Blogs

Stories, lessons and research from the WorkingMouse team on legacy modernisation, AI, and delivery.

Browse latest articles Browse latest articles

Latest Articles

Browse the most recent thinking from the WorkingMouse team across modernisation, AI, delivery and more.

Digital transformation is essential for updating outdated IT systems, and one approach is the firecracker method. This technique is ideal for small legacy applications, such as those built in Microsoft Access. The process involves documenting the old system's requirements, cleaning up and reverse-engineering the schema, designing a new UI, and then developing, testing, and deploying the updated application. This method is straightforward for smaller systems but may not suit larger, more complex ones. Proper documentation is crucial to ensure new applications remain relevant and manageable. For guidance on modernizing legacy software, consider reaching out or exploring available resources.

Industries are increasingly ripe for digital transformation. For example, ride-sharing apps have revolutionized transport, real estate is moving towards more digital tools, and HR is benefiting from enhanced application processes. Healthcare, though slow, has huge potential for digital advancements. Overcoming barriers like legacy systems and skills gaps is key. WorkingMouse can help with these transformations.

The "Plan Like a General" workshop by The Disruption Group introduced the Military Planning Process (MPP) for strategic planning. Key takeaways included Boyd's OODA Loop for staying ahead of competition, Wargaming to test plans, and combating cognitive biases. The workshop emphasized quick, focused planning and spending 70% of time framing the problem, which was a significant insight. Facilitator Timothy Keeffe provided practical strategies for enhancing organizational innovation.

Risk is unavoidable in software development, but managing it effectively is crucial. At WorkingMouse, we use the "Cone of Uncertainty" to understand and mitigate risk by breaking projects into smaller, manageable builds. This approach helps us keep estimates accurate and reduces overall project risk. We also use "tech spikes" to allow time for research and testing of high-risk tasks before they’re fully estimated. By incorporating these practices, we manage uncertainties better and keep projects on track.

Bugs in software are inevitable due to unexpected user interactions and changes in third-party frameworks. At WorkingMouse, we use a "trim the tail" approach, adding a time buffer to address bugs and quality improvements throughout the project. This method prevents last-minute issues and ensures better software quality. We recommend a 1.25x time multiplier for this buffer, and applying it incrementally helps manage bugs effectively and maintain project momentum.

Onsider is a B2B platform connecting specialized independent contractors with civil construction companies in Australia and New Zealand. Founded by an experienced civil engineer, the platform allows companies to easily find and hire skilled contractors for flexible contracts, while offering engineers the freedom to work freelance and receive timely payments. WorkingMouse developed a mobile-responsive web app with user-friendly features for both contractors and employers. Future plans include enhanced features, a ChatBot, and a native mobile app.

Tool Protect, founded by Gayle, a health professional, and her police officer husband, addresses tool theft issues with a new app. Despite initial challenges, the app quickly gained traction, earning media attention and nearly 2,000 subscriptions in its first month. WorkingMouse helped develop the app with a user-friendly design and efficient workflow. Moving forward, Tool Protect plans to monetize through subscriptions and commercial partnerships, aiming for a national rollout.

The Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC) revamped their outdated website and created a new platform for promoting local food and produce, partnering with WorkingMouse. By using user personas and the Codebots Resource Behaviour, they developed a responsive, filterable website and a dynamic platform for local vendors. The CHDC site went live in 4 weeks, and the new platform in 2 weeks. CHDC aims for continuous modernization and plans to use the platform’s success to potentially license it to other regions.

SuzanneStays is a real estate platform dedicated to providing truly accessible accommodation for everyone. Co-founded by Michael, Suzanne, and Paul, the platform emerged from Suzanne’s personal journey with motor neurone disease (MND/ALS) and their realization of the gap in accessible vacation options. Developed with a focus on user-friendliness and accessibility, SuzanneStays features a holiday-building wizard, detailed property accessibility descriptions, and a two-sided portal for users and property owners. Launching on March 28, the platform aims to expand its property base and features to meet growing demand.

At WorkingMouse, Eban is the creative visionary, bringing cutting-edge design and style to the team with over 20 years in IT and a knack for making products look amazing. Matty, the tech guru, turns Eban's ideas into functional reality with his coding expertise and leadership in tech innovation. Dave, the hustler, ensures that these ideas meet market needs and are commercially viable, leveraging his sales and tech experience. Together, they form a dynamic trio, focused on delivering innovative, high-quality products and developing an advanced software platform.

Involving end users early in the development process is crucial for creating effective software. Many developers miss this step, assuming they know best, which often leads to costly redevelopment and abandoned projects. Engaging users through agile and lean methods helps identify issues sooner and reduce rework. Agile emphasizes ongoing user feedback, while lean focuses on efficiency and simplicity. By integrating user input from the start and adapting plans as needed, you can avoid common pitfalls and deliver better results. At WorkingMouse, we use iterative sprints to build and refine our products based on real user needs.

Before diving into Agile methodologies, it's essential to understand traditional organizational models like the waterfall model, where decision-making is top-down and linear. Agile emerged as a response to these rigid structures, emphasizing flexibility and iterative processes. Originating from the 2001 Agile Manifesto and concepts like Scrum, Agile focuses on continuous user feedback and collaboration. It aligns closely with Lean principles, which prioritize simplicity and incremental improvement. Both Agile and Lean advocate for adaptability and user-centered design, offering a more dynamic approach compared to traditional methods.

To prevent rushed development and misaligned expectations, we use epics and user stories to create a well-documented requirements backlog. Epics are high-level tasks that are broken down into detailed user stories, which outline specific functionalities and user needs. This approach allows for accurate project estimation and clear communication between project owners and developers, ensuring everyone has a shared understanding of the project requirements. For more information on how we implement this process, feel free to reach out.

Agile development's core principle of starting simple and iterating is now supercharged by software bots. At WorkingMouse, Codebots handle 90% of code writing, drastically reducing development and testing time, leading to cost savings. Despite this, human-driven business analysis remains crucial for innovation. Software bots enhance Agile by automating repetitive tasks, improving efficiency and cutting costs.

Embrace agility and adaptability over rigid methods like centralization and tradition. Agile and Lean are about acting on communication and adapting to change, rather than following strict rules. In an era of rapid technological advancement, innovation is crucial. Understand and apply Agile and Lean principles in ways that fit your business, and be prepared to evolve. Just as technology evolves, so should your processes to stay relevant and competitive.

Steve Cole founded SafeWorkPro to address inefficiencies with paper-based safety documents in Cole Contracting, where managing risk assessments was cumbersome and time-consuming. SafeWorkPro digitalizes workplace safety paperwork, significantly improving productivity and compliance. Partnering with WorkingMouse, SafeWorkPro developed a user-friendly app, now with over 20 versions, incorporating features like dashboards, geotagging, and push notifications. This collaboration showcases WorkingMouse’s Codebots Platform, enhancing data collection and user engagement, and supports SafeWorkPro’s growth with over 50 active users.

Startups face numerous challenges, but with support from Advance Queensland, WorkingMouse is advancing its goals. Partnering with the University of Queensland, including expert supervision from Professor Paul Strooper, and welcoming Taun Vos to the UX team, WorkingMouse is enhancing its project focused on cloud-based code generation. This shift to a Platform-as-a-Service model will scale their business and offer rapid application development. Queensland startups should explore Advance Queensland’s initiatives for support.

A startup weekend focuses on validating market interest in new ideas, unlike a hackathon that develops prototypes for set problems. At the Health Startup Weekend, WorkingMouse explored creating a toolset for supporting Australia's eHealth protocol, which involves complex technical requirements. They proposed using code generators to simplify integration with the protocol. The weekend highlighted the importance of market validation and demonstrated how innovative tools can address eHealth challenges.

UX design goes beyond making a website look attractive; it focuses on enhancing overall user satisfaction by improving usability and interaction. Good UX design helps keep users engaged and increases the likelihood of conversion. With high expectations and standards for web experiences, businesses must prioritize UX to build trust, credibility, and retain users. A poor UX can lead to lost opportunities and sales. For insights on combining UX design with cloud networking, check out our White Paper.

Steve Keefe's vision with Dirigo is to empower clients with clear financial insights and personalized service, setting itself apart from traditional banks and brokers. The Mortgage Brokers industry is growing, but many still feel uninformed about their finances. Dirigo offers efficient, client-focused solutions for securing finance and achieving financial freedom. Despite initial doubts, WorkingMouse successfully developed Dirigo’s new Finance Software in just three weeks using their Codebots, proving that ambitious projects can be completed quickly.

Changing developers can be streamlined by following these six steps: First, confirm that you own your source code and have the proper documentation. Next, identify why you need a change to avoid repeating past issues. Choose a new developer based on strong communication and support. Manage the transition carefully, especially if the current relationship is strained. Ensure a smooth handover of documentation and assets, or prepare for potential recreations. Finally, work with your new developer to analyze and iterate on your software for continued improvement.

WorkingMouse, in partnership with Cornerstone, migrated the Department of Defence's disparate procurement systems to a centralized cloud repository. Originally focusing on non-material procurement, the project expanded to include material procurement. Using agile methods and Codebots, the team achieved rapid development and integration, enhancing transparency and reporting. The successful migration led to ongoing enhancements and an expanded scope, consolidating all procurement activities into a single cloud application.

The Queensland Partners in Technology (PiT) seminars, hosted by the Department of Information Technology and Innovation, aim to shape Queensland's future by fostering innovation. The 2016 event featured key speakers: Lou Boyle from LGAQ highlighted the need for automated processes in local government; Clinton Parker discussed the massive growth in data; Bryan Beswick envisioned the Sunshine Coast as a "smart" city; and Jim Barclay spoke on the role of smaller businesses alongside tech giants. The event concluded with a networking session, revealing new business ideas and opportunities for collaboration.

2017 was a standout year for WorkingMouse, marked by significant growth and achievements. The company ranked 70th on Deloitte's Fastest 500 in Asia Pacific with 800% revenue growth since 2015. With a 30% increase in team size, WorkingMouse attended major events, received accolades, and launched new products, including Codebots. Highlights included launching our newsletter, expanding office space, and achieving a successful Codebots demo and launch. Looking ahead, we’re excited for more growth and innovation in 2018.

For R&D tax incentive applications, it's crucial to plan ahead and document your research process thoroughly. Rather than reverse engineering, focus on structuring your tech business to align with the incentive's requirements. Use the scientific method—hypothesis, testing, data collection, and analysis—to ensure your activities meet the criteria. Additionally, create roadmaps to detail how each activity contributes to R&D. These tools help with compliance and improve business efficiency.

At a recent RHoK hackathon, we developed a prototype for "Cane Enabled," a device to assist the elderly and disabled with mobility and emergency tracking. Despite tight deadlines, we created a functional MVP, raised $110 for further development, and demonstrated the cane's capabilities effectively. Our work earned us a joint first-place finish, highlighting the impact of innovative solutions for social good.

To sustain a business, focus on building a base of 1,000 true fans—dedicated customers who will consistently buy your products. Each fan spending $300 annually results in $300,000 in revenue. Prioritizing the needs of these loyal customers over broader market trends can provide a stable foundation for growth. While achieving widespread popularity is ideal, a solid true fan base can be crucial, especially for start-ups or niche markets.

Gamification applies game design elements to non-game contexts, aiming to solve real-world problems like boosting employee engagement with mundane tasks. It's increasingly popular among executives and software developers. While it can enhance engagement and transparency by reflecting real-time achievements, gamification should not be used as a band-aid for poorly designed processes. For employees, gamification must be well-designed to avoid adding stress. Overall, when done correctly, it can transform dull tasks into engaging ones and provide valuable performance insights.

Gamification can be highly impactful across various industries, including banking. For example, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia used gamification with its 2011 Investorville simulation, which taught property investment through a risk-free virtual world, resulting in a 413% ROI from actual loans tracked. Gamification can enhance engagement and motivation, as shown by TalentLMS data, which found that leaderboards and point systems significantly boost employee motivation. Properly implemented, gamification offers valuable insights, improved ROI, and increased engagement for both consumers and employees.

Digital dashboards, like those from WorkingMouse, provide a visual overview of an organization’s performance by consolidating data from various teams. They come in strategic (overview) and analytical (detailed) types, helping to quickly identify trends and make informed decisions. For instance, Carelynx uses a dashboard to efficiently track health metrics and assess performance. Dashboards are crucial for visualizing progress and key performance indicators.

Gamification is often misunderstood as trivializing tasks or being aimed only at gamers. In reality, it enhances engagement and interaction by making processes more enjoyable and competitive, regardless of gaming experience. It's about improving user interaction without compromising task clarity. Successful gamification requires ongoing adaptation based on user data and frequent content updates to sustain interest. However, it's crucial to avoid relying on gamification as a quick fix for poor management; it should complement and enhance well-managed processes rather than replace them.

Starting a business is tough, but Brisbane offers strong support through spaces like River City Labs and Little Tokyo Two, and initiatives like Advanced Queensland and the Office of the Queensland Chief Entrepreneur. University centers such as UQ's iLab and QUT Creative Enterprise also provide valuable resources. While Brisbane may not rival global startup giants, its growing ecosystem offers significant help for new entrepreneurs.

Scope creep, a common issue in project management, occurs when small, incremental changes or unclear stakeholder requirements impact a project’s scope. It can be managed through a variation metric, which measures how much requirements change during a sprint compared to the original scope. At WorkingMouse, this metric helps identify and manage scope creep by flagging projects based on the level of variation. Effective management includes reviewing project communication, managing expectations, and halting the build if changes exceed manageable thresholds. Properly addressing scope creep helps maintain project focus and efficiency.

The Australian government has announced it will cap the term and value of IT contracts to enable small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) to compete for components of large projects. This move aims to allocate 10% of the $6.5 billion annual IT budget to smaller operators. Angus Taylor highlighted that this will foster innovation and competition. The change builds on previous efforts to empower SMEs, promote competition, and use modern procurement practices, following recommendations from the ICT procurement taskforce.

Project managers often have abstract app ideas but lack the creative skills to visualize them. UX flows and prototypes help bridge this gap. UX flows use wireframes to outline user experiences, with low-fi versions showing basic layouts and high-fi versions detailing design elements. Prototypes then bring these flows to life, either as clickable mockups or semi-functional demos. Tools like InVision are used for prototyping, which helps in refining user interactions and interface appearance. Collaborating with UX designers ensures effective translation of ideas into functional applications.

The shift in innovation focus from product features to customer experience is transforming industries, especially in software. Companies are increasingly prioritizing service-oriented approaches, like Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), to enhance customer experience and meet diverse consumer needs. This trend highlights the importance of offering valuable services rather than just features to succeed in today’s market.

At WorkingMouse, we use a Success Slider tool to help project stakeholders agree on success criteria by prioritizing scope, cost, time, and quality. This tool ensures all parties understand and accept the trade-offs and flexibility needed in each area. By discussing and shading the Success Slider, partners clarify their priorities and set realistic expectations for project outcomes. This approach helps us manage conflicts and make informed decisions throughout the development process.

Digital transformation means modernising and digitalising your current business processes, not becoming a tech startup. It involves adopting a digital mindset to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction. Key steps include pinpointing your digital goals, inventorying assets, visualising new models, operating both old and new models, and tracking progress. While digital transformation is a gradual process, it’s essential for staying competitive. Companies that embrace it will have a significant edge over those relying on traditional methods.

WorkingMouse is ranked #70 on Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 Asia Pacific, marking a notable achievement with 800% growth since 2015. The Deloitte list highlights high-growth tech companies across the Asia Pacific region, with Australia showing strong performance. Top Australian companies include Hireup (#2) with 7713% growth, zipMoney (#7) with 4012% growth, and Zero Latency (#8) with 3611% growth. WorkingMouse's growth is driven by Codebots, a platform engineering tool that significantly speeds up software development. This recognition underscores Australia's strong tech sector and innovation.

Australia ranks 15th in global R&D spending but falls behind in high-growth firms, international patents, and overall innovation, slipping to 23rd in the Global Innovation Index. Despite strong performance in research and a low unemployment rate, Australia struggles with digital skills and commercializing new ideas. To address this, Prime Minister Turnbull has pledged $100 million to link industry with academia and support growth in key sectors. While there's room for improvement, government initiatives and a focus on modernizing processes offer hope for boosting innovation.

APIs act as controlled access points, enabling software integration and streamlining development by leveraging existing capabilities. For example, APIs manage access to features like location data on smartphones. Using APIs, such as those from Facebook or tools like Swagger, can save time and enhance functionality. Lampbot’s micro-service architecture, which uses APIs for integration, highlights the importance of digital maturity for business success and productivity.v

Intangible assets—like brand, customer databases, and patents—are crucial for a company's value, increasingly outweighing physical assets. Unlike tangible assets, their value is harder to quantify but vital for maintaining a competitive edge. Companies should track and value these intangibles using financial, qualitative, and contextual factors to accurately reflect their worth and ensure sustained innovation.

App development often involves tedious, repetitive coding for multiple platforms, like writing separate code for desktop and mobile devices. At WorkingMouse, we've developed a framework that allows us to reuse code across both web and mobile platforms, saving time and reducing development costs. This approach, which integrates with cloud-based software, simplifies the process and boosts efficiency, potentially making it a standard practice in the future.

WorkingMouse’s Codebots platform has received $250,000 from the Queensland government's Ignite Ideas Fund, part of the Advance Queensland initiative. This funding will help advance Codebots, which automates coding to speed up software development. Codebots is designed to handle most of the coding work, letting developers focus on creativity. The platform, launching in late 2017, aims to revolutionize software development by pairing human ingenuity with automated coding

The data revolution is reshaping industries like the Industrial Revolutions once did. Anticipatory Design uses data to predict user needs and improve UX, seen in tools like Spotify's recommendations. As machine learning and IoT advance, this data-driven approach is becoming essential in design.

By the end of 2017, organizations are expected to shift from perpetual software licenses to subscription-based models. With traditional software licensing becoming outdated, new models like subscription-based, usage-based, and performance-based licensing are gaining popularity. Subscription models, such as Microsoft Office’s, are now common, offering flexibility and ongoing access. Usage-based licenses charge based on consumption, while performance-based licenses link costs to specific outcomes. These new models cater to modern users and can be adjusted or combined based on how users interact with the software.

Prussian Field Marshal Moltke's adage "no plan survives contact with the enemy" applies to software development, where unforeseen issues often arise. Agile development addresses this by emphasizing flexibility and iterative design. One key method is prototyping user flow, which maps out how users interact with a product and helps align user and business goals. Wireframes, as low-fidelity prototypes, are crucial for early feedback and iterative improvement, ensuring better UX and ultimately a more successful product.

Gamification converts business goals into scoring systems, motivating employees by making tasks competitive and engaging. This approach, which adapts gaming techniques to work processes, can be used to track both short-term and long-term objectives. For example, in growth hacking, gamifying social media metrics (like points for likes, retweets, and replies) can drive engagement and performance. Studies show that gamification boosts motivation and engagement by appealing to our desire for achievement and competition. Overall, it’s an effective tool for innovation and performance measurement.

InspectRealEstate, created by Andrew Reece and Mike Van Raders, addresses a real need for a user-friendly booking system in real estate. It has grown from a small team to a major player, processing millions of enquiries daily. The platform’s success is attributed to its innovative approach and strong industry presence. Reece’s background in property management and Van Raders' technical expertise have driven this transformation, supported by WorkingMouse's innovation platform. The tool has significantly improved the moving process and continues to evolve, benefiting the real estate sector across Australia and New Zealand.

Grow Logic, founded by Peter Bail, addresses the need for sustainable farming solutions by providing advanced tools like UAVs, web-based mapping, and irrigation integration. Partnering with WorkingMouse, they’re developing a web and mobile solution to improve labor efficiency and reduce costs for Australian growers. The project includes close collaboration with citrus growers and the use of modern tech like drones to enhance farm management. This innovation aims to boost plant productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability.

Hello Fresh, which started in a founder's living room, has grown into a market leader by delivering fresh produce and recipe cards to customers' doorsteps. Their innovative use of technology, like mobile apps for managing food deliveries, enhances customer control and connectivity. Mobile apps can boost customer engagement by reducing wait times, offering offline access, and increasing brand visibility. Upgrading or creating a mobile app can significantly benefit organizations by improving customer experience and loyalty.

WorkingMouse is set for significant growth with support from investors and a new partnership with Advance Queensland’s KTP program, which funds recent graduates for strategic projects. Our new UX team member, Taun, is enhancing our innovation platform’s user experience. We’re also excited about showcasing our work with clients like Liz Alexander at the Australian Cotton Conference. As we gather feedback and refine our approach, we’re preparing to launch our most ambitious project yet and look forward to sharing more updates soon.

As cloud computing becomes more popular, understanding its security implications is crucial. Unlike traditional IT, cloud security relies heavily on choosing a reliable SaaS provider, as cloud environments expose data to unique risks. SaaS vendors are responsible for securing data, including handling backups and subcontracting issues. Despite these risks, cloud computing offers significant benefits if managed correctly. To maximize security, thoroughly research and select reputable SaaS vendors, and ensure they implement robust protection measures.

Anne-Marie, inspired by her experience as a mother, developed the Wantu app to provide customizable, engaging activities for children using household items. Originally named Express2fun, the app simplifies finding and organizing activities, making it easier for parents. After teaching herself basic software skills and winning a pitch contest, Anne-Marie partnered with WorkingMouse to build her MVP. With plans to enhance the app and expand internationally, Wantu aims to offer even more value, including resources for children with learning disabilities. Visit kidswantu.com to download the free beta version.

Show More

Discover how modern software, the right delivery approach, and continuous modernisation can support your organisation.

Government solutions Government solutions

Capability statement Capability statement

Join our monthly newsletter & we’ll plant a tree.

As part of our commitment to sustainability and a greener future, we’re planting trees through Carbon Positive Australia in exchange for your contact details

First Name
Last Name
Email Address
Verify You’re HumanPlease type the characters shown below.
CAPTCHA
Different Image
WorkingMouse logo

(07) 3667 9559

info@workingmouse.com.au

PO Box 1596
Milton, QLD, 4064
Australia

QAssure No. 20247

Quick Links

Services

Newsletter

About Us

Publications

Process

Newsroom

Resources

Contact Us

Careers

Privacy

Government

Speaker Page

Tools

Terms & Conditions

Clutch Review logo

The Glassdoor logo
ISO 27001 Certificate ISO 9001 Certificate ISO 14001 Certificate

Made with ❤️ in Milton, Brisbane (Meanjin) Australia.

WorkingMouse acknowledges the Traditional Owners and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them, their Elders, both past and emerging.

Torres Strait Islands Flag Australian Flag Aboriginal Flag
Top B2B Companies Clutch Award 2022 Clutch Top Company 2022 2023 Clutch Award 2018 iAwards 2023 Buy Queensland Finalist Award Award 1 Technology Fast 50 2017


2026 WorkingMouse Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.