Right Around the River Blog

Rocketts Landing Q&A: V4 Development

Post Date: 01-24-2014

We have a great mix of businesses that make Rocketts Landing their “home” here along RVA’s riverfront. So, when we learn about cool things keeping them busy, we just can’t help but share the news. Whether working to clean up the James River, help Richmonders go boating or beyond, inspiring endeavors abound right around the river.

In fact, we recently heard that Rocketts Landing–based business V4 Development created and released an app for the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Associate (TECA) that helps co-op members access all the ongoing info TECA shares. Our curiosity was immediately piqued. Below is our edited Q&A with V4 Partner/COO Joshua Barber. Enjoy!

(V4 Development. Photo credit: V4)

Rocketts Landing: What does the TECA app do?

Joshua Barber: The TECA app keeps you informed and connected with the electric cooperatives of Tennessee. It features a searchable database of co-op employees and directors, as well as a full schedule of conferences and events.

RL: What’s the app’s long-term goal?

JB: Its main goal is to take TECA’s directory (which has been a physical book like the yellow pages) and put it all in one app. This is helpful for the members when they go to national events, etc., by being able to search their directory without flipping through pages.

 

RL: How did the idea for the app come about?

JB: The original idea came from our client, which was sketched on a napkin while we had dinner at The Wine Room in New Orleans. V4 Development was invited down for the Touchstone Energy annual meeting, and we were able to meet with TECA to brainstorm various ideas. 

RL: When did the app launch? And how long was it in the making?

JB: We launched the TECA app on November 22, 2013. The idea of the mobile application was brought to us a year before, but the process — from workflow diagrams to finished mobile application — took us five months to complete. This includes iPhone, iPad and Android versions of the app.

RL: Any unique/interesting challenges you had to address when creating the app?

JB: The most unique challenge was how to display the amount of data that was provided. This was an exciting project, because it was the first time this directory went from a print book to a digital/mobile format. We needed to make sure that this transition wasn’t only easy for the user, but more efficient and intuitive. 

RL: What's your favorite feature of it? Or favorite design aspect?

JB: The sheer amount of data that we are able to provide within these devices. We literally took directory data that filled up an entire physical book and put it into a nicely organized digital format for the user. 

RL: Anything else you'd like to mention/highlight:

JB: [At V4], we have now put in place FREE Lunch Fridays! Every Friday, we grill lunch on our porch for the entire company, which gives everyone time to chill, play some ping pong and have a little fun.

 

In the midst of that fun, V4 also has had other great developments in the works. Locally, they’ve recently released a responsive website design for law firm Allen and Allen, which can be viewed on desktops, tablets and mobile devices. And, they’ve just signed Carytown-based Franklin Goose to create a new website for them within the next few months. On a national level, V4’s working on a mobile app for Luhu.com to help them manage their online STD Testing and Security.

Hard at work with time to play, V4 shows exactly how to enjoy business life here along the James River. We’re always looking for great developments to share, so be sure to check back soon for more Q&A’s with Rocketts Landing businesses!