Data driven prop-tech platform

Client

Spica Technologies is a UK-based company focused on creating smart, efficient, and sustainable commercial spaces through the use of cutting-edge technology such as AI, IoT, and cloud-based software. Their core platform offers a single interface for various SaaS solutions aimed at operational excellence, better facility experiences, and sustainability.

Challenge

Custom Development in Flutter
The primary challenge was to continue developing a Flutter-based digital product for Spica Technologies, a tool with high future potential but limited expert support. We had to work closely with Google’s Flutter team, ensuring the end product was recognized by Google and met the unique needs of property and facilities management.

Architecture Modernization
Our review pinpointed several shortcomings in Spica Tech’s existing system, including scalability, reliability, and operational complexity. The challenge lay in recommending a move to Kubernetes and managed services, aiming to bolster system resilience and performance while still being mindful of the existing limitations and development resources.

I’ve been impressed with their work ethic — they work very hard. On top of that, they have impressive technical skills. A few times they’ve had to learn on the job, but they quickly pick up new skills and they’re diligent about the work they produce.
COO, Spica Technologies Ltd, Paul Jones

Scope

Custom Development in Flutter
We assembled a team of Flutter experts who collaborated with Spica Tech and Google’s Flutter team to innovate and implement best practices. The result was a custom, future-proof web and mobile application that had a direct impact on both the client’s development potential and the end-customer experience. The app was even acknowledged by Google upon the release of Flutter v2.0.

Architecture Modernization
Based on our in-depth analysis, we proposed a comprehensive architectural shift. We recommended adopting Kubernetes for application deployment and caching, and migrating other components to managed services. Implementing Infrastructure-as-a-Code, automating deployments, and establishing well-defined SLAs, SLIs, and SLOs formed part of the roadmap to modernize the existing architecture. The focus was to free up the development team to concentrate on business logic while making the system more robust and scalable.

Results (end customer)

Results for Custom Development in Flutter
The collaboration led to a robust mobile and web application that significantly boosted our client’s development potential by 80%. The end customers benefitted from improved building and facilities management, along with increased employee security during the pandemic. The project earned recognition from Google with the new release of Flutter v2.0.

Results for Architecture Modernization
While this aspect of the project is still ongoing, early indicators are promising. The implementation of Kubernetes and the shift toward managed services have already shown improvements in system reliability and robustness. However, it’s too early to quantify the exact benefits or to declare the modernization a complete success. The team is actively working on it, and we’re closely monitoring performance metrics and other key indicators.