⇒ How do I know if I need custom software?
That's a great question because in truth many projects don't, and there's zero need to reinvent the wheel if a great out-of-the-box product truly meets your needs. Often we can help determine this in an initial conversation. If your needs are more complex, we suggest a Deep Dive to produce a full analysis of your options and suggested routes. If we're not the right fit for you, we'll be the first to admit it and will do our best to recommend like-minded colleagues that specialize in just what you need.
⇒ What if we're not starting from scratch and already have custom software/an app?
We're generally happy to dive into some legacy code and strategize the best approach to brownfield development. And if you need to have someone look under the hood to see what you've got there, we'd love to hook you up with a comprehensive Technology Audit. Use our impartiality and expertise to provide a comprehensive audit and suggest improvements.
⇒ What's it like to work with Dojo4?
We really do consider our clients to be extended family members of the cooperative (and not only because we often end up working with our clients for many years). During onboarding, you will be assigned a Project Lead who, as a member-owner of Dojo4, is invested in your success and serves as the point person for all stakeholders. Through our transparent and straightforward project management software and weekly invoices, you will have an open line of communication with our team. If you're local or passing through town, we hope you'll come grab a seat and a cuppa at our office and we can hack away at the work side-by-side. Our client relationships are built on total transparency and trust, and we are always open to questions and feedback. Feel free to ask us for references while evaluating if Dojo4 is the right fit for your company or organization.
⇒ What are your rates?
Our pricing & processes are completely transparent. We charge a flat hourly rate of $195-$245 USD depending on the specifics of the project. This adjusts to $250-$275 USD if we are not using Dojo4’s Standard Agreements. The budget of our average project ranges from $100k USD to $1.5m USD. We also regularly contribute pro bono hours to social/environmental impact projects, and we value impact and values-alignment over other specifics. If you think we might be a good match, please reach out regardless of budgets. Hours are tracked and visible to you on a daily basis, and invoicing occurs on a weekly basis.
⇒ How do I get started?
We're old school. No intake forms or fancy screening processes. If you’re out to make a positive impact in the world, let’s just have a conversation. Email dojo4@dojo4.com to get the ball rolling, or stop by our office in downtown Boulder, Colorado.
Once we're clear on the project's objectives and deliverables, we will provide a timeline and estimate, which serve as the basis for an Engagement Agreement. We’ll then work together to finalize a Master Services Agreement. After that, money will change hands, a formal kick-off meeting will be held, a bottle of champagne will be smashed against the Project Lead's laptop, and we'll be off!