patterns and anticipate outcomes; this helps companies make decisions based on solid evidence but with unmatched speed and accuracy. AI process optimization can give workers more time to devote to activities that generate more value, thus potentially leading to better job satisfaction and improved productivity. With the ongoing development of artificial intelligence, the possibilities for advancements in automation are practically infinite.

Data-driven decision making

Many companies can now access sophisticated AI technologies to analyze a large number of facts and figures, enabling them to identify trends with greater efficiency and accuracy. Moreover, they are also capable of generating predictions based on the resulting insights from their analyses, which helps in making more informed decisions that are backed by hard evidence. End-to-end product development companies provide customized solutions to cater to such requirements. Businesses can benefit immensely from collaborating with a top AI software development company or a full product development company. In doing so, they gain access to the expertise of AI specialists who can guide them in pinpointing the most essential data and developing customized AI solutions that meet their wants.

Improved resource allocation

AI process optimization can be used to identify any flaws or weaknesses in workflows. This analysis can result in resources being assigned more accurately while ensuring that each task is done with the correct amount of effort, time, and resources. For instance, with an AI-powered scheduling system, you could account for a range of variables such as availability, skill set, and workload when allocating human resources. Similarly, inventory management systems driven by AI are able to predict demand on physical resources and make sure that levels are kept at optimal points.

Reduced human error

The application of AI technologies has the potential to make a real difference in terms of improving outcomes, reducing costs, and increasing efficiency. Moreover, rather than having employees perpetually engage in routine tasks that are susceptible to human errors, this same personnel can be allowed to concentrate on more sophisticated duties that add value and boost productivity as well as work satisfaction.

Scalability and adaptability

The adaptability and scalability of artificial intelligence systems make them invaluable to companies operating in rapidly-evolving markets. With the ability to scale up or down depending on a company’s needs, these systems are ideal for adjusting swiftly to changes in demand. Should a spike in orders require more resources, an IA-enabled system can expand speedily to accommodate the rise. On the other hand, decreasing demand can be met with an equally rapid scaling down of the system, helping businesses keep costs low while remaining competitive.

III. Key Areas for AI Implementation in a Company

For businesses, a partnership with an AI Custom software development company could prove to be beneficial when it comes to improving efficiency while cutting costs and maintaining a competitive advantage. One sector that could gain from this is customer service and support, with smart chatbots and virtual assistants providing consistent answers to inquiries. In addition, supply chain and inventory management can be optimized by automated systems as well as minimizing wastefulness. Furthermore, Human Resources Management stands to benefit from AI’s capabilities in automating tasks such as resume screening, performance assessment, and employee scheduling – freeing up personnel for more strategic roles. AI-powered systems offer many advantages when it comes to sales and marketing, financial management, and quality assurance and control. Companies can use such technologies to analyze customer data and form targeted strategies that will help increase engagement. AI is also a great way of detecting fraudulent transactions which can reduce the risk of financial losses. Finally, this tech can be used to detect product defects during quality assurance stages ensuring everything meets the necessary standards.

IV. Steps for Implementing Custom AI Solutions

Achieving success with a customized AI solution can be an intricate endeavor, yet taking a systematic tactic may prove beneficial.

Step 1: Identifying the right processes for AI integration

To get the most out of AI, it’s important to identify which processes can use a boost from the technology. By taking a deep dive into data, it’s possible to pinpoint where adopting AI could be beneficial in terms of optimizing efficiency, cutting costs, and deepening customer satisfaction.

Step 2: Setting measurable goals and expectations

After the processes have been determined, it is time to establish clear and specific objectives. Establishing what will be deemed a success and laying out the desired results of integrating AI are both important steps.

Step 3: Assembling a multidisciplinary team

Realizing the potential of AI requires the joining of forces from a wide range of professionals. This includes data scientists, software engineers, and those knowledgeable in the area of implementation. By bringing together such a multidisciplinary team, any project at hand will be more equipped for success as all important aspects are taken into account. Engaging the services of an AI development company, an end-to-end product development company or a full product development company has advantages beyond just monetary savings. By streamlining communication between integrated teams, there are fewer opportunities for costly errors or miscommunication.

Step 4: Developing or acquiring the appropriate AI technology

It is important to select the AI development company and technology that fits with organizational ambitions. This could include picking out suitable algorithms, tools, and platforms which are suited for each individual organization’s requirements.

Step 5: Integrating AI into existing systems

In order to guarantee a successful outcome, it is critical that this AI solution is incorporated into any existing IT frameworks. This will allow it to work efficiently with other technologies and make sure there are no compatibility issues.

Step 6: Testing and validating the AI solution

Prior to integrating the AI solution, it must be rigorously evaluated and assessed to guarantee that it complies with any business needs and aims. Testing and validation of this nature will ensure that the AI Custom software development is completely fit for purpose.

Step 7: Monitoring, maintenance, and continuous improvement

Once the AI solution has been put into place, it’s essential to keep an eye on it and ensure that everything runs smoothly. Moreover, it is important to make sure there are regular updates and tweaks that can be done to make the AI system even better than before. Maintaining the AI process optimization according to business objectives is paramount for its continuous improvement.

V. Challenges and Risks of Custom AI Development

Developing and implementing AI solutions can significantly benefit businesses. However, there are multiple challenges that come with it. A large amount of capital is needed to get the project off the ground, as well as better security protocols to protect sensitive data used in the process. Furthermore, using AI could lead to job displacement due to its automation capabilities. Additionally, it is essential that AI ethics are followed to ensure trustworthiness and prevent bias from affecting the development and execution of solutions. Finally, even though investment in a partnership with an AI Custom software development company may be beneficial, employees may resist change and present adoption hurdles; thus it is necessary for organizations to invest in change management programs and education initiatives.

VI. Real-life Examples of Successful Custom AI Implementations

There are numerous successful Custom AI implementations across various industries. Let’s take a look at some of them.

AI-powered customer service chatbots

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: The airline’s chatbot, BlueBot, assists customers with booking flights, checking flight status, and other travel-related queries. BlueBot uses AI to provide personalized travel recommendations and tips. BB exhibits a distinct persona characterized by a helpful, friendly, and edgy disposition. In instances where BB is unable to fully address a customer’s needs, she promptly refers them to one of her capable human service colleagues.

AI-driven supply chain optimization

Walmart: For the smooth functioning of the supply chain, it is essential to get the forecasting of customer demands right. Erratic forecasts can lead to significant losses due to inadequate or surplus inventory. Walmart has effectively used the power of AI for its forecasting needs and has seen positive results in terms of fewer out-of-stock items and better product accessibility on shelves. This was made possible by using machine learning algorithms that looked into data from its stores, suppliers, and transportation network to ensure optimal stock levels, shorter delivery times as well as higher product availability.

AI-enhanced human resources management

Unilever: A practical utilization of AI within the field of human resources can be seen in the application of tools that are powered by artificial intelligence. These said tools have been developed to upgrade the recruitment process. Moreover, AI is able to examine a plethora of resumes and applications quickly and accurately, select qualified contenders, as well as curtail hiring prejudice. Unilever has employed AI-powered video interviewing tools to augment its recruitment process. Through this technology, the firm is able to analyze candidates’ facial expressions, tones of voice, and word choice from the video interviews in order to appraise their personality traits, communication capacities, and emotional intelligence. As a result, Unilever can better determine which applicants are suitable for their company culture and job openings.

AI-based marketing personalization

Amazon: AI-based marketing is not only transforming the digital landscape but is also being used in real life. A case in point can be seen on e-commerce platforms, where personalized product recommendations are now implemented with the help of AI. This technology allows customers to be provided with tailored product suggestions that can boost engagement and sales based on their data and behavior. An example of a company that has incorporated Artificial Intelligence into its product recommendations is Amazon. This web giant utilizes a recommendation engine to analyze customers’ purchase choices, browsing habits, and search queries for the purpose of providing individualized product suggestions through their website and app. The system applies machine learning algorithms to improve accuracy and relevancy with each passing day.

AI-enabled financial fraud detection

PayPal: By implementing machine learning algorithms, AI can now be used to detect financial fraud in a real-world setting. Large amounts of transaction data are collected and analyzed by the algorithms to spot patterns or abnormalities that could indicate fraudulent activity. When detected, these suspicious activities are flagged for further examination. PayPal is a prime example of a company that has utilized AI-enabled fraud detection successfully. This method incorporates machine learning algorithms to scan through transaction data, searching for activities indicative of fraud such as account takeover, identity theft, and money laundering. By reviewing information like location, device, transaction amounts, and behavior patterns PayPal is able to identify potentially fraudulent actions and raise the alarm for further consideration.

VII. Conclusion

Recap of the potential of custom AI development for process efficiency

By utilizing AI Custom software development solutions, organizations have the capacity to optimize process efficiency across numerous industries. Automating time-consuming tasks, enhancing decision-making processes, reducing errors, and increasing productivity are just a few of the potential benefits that come from implementing such solutions. Moreover, providing tailored experiences for customers, streamlining supply chain management, and facilitating improved recruitment activities can be achieved with the technology of an AI development company. In addition to these advantages, it can also assist in financial fraud detection, risk analysis, and personalizing marketing efforts among other applications. Despite risks associated with developing customized AI solutions and systems, the potential advantages make it an attractive prospect for businesses desiring to level up their process efficiency and gain a competitive advantage in their market.

Future outlook for AI in business

AI technology is growing in leaps and bounds, to a point where it can truly make a difference in companies. AI will likely contribute to improved process efficiency, productivity, and innovation for businesses globally. As this technology becomes more accessible, we anticipate that many industries will take advantage of AI-driven solutions. It is widely believed that Artificial Intelligence will be a powerful tool in streamlining mundane duties and allowing decision-making processes to be handled more efficiently. Companies are eager to adopt AI solutions in order to lower expenses, increase productivity, and open up their staff members to focus on those tasks which require greater skill. In the realm of technology, AI is being hailed as a game changer when it comes to personalizing customer experiences. By leveraging advanced algorithms, AI-driven solutions can analyze customer data and interact with a business to create custom offers, recommendations, and assistance tailored specifically to their needs. This puts businesses in the position to increase both customer satisfaction and loyalty. The application of AI is projected to have a great impact on supply chain management and cybersecurity. Supply chains will be optimized through improved inventory control methods, quicker delivery times, and elevated levels of accuracy in logistical procedures. Furthermore, AI-based solutions will be utilized for enhanced fraud detection and heightened cyber security. By analyzing massive data sets, potential threats and weaknesses can be effectively identified with the aid of advanced AI custom software development.

Encouragement for companies to embrace custom AI solutions

With AI technology becoming more ubiquitous, those companies that don’t take advantage of it risk getting left behind. And let`s be honest, no one wants to feel that FOMO. Consequently, businesses should consider incorporating AI custom software development solutions into their operations to maximize efficiency, productivity, and innovation. An effective way to do this is to team up with an experienced end-to-end product development company and a full product development company, which can provide tailored solutions that fit the company’s needs. By leveraging these custom AI solutions, businesses can reap significant value from them. Finally, the advantages custom Artificial Intelligence solutions hold for businesses cannot be overlooked. Those who choose to incorporate AI-enabled systems are likely to gain a competitive edge and become better outfitted to thrive amidst a world being more and more dominated by AI.

Science is what man knows well enough to explain to a computer. Art is what we do with the rest, and scientific advances as art become a science, says Donald E. Knuth in his book “Things A Computer Scientist Rarely Talks About”. Why not make art while using science for AI custom software development for your business and get the best of both worlds?

Unleash the Potential of AI & Blockchain development with RebelDot: Create Your Game-Changing Digital Product Today!

As a software development company, we’re eager to collaborate with innovative startup founders like you to bring your blockchain and AI digital product dreams to fruition. Let’s join forces to create unique, captivating experiences that delight users and reshape the digital world.

Get in touch with us and let’s explore the amazing possibilities RebelDot can offer you!

Rudy Full stack developer RebelDot

Rebel Tech Stories: Growing and Evolving as a Full Stack Developer with RebelDot

Rudolf Nagy, or as we call him, Rudy, is a Full stack developer that has been part of the RebelDot team through thick and thin! In fact, he’s part of the group that made the Rebel team what we know today. Starting out as an intern to being an absolute gem inside the team, he’s seen it all and been through it all while RebelDot navigated the split, a pandemic, war, and many other ways in which the times were, to say the least, uncertain.

Let’s meet Rudy and read it all from his point of view.

Tell me a bit about yourself, Rudy, how did your passion for technology start?

I grew up in a family where my dad was my role model. I wanted to be a police officer just like him. In fact, and this is a funny story, one day, playing with his handcuffs, I accidentally got my hand locked to the desk. It was pretty embarrassing and a good occasion for my family to mock me (but also an opportunity to start pondering about maybe having a different career). Back to it, my dad was our role model, mine and my brother’s, and we both wanted to be just like him. Well, fast-forward 15+ years, one of us is, but I took a different turn.

After dropping the policeman fantasy, I figured being an architect might suit me better in the future. As a kid, I found it mesmerizing to build things. But I think it was around my first year of high school when studying Computer Science that I discovered how creatively you can use your development skills to problem-solve. It got me intrigued; I wanted to keep being thrown into challenges so I could find a new way, a creative one, to solve the issue.

Tell me about your first days at RebelDot

The day I took the final exam to get my bachelor’s degree, I came to what was known at the time as Imprezzio Global. RebelDot was initially part of Imprezzio Global in Romania. In 2018, the services divison ruptured from the company and became what is known today as RebelDot. I really wanted to get a place in the summer internship, and I was extremely happy to be accepted.

At the time, we, the interns, would stay at the office for six hours, working as a team. This was unique at the time; it wasn’t all theory but a lot of practice. I fell for the people, the overall vibe of the gang, and surprisingly, despite the company being split up, going through a period of transition which is often challenging, things got even better when we became RebelDot.

I guess I was grateful to be part of the team even in those challenging moments, which made the overall experience even more thrilling, and more meaningful to me. It all got even better after the split when we became RebelDot

After two fun and insightful months, I was offered a full-time position, and I took it in a heartbeat.

During my years as a student, I got attached to .Net. Therefore, I was working on back-end. That’s what I did at first inside the Rebel team. I started off on an Advertising client, an English start-up to mid company. There, I explored some front-end frameworks because they were using a console to track data, which was written in Angular. I saw an opportunity, and I started to learn some Angular too. Just like that, after about six months, I was slowly growing into a Full-stack developer. In the last year or so, I’ve also taken on a new challenge and shifted to React Native to explore mobile development. Recently, I’ve touched the basics of AWS too.

How did the company split of 2018 affect you? What were your thoughts and feelings about it?

You can imagine that I was rather nervous at first. It was my first job experience, and I really wanted to have a place here. I really liked everything about it: the people that I met and worked with, that were intelligent, witty, and hardworking, the culture, and the leadership.

I also got used to the project that I was working on. We’d done a lot of work, and things were going smoothly. When Tudi, our CEO, presented us with the news, our weekly company meeting was born. We were all gathering around him in a circle, so he could update us in the same honest and transparent way that he does today. The news was a lot to process, and it was also a bit scary. I didn’t understand, or better said, I didn’t have a clear view of what that meant for us and for me personally. I honestly believe that the admin team, meaning our support departments, took the hardest hit. Tudi was doing his best to keep us posted in real-time, giving us updates, explaining every step, and sharing his progress. He was also “in charge’ of our spirits, so he’d be spreading positivity around the office daily. After the first few moments of uncertainty, I can honestly say that I didn’t experience any bumps; it was quite a smooth ride.

I can recall the culture of our group at the beginning, and it has stayed the same throughout the years. We grew and evolved, but we still carry those same values that made us who we are today. Those thirty people that were at the beginning resemble a lot of those who make up the Rebel team now. We’ve always prioritized how we manage our projects, the value that we add to everyday work, and how we support each other’s growth journeys. That’s still visible today. Maybe, because the foundation was strong enough, all joiners resembled us in some way but also brought something new. That’s how we kept on going. To this day, I’ve never met a Rebel that I couldn’t connect to in some way!

How did previous events and all this uncertainty affect you professionally and not only?

When the pandemic started it was obviously a lot of information and again, a lot to process. I did not know what to do, so on a personal level, I’ve decided to pack my bags and go to the countryside and live with my grandmother. I needed a picturesque sight, nature, and some peace of mind in the middle of the chaos that was installing into our society.

At first, working from home meant no “start” or “end” to working. I’ve managed to “control” that too and simply enjoyed the simpler life. Although, something was missing still.

When our restrictions loosened up, I moved back to Cluj-Napoca, missing my friends, and the closeness to the lively city air.

When the pandemic started, I think we were somewhere around sixty people, but the remote-first world meant that there were no borders or cities anymore, so when I came back, I realized that we doubled in size.

It became hard to get to know everyone on a personal level as before, but I was also excited about the group. We started shifting more towards hybrid working and every day brought a new gamble of “who you’re gonna meet today”.

Fast-forward to 2023, we’re almost 200 people and rapidly growing. I kinda miss the experience of seeing my friends every day, but it’s also nice to go to the office and check the app a few minutes before entering to see who I’m going to spend the day with. It gets me excited!

In retrospective, the pandemic was a subject of great importance, and a lot was lost by the world, but I do believe that we did the best that we could, in a situation with no antecedent and 0 guidance. Given the context, I do believe that RebelDot was wise to send us all home, to close the office, to get a new one, the transformed cozy villa in the picturesque side of the city, then going hybrid. I think the whole team adapted quite well and fast. Now, to make the best out of it, I love both our office spaces.

What would you say that’s kept through the years from the Rebel team initial essence?

The people; this is definitely the answer. Everyone is just as open and as happy to help since day 1. I’ve never felt lost or lonely inside my team or my community, and I know that I always have someone to count on. The quality of people, this is something that glued and stuck.

We expanded on our initial connection, the 30 people that knew each other very well, on a personal level, and gathered people around that resembled our values, but brought their own uniqueness to our mix.

How did a normal day or a normal week used to look like at the beginning of your journey?

Well, it definitely started off by being physically in the office because the thought of working from home was far away. People used to gather in the kitchen area, and we’d start the day with stories, sharing a laugh, and sipping coffee. Then it was working as usual, the daily stand-up meeting, learning new things, and learning the ways of the Rebels. It was such a nice time, and it holds a special place in my memories. It was a period when I, together with the team, picked up a new hobby, doing puzzles. We did this in the office too; we’d buy puzzles of 2000 pieces, and we’d assemble them in bits during our breaks.

Hoes does a normal day or week looks like now?

Now, every day depends on the office’s availability. I always check the app that we use for booking a desk and decide what my day is going to look like depending on what I must do that day and who has already booked an office space. If the office is very crowded and I have a day with more meetings, then I prefer to be at home. When the office seems quieter, I prefer going and relaxing at RebelCafé and spending time with my colleagues. Yes, you might have guessed that I prefer our HQ because of our Café.

At home, I still tend to work a bit too much, but I’ve slowly found my balance, and now I mix 1 or 2 days at home with 3 or 4 days at the office. Having this decision to suit my needs is really amazing. Besides this, things haven’t changed much. We don’t gather in the kitchen anymore, but at the bar in the Café, and we share our stories and laugh just like we always did.

You mention the people a lot. What’s your relationship with the team? Do you ever meet outside of working hours?

I’d say I’ve developed many friendships with many of my colleagues, quite a few of them! Some people I’ve known for around six years now and some for a lot less, but I am happy for everyone in my life. Tudi, our CEO, taught me how to snowboard, which I now love. Tom, the Head of design, he’s a top-notch man! It’s funny because we didn’t connect at first, but then we were coupled up for a Blind Date (a People&Culture initiative to mix and match together people that don’t usually work together), after which we just started hanging out. I remember going to a music festival and creating a whole group of Rebels. I have so many stories that involve my colleagues; I helped Tom plant his new trees in his garden, and the best part is that they actually survived. During the last year, I had the opportunity of working with Cip, and some tough times and some fun brought us closer together. This is just the tip of the iceberg, I can’t possibly list everyone now, but I’ve come close to them; they’re my friends, not just work colleagues.

You’re one of the lucky ones. It’s rare to find a place, fit in, and stick around. Do you have any advice for people that are just now starting on their own journey?

Look for people and choose a place because of its people. It will never be just about work. Things should also be fun; they should also be about caring for others on a personal level, noticing them, and being there for them.

Start off with internships, one or more, test things out, discover who you are and what you want, but when the time comes, choose a place for the people.

Sometimes you might not get the project that you wanted, but it’s much more important, to me, to be around people that see and hear me, that care about me and that sustain my development on both a professional and personal level.

Try out new stuff confidently and go to events to meet your teammates. You’ll never feel alone when surrounded by the right bunch.

rebeldot, end-to-end product development company vs freelancers

When should you hire an end-to-end product development company versus freelancers?

If you want to get ahead in today’s business world, building digital products is a great way to go. This can be a tough task for companies outside the digital space, but there’s no need to stress. Many options are available to companies looking to create digital products, regardless of how tech-savvy they may be.

Rather than hiring a full, in-house development team to create a digital product, most businesses will opt to hire a third party to handle their development needs. This usually comes in the form of freelancers or an end-to-end product development company, like RebelDot.

Both are great options, but one might be better for you depending on your needs. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of hiring freelancers vs. hiring an end-to-end development company.

Hiring an end-to-end development company versus freelance developers

Both end-to-end development companies and freelance developers will build you a great digital product, but which is better for your business? Here are some facts to help you decide.

End-to-end development companies

End-to-end development companies offer end-to-end services for developing and launching a product. They will handle every part of the project on your behalf so you can continue to focus on your other essential business tasks.

While there are many advantages to working with a software development company, there are also some potential drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of working with an end-to-end development company:

Pros:

  • Experience: End-to-end development companies have worked on multiple projects in the past, giving them a broad perspective on what works and what doesn’t. With this experience, they can provide valuable insights and recommendations to ensure your product’s success.
  • A full team of experts: Agencies have a team of experts in various fields, including design, development, analytics, and project management. This means that clients don’t have to worry about finding and hiring individual freelancers for each stage of development.
  • Established team workflows: End-to-end development companies have existing teams that work well together, which means they have established workflows and project management processes. This helps keep projects running on time and within budget.
  • Proven quality of work: Agencies have a reputation to uphold and typically have a portfolio of successful projects, indicating a proven quality of work.

Best of all, the development company will handle all the tedious product management work.

Now let’s quickly look at the downsides of using an end-to-end development company.

Cons:

  • Can be costly: Hiring an end-to-end development company is typically more expensive than hiring individual freelancers. The cost may vary depending on the company’s location and the team’s experience, but clients are paying for the expertise and experience of an entire team.*However, it is worth mentioning that, while hiring an end-to-end product development company may be more expensive than hiring individual freelancers, it can ultimately save time and money in the long run. With a full-service development team, clients can avoid the costs of recruiting, hiring, and managing multiple freelancers for different project tasks. Moreover, working with a professional team ensures that the development process is handled efficiently, with expertise and a deep understanding of all the steps needed for a successful product launch. With a well-structured development process, clients can enjoy a faster time-to-market and a higher return on investment.
  • Less flexibility: End-to-end development companies have established schedules and workflows, which can make them less flexible than working with freelancers. Clients may have to adjust their timelines to accommodate the company’s workflow.*While it’s true that some development companies have established workflows and schedules, this is not always the case. Many full-product development companies, such as RebelDot, have experience working with a variety of clients and understand the importance of flexibility in meeting the unique needs of each project. Agile methodologies, which are often used by full-product development companies, prioritize adaptability and flexibility, making it possible to adjust timelines and workflows as needed. Furthermore, by working closely with clients and establishing a transparent collaboration process, cross-functional teams can quickly identify potential roadblocks or areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments. This level of collaboration can actually lead to greater flexibility and efficiency in the development process compared to working with individual freelancers.

Freelance developers

Freelance developers are individual professionals who work on projects on a contract basis, either through temporary staff augmentation or independently.

Here are the pros and cons of working with freelance developers:

Pros:

  • Lower costs: Freelance developers are often less expensive than end-to-end development companies, making them an attractive option for companies on a budget.
  • Plenty of options: Freelance developers can be found all over the internet, allowing clients to find people with very specific skills and expertise.

Cons:

  • Inconsistent: It can be challenging to ensure the quality of work when working with freelance developers, especially if they’re not vetted or recommended by someone you trust. This can cause problems when you’re nearing the project’s end, and you realize the work is subpar.
  • Confidentiality concerns: Clients may be concerned about sharing confidential information with a freelance developer not part of a larger organization. This can be especially true for sensitive projects.
  • Less (or no) support to back them up: Freelance developers typically work alone and don’t have the support of a larger team. This means clients may not receive the same level of support and expertise that they would with an end-to-end development company.
  • One may not be enough: Depending on the project’s scope, clients may need to hire multiple freelancers for different stages of the development process. This can make your project more complex and harder to manage.
  • You’re in charge of product management: When working with freelance developers, clients need to be comfortable managing and communicating with them directly, which can add another layer of complexity to the project.

 

As a full-product development company, RebelDot has a deep understanding of what it takes to launch a successful digital product. When founders choose to work with us, they’re getting more than just a team of developers – they’re getting a partner who can help guide them through every step of the process. This can include everything from product strategy and market research to ongoing maintenance and support, providing a comprehensive solution that’s hard to find with individual freelancers.
Alex Balag Chief Operating Officer RebelDot
Alex BalagChief Operating Officer RebelDot

When should you hire a full-product development company versus a freelancer?

Choosing between an end-to-end development company and a freelancer is ultimately up to your business and project needs.

If you’re a small company with a limited budget, you may be unable to stretch your budget to an end-to-end development company. If that’s you, freelancers might be the best choice until you can fully outsource your digital products to a development company.

If your business is a little larger and you can stretch your budget, it’s far easier (and often better) to go with an end-to-end development company. By collaborating with an end-to-end development company, you gain access to a team of skilled implementers and a team of consultants who will be there for you throughout the entire development process. This cross-functional team of experts will go out of their way to provide the best user experience possible, constantly looking for the best solutions and ensuring your product receives the care and attention it deserves.

Partner with RebelDot, an end-to-end product development company

If you’re looking for a team with proven quality and skill but don’t have the time to build a new team from scratch, consider working with us at RebelDot.

We don’t just build digital products — we partner with you to help guide development and build the product of your dreams!

Get in touch with RebelDot today to discuss your product ideas.

questions to ask your end-to-end product development company

6 questions to ask an end-to-end product development company during discovery

Growing a business takes a lot of work. Getting everything done will require a lot of time and a lot of money. There are simply not enough hours in the day to match your ambitions. This is why even the biggest companies need a helping hand from time to time.

Partnering with an end-to-end development company can help reduce both financial and product management-related stress. They can handle the entire development process while you oversee. It’s a great way to create a high-quality digital product while having time to focus on all the other important things your company needs to do.

Of course, you need an end-to-end development company that fits your vision. You should carefully research different agencies and ask them the right questions to determine which one is a good fit for your business and your product.

But what are the “right” questions?

There are many questions you can ask an end-to-end development company to determine if they’re the right partner for you. Here are just a few of the most important questions to ask during the product discovery phase to help guide your decision-making.

What relevant experience does your agency have?

Hiring an end-to-end development company is like hiring a new team member. You need to be confident they’re up for the task, and the best way to do that is by looking at their previous work.

Look for agencies that already do similar work to what you need, those familiar with the relevant technologies and who have previously worked within your niche. This will help get your partnership started on the right foot, since the company will already know what works and what doesn’t work for products like yours.

All agencies will happily show you examples of their previous work, though they might cherry-pick their best work. If they don’t have examples of work similar to what you require, don’t be afraid to ask for something more specific.

If you can’t see anything that fits your needs, it’s best to try and find a more suitable end-to-end development company to partner with.
What does the development process look like?

Everyone works differently, so how one product development company works may differ from how the next company works. This is important to remember, because your experience will vary depending on which end-to-end development company you choose.

To ensure the company you partner with can work alongside your expectations, simply ask them to outline their development process. Get the company to take you through development, from first contact right through to the product launch.

This will help you identify which end-to-end development company best fits your brief and sets expectations for the project. It also gives you a general roadmap that can help you plan marketing strategies.

How will we communicate?

The biggest difference between hiring an in-house team and an end-to-end development company is that the company will be creating your product away from your HQ. Think of the company as a fully remote product team. The work is happening, but there’s less opportunity to monitor progress.

Because of the physical distance between you and the product team, you need to be sure that the end-to-end development company you choose will offer clear and frequent communication. The better their communication efforts, the better your product will be.

So, find out how the company will communicate with you. Weekly phone calls? Regular emails? Slack updates? The more frequently you can receive updates, the better you’ll be able to manage the product remotely.

It’s also a good idea to note your main point of contact at this stage. Ideally, you’re looking for a single person to be your main contact to avoid repetition and confusion.

How do you manage quality assurance and testing?

You can put all the effort into finding an experienced end-to-end development company that works to your spec and offers seamless, frequent communication, but it doesn’t mean anything if they’re lax when it comes to quality.

Asking about the company’s QA and testing efforts will ensure you’ll come out of the partnership with a great product sure to wow your users.
You’re not just looking for a team that will perform the minimum checks.

You’re looking for a product development company that will dive deep into the product at every opportunity to squash bugs, solve issues, and ensure the highest possible quality product.

What would a project like this typically cost?

You have an idea of what you want to spend, and the end-to-end development company has an idea of how much they want to charge you. It’s worth remembering that you’re talking about estimations in the early stages.

The product spec may change, resource costs can vary, and unexpected issues may need resolution, so it’s challenging to get an accurate figure for the project’s cost.

The keywords in this question are “like this.” Agencies may give you a generic quote that doesn’t reflect the work you need for this product, which may land you with a nasty surprise at the end of the project.

Make sure any quotes you’re given are based on similar work they have done to ensure you get a more accurate idea of cost.

Will you involve any third parties in the development process?

It’s important to remember that any end-to-end development company you hire will be using your intellectual property to build the product. This can be a nerve-wracking experience, as your IP is one of the biggest parts of your entire business. You need to ensure it’s in safe hands, which can be difficult if an company uses third parties during the development process.

Involving a third party also adds friction to the communication process. You’ll unlikely speak to any third party, so all information will be funneled through the company. This can dilute the information, which can potentially cause problems later.

Try to avoid agencies that seek help from third parties, and if that’s not possible, make sure the company is open about who they work with and what they’re outsourcing.

Based on our experience, here’s our top 5 questions that usually unlock value and intrigue our team from the very first client meeting:

Build your product with RebelDot

Now you know what to ask, it’s time to get to work! RebelDot is an end-to-end development company with experience in a broad range of technologies and industries. We’d love to help you bring your ideas to life and help your business grow.

Contact RebelDot today to get started on your new product journey.

dotnet application development for enterprise

Is .NET the best application development platform for enterprise in 2023?

Choosing the right application development platform can be tough. With so many platforms, each with pros and cons, how do you know which one is best for you, both short-term and long-term?

One of the most popular and widely adopted app development platforms is .NET, known for its scalability, robustness, and reliability. There’s no doubt that .NET is a capable contender for being the best enterprise app development platform, a must-have for many developers, as well as product owners and CTOs worldwide.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the .NET framework, including a detailed list of .NET pros and cons, to help you decide if .NET is the best application development platform for enterprises in 2023.

What Is .NET?

NET is a development framework built by Microsoft that makes it easier for developers to create all sorts of applications. From desktop, web, and mobile apps, to IoT and machine learning. Think of it as a central hub where coding magic happens!

.NET development implies multiple programming languages with interoperability, meaning that code written in one language can call and interact with code written in another language.

For example, a developer can use C# to write an application data layer and F# to carry out functional programming and write the business logic. Or a developer can call a C++ library from a C# program. This versatility makes .NET a serious tool for enterprise application development, allowing coders using different programming languages to collaborate with ease.

.NET’s huge library of pre-built code is one of its best and most crucial features.

Developers save lots of time by having access to common reusable code libraries. The result? Tasks get completed more efficiently.

.NET can make the development process faster, smoother, and a whole lot less stressful.

But how effective is it at the enterprise level, and is it the best application development platform in 2023?

asp net development for enterprise

Pros and cons of .NET for enterprise app development

There’s no doubt that .NET is one of the most popular app development platforms in the world. With its dynamic versatility and ease of use, it’s a popular choice for enterprise app development.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of .NET.

Pros

.NET cross-platform development

.NET lets developers use a single codebase to create applications that can run on Windows, Mac, and Linux. This is a big deal for businesses needing to cater to a diverse user base or employees using different systems.

It also means that developers can save time and resources by only needing to write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms. It also gives them access to a codebase library of common commands.

These advantages provided by .NET’s cross-platform capabilities make it an ideal choice for enterprise-level development.

Visual Studio support – Integrated Development Environment

Visual Studio is a powerful Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that comes with .NET, making it easy for developers to develop, test, debug and deploy enterprise-level web apps.

Visual Studio includes features like IntelliSense, code snippets, and visual design to let developers create high-quality, enterprise-level apps quickly and efficiently. Anything from CRMs and ERPs to inventory management systems and even security systems. Visual Studio simplifies the design process to bring real results at an enterprise-level fast.

Debugging and testing tools are also available to identify and fix issues, streamlining development even further in real-time, which is vital for enterprise-scale operations.

Reliability – Building high-performance applications with .NET framework

Microsoft’s backing helps make .NET one of the most reliable and secure frameworks out there, providing a robust and secure platform for building high-performance applications.

With lots of support, regular updates, and a large community of developers for troubleshooting and assistance, .NET is accessible to all.

And if any potential problems arise, Microsoft usually has a solution (or somebody on a support forum will!)

.NET as the popular choice for enterprise digital products

It’s no surprise that .NET is the go-to choice for many businesses.

With its combination of robust security, reliability, support, and regular updates, it has become a top choice for enterprise-level development. Its compatibility with Visual Studio, its cross-platform capabilities, and its ability to run on multiple operating systems make it a versatile choice for businesses.

pros and cons of .net development for enterprise

Cons

Of course, with all its upsides, .NET has a few downsides too. Here are a few to keep in mind.

High Licence Costs

Want .NET’s best features at an enterprise level? The costs can start to add up, so it’s wise to start by looking at the different pricing plans and see how they fit your budget.

The primary development tool for .NET is Visual Studio, with the Professional edition alone costing $500 per year. This can be a significant expense for small businesses that may not have the budget for expensive development tools.

Additionally, some features of Visual Studio are only available on the more expensive editions of the software, like the Enterprise edition, which can cost up to $5,999 per year.

It’s important to note that free versions of the software are available, but these come with limited features.

 

Locked ecosystem 

The .NET framework is controlled by Microsoft, meaning developers are at the mercy of Microsoft for any updates or changes to the framework. 

As a result, developers may need to adapt their applications to accommodate any changes that Microsoft makes to the framework, which can be time-consuming and costly. 

Plus, if Microsoft discontinues support for older features, developers might have trouble maintaining their applications. 

  

Memory Leaks 

The .NET framework can be prone to occasional memory issues, including memory leaks that could lead to performance issues. 

Memory leaks occur when an application doesn’t properly release the memory it no longer needs, leading to a gradual increase in memory usage. Memory leaks can cause whole systems and applications to crash. At an enterprise level, this can be a real disaster. 

These issues are not easy to solve, especially when dealing with large data sets or complex object hierarchies, making it harder for developers to maintain their .NET applications. 

  

The good news is there are several means through .NET memory leaks can be mitigated, if not even better, prevented, such as:  

– avoiding keeping references to managed and unmanaged objects longer than necessary. 

– using pinning or, pre-allocating large objects on their own section of memory 

– using compacting techniques where allocating fewer small objects 

– only relying on static references when necessary 

– ensure that unmanaged objects are disposed in the code through the “Dispose” method 

cons of .net development for enterprise

Not sure if .NET development is suitable for your business? RebelDot can help

Whether or not to use .NET for enterprise application development will depend on your specific needs and the type of application you’re looking to develop.

It’s important to consider all the factors we’ve mentioned above and evaluate if .NET aligns with your project requirements and budgets before making a decision.

If you want to know whether .NET is the best enterprise application development platform for your business in 2023, our team can help.

At RebelDot, our .NET development specialists, together with the entire cross-functional team are committed to understand your business vision and help you achieve your goals through transparent collaboration and communication.

Working with RebelDot means collaborating with a full product development team that offers consultancy and proactive insights throughout the end-to-end process.

We can guide you through the process of developing your enterprise applications and any other aspects of your enterprise app development, including design, testing, deployment, and maintenance.

Get in touch today and tell us about your ideas.

MVP development 2023

MVP Development in 2023

We’re no strangers to MVP (minimum viable product) development at RebelDot. We love how the framework simplifies product strategy and helps us build better products with long-term success. So, naturally, we’re keen to see how MVP development will evolve over the next year.

This post will look at the state of MVP development as we head into 2023, including what it means to perform MVP development today, our top tips for success, and how we expect to see it evolve in the future.

What is an MVP?

Teams looking to make an impact with their new product should look to test every possible aspect to ensure it solves the problem it’s designed to address. This is why so many companies use Minimum Viable Product (MVP) development.

As the name suggests, MVP development revolves around building the minimum viable product. This is a loose version of your final product, including the minimum number of vital features to make it functional.

The MVP will form the foundation of your final product. Developers will work iteratively to flesh out the product from its MVP form, collecting user feedback at every step.

You can think of the MVP as an advanced prototype. It’s not ready for release, but it’s enough to give users a solid idea of what the product will do. Some even think of MVP development as an experiment that aims to validate business hypotheses. It can help teams understand an idea’s viability by testing assumptions and identifying potential business opportunities.

Some famous MVP examples

MVP development is a popular framework in various industries. Let’s take a look at some of the best companies that have used MVP development.

Dropbox

Dropbox is an extremely interesting example of MVP Development. Rather than building the actual product, Dropbox co-founder created a video demonstration of how he wanted the technology to work.

This video was sent to key high-tech early adopters and led to over 75,000 people looking for a beta invite. In this situation, the video was actually the platform’s MVP. By releasing it, the company was able to test its hypothesis that people wanted a simple file-sharing system, and the thousands of signups quickly validated that hypothesis.

Facebook

By now, we all know the story of how Facebook (now under the Meta umbrella) came to be the tech juggernaut it is today. Facebook’s humble beginning as an internal network used for connecting students at Harvard University provided the perfect MVP for the platform it is today. “Thefacebook” — as it was called at the time — was a simple platform that connected students from the same classes by allowing them to post messages to shared boards.

As word spread about the new platform, more and more people outside of Harvard wanted to get involved. This validated the hypothesis that people needed a simple way to connect with others through the internet and triggered its rapid expansion into the billion-dollar company it is today.

N26

The FinTech industry is full of great examples of MVP development, including Berlin’s N26 bank. Since their launch in 2015, N26 has expanded into a fully-licensed bank which operates across 17 countries in Europe, with over 300,000 customers.

This might be surprising to many readers since creating a fintech MVP isn’t quite as simple, thanks to various regulations and requirements. In a great interview, N26 founder Valentin Stalf compared their MVP efforts to eCommerce stores. He stated that “[in FinTech] by the time you’re ready to launch your product, it is by definition no longer an MVP” due to the amount of regulatory work that needs to happen.

To avoid this, N26 partnered with an established bank to test their hypothesis that people wanted an easier way to interact with their bank. This partnership was a fantastic way to deliver an MVP, leading to the company obtaining its own banking license to become an independent bank.

RebelDot’s dos and don’ts of MVP development

Not to toot our own horn, but we’re kinda the experts on MVP development at RebelDot. We’ve helped lots of businesses launch MVPs, and we’ve learned a few tricks to get MVP development right. Let’s dive into what you should be doing and what you should avoid when creating a minimum viable product.

Do:

  • Do research your target market and your target customer’s needs. This will ensure you choose the right features for your MVP.
  • Do prioritize to build what users need. MVPs need to be rigorously tested by users, but you won’t even get to the testing stage if you don’t include the features users want.
  • Do align your idea with business goals and objectives. Each product you make should reflect the overall vision of your company.
  • Do keep an eye on your competitors. Learn what they’re doing and see how you can do it better to attract more users.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget about feedback. Your MVP isn’t supposed to be a final product. You should communicate with users and stakeholders and collect regular feedback to help shape the product as it evolves.
  • Don’t aim for perfection. MVPs are a rough draft of a final product. So, you shouldn’t aim for perfection but try to create a proof of concept — you can perfect your vision later.
  • Don’t abandon an MVP that fails. The whole idea of an MVP is to test your theories. If the initial MVP fails, you can salvage features that worked well and build them into the next iteration.
  • Don’t go it alone. This is especially true for startups. Building an MVP can be confusing as you try to figure out what should you should build. Having a helping hand from MVP experts can help you make your MVP development a breeze.

How much does it cost to develop an MVP right now?

Many variables are involved in developing an MVP, so there isn’t a set answer to this question. It all depends on your industry, the type of application you’re building, the tech stack you’re using, the country you’re in, and so on.

Variables that decide the final price of the MVP include:

  • In-house vs. outsourced development
  • Type of application
  • The features you want to include
  • The complexity of your design
  • The tech stack used to develop the app
  • Any post-launch costs, including marketing, sales, and maintenance

RebelDot’s predictions for MVPs in 2023:

With the ever-increasing list of emerging technologies coming to market, we expect MVP development to become even more popular in 2023. As businesses focus on new tech, there will be a heightened focus on cloud services and IoT to offer maximum value to their customers.

With so much new tech entering the market, we’re seeing a greater focus on cybersecurity, with blockchain leading the charge. We’re already seeing blockchain MVP applications hit the market and expect many more over the next year.

MVP development with RebelDot

If you’re looking to give life to a new idea and don’t know where to start or simply need a helping hand creating your MVP, RebelDot is here for you.

Contact us to get started building your minimum viable product!

Greentech apps RebelDot

9 Great greentech apps we love right now

Each day, it feels more and more like we’re living in the future. New and exciting technologies are just on the horizon, changing our lives in key ways.

But perhaps the most important area of tech today is greentech. Greentech applications are pieces of tech that helps reduce, mitigate, or reverse the impact of our activity on the environment. This is important all the time, but especially in an era where climate change is more prevalent than ever before.

In the past, we’ve covered how machine learning and AI can be used to power greentech. Today, we’re going to be looking at greentech apps and services that you should know about. Most of these are services you can start using today to reduce your carbon footprint. So, let’s dive in!

9 greentech applications you should know about

PaperKarma

First up on our list of greentech applicaitons is PaperKarma. PaperKarma is a straightforward service that not only cuts waste but helps keeps you from wasting time.

It does this by eliminating junk snail-mail. When you receive junk mail that you aren’t interested in, just take a picture of it and submit it to PaperKarma. PaperKarma will then remove you from that mailing list, preventing you from getting more mail from that service.

This has the dual benefit of adding convenience to your life and removing paper waste from the environment. It can also free up space on mail trucks, reducing energy usage.

ThredUp

ThredUp is an online consignment and thrift store. That’s it! Just like how you have local thrift stores carrying secondhand clothing, ThredUp offers stylish clothes that have already been worn.
ThredUp’s approach is great (and green) for a few reasons. Not everyone has access to a secondhand clothing store in their region, so ThredUp can be a great online option.

And most traditional thrift stores don’t offer online shopping because their inventory is so varied and changeable. ThredUp gives users to search through a large catalog of second-hand clothing, giving them the chance to find what they truly want.

This approach helps reduce people purchasing new clothing and keeps perfectly good, used clothing out of landfills — both major environmental benefits.

Bikemap

As the name implies, Bikemap helps people navigate cities by bicycle. The goal of Bikemap is to encourage people to ride their bikes in situations where they might normally opt for a fossil-fuel-powered vehicle.

It’s a great tool, as cycling directions can be hard to come by depending on where you live. At the time of writing, Bikemap covers 674 million kilometers of cycling paths, so you’re bound to find great directions no matter where you’re located. And with over 7 million existing users, Bikemap is already making a difference and getting people to move towards greener forms of transportation.

Too good to go

Too Good To Go might sound “too good to be true,” but this greentech application’s premise is simple. It’s an app that seeks to reduce food waste by letting people buy food that would otherwise be thrown away from restaurants, grocery stores, and more.

Food waste is a huge environmental problem, and much of the food we throw away is perfectly edible. Too Good To Go helps keep this food out of the trash and lets users purchase food from their favorite restaurants at massively discounted rates. They do this by offering a “magic bag” (or mystery bag) of food that is at or nearing it’s expiration date, or is leftover at the end of the day. Restaurants and stores can keep food from being wasted, and consumers can enjoy tasty food at low prices — what’s not to love?!

Back market

Many people overlook e-waste — the waste produced by electronics. But as a tech company, we’re keenly aware just how big an issue e-waste is. Electronics are some of the hardest products to recycle or reuse, so finding ways to extend the life of our technology is crucial.

That’s where Back Market fits in. It’s a UK-based refurbished electronics store, allowing people to purchase perfectly functional, second-hand electronics. Their goal is to reduce the amount of e-waste each person produces, and so far they’ve been successful in their mission.

Fat Llama

How many times have you run to the store to buy a tool for a DIY project only to never use that tool again? Our consumer culture encourages this type of “single-use” purchasing which is terrible for the environment.

Fat Llama is trying to change how we think about getting things done. It’s a greentech app that allows you to lend and borrow anything from people nearby. The idea is to reduce the amount of new items that people purchase, saving them money and saving the environment in the process.

ethy

ethy is a greentech application that we can all use in our effort to make conscious spending decisions.

ethy works by showing you trustworthy brands that are doing their part to make a difference in helping the environment. It’s a fast resource that you can access when deciding to buy something to make sure that you’re reducing your carbon footprint every time you shop.

OLIO

Similar to Too Good To Go, OLIO is all about reducing food waste. Unlike Too Good To Go, however, OLIO focuses on community sharing rather than reducing commercial food waste.

To use the app, you just list something you’d like to give away. For the most part, that’s going to be food, pet food, or kitchen items, though you can find other items on the app. Then all you have to do is wait for someone to come and pick up the goods!

Ecosia

Last but not least on our list of greentech apps is Ecosia. Ecosia is an app you may have heard of, as it’s grown in popularity over the years. Ecosia is a search engine, like Google or DuckDuckGo, but it has a green twist.

Unlike those other search engines, Ecosia vows to plant trees with the money it earns from ad revenue. Every time you make a search on Ecosia, you’re helping plant more trees around the world. It’s that simple.

Build your own greentech software with RebelDot.

These apps are great ways to incorporate greentech in your day-to-day life, but you don’t have to stop there!

You can build your own greentech applications today by partnering with RebelDot. Reach out to our team of experts today to make your greentech idea a reality.

RebelDot sprint planning

Can a positive work environment have a favorable impact on our future?

Our physical environment has an effect on our motivation, productivity, and even general health; – not to mention the effects of rewards (bonuses, working hours, holidays), connections at work, and many other factors. Our behavior and general attitude about work may be impacted more than anything by the fact that we spend a lot of time at the same office, with the same people, Nevertheless, more recently, working from home does also have implications on the way we perceive work.

These factors are already impacting us, whether it’s your typical working conditions, the culture fostered within your team or the interpersonal relationships you have with your coworkers.

So the question is: Does your work environment have a favorable or unfavorable effect on your future?

The dynamic of the work environment, or the attitude that dominates the office and in which we all participate, is a component of work that is difficult to define in precise words in any business.
Each person tells the story of the party from the perspective that best suits them.

Everyone can perceive the office atmosphere for at least two reasons:

It has more to do with how we perform tasks than what we perform.
It consists of elements including time, place, our work habits, and how we relate to others. Because a company’s positive work environment extends beyond the boundaries of the office it doesn’t matter whether we work from home or not…

rebeldot work environment

Why is it important to cultivate a positive workplace environment?

Sustaining the workplace boosts productivity, helps retain employees, and, most significantly, is good for the company as a whole, affecting each of its member’s mental health.

Even jobs with fantastic offices, big salaries, or responsibilities that are entirely vocational are not perfect. However, there is one thing that can save innumerable situations regardless of whether these circumstances exist or, more crucially, when they do not: maintain a positive workplace atmosphere.

To put it another way, the workplace environment, or working atmosphere, is that which you cannot see or touch but which makes you look forward to going to work, feel at ease when you enter the office, accept the need to put in a little extra time or encourage others to apply for jobs there.

“It is clear that maintaining a positive work environment will not always be a solution for any severe issues a company may experience.”

Positive working environments, on the other hand, tip the scale in favor of a business believing that it has the necessary conditions to provide appropriate psychological well-being for its employees when conditions are not as extreme.

On the other hand, those who have the option to leave the company will do so as soon as they can, when the dynamic of the work environment is poor.

Stress and demotivation are generated, relationships are tense and less productive, and these are all effects of poor office environments.

The future of work is influenced by a variety of things. The last of the six factors we listed above, which has to do with the degree of interpersonal harmony within the organization, is by far the most crucial.

Coworker friendships are wonderful if they exist, but they are not necessary for individuals to work well together.

The future of work is influenced by a variety of things. The last of the six factors we listed above, which has to do with the degree of interpersonal harmony within the organization, is by far the most crucial.

Coworker friendships are wonderful if they exist, but they are not necessary for individuals to work well together.

However, for working with others to be rewarding, relationships must also have other elements:

  • friendliness,
  • honest cooperation,
  • trust,
  • compassion

“Nobody enjoys working in an environment where stress can be easily sliced with a knife.”

RebelDot office atmosphere

What qualities make a workplace productive?

A healthy workplace fosters a culture that influences employees: development, attitudes, and mindsets. Positive work environments may contribute to employees feeling satisfied with their employer.

Maintaining a healthy company culture can help businesses create a great work environment by

  • encouraging employee development,
  • promoting communication,
  • assisting people in feeling at home and safe at work.

A productive workplace has a number of distinguishable characteristics. Knowing this environment’s common characteristics can help you better understand it and look for them in your present or future employers.

Positive work environments have the following qualities:

1. A tranquil climate

A tranquil climate that promotes higher levels of productivity characterizes a positive work environment. You’re more likely to stay focused and complete more of your everyday tasks when there are few distractions around you. It also means that you are able to work in a workplace that is stress-free and supports your physical and cognitive health.

2. Clear communication

Clear communication between the many members of an organization is a component of healthy work settings.

Both communications between coworkers and senior management fall under this category. It can make you feel valued at work if you have the chance to ask questions and get feedback.

You can also develop by getting honest, constructive feedback.

3. You can solicit suggestions

You can solicit suggestions from your coworkers, for instance, if you’re working on a new project that calls for brainstorming.

Growing your professional network and raising the standard of your work can be facilitated by knowing you can ask them questions and get their honest opinions.

RebelDot development team

4. An attitude of respect

An attitude of respect, empathy, and general understanding between coworkers characterize a positive workplace.

Additionally, they can make you feel heard and respected at work and promote teamwork.

One way to know you’re valued and that someone actually cares about your contribution to the firm is when a coworker thanks you for helping them with a project.

It’s crucial to work in a supportive workplace where developing your unique talents and strengths is encouraged. You may be able to find career satisfaction as a result.

This aspect of a supportive workplace is crucial because it indicates that you can grow in your career with the help of your employer, boss, and coworkers. Additionally, you can create more work of higher quality and quantity if you are more driven.

5. A positive outlook on work

A positive outlook on work might contribute to a good mood all day long. For instance, if you’re a team leader and you have a problem with a client, how you handle it may affect how other team members feel about you.

Your team is more inclined to emulate you if you can overcome the challenge with a positive approach. In the end, having a positive mindset might help you and your team concentrate on the advantages rather than the disadvantages.

6. A healthy balance between your personal and professional lives

A healthy balance between your personal and professional lives makes for a productive workplace. This guarantees that you can keep enjoying your career without having it interfere with other aspects of your life.

RebelDot positive workplace

Is RebelDot the work environment you’d like to grown in?

To sum it up, a positive work environment enables workers to achieve fulfillment in both their professional and personal life.

At RebelDot this is something we are actively working on, co-creating a positive work environment that encourages productivity, but, most of all, which accommodates all our personal differences. A physical place that encourages us to keep being rebels, meaning fostering our own personality, letting it shine through every task we’re doing, every little initiative, and every conversation we have.

If this sounds like the kind of place you’d like to work in, have a look on our careers page and see if there’s a role that suits you. Otherwise, you can just pop in our Rebel Cafe to talk directly to someone from our team and see for yourself if that’s somewhere you could grow and fulfill your personal and professional ambitions.