Techtonic Lounge

Steve and Christophe led a deep dive into the lesser-known realities of software outsourcing. They explored essential strategies for selecting the right partner and avoiding common pitfalls, including:

✅ Identifying warning signs in company stability and employee turnover

✅ Understanding the risks of misleading online reviews and hidden subcontracting

✅ The importance of conducting thorough technical assessments before hiring

They also shared real-world examples of successful outsourcing partnerships and key mistakes to avoid. If you're a founder, CEO, CTO, or product leader looking to outsource development the right way, don’t miss this session!

Nick Caruso from KnowledgeNet.ai sat down with our CEO, Christophe Ngo, to explore the key benefits and challenges of outsourcing software development. They covered topics like:

✅ Choosing the right outsourcing partner beyond price

✅ Driving innovation through outsourcing, not just cutting costs

✅ Balancing speed and cost in early-stage growth

✅ A.I.’s role in development—enhancing, not replacing, human expertise

✅ Key factors for estimating costs and working with an outsourced team

Christophe also shared real-world examples of how Code Engine Studio has helped startups scale efficiently while maintaining quality and alignment.

If you’re a startup founder, CEO, CTO, product manager, or tech lead looking for fresh, innovative ways to scale, this conversation is a must-watch!

Today marks the final episode of our Techtonic Lounge! We wrap up 2024 with Christophe Ngo, founder of Code Engine Studio, reflecting on the evolution of technology and its impact on business innovation. Christophe and Serge revisit key themes from past guests—exploring A.I., its challenges, and the diverse global perspectives on innovation. It's a fitting conclusion and a powerful reminder to keep tech where it belongs: as a tool to fuel innovation, support businesses, and enhance lives.

It’s been an insightful season hearing from experts in different industries. Every story has an ending, but our memories and lessons live on. Thank you for participating in our journey.

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In this episode, we sit down with Natalya Wissink, founder of Secret Experiences, to dive into the transformative role of technology in the travel industry. With over a decade in travel and tourism, Natalya shares her unique perspective on how innovations like A.I., VR, and travel apps reshape people’s trip planning and overall journey experiences.

We explore how A.I. chatbots streamline customer interactions, allowing businesses to handle frequent questions efficiently while keeping a personal touch. Natalya also delves into how VR and tech-driven tools help travelers discover unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences and enable businesses to market destinations more effectively.

Join us for an insightful discussion on the intersection of tech and travel, and discover how new digital tools are making travel more personalized, accessible, and engaging for everyone.

Learn more about Secret Experiences: https://secret-experiences.com/

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In today’s episode of Tectonic Lounge, we welcome Ashley Breitnauer, Director of Product Management at VF Corporation, as she shares her expertise in driving customer-focused innovation through product management and ownership.

We explore how Ashley’s team leverages Agile practices, technology, and data to enhance customer experiences across iconic brands like North Face, Vans, and Timberland. She breaks down the roles of product managers and product owners, and how they usually collaborate with engineers to bring digital products to life.

Ashley also discusses key strategies for improving user experience, minimizing friction, and using data to drive better decisions. Anyone looking to understand how to blend technology with customer experience will find Ashley’s insights invaluable!

Learn more about VF Corporation: https://www.vfc.com/

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In this episode, we sit down with Derek Vaz, Designer and CEO at DVXD, to explore participatory design and co-design in product development. Derek challenges traditional notions and norms of design by arguing for the power of involving users directly in the creation process.

Throughout the conversation, we discuss how co-design goes beyond basic feedback loops, emphasizing structured activities and allowing participants to contribute their experiences and perspectives. Derek shares insights on how this inclusive approach can fuel creativity, foster innovation, and produce more effective outcomes than traditional designer-only methods.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on redefining the design process to be more collaborative and socially centered. Discover how co-design can transform how we build products and enhance user engagement.

Learn more about DVXD: https://dvxd.co/

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In this episode of Tectonic Lounge, Dr. Kathryn Saynes, Vice President of Academics at Bryan College, explores the evolving role of technology in education and its impact on students and faculty.

Kathryn takes on the topic of ethical A.I. use in academic research and writing and how to balance proven traditional methodologies while allowing technology to support students. She looks into the future contemplating the evolving balance between traditional classroom experiences and online learning, as well as the shifting expectations placed on graduates entering the workforce.

It’s a compelling conversation on navigating the rapid pace of technological change while maintaining the integrity of learning and teaching.

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In this Tectonic Lounge episode, Kevin Ingalls, partner at Boost Labs, dives deep into the world of data visualization and design.

He shares his journey of combining design with data, highlighting the importance of clear and meaningful visuals that tell the right story. Kevin discusses how businesses of all sizes can start leveraging data effectively—whether it’s focusing on past trends or doing forecasting. He also sheds light on the common problem of data silos within organizations and how visualizing data can help break down these barriers.

Kevin wraps up by exploring the exciting future of A.I. in data visualization, including the potential for A.I. to simplify complex data interactions and assist businesses in making better decisions.

Learn more about Boost Labs: https://boostlabs.com/

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In this Tectonic Lounge episode, Greg Ramsay, Founder of Made It Legal—a legal tech startup that simplifies legal processes for businesses—dives into the intersections of law and technology.

Focusing on the legal implications of A.I., privacy, and intellectual property, Greg emphasizes the importance of proactive legal strategies and the role of technology in delivering accessible, cost-effective legal services. He reflects on the startup journey, highlighting the balance between leveraging tech and maintaining human oversight in legal matters. He also shares how Made It Legal helps companies navigate complex legal landscapes efficiently through innovative tech solutions.

Overall, this episode is a great resource for entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing some tips and starting points to conversations for understanding the legal considerations that are essential when launching and growing a modern tech-driven business!

Learn more about Made It Legal: https://madeit.legal/

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws

In today’s episode, Ken Leaver, Founder of TaskBeasts talks about how startups can achieve scalable growth by using fractional freelancers, providing a flexible alternative to full-time hires.

By utilizing this method, startups can experiment, adapt to changing needs, and focus on growth without the long-term commitment and stresses of a full-time team. When cultural fit and value alignment aren’t immediate priorities, this strategy offers the agility to move fast and stay competitive. Another unique feature of this approach allows businesses to test freelancers with real-world tasks, ensuring the right talent is identified quickly, keeping costs low.

Learn more about TaskBeasts: https://www.taskbeasts.com/

Hosted by: Serge Yurovsky, Customer Advocate at CES

𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗟𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗲: https://techtonicloungebyces.taplink.ws