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IT

Software developers for SaaS - how to maximize subscriptions?

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March 13, 2023
15 min read

The Software as a Service (SaaS) industry is in full swing today, with a growth potential of $147.44 billion from 2022 to 2026. In fact, BetterCloud reports that SaaS will comprise 85% of software used by organizations by 2025. However, the SaaS market is getting saturated at a rapid pace, as most of the new SaaS firms have to compete aggressively with established brands. 

Undoubtedly, the SaaS market has a huge potential and offers great opportunities if you are offering some unique services better than other market players. On top of that, there are plenty of other ways to maximize subscriptions. In this blog, we will focus on SaaS software developers and discuss how they can assist in maximizing subscriptions. So, let's begin our discussion.

two women sitting at the table with laptop and notes, talking to each other

Customer expectations from SaaS companies

Before we jump to how SaaS companies can maximize subscriptions with the skills of software developers, it's important to have a quick glimpse of what are the main customer expectations from SaaS companies.

Today, every company is somehow using SaaS services and actively looking to increase dependence on such services owing to a wide range of benefits. But they do have some major expectations from SaaS companies. Some of the key ones are as follows:

  1. Transparency

Considering the growing buzz around data breaches and privacy concerns, customers often have a feeling of distrust of SaaS companies. Since they are collecting and processing substantial sensitive data of customers, it makes customers fear data privacy and security. Therefore, it is becoming more important for SaaS companies to act very transparently on how they work, how they process data, how they handle sensitive data, changes in policies, and similar other aspects that can make customers feel comfortable.

  1. Continuous evolving features

Customers have plenty of choices to choose from, so it's not easy for SaaS companies to retain customers for a long duration without introducing new features. New pain paints keep emerging as customers change or upgrade their processes. Similarly, the desire to try some new features also urges customers to expect more from SaaS companies. Therefore, it is important for SaaS companies to continuously evolve their features to meet new emerging customers' needs and keep them engaged.

  1. Communication

Customers of today's digitalized era want instant and direct conservation with SaaS companies. They want their queries to be addressed in real-time. Moreover, they want their opinions and feedback to be acknowledged. Therefore, SaaS companies should have a top-notch communication bridge for customers so that they can easily and freely share their queries and thoughts.

  1. Personalization and flexibility

It does not matter if a SaaS company is providing a unique solution, it should also incorporate personalization and flexibility aspects to attract more customers. Customers no longer like paying for features they don't use or resources that are extra for them. Similarly, they don't like the SaaS company's branding to interfere with their user experience. That's why SaaS companies need to give a touch of personalization in their services and flexibility in their plans.

Other than the above four major customer expectations from SaaS companies, there can be a lot more depending on the specific niche and the market competition. Thus, it takes a lot of market intelligence and state-of-the-art services to attract, engage, and retain customers in the current competitive SaaS industry. However, SaaS software developers can play a key role here. Let's now dig into this point in detail. 

SaaS software developer working with laptop and tablet

How SaaS software developers help maximize subscriptions?

SaaS solutions available today are of different natures. Some solutions are related to specific business problems, like invoicing software, customer relationship management, and similar others, while others are full-stack software that is meant to serve as a one-stop solution to fulfill the business needs of a specific industry. Behind every SaaS solution, there is a team of software developers that can turn an idea into an actionable product. 

Since SaaS software developers are the key to bringing SaaS ideas to life, they are often considered just the professionals who will assist in the development. However, software developers have another critical role to play, i.e., to maximize subscriptions. So, it is not just the job of the marketing team to run marketing campaigns, but the SaaS software developers can be of great assistance here. Based on customers' demands and competitors' services, developers can elevate the overall user experience with additional features or other enhancements. Below we are presenting the three use cases of SaaS software developers that can help maximize subscriptions: 

  1. SaaS software developers help create a website

In the current digitally advanced era, most businesses need a website to attract customers and succeed. Talking specifically about SaaS, clear and attractive websites are essential to make customers get interested in the products/services. Websites provide a direct reflection of the solutions you are offering and urge the customers to at least request a demo. 

Most SaaS companies do have a basic level website, but often it is outdated or just follows a common layout that fails to impress the audience. According to Stanford's web credibility research, 75% of users acknowledge that they make judgments about the credibility of a company based on its website's design. So, what makes a website credible? Some of the attributes of a best-in-class website include:

  • It provides a touch of the product in the website design, matching the interface, colors, styles, etc.
  • It provides a strong, easy-to-understand overview of the product.
  • It provides attractive pages of features/solutions.
  • It provides clear reasoning on what makes the business unique with a prominent value proposition.
  • It provides convincing call-to-action prompts, such as “watch a demo”, “request a demo”, “talk to sales”, “sign up now”, etc. 
  • It provides access to premium content like case studies, e-books, videos, and similar others that users can access by sharing their contact details.
  • It clearly explains the product's security. 
  • It provides an easy way to get in touch with customer support for existing customers.

Overall, the website plays an effective role in impressing and making customers go for more details. 

SaaS software developers holding expertise in web development can play a game-changing role here. They have more in-depth knowledge of the key customers' pain points and the key offerings of the company. Based on this information and collaborating with the design team, they can design an engaging website that not just elaborate the service offerings through demos or strong product overviews but also provide a whole-new web experience to the customers. This experience will give customers confidence in the quality of service they will receive. Eventually, you can have the best website in place that can increase engagement and help increase subscriptions.

  1. SaaS software developers help create an app

It is seen that SaaS companies put all their efforts into developing the best desktop versions and remain hesitant to transform the offerings into mobile apps. Their preference is often to create a mobile-friendly design. But the growing day-to-day use of smartphones is asking more from SaaS companies. 85% of smartphone users prefer mobile apps over mobile websites.

It is optional for SaaS companies to provide full desktop capabilities in the mobile app. They can add those functionalities of their service that best fits with the mobile experience. Below are some key points that highlight the importance of mobile apps for SaaS companies:

  • A mobile app makes a SaaS company an anywhere service that provides its users an "on the go" mobile experience. For example, users might be able to quickly look at dashboards or take other actions while waiting in a coffee line. 
  • A mobile app gives a significant competitive edge. If your app addresses the shortcomings of your competitors' mobile apps and offers more responsiveness, then you are leading the race here. A survey even shows that 96% of users prefer app responsiveness and speed over everything. 
  • A mobile app increases the retention rate significantly, as users are getting around-the-clock access to services. 
  • A mobile app gives a sense of convenience that attracts new users, thereby increasing subscriptions. 

Overall, a mobile app helps SaaS companies achieve more with less effort. Therefore, SaaS software developers serve as a great helping hand here. They can look through what key offerings can be integrated into the mobile app and can then work on developing a minimal viable product (MVP). 

Once an MVP version of the app is created, you can get responses from users and gradually add/enhance capabilities to make a full-fledged app. Even if the SaaS company doesn't have the resources or skill sets to develop an app in-house, it can take the assistance of a software development company to develop custom-made mobile apps. Once you have a responsive and feature-rich app in place, all now left is marketing to grab the attention of the potential audience and maximize subscriptions.

  1. SaaS software developers help develop additional features

Just like other industries, the SaaS industry is also competitive. The new SaaS companies not only have to offer all the services their competitors are offering but also include some unique functionalities at attractive prices.

If a SaaS company is fulfilling the users' needs in only one specific area and making users shift to other platforms for other needs, then it cannot retain them for the long run. The Vendasta study shows that selling just one product to small and midsize businesses (SMBs) results in just a 30% retention rate after two years, while the retention rate jumps to 80% if the company is selling four products. So, it's an all-in-one solution structure that users need today to commit to long-term retention and invite others by word-of-mouth. 

Here it is worth knowing that a SaaS company delivering an all-in-one solution still needs to add new features regularly to engage users with the platform and increase the average customer value (ACV) over time. AppFolio, a well-known property management SaaS company, is the best example here. During its IPO, AppFolio was charging an average of $5,000/year per account. But the gradual additions of new capabilities let the average per year per account spending go up to $13,000, along with a significant new number of subscriptions.

The above discussion summarizes that a SaaS company must keep increasing its capabilities with additional features and services to increase retention rate and maximize subscription. The best way to do it is by working with SaaS software developers that can keep researching new functionalities they can add to the platform. They can look into competitors' offerings, gather feedback from users, address new emerging pain points, and dig more to find new capabilities that look appealing to users.

Even if the in-house SaaS software developers are incapable of finding and developing new capabilities for the platform, then a SaaS company can even use Teams on Demand, which includes experienced personnel who can collaborate with in-house software developers to brainstorm, design, and deploy new functionalities. In short, SaaS software developers play the leading role in developing additional features, eventually increasing retention rates and maximizing subscriptions.

Wrapping up – find your companion to maximize subscriptions

It is the dream of every emerging SaaS company to have continuous inflows of new subscriptions with maximized retention rate. However, it takes a lot of effort to keep the interest of users intact. As discussed in this blog, SaaS software developers are the key to maximizing subscriptions. They first bring the idea into a full-fledged product and then can uplift the service quality with a top-notch website, feature-rich app, and regular addition of new features. But not every company has SaaS software developers with such skill levels. So, that's why you should choose wisely. 

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Business
IT

The growing role of artificial intelligence in IT recruitment: opportunities and risks

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March 8, 2023
15 min read

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the recruitment process has been growing rapidly in recent years, and the IT industry has been one of the first to embrace this technology. AI has the potential to revolutionize the way companies find and hire talented IT professionals, making the process faster, more efficient, and more objective.

AI in IT recruitment - advantages

1. Automating many manual tasks

One of the main advantages of AI in IT recruitment is the ability to automate many manual tasks. For example, AI can be used to screen resumes, schedule interviews, and conduct candidate assessments. This not only saves time and resources but also ensures that all candidates are treated fairly and objectively. AI can also analyze large amounts of data, such as candidate resumes and job descriptions, to identify the most relevant and qualified candidates.

2. Enhancing the candidate experience

Another benefit of AI in IT recruitment is the ability to enhance the candidate experience. AI-powered chatbots, for example, can provide candidates with instant answers to common questions, reducing the need for manual intervention by recruiters. This helps to create a more efficient and positive experience for candidates, making it more likely that they will apply for future positions or recommend the company to others.

chatGPT mobile view

3. Chat GPT - uncountable solutions

The year 2023 came with a game-changer when it comes to AI thanks to Chat GPT. The possibilities of the usage of this tool in everyday tasks for recruiters are uncountable - from help in writing attractive job offers on job boards to generating questions to be able to review technical knowledge without involving technically skilled persons to process.

AI in IT recruitment - disadvantages

However, despite the many benefits of AI in IT recruitment, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. 

1. Biased decision-making

One of the main concerns is the risk of biased decision-making. AI algorithms can only be as unbiased as the data they are trained on, and if the training data contains biases, this could lead to discriminatory results. To mitigate this risk, companies need to ensure that their AI systems are trained on diverse and representative data sets.

checking paper resume, and with a pen

2. Lack of human oversight

Another challenge is the need for human oversight. While AI can automate many tasks, it is still important for recruiters to review the results and make final decisions. This helps to ensure that the best candidates are selected and that the recruitment process remains fair and ethical.

AI in IT recruitment - a summary

In conclusion, the use of AI in the IT recruitment process offers many benefits, but also requires careful consideration and management. Companies need to balance the potential advantages of AI with the potential risks and ensure that they have the right processes and systems in place to maximize the benefits while minimizing the drawbacks. With the right approach, AI has the potential to revolutionize the way IT professionals are hired, making the process faster, more efficient, and more objective. 

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IT
IT

How to get started in IT?

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March 6, 2023
15 min read

How to get started in IT - this question troubles many of us today. There is no denying it, in recent years the IT industry has been growing at a dizzying pace, and the job of a software developer is one of the more desirable on the market. There is no shortage of candidates for this position.

According to an Evolution survey, as many as 24% of Poles want to rebrand themselves and apply for jobs in the IT industry. 

Source: https://evolution.biuroprasowe.pl/195384/juz-blisko-%C2%BC-polakow-mysli-o-zmianie-branzy-na-it-raport-firmy-evolution

So how do you get started in IT?

I come to you with an answer to this question. Over the past 8 years, I have met a lot of people on my path who are eager to start a career in IT, watched how juniors develop and supported them in this journey. Now I want to help you at the start, answer your questions and concerns, and pass on the knowledge I have acquired over the years.

 

If you prefer video content, below is a link to our webinar, in which we discuss the topic of IT startup in detail. The blog entry is a collection of key findings and advice but also includes additional information. We encourage you to check out both formats.

You can watch the full webinar (PL) here:

What do bootcamps not teach?

Bootcamp is certainly an option that many novice developers choose as a start in the IT world. No wonder, after all, bootcamps advertise themselves as an intensive course that allows you to learn in a short period the knowledge you need to get started as a software developer. That is, in short, IT knowledge in a nutshell. But only theoretically.

Certainly following this path has many advantages, such as:

  • mentorship,
  • quality, helpful materials,
  • homework
  • unlimited access.

However, it's worth bearing in mind that this is not the only ideal option that will provide you with all your programming knowledge after one course. And this, unfortunately, is often the belief, and this is how most bootcamps advertise themselves.

It's easy to get into an average bootcamp

  1. A bootcamp will teach you the basics of programming, but these days their quality varies. You may come across a great bootcamp, but the course you choose will offer something other than real knowledge.
  2. Bootcamp will NOT give you a guarantee of finding a job.
  3. Bootcamps often fail to teach the right skills.
  4. Knowledge in the IT industry is changing rapidly, a lot of news is coming out, and unfortunately, not all bootcamps keep their materials up to date. Bootcamps simply can't keep up with what is expected in the market.
  5. Resumes and portfolios that bootcamp helps you prepare are often more damaging than helpful at a job interview. Why? Because they are repetitive. It's better to show off your solution, or project and not necessarily take shortcuts.

If you're already deciding on a bootcamp, sign up for the one most often chosen by others, after which most participants find a job or internship. A good bootcamp can give you valuable knowledge and even make it easier to find your first job - but you need to choose carefully. Do some decent research before you decide to spend your time and budget on it.

Earnings in IT, and the reality

Unfortunately, but as with bootcamps - the reality in earnings is different from how advertisements and a job offer portray it. Unfortunately, at the beginning of your career, your earnings will not come close to those advertised. Why? Because there is an oversupply in the market - there are a lot of juniors and interns applying for their first jobs. The employer overstates the requirements. It is required to have a basic knowledge of a particular programming language, to know what Scrum is, how to apply agile programming methodology, and what are the differences between QA, DevOps, and so on. Realistic earnings of juniors are in the order of 2.5, thousand to 3.5 thousand zlotys, and the ranges are much higher - unfortunately, these are marketing tricks of bootcamps and recruitment agencies.

It's worth keeping this in mind at the interview and, when asked about expected salary, don't immediately offer huge amounts for regulars or seniors.

The most common mistakes at job interviews

the most common mistakes at job interviews
  • Doomed fate in bootcamps - as discussed earlier
  • IT is all about hard skills - Such a belief is wrong. Recruiters do not only expect technical knowledge, but also soft skills, which you will need - in working in a team, with a client, and in good communication.
  • I can program, and now I'm making money - Unfortunately, Rome wasn't built in a day, and you won't shoot into the Senior Developer role at the beginning of your career. It's worth gaining some humility here and the belief that everything will come with time - including promotions. To begin with, focus on gaining knowledge and experience.
  • I am running for a role to which I am not necessarily predisposed - The IT industry is a myriad of different positions! You don't necessarily have to be a front-end developer just because it's the most popular one. QA Engineer, Project Manager, and many other positions may be a better choice for you. Check all your options carefully.

Is this even the job for me?

If you want to start a career in IT, it's worth considering whether it's definitely for you. Answer these 3 questions for yourself:

  1. Do I have the right amount of knowledge?- Gained at bootcamp and in my free time.
  2. Do I have interpersonal skills? - Respect for people, hardworking, and willing to develop.
  3. Do I have a passion for programming, reading every IT news with blazing eyes?

If you answered yes to all the questions - this job is for you :)

Roles in IT, or if you were a character from James Bond

If I were to describe to you most simply the roles that occur in IT, I think the reference to characters from the iconic Agent 007 movies would be apt.

  1. Software Developer - The most popular profession in IT. Q is the man, producing gadgets for Bond.
  2. QA (Quality Assurance Engineer) - An agent for special tasks, he likes to spoil what Q has produced.
  3. DevOps - Bond girl, a bit inaccessible, but turns out to be a computer magician.
  4. Project Manager - M - disposes of tasks for the team and makes sure that everything works like a well-oiled machine.
  5. Business Analyst - MI6 interviews, takes photos analyzes, and forwards to M.

Freelancing as a gateway - or if not through the door, then through the chimney

If you have tried to find a job through various methods - through recruiters, referrals, and internship programs - to no avail, there is another option, which is freelancing.

Being a freelance developer has its pros and cons. By advertising our services on portals such as Fiverr or Useme, we have a chance to catch our first assignments, build a portfolio and earn money from it at the same time. Freelance rates are often higher than those offered on a full-time basis, but maintaining the continuity of assignments and earnings is much more difficult in this case. However, don't give up - by building a portfolio, collecting client feedback, and documenting your work, you gain initial experience and become a better developer. This can be a gateway to later work in a software house or a system for working independently and earning money.

Why IT is different from other industries

why IT is different from other industries

  • Dynamics of change - Frequent changes in trends, languages, and approaches
  • High entry threshold - The knowledge you gained yesterday may not be relevant today
  • Low entry threshold - Freelance, no educational requirements

Important aspects

important aspects

The character

The times when a developer sat in the basement are a thing of the past, and interpersonal skills can be learned. 

Knowledge

Target one technology, don't grab a few pigs by the tail. The rest will come later. 

Goal

Don't be shy about what you would like to achieve in IT, ambitious people are valued. 

In addition to these 3 most important aspects, I can also give you some valuable advice that I wish I had heard myself in the past. Be authentic. This may seem like a cliche, but it's true. Technical knowledge can be made up quickly, it's the character work that is the hardest. Remember that your success is not the finish line. If you get to your dream job, don't rest on your laurels. An internship is just the beginning. Well, and don't give up too quickly! One failed interview is not the end of the world.

Hopefully, this collection of key information and tips will help you start your career in the IT world soon. I'm keeping my fingers crossed and wishing you good luck!

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IT
Startup
Business

Lessons learned from best fintech startups

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February 27, 2023
15 min read

Lessons Learned from the Best Fintech Websites

Web design is an evolving process that is undergoing constant refinement as designers as clients and designers seek to design their websites for optimal performance. FinTech companies have the unique challenge of staying up-to-date with the latest web design trends while ensuring that their website is secure and compliant with regulations. To help make this process easier, we've gathered key lessons from some of the best fintech websites.

What makes fintech websites different?

Fintech websites face a number of unique challenges that require careful consideration. The most crucial factor is the need for a secure website. Fintech companies must ensure that their customers' financial data remains safe and secure, so it's essential to use the latest security measures.

A critical factor in designing a fintech website is ensuring that users can easily navigate the site and access vital information quickly. It's essential to build trust through a satisfying User Experience (UX), which begins with an excellent User Interface (UI). The UI and UX must be designed to appeal to the target audience while providing users easy access to the information they need. If you're interested in learning more about UX/UI, check our article on Figma vs. Developers, where we cover this in more detail.

Let's look at some examples of great fintech websites that demonstrate how to successfully take on the challenges of creating a secure, compliant, and user-friendly website.

8 of the best fintech websites to learn from

1. Wise

Wise is a UK-based fintech company that offers money transfer and foreign exchange services. The website features a sleek, modern design with clear navigation and easy access to the core features of its service. The site also complies with all the relevant regulations, making it secure and trustworthy.

Wise allows users to make global payments in multiple currencies easily and cost-effectively. On their homepage, the online calculator shows you not just how much money you would send or receive in a transfer but how they arrive at that calculation step by step. This openness helps to demystify the process and build trust with users.

The site is built around a predominantly white and blue color palette, which helps to keep the design minimal and modern. The simple visuals also help make complex information easier to digest.

Wise follows a trend popular in the best fintech websites and has a single landing page, with only a few additional pages to allow users to delve into features and pricing a little more deeply. The landing page provides a breakdown of all essential elements, such as security, and multiple variants of the same call-to-action, such as "Open an account" and "Order your card."

There is social proof on the site, with a link to Wise's Trustpilot page and videos of users discussing their experience with Wise, helping to boost trust. Overall, the design is straightforward and effective - proving that simplicity and openness are key in fintech website design.\

2. Stripe

Stripe is a global fintech company providing a platform for businesses to accept payments. They offer an array of services, from fraud protection and recurring billing to analytics tools and marketplaces.

The Stripe website has a modern yet elegant design that perfectly reflects the company's brand identity. The hero section is dominated by an animated splash of color that ebbs and flows against a dark-blue and white backdrop.

Stripe uses animation throughout its landing page, switching between examples of the app payments. These scroll slowly, unlike some sites that seek to rush as many examples past your eyes as possible.

Unlike Wise, Stripe's landing page links to a large library of products, which can be accessed through the menu bar or the page's footer. There are also many menu items for case studies, developer resources, etc., that highlight Stripe's target audiences; businesses, not individuals. The list of companies shown above the fold further reinforces that Stripe works with well-known brands.

The Stripe website offers a great example of how to design a fintech site that appeals to businesses successfully. The animated visuals, detailed product library, and list of existing corporate users demonstrate the company's trustworthiness and expertise in the field.

stripe fintech website

3. Monzo

Monzo is a UK-based digital bank offering various services, from savings accounts to overdrafts and insurance.

The Monzo site follows a trend set by many other fintech companies, using vivid colors and attractive visuals to draw attention. The mix of bright pink, cyan, and mint green helps users recognize the brand and remember its products. It also clearly suggests that Monzo is different from traditional banks.

Monzo's website is easy to navigate and provides a wealth of helpful information about its services, such as opening an account or applying for a loan. It also has detailed product descriptions, with static visuals demonstrating the features.

The landing page provides an overview of all the key features with simple but effective visuals and concise wording. The user journey is also thoughtfully crafted; when you click on a product link, you're taken to another page that explains more about the feature and how it can be used.

Unlike Wise and Stripe, Monzo offers customer feedback on their homepage, which helps to boost consumer confidence. While, naturally, the statistics they share about their user satisfaction rates paint them in a good light, they do acknowledge that some competitors come close or fractionally exceed them - a move that adds to their credibility.

Monzo provides an excellent example of how a fintech website should be built around the customer experience. The colors and visuals draw attention to the products, while the helpful information gives users all the necessary details. Its customer feedback further showcases Monzo's commitment to offering excellent service.

4. Betterment

Betterment is an online financial services company that helps users save and invest their money with the help of technology. Founded in 2008, Betterment has become one of the largest independent robo-advisors in the United States. It was one of the first companies to bring automated investment advice to retail clients, offering low-fee index fund investing with no minimum balance requirement.

The hero section contains the corporate logo of several publications that have reviewed Betterment and each logo links directly to the review. This reinforces Betterment's credibility and helps to draw attention to the product. As expected, a menu bar in this section allows interested users to explore other products and learn more about the company.

As with all the best fintech websites, the Betterment website features a relatively simple design. The site is dominated by white and yellow spaces and contrasting blue tones, which helps to draw attention to the services on offer. Clear illustrations demonstrate the app's appearance and purpose, while the concise text offers users a quick explanation of the products.

Each section of the landing page contains a simple call to arms, each a variant of "Get started." Betterment does this well, keeping each section brief and to the point, with an accompanying graphic and a simple button to direct users to the next step.

The Betterment website is an excellent model for fintech companies. Its clean design makes it easy to understand, and its clear call-to-action drives users to the appropriate product page. The presence of external reviews also helps build consumer trust and confidence in the company's services.

5. Robinhood

Another great fintech website, Robinhood, targets millennials and offers a free stock trading platform. Founded in 2013, Robinhood's mission is to democratize finance for all. The company has grown rapidly and boasts more than 10 million users. Robinhood gained popularity after introducing a free trading option, which has helped make stock investing accessible to more people.

Visuals of the app in use on mobile phones dominate the homepage. This illuminates the product's primary use case and gives customers a clear image of what they will engage with.

Unlike other sites, Robinhood's landing page features only one call to action - "Learn more," There is little else to the page other than links to the latest articles from their blog. This keeps the page simple and uncluttered.

The only thing that lets Robinhood down is the menu bar, or more specifically, the array of different-looking pages that it sends you too. The menu offers Invest, Crypto, Retirement, and Cash Card, among others, and each has a different design, which is unusual for a fintech website design. However, each is liable to attract a specific audience.

Most visitors to Robinhood already know about the app through social media streams, such as Reddit's infamous WallStreetBets subreddit. It is unlikely that the site's visuals, rather than its content, are the primary attraction for new users. For the landing page and Invest tab, the visuals communicate a sense of excitement and promise about what Robinhood offers - with a green and white color pallet that symbolizes profitable trades.

Overall, Robinhood's website does an excellent job of communicating the key features and benefits of the product. It also uses visuals to draw attention and motivate users to take action while keeping the page uncluttered by limiting content. This is an effective example for fintech companies looking to present their services simply but engagingly.

robinhood landing page

6. Cash App

Cash App is a fintech service from Square, Inc., which allows users to transfer money quickly and securely. The hero section of the homepage is bright and animated with fast-moving elements that suggest a youthfulness that aligns with its target audience.

A QR code on the screen allows visitors to scan it with their phones and download the app quickly. This is the primary call to action, with each following section simply offering to allow visitors to "learn more."

The QR code reappears in the bottom right of the screen when you scroll down for easy access and to remind visitors throughout their journey that they need to download the app.

The key driver of Cash App is to show how easy it is to use, and with that in mind, the site does not initially show you a menu bar, although instructions to various aspects of the app can be accessed through the button hovering in the top right corner of the page, beside a login button.

The simplicity of Cash App's website is its main strength. With everything you need to know front and center, visitors can access the product quickly and learn more if they choose.

Cash App's website is an excellent example for fintech companies looking to simplify their online presence, by keeping content minimal and placing emphasis on visuals.

cash app landing page

7. Rocket

From the moment you land on the page, Rocket makes it clear that their app is for controlling and managing your finances. The site features a pallet of white, black, and red, giving simplicity and elegance to the design.

The hero section of the page is an animation of a phone bearing the app. At a glance, it is possible to see that the app seems simple to use and is meant for the everyday person.

The page then moves into a section that provides social proof from the 3.4 million members, the average rating, and logos of new sites that have reviewed the app.

Perhaps most important is the care given to copywriting on the site. Headers have been crafted to highlight pain points users may be having, such as "Get control over your subscriptions" and "stay on top of spending." This is exactly the kind of messaging that resonates with the audience Rocket is targeting and encourages them to download the app.

Below the features list is more social proof, in this case, a scrolling list of comments

The imagery and visual design on the site are simple but effective, allowing visitors to visualize how they can use the app.

Rocket is an excellent example of a fintech company looking to present its services simply and effectively. The visuals and copywriting combine to tell a story about the product, highlighting its features and benefits while still keeping it accessible for non-technical users. This is a practical approach for any company looking to target a wider audience with their product.

8. Venmo

Venmo is an online payment platform owned by PayPal and designed for friends to exchange money quickly and easily. The page's hero image shows two people using their phones, accompanied by the words "Pay friends," which immediately communicates the purpose of the product visually.

The landing page features several sections that showcase the app's features, such as making payments in both directions, sending reminders, and customizing payments with emojis. Each section includes visuals of how each feature works.

The call-to-action inviting users to download the app and use it for free is prominent at the top of the page and takes you to a sign-up process reminiscent, unsurprisingly, of the PayPal process.

As users scroll down the page, a tab will appear and sit in the bottom right, repeating the call-to-action "Get Venmo."

The concise copy accompanying the array of visuals on the Venmo site is also well-crafted and captures its users' attention. Venmo has seamlessly integrated visuals, copywriting, a sign-up process, and a prominent call-to-action to create an effective website for its product.

Venmo has created an engaging website that quickly communicates its purpose and encourages people to try the product. By focusing on visuals and highlighting the app's features, Venmo shows itself to be one of the best fintech websites, being both informative and visually appealing.

Build your perfect fintech website today

If you're looking for a way to take your fintech business to the next level, contact us today at Qarbon IT and let us help you create the perfect website. We're here to provide you with the best possible service and ensure that your fintech product gets the attention it deserves.

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IT

WEB3 - What is it? Introduction

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February 21, 2023
15 min read

To take a closer look at the topic of web3 we must first learn about web1 and web2.

web1 web2 web3 differences

WEB1 (World Wide Web 1.0) 

WEB1 was the first implementation of the Web that allowed users to receive information without interacting with it, in short, we can read the content published on a Web site with minimal and virtually zero interaction with the site - such a remote library


WEB2 (World Wide Web 2.0) 

WEB2, the improved generation of WEB 1.0 can be called a revolution in the world Internet. The second version allows total interaction: Internet users can share information, participate, edit, etc. WEB2 has a direction focused on user-generated content for other users.



WEB3 (World Wide Web 3.0) 

WEB3 is the third generation of web services for websites and applications, based on data decentralization. It aims to improve the shortcomings of WEB1 and WEB2, and relies heavily on AI, machine learning, and blockchain technology. WEB3's decentralized structure, based on blockchain technology, will give users more control over their online data and is widely considered more secure. The decentralized network is built on a peer-to-peer community of users, where devices connected to the internet can host websites or applications instead of high-powered servers.

Some of the features and concepts that are most important for WEB3 include:

  • Blockchain and cryptocurrencies - online economy and decentralization, data ownership
  • Artificial intelligence - is key in transforming the content that humans post, more developed AI bots that will learn on their own and assist and reduce the work of humans.
  • 3D data visualization and presentation of their interaction (metaverse)
  • lack of a master data control point
  • improved online marketing

Ethereum - definition

In addition, another important term to focus on is Ethereum. You've probably heard of Ether, which is a cryptocurrency that runs on the Ethereum blockchain. However, Ethereum itself is not a cryptocurrency - it's a software platform that enables developers to build decentralized applications using blockchain technology. 

Ether is used to power these applications and smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain, acting as a fuel similar to gasoline for vehicles.

Token - definition

Token - represents a virtual resource, which can also be expressed in terms of FIAT currencies, indicating its value.

Smart contracts - definition

Smart contracts are digital contracts that are executed automatically on the basis of real data, one of the important possibilities that a smart contract provides is the creation of a token. Currently, Ethereum tokens have an implementation standard called ERC-20 or Ethereum Request for Comments, in other words, they have a property that makes each token exactly the same in value and type as another token.

Decentralized applications - definition

Decentralized apps are apps that support smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain, called dApps or decentralized apps. Just as any app developer can create apps on a particular operating system, developers can build on the Ethereum blockchain infrastructure.

Metamask - definition

Metamask - Metamask is a browser extension that serves as a cryptocurrency wallet on the Ethereum blockchain. We can store our tokens there, pay, and interact with the decentralized web3 world, and integrate Metamask with applications (dApps). One could say that Metamask is like a bank account with more possibilities. It is important to note that Metamask can only store ETH and tokens based on Ethereum. Therefore, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies based on networks other than Ethereum cannot be stored in Metamask.

How to install Metamask?

Simply find the Metamask application in your browser extensions and install it. 😀

metamask add to chrome

Download the application, which will open the wallet creation view. Click 'Create a wallet' to proceed.

metamask create a wallet

Set our password, which we will need in the future to use the wallet. We will be asked for it every time. The password should be unique and preferably not used on other servers, as it is used to protect our wallet and our encrypted private key.


metamask create password

Then, we read and accept the terms of use of the wallet. Now, it's very important to note that we are on the key screen from a security standpoint. We can display the seed phrase on this screen, which is a list of twelve words set in the right order that allows us to generate our private key and access our tokens (funds).

We will need our seed phrase when:

  • we forget the password to our wallet
  • We want to access our funds from another wallet
  • We have uninstalled the wallet with all settings and want to restore it

This is a very important point because when we do not remember the seed phrase, access to our funds will be irretrievably lost

metamask secret recovery phrase

On the next screen, we are asked to verify that we have memorized the list of twelve vocabulary words.

metamask confirm your secret recovery phrase

if we have confirmed our 12 words we get a congratulatory screen

metamask conratulations screen

Our wallet should be visible in the browser plugins and is ready to use!

metamask wallet dashboard

IT
Startup

How to build a perfect website for a startup to skyrocket growth

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February 14, 2023
15 min read

Building a perfect website for a startup can be a daunting task, but it is also an incredibly important one. Your website is often the first point of contact between your company and potential customers, investors, and partners. It can make or break the success of your startup, so it's essential to get it right.

Laptop with an open website

First and foremost, a perfect website for a startup should be user-friendly and easy to navigate. This means having a clear and simple design that doesn't overwhelm visitors with too much information or clutter. The layout should be intuitive and guide users to the most important content on the site.

One of the key elements of a user-friendly website is a well-designed navigation menu. This should be located in a prominent position on the site, such as the top or left-hand side of the page. It should be easy to read and understand, with clear labels for each menu item.

Another important aspect of a user-friendly website is fast loading times. 

Nobody likes to wait for a website to load, and if yours takes too long, visitors will likely leave and go to a competitor's site. To ensure fast loading times, optimize your images and use a good quality web hosting service.

In addition to being user-friendly, a perfect website for a startup should also be visually appealing. This means using high-quality images and graphics to showcase your products or services. These images should be professionally shot and edited to ensure they look their best on your website.

It's also important to use colors and fonts that are consistent with your brand identity. This helps to create a cohesive and professional look for your website and reinforces your brand in the minds of visitors.

Of course, a website is more than just a pretty face. It should also provide valuable information about your company and what you do. This means including detailed descriptions of your products or services, as well as case studies or testimonials from satisfied customers.

Having a blog on your website is also a great way to provide valuable information to your visitors and establish yourself as an expert in your field. A blog allows you to share industry insights, announce company news, and engage with your audience through comments and social media.

Laptop on the table, website with contact form and call to action

In addition to informative content, a perfect website for a startup should also have a clear call-to-action (CTA) that tells visitors what you want them to do next. This could be signing up for a newsletter, making a purchase, or contacting you for more information. 

The CTA should be prominently displayed and easy to find on the website.

Finally, a perfect website for a startup should be optimized for search engines. This means using keywords and meta descriptions on your website to improve its visibility in search results. It also means ensuring that your website is mobile-friendly, as more and more people are using their smartphones to browse the internet.

Building a perfect website for a startup requires a combination of user-friendliness, visual appeal, informative content, a clear CTA, and search engine optimization. By focusing on these key elements, you can create a website that helps to drive growth for your startup and sets you up for success.

  1. A clear and compelling value proposition that explains what makes your startup unique and why customers should choose your product or service.
  2. A clean and modern design that showcases your brand and makes it easy for visitors to navigate your website.
  3. High-quality and engaging content, including blog posts, videos, and case studies, that provides valuable information to your target audience.
  4. A user-friendly and responsive website that works seamlessly on all devices, including mobile phones and tablets.
  5. Social media integration allows visitors to easily share your content and connect with your startup on popular platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
  6. A clear call-to-action on every page encourages visitors to take the next step, whether it’s signing up for your email list, downloading a whitepaper, or scheduling a demo.
  7. A well-designed and effective lead generation form that captures information from potential customers and allows you to follow up with them.
  8. A strong search engine optimization (SEO) strategy that helps your website rank higher in search engine results and attract more organic traffic.
  9. A secure and reliable hosting provider that ensures your website is always up and running and can handle a high volume of traffic.
  10. Regular updates and improvements based on customer feedback and data analysis, to ensure that your website continues to evolve and meet the needs of your target audience.

The most important functionalities on the startup's website are primarily:

  • Clear and simple design that is easy to navigate
  • Well-designed navigation menu in a prominent position
  • Fast loading times
  • Visually appealing images and graphics that are consistent with the brand identity
  • Detailed descriptions of products or services, as well as case studies or testimonials
  • A blog to share industry insights and engage with the audience
  • Clear call-to-action that tells visitors what to do next
  • Search engine optimization to improve visibility in search results
  • Mobile-friendliness to accommodate users who are browsing on their smartphones.



What programming language should I choose to create a website for a startup?


There are many programming languages that can be used to develop a website, and the best choice will depend on the specific requirements and goals of the website. Some popular languages for web development include HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP.

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) is the foundation of all web pages, and it is used to structure and organize the content of a website. 

CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) is used to define the visual appearance and design of a website, including colors, fonts, and layout.

JavaScript is a versatile programming language that is often used to add interactive elements to a website, such as drop-down menus, forms, and animations. PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is a popular server-side language that is commonly used to build dynamic websites and web applications.

In general, it is best to choose a language that is well-suited to the specific needs of the website and that has a large and active community of developers who can provide support and resources. It is also important to consider the long-term maintenance and scalability of the website, as well as any potential integration with other systems or technologies.

What size team would be ideal for creating a website for a startup?

The size of the team of software developers needed to develop a website for a startup will depend on the complexity and scope of the website. A simple, static website with just a few pages and minimal functionality may only require one or two developers, whereas a more complex, dynamic website with multiple features and integrations may require a larger team of developers.

In general, it is best to have a team of experienced and skilled developers who can work together to design and build a high-quality website that meets the needs of the startup. This team may include a project manager, front-end developers, back-end developers, and quality assurance engineers, as well as designers and content creators.

It is also important to have good communication and collaboration within the team, as well as a clear vision and plan for the website. By working together, the team can ensure that the website is developed efficiently and effectively and that it helps to drive growth and success for the startup.

There are many potential obstacles that may arise during the development of a website for a startup. Some common challenges include

  • Lack of clear goals or requirements: It is important to have a clear understanding of the goals and requirements of the website, as well as the target audience and their needs. Without this, it can be difficult to design and build a website that meets the needs of the business and its users.
  • Limited budget or resources: Developing a website can be a time-consuming and expensive process, and startups may have limited budgets and resources to devote to the project. This can make it difficult to hire the right team, purchase necessary tools and technologies, and allocate sufficient time and resources to the development process.
  • Complexity of the project: Building a website can be a complex and technical process, involving multiple technologies and systems. This can make it challenging to design and implement the website, and it may require specialized knowledge and expertise.
  • Changes in scope or requirements: During the development process, it is common for the scope or requirements of the website to change, either due to new information or changing business needs. This can lead to delays and additional work, and it can be difficult to incorporate these changes into the existing design and development plan.
  • Compatibility and integration issues: A website may need to integrate with other systems or technologies, such as databases, CRM systems, or payment gateways. This can be a complex and time-consuming process, and it may require specialized knowledge and expertise.

What do people pay attention to on a startup's website?

Notes and writing implements scattered on the table, phone, and laptop, the hand with highlighter underlining text

Overall, the key to overcoming these obstacles is having a clear plan and vision for the website and a skilled and experienced team to design and build it. By anticipating and addressing these challenges, you can ensure that the website is developed successfully and helps to drive growth and success for the business.

People who visit a startup's website usually pay attention to several key elements:

The company's mission and goals: People want to know what the purpose of the startup is and what values it represents.

Products or services: Visitors want to understand what the startup offers and what benefits they can derive from it.

Team: People want to get to know the people behind the startup's founders and employees to better understand who is behind the company.

Customers and references: Visitors want to know which companies the startup has worked with and what other customers think of its products or services.

Company history: Visitors want to know the startup's history and how it came to its current position.

Contact: Visitors want to easily find information on how to contact the company.

Remember that a startup's website is the company's business card and the first contact with many potential customers. It is important that it is clear, attractive and easy to use, and that it presents the company's offerings and values in a compelling and attractive way.

Some of the most popular startup websites are:

Airbnb: The site offers a search engine for apartments and houses for rent around the world and allows users to book accommodations through the platform.

Uber: The site allows users to order cabs and self-driving car rides via a mobile app.

Slack: The site showcases the app's features for team communication and project management, and allows free downloads of the app.

TikTok: The site showcases the features of the app for creating and sharing short videos and provides free downloads of the app.

Zoom: The site presents the functions of a video conferencing platform and allows free download of the app.

Pinterest: The site allows you to save and share inspirational photos and ideas and allows you to create an account for free.

WeWork: The site showcases various locations of coworking and office spaces and allows you to rent a workspace.

Square: The site presents payment solutions for small and medium-sized businesses and allows you to order a payment device.

Dropbox: The site presents a cloud service for storing and sharing files and allows you to sign up for a free account.

Spotify: The site presents a music streaming service and allows you to download the app for free.

Nowadays, having a website is essential for any startup. 

A website allows you to present your company's offerings, attract new customers and build your brand. Creating a website on your own can be time-consuming and difficult, especially for those who lack technical skills. 

That's why hiring a professional software company may be the best solution. A software company has the experience and knowledge to quickly and efficiently create a website that meets the needs of a startup.

In addition, such a company can provide technical support and assistance with future updates to the site. In conclusion, hiring a professional software company to create a website for a startup is the best choice, saving time and producing a high-quality end result.

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