mongodb-cover photo

Antoniya Ivanova

Nikola

Milush-photo

Tailwind CSS-cover photo

Scrum-cover photo

Ivan Todorov

software development for startups

PM-cover photo

Deyan Denchev

CTO as a service - cover photo

chatgtp

Lemon.io

Mira

cover photo-extenstions

Nikola Popov

PHP / LARAVEL / DATABASES / SASS

Milush Karadimov

Software Developer

CEO & Co-Founder

Mira Ereeva

Growth Manager

PHP Developer

[Lemon.io](http://lemon.io/) has welcomed Lexis Solutions into its esteemed partnership network, acknowledging our commitment to providing exceptional services that meet the highest standards.

## What is Lemon.io?

Lemon is a managed marketplace where they choose the most suitable projects for the best service providers considering their qualifications and availability.

They have a rigorous screening process to ensure the highest quality service for their clients. They evaluate a developer's hard and soft skills and proficiency in English to make the deal successful before welcoming you into their Lemon Community. Clients choose them because of their top-tier network of developers performing their tasks with due diligence and outstanding communication.

Currently, their talent pool consists of 1000+ remote developers.

### What is the success rate?

Out of 9000 applicants, [Lemon has accepted the top 360](https://lemon.io/hire-net-developers/#h-the-result-only-4-of-candidates-pass-our-tests). That’s only 4% of all candidates.

### Joining the network as a freelancer

This article doesn’t cover the topic of joining Lemon.io as a solo contractor. If you’re interested, you can learn more about it [here](https://lemon.io/lemon-io-review/#section-10).

## Joining the network as a service provider

In August 2022, we had the opportunity to meet their team personally and talk about the hottest trends around the IT industry and especially delivering quality IT solutions.

The application process for a service provider like us was more stringent and comprehensive than for individuals. 

In the beginning, we had a detailed conversation with their partnership development managers, where their team learned details about the company like:

- What is the company structure?
- What are the company's competitive advantages?
- What are the team structure and responsibilities?
- Who are our previous clients?
- What is our vision & mission?
- What is our experience & expertise in different industries?
- What is the company screening process for new colleagues?

### Pro tip:

Here are some no goes to keep in mind before applying to the network:

- Developers without skin in the game.
- Developers with less than three years of experience
- Developers who joined your company less than three months ago.
- Developers with less than [Full Professional working proficiency in English](https://www.icls.edu/foreign-language-programs/ilr-proficiency-levels/).
- Developers with mediocre communication skills.

We waited for a couple of days for their verification process, after which they contacted us with a positive reply.

The next step was evaluating the English proficiency of our colleagues, as communication skills are of utmost importance for Lemon's clients. We each had a friendly conversation with a team member responsible for language level checks.

After that, the Lemon team conducted online meetings with three of our current clients, where each shared their experience from collaborating with us. They all leave positive feedback and endorse us without reservation, as they have seen what we can do.

The final step was building an impressive profile for each of our developers ready for a new challenging project. We crafted excellent technical portfolios with Lemon's guidance and insights to stand out.

### Note

Keep in mind that this was the process only for us. There is no guarantee that it will be the same for your company. 

## How it works

Once you join Lemon's network, your company is invited to join private channels where its expert team will promptly notify you of the most promising opportunities for your company and its clients. With detailed information provided upfront, you can quickly determine whether the project aligns with your strengths and interests. Should both parties express interest, Lemon will facilitate an introductory meeting, ranging from friendly get-togethers to in-depth technical discussions. 

These conversations aren't just about finding the right technical fit and evaluating whether the client and technical person are a match. Lemon's team moves swiftly to provide you with feedback, and when there is a mutual interest, the process is streamlined without unnecessary bureaucracy. Before you know it, you'll dive into the client's project.

## From applicants to partners 

We are proud to say that we have had several successful partnerships with Lemon.io within just a few months. Their trustworthy community, combined with our diligent work, has led to new partnerships that benefit everyone.

Joining Lemon.io has been an excellent decision for our company. We look forward to continuing to work with them to deliver quality IT solutions and grow our success stories.


Lemon.io welcomes Lexis Solutions to its growing network of top-tier remote developers.

When Life Gives You Lemons, Partner with Lemon.io: Lexis Solutions did!

Tech startups are on a quest for the ultimate app, a digital creation that propels their business toward success. They navigate through uncharted waters, using data as a map to chart their course and make corrections along the way. With a fresh, innovative approach to product development, startups have caught the eye of both software vendors and clients.

Embark on a journey with Lexis Solutions as we delve into the exclusive realm of [software development](https://www.lexis.solutions/services/next-js-development) for startups. Uncover the key phases and models of product building that every tech entrepreneur should be familiar with and put into practice for optimal outcomes.

## Software development for startups

Software development for startups is distinct from established corporations due to its limited market influence and financial resources. 

## Critical differences in software development for startups

### Agile response to the transformation 

Flexibility is crucial for success as a young business entering a competitive market. Startups should have a business strategy adaptable to market changes instead of sticking to a rigid plan.

### Ability to pivot quickly

The ability to rotate easily also allows startups to shift, making significant changes to their business direction without incurring substantial losses or failing.

### Attention to clients' insight

Unlike larger businesses with extensive field experience, startups must pay extra attention to customer feedback in product development. With a smaller consumer pool, startups can gather more specific, actionable insights directly from users.

### Analytics-based strategy

Like other aspects of the business, software development for startups must be data-driven. Although companies of all sizes rely on data, startups need to build data sets for each product they develop to avoid the buildup of data silos, a common issue in more giant corporations.

## The phases of software development in startups 

Following a structured process is essential to ensure a smooth journey from idea to deployment and beyond when developing a new product. The steps can be adjusted based on your needs or deadlines. 

### It all starts with an idea

Unleashing creativity in a team environment requires tapping into the collective imagination. Capturing each unique thought and storing it for posterity is vital. Subsequently, the most promising concepts come to light by evaluating and narrowing down the choices and delving into market trends, granting a deeper understanding of the landscape and the players. Conducting a SWOT analysis allows your startup to chart a course for success.

### Bringing an idea to life requires thorough validation

This includes outlining your competitors and monetization strategies and showcasing a minimum viable product (MVP) to highlight the software's fundamental functionality. Engage with your [CTO](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide), partners, investors, and stakeholders to ensure your concept is sound and backed by a solid business plan.

### Crafting the vision

Your design team paints a vivid picture of the software to help developers bring it to life. With the help of your [UX/UI](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/free-resources-for-resourceful-UI-designers) specialists, wireframes and prototypes of the user interface come to life. Engineers then evaluate the feasibility of the features before building the product, seamlessly integrating ideas with the business plan.

### Building the foundation

The heart of software development for startups lies in this stage. It requires focus and skill, whether enhancing the MVP or starting from scratch. Agreeing on the tech stack sets the foundation for your development team to begin constructing the product.

### Testing the waters

Separating testing from the development process can speed up the [quality assurance](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/into-the-shoes-of-a-QA-the-FAQ) (QA) process. Instead, integrate testing into the software development life cycle to identify and fix bugs before moving forward.

### Bringing it to life

Once testing is complete, implement the changes. Review the code and make any necessary modifications before adding new features.

### Launching into the world

It’s time to launch. Your DevOps team should have a plan to deploy the product. This is crucial as it's the first time your solution meets the target audience. Showcase your startup in its best light, gather user feedback, and make adjustments.

### Monetizing the dream

Before launching, determine the monetization strategy that aligns with your marketing plan and maximizes profits while prioritizing a positive user experience. Choose from various options, such as subscriptions, in-app sales, ads, purchases, and sponsored partnerships.

### Continuous improvement

The software development journey never truly ends. Keep a close eye on the product, gather user feedback, and continually make improvements. Maintain a strong relationship with your users and stay open to their suggestions for future updates.

### Models of software development for startups

The world of software development for startups is constantly evolving, with new methodologies emerging to help teams build better and faster. But which one is right for you and your startup?

__Agile is the king of flexibility;__ with short-term deliverables and iterations, startups can quickly iterate their products without restrictions. However, Agile can lead to poor resource allocation and may disregard documentation.

On the other hand, __Waterfall__ follows a strict chronological hierarchy and prioritizes documentation. While this method is simple to follow, even with shifting team members, it may limit the agility of the software development process for a startup.

__Lean__ values efficiency and swift product delivery. This methodology optimizes resources and empowers team members to be more productive but relies on seamless cooperation between teams.

Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to carefully consider your project's needs and goals before deciding.

## How to find software developers for a startup

Recruiting the right developers for your startup can be a game-changer, but simply telling them, "I'm building a billionaire business, want to be part of it?" won't do the trick. Here are some steps to help you bring on the right talent to build your dream:

### Clarity 

Define the essence of your project and what it entails to convey its worth to potential developers. Passion and a clear understanding of your idea can be your best selling points if you need a millionaire investment.

### Talent over budget

Don't settle for just anyone who fits your budget. Dedicate time to sourcing and recruiting the right candidate with the skills and excitement to work on your project.

### Know what you need 

Be transparent in your job description and ensure it reflects the flexibility required for a role in a startup. Knowing the different types of developers and their areas of expertise is especially important if you need a technical background. Hiring someone who needs to be the right fit can only delay projects and harm morale.

### Embrace remote work

Attract top talent from all over the world by considering remote work. Hiring remote developers can save time and money and accommodate a more efficient workflow.

### On a quest to hire developers for startups 

For those looking to bring a developer on board, freelancing platforms are a popular option for single projects. Toptal, Guru, [Upwork](https://www.upwork.com/ag/lexissolutions/), Freelancer, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, and Lemon.io are well-known freelancing websites. 

Another strategy is to partner with local universities, sponsor student projects to find up-and-coming talent, and then offer internships to help students gain experience and connect with your company.

Job boards like LinkedIn can be a fast solution for finding developers online. However, knowing the right fit for your company can take time and effort with so many candidates. Local recruitment agencies can save time in the long run, but they limit your search to one area and may need more technical knowledge.

Another crucial question is how much it costs to hire developers for a startup. And the answer is not that simple: it depends. We already gave you some options for how and where to find the right developers for your startup. A tech partner is always a good choice, especially a [Chief Technology Officer](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide). If neither of them works, you can always ask a fellow startup founder, who you are sure is on the way to success, for any significant advice. 

## The blueprint for a better process of software development in startups

### Communication is the key

Ensure a harmonious workflow by creating crystal clear channels of communication. Utilize tech-savvy tools like Slack to facilitate seamless collaboration between team members. Schedule frequent virtual huddles to stay in the loop and easily track progress.

### Stay focused on your goals

Use [project management tools](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/scrum-a-comprehensive-overview) and [extensions](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/7-google-chrome-extensions-for-higher-productivity) to track progress and ensure you stay on track with your launch timeline. Regularly evaluate the project to ensure it aligns with your initial goals.

### Choose your [resources](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/free-resources-for-resourceful-UI-designers) 

Wisely before selecting a technology stack, and provide you have experienced developers on board. Consider hiring new developers or outsourcing part of the work, but always have in-house [experts](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/cto-as-a-service-the-ultimate-guide) to handle integration.

### Document everything

Centralize all product development documentation in a system. This will prevent delays and keep the project moving forward even if team members leave mid-way.

### Data-driven decisions 

Make decisions based on data, not intuition, to minimize the risk of failure. Use data management systems like [MongoDB](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/What-is-MongoDB) to analyze information and make informed decisions. Automate data processing to get real-time information with high accuracy.

### Test, Test, Test

[Testing](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/how-to-test-REST-ful-APIs-with-postman) is crucial to catch errors and logic flaws in the code. It's a time-consuming process, but the stakes of a flawed code make it worth it. Make testing a part of your software creation process, or give it its life cycle.

### Seek feedback

As we already mentioned, considering your clients' insight is crucial.

Conduct surveys, questionnaires, and usability tests, and observe customer interactions to gather information and improve your chances of success.

## Conclusion

Bringing software development for startups to life may seem daunting, but by sticking to the essentials, you're building the cornerstone for future triumph. Pick a startup-savvy method that keeps you light on your feet and can pivot with the market's demands.

Though many companies and startups are hopping on the agile bandwagon, select a software development model that suits your startup's unique style. Thorough testing is a must-have, so give your products a [complete workout](https://www.lexis.solutions/services/react-development) before unleashing them. 

Communication is vital, so keep the channels open and harness the power of tools to be more productive, gather valuable user feedback, and make smart business moves.


Join Lexis Solutions on a journey to the heart of software development for startups and uncover the secrets to success.

From Idea to Launch: Software Development for Startups

There must also be someone in the management role whenever there is a team. Sometimes, a person grows into such a role based on his experience in the technological world. Other times, it may be because of managerial expertise alone. 

Whatever the case, this role brings a new layer of responsibility. In this article, I will go through a few critical aspects of management and add some notes from my personal experience.

## An overview of the Project Manager's responsibilities

A project manager (PM), in the context of software development, is responsible for leading a team of software engineers and overseeing the development of software products. A typical day for a PM may involve the following:

- __Team management:__ Checking in with team members to provide guidance, address any concerns, and track project progress.
- __Project planning and monitoring:__ Review project schedules and milestones, ensuring that project goals are on track and making any necessary adjustments.
- __Risk management:__ Identifying and assessing potential risks to projects and implementing strategies to mitigate those risks.
- __Resource allocation:__ Assigning tasks to team members and ensuring that resources are used effectively.
- __Quality control:__ Overseeing the quality of code produced by the team and ensuring that it meets industry standards and client requirements.
- __Stakeholder management:__ Communicating with stakeholders, including clients, upper management, and other departments, to provide updates on project progress and address any concerns or issues.
- __Technical leadership:__ Providing technical leadership and guidance to the team, helping to ensure that projects are completed on time and to a high standard.
- __Hiring and training:__ Recruiting new team members and providing training and development opportunities to existing team members.
- __Continuous improvement:__ Staying current with industry trends and best practices and continuously improving processes and tools to improve the efficiency and quality of software development.

A software engineering manager's day-to-day operations need to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard.

## Project Manager vs. Product Owner

When working with clients, the product owner role often comes directly from their side. In that regard, it is essential to distinguish what responsibility each side should hold.  

__In general, one can encapsulate both terms as follows:__

The project manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of the project, including developing project plans, managing resources, overseeing the development team's work, and ensuring that the project stays on schedule and within budget. The project manager is also responsible for managing risk and ensuring that the project meets its objectives.

The product owner, on the other hand, is responsible for the project's overall success. Their work consists of defining the goals, determining the scope, and providing the input needed to complete the project. The product owner is also responsible for making critical decisions regarding the project, such as what tasks to prioritize in a concrete timeframe to align with marketing, what to cancel, or what can be omitted in the interest of resource-saving.

## Two Lessons from personal experience

"*Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth*," as Mike Tyson says, is a great way to think about project management as a whole. There may be guides or frameworks to systematize the general approach, or one can draw ideas from the experience of others, but in the end, every manager finds their unique style through the role itself.

On the one hand, this style may work with certain kinds of team members but not with others, so finding the right fit for the team is one of the most critical skills a manager should have. 

On the other hand, each client that the PM may end up working with has unique aspects. Maybe they are very cautious, have stricter goals that need to be aligned with engineering challenges, need extra help to organize their requirements, or want to build the "perfect" product down to the last pixel. In all situations, an experienced manager must communicate effectively and set the proper boundaries. 

__Next, I will list the two lessons I find most helpful in my work.__

### 1. Set the proper expectations for the client

Working in software development, especially with a technical background, it is easy to make wrong assumptions about how the client assesses our work. This comes from the fact that a lot of the work happens without the client'sclient's awareness, even though it ensures a higher standard of the software solution. 

In the end, what is seen is what is judged. Managers must take the client'sclient's point of view and fully communicate the processes and time needed for implementation. This way, everyone is on the same page. 

I have prepared a list of points that may differ depending on each project's needs and specifications but reinforces the argument:

### Requirements gathering and analysis

Clients may need more time to fully understand the scope of the project and the amount of time necessary to gather and analyze requirements. It could take multiple meetings and back-and-forth iterations and involve many parties from both sides.

### User experience and design

Creating a user-friendly and accessible interface takes effort, but clients may not fully appreciate the importance of this aspect of the project. From my experience, there has never been an occurrence where some design components needed to be updated during the development phase, so front-end elements had to be reworked on the go. With that in mind, I often encourage the clients to do as many variations and discussions as they would like beforehand and for the team to use this time to set up as much back-end work as possible. Then the front-end implementation can start with a good level of maturity for the interface.

### Integrating with existing systems

Integrating a new software solution with existing systems can be a complex and time-consuming process, mainly if the systems are outdated, lack documentation, or have limited functionality. 

Software developers need to consider not only the integration itself but put it in the context of their specifications.

### Testing and documentation

[Testing](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/how-to-test-REST-ful-APIs-with-postman) and [quality assurance ](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/into-the-shoes-of-a-QA-the-FAQ)are crucial steps in software development but can often be underestimated. It is vital to communicate the need for proper testing as clients will point out the bugs as a lack of professionalism in the delivery phase. 

Technical documentation is also essential to a successful software product, but clients often undervalue its importance.

In the past, I have personally been involved in a project where feature development was the team's most significant focus. The result was stable due to our extra efforts in manual testing, but the lack of automation and documentation caught on. At a future moment, the product owner decided to sell the code but could only obtain a limited price because of that. A software implementation with a test infrastructure to back it up has a different value.

Not to mention that during the work process, a lot more resources were spent on manual testing and onboarding members in person, which bumped the cost additionally.

### Debugging and fixing issues

Debugging and fixing issues that arise during the development process can take longer than anticipated, particularly if the problems are interrelated in a more extensive system. 

That said, being proactive and asking for the client's input to point out as many use cases as possible is vital. It will help by surfacing many bugs preemptively. 

### Performance optimization

Performance optimization is an integral part of software development that is usually not on every client's mind but, indeed, is expected by default. It is worth it to spend extra time identifying potential performance bottlenecks and discussing scalability and computing complexity with all parties involved.

### Security considerations

Ensuring a software solution is secure and protected against potential threats requires additional efforts. Security is an aspect that is poorly patched ad-hoc and should instead be dealt with at the beginning of the project. Still, clients may only fully understand the importance of this aspect of the project after the first issues come.

### Deployment and post-deployment support

Deploying a software solution and providing post-deployment support takes time and resources. Setting up the proper infrastructure is critical. However, clients may need to fully understand the ongoing effort required to maintain the solution after deployment. 

### 2. Unclear tasks lead to inefficiency

We frequently put it off when trying to figure out how to complete a task.

One of the most critical stages of [project management is planning](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/scrum-a-comprehensive-overview). It is the crucial step before the execution can begin. Checklists contain what must be done, when, and how, but a lack of clarity in these requirements will most likely result in serious issues or miscommunications.

With my background of being a [software developer,](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/tips-for-mentoring-developers) I've always questioned why I require additional drive for specific tasks. The issue is relatively simple: there are no precise requirements. Unconsciously, we steer clear of tasks we need to learn how to finish. We continually reschedule it, but we may miss important deadlines, which leads to unnecessary extra stress.

Furthermore, there are two ways a task may be unclear to a software developer - either it needs to be better described from the business logic side, or the programmer needs help figuring out where to start with the implementation. In both cases, the PM should be focused on providing as much clarity as possible by being proactive and connecting all the dots inside and outside the team.

So a manager must find a way to handle requirements and client requests by explicitly communicating the last detail before setting his team on the tasks at hand. And for every individual project, this step may be executed differently.

## Conclusion

Being in the shoes of a project manager is undoubtedly one of the field's most dynamic and challenging roles. It lends itself to a lot of creativity and, when done right, also provides one of the most rewarding experiences. When a team just " clicks," and the consistency of the workload is appropriately managed, everything falls into place, and clients get exactly what they need.


An overview of the project management role and personal experience notes.

Leading the Charge: Key Responsibilities of a Project Manager

A Chief Technology Officer (CTO) is a senior executive responsible for managing a company's technology needs. They hire and manage teams and set the company's tech goals. CTO as a Service (CaaS) for startups is a trend that makes this position accessible for smaller companies. Unlike traditional CTO services for big firms, CaaS accommodates a startup's budget.

## Benefits of CTO as a Service: 

- Stays up-to-date with industry trends & business transformations to implement effective software dev strategies 
- Provides team building support through mentoring, coaching & professional development 
- Reduces operational risks by monitoring budgets, planning resources, & managing crisis, security, and governance 
- Facilitates digital transformation by guiding the company's tech-driven business process improvements.

## Different types of CTO services available

There are multiple options for getting CTO services, from hiring a full-time CTO to paying a one-time fee. Understanding the different services available is essential to select [the best fit](https://www.lexis.solutions/services/react-development) for your company's goals and budget.

- __Full-time Internal CTO:__ A CTO will join your team and work onsite, focusing on tech innovation and handling tech and business needs.
- __Full-time Offshore CTO:__ High-quality tech support at a lower cost, with remote work and regular communication.
- __Part-time Offshore/Fractional CTO:__ Quality tech support at a minimum fee, working only the hours you need.
- __One-time CTO Services:__ Perfect for specific projects with a fixed cost, often used for technical troubleshooting or audits.
- __Interim CTO:__ A temporary technical expert hired during the transition when searching for a full-time internal CTO. Ideal for short-term tech needs.

## Models of cooperation

There are three main CTO as a Service cooperation models:

###  CTO Consulting

Ideal for a firm seeking a one-time consultation for tech design and development, which is excellent for when a company needs help choosing a tech stack or when an in-house team faces difficulties during product development. A single fee is charged for each consultation session.

### CaaS Fixed Price

Ideal for companies needing ongoing support. Pay quarterly or biannually for the services of a dedicated technical consultant who will help with ongoing plan strategies.

### CaaS Time and Material

Perfect for businesses heavily reliant on product development. Pay your CTO hourly, which is ideal for developing new products or tech-related projects.

## External CTO as a Service

### Benefits of having an external CTO as a Service:

- __Cost Savings:__ Hiring an external CTO is a budget-friendly solution for startups needing CTO services but can only afford a part-time one. Outsourcing offers all the necessary services without exceeding costs.
- __Pay-per-Use Model:__ With an external CTO, only pay for services provided. This avoids extra expenses compared to an in-house CTO, which incurs all employment costs. 
- __Access to a Wider Talent Pool:__ Outsourcing grants access to a global talent pool, increasing the chance of finding the right fit for the role and reducing development costs. 
- __Unbiased Expert Opinion:__ An external CTO provides a neutral perspective and professional advice, crucial for making informed decisions and resolving tech and business issues. 
- __Improved Agility:__ With a CTO's input, startups can swiftly address technical and business problems, enhancing the efficiency of their processes and growth. Avoid a lengthy journey and slow progress with a trial-and-error approach.

### Drawbacks of having an external CTO as a Service:

- __Communication Difficulties:__ A remote CTO in a different time zone can lead to communication challenges. Make sure to check their availability and work hours.
- __Management Concerns:__ Business owners may struggle with letting go of control over projects, but a reliable CTO can help manage responsibilities.

## Qualities to look for in a CTO:

- __Technical Expertise:__ Your CTO must have a strong tech background and be able to demonstrate past work that will benefit your project. 
- __People Management:__ The CTO should have experience leading teams and the ability to resolve conflicts and bring the team around the project.
- __Effective Communication:__ The CTO must be able to convey technical information to those requiring specialized knowledge. 
- __Tech-Savvy:__ Technology continually evolves, and the CTO should be dedicated to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with advancements in their field.

## How much does it cost to hire a CTO? 

For example, in the USA, [the average cost](https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Chief_Technology_Officer_(CTO)/Salary) for the hourly rate of a CTO is $55,25. But, of course, that number might differ depending on which country you are hiring your CTO from. 

The average chief technology officer's gross salary in [Austria](https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/chief-technology-officer-cto/austria) is €118 394 or an equivalent hourly rate of €57 ($61,83). In Germany, [they pay ](https://www.salaryexpert.com/salary/job/chief-technical-officer-cto/germany)at least €84 ($91,11) for an hour of work of the CTO. 

Generally speaking, in comparison to the other mentioned countries, hiring a CTO from Eastern Europe is way more affordable. 

### Conclusion

CTO as a Service (CaaS) is a trend that makes the position of a reliable solution for most business and technical inquiries. It's suitable for various companies but especially beneficial for startups as it provides access to a skilled and knowledgeable professional.


CTO as a Service (CaaS) is an affordable solution for startups to stay ahead of the competition and tackle business and technical inquiries.

CTO as a Service: The Ultimate Guide

Scrum is a simple yet powerful framework (a set of rules) that many organizations widely use to help teams work collaboratively and more efficiently. It involves different roles, activities, and tools to ensure all members know what to do to complete a project. 

Scrum is an iterative and incremental methodology that breaks down complex projects into smaller, more manageable pieces. It comprises specific roles, activities, and tools that help the project management team plan and manage projects with greater accuracy and efficiency.

Scrum's structure consists of short sprints, during which developers focus on completing specific tasks within a given timeframe, providing a sense of accomplishment. Successful sprint completion leads to fulfillment and motivation for the next one. Additionally, developers are given autonomy and flexibility to decide how to complete their assigned tasks, giving them a sense of ownership over the project. 

## Тhe Scrum process

The essential part of the Scrum framework is the Sprint. The Sprint is a time-boxed period in which the team works together to complete tasks. During the Sprint, the team works to meet the project's goals and complete the tasks assigned by the Product Owner. The Sprint is composed of 4 essential activities (also called ceremonies):

- __Sprint Planning:__ The team plans the primary goal, the time frame, and the tasks that should be added to the Sprint. 

- __Daily Scrums:__ The team meets daily to discuss progress and potential issues that may arise.

- __Sprint Review:__ At the end of the Sprint, the team reviews the progress and makes changes or improvements to the project. 

- __Sprint Retrospective:__ The team reviews the process used during the Sprint and identifies what went well and what could be improved. 

## Roles in Scrum 

### Scrum involves three leading roles:

- __The Product Owner__ (PO) is responsible for defining the product vision, goals, and standards and establishing the tasks and their priority.

- __The Scrum Master__ is responsible for coordinating the team and facilitating the Scrum procedures. 

- __The Development Team__ comprises all individuals responsible for developing and delivering the product (developers/designers/testers, etc.).

## Scrum Tools 

There are 3 main tools (also called artifacts) that are essential for the Scrum process: 

- __Product Backlog:__ A list of all tasks that need to be completed. Anyone can add a task, but the PO  is responsible for prioritizing and/or extending them.

- __Sprint Backlog:__ A list of tasks that will be completed during a sprint and is defined during the sprint planning. 

- __Burndown Chart:__ A graphical representation of the progress (most Scrum-based management software generate this automatically).

- __Product increment:__ A list of the deliverables that were achieved by completing the tasks during a sprint (usually represented by the approved merge requests).

## Benefits of using Scrum 

### Here are some of the main benefits of using Scrum:

- __Increased productivity and motivation:__ Scrum encourages teams to focus on short, achievable goals and continuously track progress. Тthis allows teams to be more agile in their approach and have a smaller scope, which reduces their cognitive load.

- __Improved team collaboration and transparency:__ The Scrum framework facilitates teams to openly communicate and collaborate, which helps to reduce any misunderstandings or surprises that may arise during the project.

- __Increased Adaptability:__ The methodology allows teams to adjust to changes and adapt to new requirements quickly. 

- __Improved customer satisfaction and product quality:__ Because of frequent testing, feedback, and incremental improvement, the quality is quickly ramping up until it meets the customer's expectations.

## Downsides of using Scrum

As the framework is based on a set of predefined rules and processes, teams may sometimes find it difficult to adapt to certain customer requirements or new technologies. Additionally, as it is impossible to predict the amount of work necessary for a given sprint, teams may find themselves under or over-allocating resources during project planning. Scrum is also not suitable for projects with large teams, as the complexity of coordinating such a large number of stakeholders can be too much for the Scrum framework to handle.

## Conclusion

Scrum is a popular agile methodology in software development because it promotes collaboration, fosters creativity, and encourages experimentation. With its focus on teamwork, innovation, and experimentation, Scrum encourages developers to push themselves further and strive for more significant accomplishments. The Scrum methodology provides an ideal environment to keep developers motivated and engaged in projects.


Discover the power of Scrum - a simple yet effective framework that helps teams work collaboratively and efficiently to achieve project goals.

Scrum: A Comprehensive Overview

## Not a human

The [product](https://www.lexis.solutions/services/react-development) of the company OpenAI [ChatGPT](https://chat.openai.com/chat) is a text-based chatbot that can compose pretty much everything - blog posts, even poetry, or a computer code on command. It is powered by generative artificial intelligence that creates new content after learning from massive amounts of data.

No personal beliefs, emotions, or experiences are involved in ChatGPT, even if you ask him - it always specifies to you - 'I am not a human.'

Its primary function is to assist all of us, the users, by providing information and answering all kinds of questions. ChatGPT's [knowledge](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/why-does-knowledge-matter) cut-off is 2021 - so note that this is the most recent information it has.

To generate content with ChatGPT, you will need to provide some initial input, such as a prompt or a question, and then let it generate text based on your information.

## How does it work

A language model is machine learning trained to understand and generate natural language. It uses neural networks and large text datasets to learn the patterns and structure of speech and can be fine-tuned for various natural language processing tasks.

This chatbot is based on transformer architecture, a neural network that uses attention mechanisms to weigh the importance of different input parts. This allows the model to understand the context and meaning of the text.

Language models have a wide range of applications and use cases, including text generation, language translation, text classification, text summarization, image and video captioning, chatbots, and question answering. 

## Chatbot in need is a chatbot indeed? 

Since ChatGPT launched in November 2022, there has been an ongoing discussion about whether the chatbot makes our lives easier - from writing emails to brainstorming. 

*But what might the potential liabilities that A.I. brings?*

![АI](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/3FVjRAU3jwyrgZEGRH1jXn/4efd9283756b5acb4755c7f4f5672c26/Screenshot_2023-01-19_at_13.27.25.png)

ChatGPT is a great helper when searching for widespread questions - how to write an article, prepare Carbonara, ask someone out on a dating app, or get better after divorce. But the truth is; it gives you generalized answers that you can find easily on the first page of Google, and sometimes even faster. 

![dating](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/525mIpocRfTLz8E1nbhoPz/1eb754af6fe8ba7468c8e3aece363ed6/Screenshot_2023-01-18_at_16.34.13.png)

## 'As a language model, I am not capable of causing harm'

Language models like ChatGPT can be used to create fake news, impersonation, and other malicious activities.

As we know, ChatGPT can create various types of content. Lately, big media names like [Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/chatgpt-essays-college-cheating-professors-caught-students-ai-plagiarism-2023-1) have followed different stories on how students have been turning in AI-generated essays to their professors. 

Darren Hick, a philosophy professor at Furman University, revealed that his doubts were aroused when a student submitted an essay that was relevant to the topic but included a few inaccuracies. 

Aumann, a philosophy and religious studies professor at Northern Michigan University, told Insider that he caught two students submitting essays generated by ChatGPT. The professor became suspicious because of the writing style and ran the papers through the chatbot, which confirmed with 99% certainty that the essays were written by the program.

On the other hand, the chatbox could be used to boost your creativity. There always be someone looking for a way to cut it short, but many educators see the positives of ChatGPT -  when students are short on ideas, they can see what ChatGPT comes up with and draw inspiration. Or get help with math solving. 

![math problem](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/5KNpkEzjhJC0DFPCEXQ1KI/e7e8bd0decdb30cab5b493508b56ed4e/math_problem.png)

[According to a new study](https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.12.23.521610v1), fake scientific and research papers generated using the highly advanced chatbox fooled scientists into thinking they were accurate nearly one-third of the time. The researchers noted that all texts were original, and __no plagiarism was detected__. 

Still, the boundaries of ethical and acceptable use of large language models to help scientific writing remain to be determined.

*P.S.: ChatGPT doesn't give specific answer to any questions related to illegal activities. But there are some [ways](https://twitter.com/davisblalock/status/1602600453555961856?s=12&t=jktsqr3qXhY13nzdgzVn1w?utm_source=tldrnewsletter) to get around its safeguards. And many have succeeded.*

![bank](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/4mKLiXMNayTKjfjADvP4ZO/0be7fbe6eaaa8a3431a2d7140b78ae6f/Screenshot_2023-01-18_at_16.18.04.png)

## New horizons

The American technology concern Microsoft Corp said it is expanding access to the hugely popular software of OpenAI.

The startup's technology, which used to be only available to customers in the cloud in a program called Azure OpenAI Service, is now generally available, which is expected to lead to many new users.

Microsoft is considering increasing its $1 billion stake in OpenAI, which it announced in 2019. Microsoft could invest $10 billion, but the company has declined to comment on the potential deal.

## Conclusion

Creating unique content is a challenging task, and ChatGTP comes in handy. Yes, sometimes it takes longer to give you an answer (which OpenAI justifies with the high demand for the product). Still, it could be used for more than inspiration or advice: writing marketing copy, translating text from one language to another, and many more. 

And, even though the future of ChatGPT is still widely discussed, considering the technology constantly changing and improving, it will surely be brighter than ever.


An introduction about ChatGPT - the 'revolutionary' AI chatbot. 


ChatGPT: The New Content Creator or Ultimate Cheating Tool?

## Introduction

Many developers start with relational databases and are familiar with them because they have been around for decades. Nowadays, though, [programmers](https://www.lexis.solutions/services/next-js-development) use NoSQL databases alongside (or instead) traditional ones, as they perform better in specific scenarios.

MongoDB is one of the most used NoSQL (non-relational structured query language) databases, and you are bound to meet it in person sooner or later. Let`s explore what MongoDB is, when it is used and what its features are.

## Comparison

The structure of a relational database looks like a spreadsheet. Data is stored in rows and columns, where each row is a record, and each column is a record field. Tables connect via primary keys. For example, table User has ID and Name. Table Sport has User_id and Name. The user_id from table Sport corresponds to ID field from Users.

![example4](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/1RlabK87aNMJDnZItuwvMJ/0176b351bb2a72206c57691688fad998/mongo-example2.jpg)

In the MongoDB, this example can be represented as follows by merging the data from the two tables:

![example3](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/50w7SEWyKyNy0GTI4ftiz6/f1d8cfd3fe2b0c08c7de3a698a65b1da/mongo-example.jpg)

The idea of MongoDB is to collect all the data in one place instead of in separate tables. In the example, three documents are presented, each with a different ID so that each can be identified, adn the data is stored in key-value pairs. Keys correspond to column names in relational databases, and their values compare to records. 

> MongoDB`s greatest strengths are that it scales easily and accepts any data without defining its type, therefore, we can have records of the same model that have different data pieces (keys) and different values types for the same key. This cannot happen in relational databases. 

## Terminology

### Document 

A document is a basic unit in MongoDB - that's why it is a document-based storage. Each document consists of key-value pairs, and it is optional to state in advance how many such pairs there will be and what type of data they will contain - numbers, text, array, etc. They are similar to JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) but use a variant called Binary JSON (BSON). 

### _id 

It is a mandatory field in every MongoDB document because documents are identified with it and is used as a primary key. If you create a new document without an _id field, MongoDB will automatically create the field. The default format is the ObjectId of the document. See its description here  [https://www.mongodb.com/docs/manual/reference/method/ObjectId/](https://www.mongodb.com/docs/manual/reference/method/ObjectId/)

### Collection 

This is a combination of documents that may have its schema. It's equivalent to a table in the relational database.

### Database 

A database in MongoDB holds a set of collections. Each database may contain zero or more collections. 

The following table shows the correspondences in terminology between relational databases with MongoDB.

![example7](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/01H1geEZ8aVwSRIzTaklgd/09c7ca9bed98708054be0ecb71eda29f/mongo-example3.jpg)

## Use cases

MongoDB is suitable if your data could become extensive and there are no connections between it as in SQL. 

### A few use cases might be:

- A product catalog where each product can have different features and can't be grouped.  
- An application consisting of varying data formats that you don't need to store data in a particular way or hierarchy.  
    - For example, mobile or social networking applications by which data comes from multiple sources and have highly dynamic growth.
- Real-time data, like periodic sensors
    - Marine thermometers/current indicator
    - Wind/humidity sensors
- Logs
    - Access/error logs
    - Performance logs

> Trying to model relations in MongoDB will result in poor performance and is an anti-pattern. 

## MongoDB Features

### Document-oriented model

All the data is stored in documents in fields (key-value pairs) instead of rows and columns, making the data much more flexible than in RDBMS. Each document has its unique ID, and they are grouped into collections.

### Ad-hoc Queries

When we design a database schema, we don't know in advance about the queries we will perform. MongoDB supports ad-hoc queries, which is one of the most significant benefits. Ad-hoc queries are the queries not known while modeling the database. They are short-lived and are created at runtime. For example, suppose a company monitors its average sales daily and one day finds that sales are lower than the previous day. In that case, admins can write a series of ad hoc queries to identify the reasons for the decrease.

### Replication

Replication protects a database and recovers it from server crashes, computer network service interruptions, and even hardware failure. The replication process includes copying data from a primary database on one server to a second database on another server. 

MongoDB achieves replication by using replica sets. A replica set contains a single primary database (branch) and one or more secondary databases (branches). At a time of failure or maintenance, whenever the primary branch dies, the system elects one of the secondary branches as the primary. After recovery, the failed branch joins the replica set and works as a secondary branch.

### Load balancing

MongoDB replication helps the whole client traffic and requests to be well distributed across the different servers to improve performance and reduce congestion. To do so, you can instruct clients to read from secondaries instead of the primary server. This will reduce the load on the primary server, which will only take care of writing queries.

### Schema-less database

MongoDB is a schema-less database that can store different types of data in documents in a single collection. MongoDB usually focuses on keeping everything in just one document by reducing the number of relations between data, in contrast to SQL. 

These two factors allow developers to be flexible, which is one of MongoDB's leading powers.

### Sharding

In MongoDB, sharding splits the data sets and distributes them across multiple machines. Each machine is called a database shard and contains only a portion of the database. Breaking the data this way allows for the smaller size of each shard which might be crucial if your database is enormous and cannot be handled by a single server.  

> By adding more servers, sharding can automatically balance the load across the various shard servers and increase the database speed.
> Sharding can also be paired with replication. In this scenario, each document is replicated in two or more shards making the database setup fault tolerant at the expense of taking up more storage.

![mongo-example](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/6B3iXtXMhG03tRJSVvaB2w/7f82e78a1d497870ef5fe68ac6bdb901/example4.jpg)

### Indexing

MongoDB uses indexes to sieve out information rather than searching each document, one after the other, for a particular entry. This indexing feature of MongoDB reduces the time in solving queries and improves performance. Indexes are defined at the collection level and are supported on any field or subfield of the documents in a collection.

### Change streams

MongoDB’s Change Streams are an abstraction over "oplog" (operations log) - the collection that records all CRUD operations. Change streams watch for data changes to documents in real-time and emit events to which you can subscribe and take action. 

> Change streams serve the same function as triggers in popular SQL databases.

## Conclusion

MongoDB is a superb schemaless document database that saves time by allowing rapid development. It is a high-performing, cost-effective database that scales horizontally across multiple servers and works easily with large amounts of scattered data. 

It is suitable for Mobile Applications, high-traffic applications, real-time applications, and big data analysis which makes it a big hit in the IT world. You already know the basics, so go ahead and build your next passion project with MongoDB. It will surely help you stand out from the crowd when looking for a new job.


A guide on how to improve your database knowledge. 

What is MongoDB?

In the fast-changing digital world everything becomes more accessible and easier to do on your computer - from editing to design - there is a [tool](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/powerful-and-free-tools-for-content-creation) or a specific [resource](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/free-resources-for-resourceful-UI-designers) for everything, and even - *extensions*. So, Lexis Solutions has selected the best Google Chrome extensions to improve work productivity. 

## [АdBlock](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/adblock-%E2%80%94-best-ad-blocker/gighmmpiobklfepjocnamgkkbiglidom)

AdBlock is said to be the best ad blocker and one of the most popular Chrome extensions with over 300+ million downloads! It blocks the annoying ads and pop-ups on YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and all your favorite websites.

### Alternatives:

- [TotalAdblock](https://www.totaladblock.com/) tool is known for blocking all ads and trackers automatically across the internet. It can easily detect and remove ads on popular platforms like YouTube, Facebook, CNN, etc.

## [The Great Suspender](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/the-great-suspender/jaekigmcljkkalnicnjoafgfjoefkpeg?hl=en)

The Great Suspender is your savior, especially if you have 83 open tabs at all times. The extension puts the unused ones to sleep after some time you designate, suspending them in the background until you’re ready to use them again.

### Alternatives: 

- [Tabby](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/tabby/bloclegocjpjjaandifppeocigahekjg) is a simplistic Chrome tab suspender, allowing you to close older Chrome tabs when you open new ones. It has three modes: Focus Mode, Relax Mode and Customize Mode. 

## [Checker Plus for Gmail](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/checker-plus-for-gmail/oeopbcgkkoapgobdbedcemjljbihmemj)

Checking your email is a must, but sometimes it can get emotional. So Checker Plus will be your friend in need. The extension collects all your emails in a tidy dropdown - even from multiple accounts - and lets you read, respond, archive, mark as spam, move messages into folders, and more from the dropdown window. 

### Alternatives:

- [Notifier for Gmail](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/notifier-for-gmail/dcjichoefijpinlfnjghokpkojhlhkgl?hl=en) is one of the easiest ways to manage everything in your email. It notifies you about incoming emails and orders multiple accounts, giving you a better view of what’s going on in your email with its email management features. 

## [Productivity Owl](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/productivity-owl/eoagmdboiealblmpaahjlhajggndaahi)

Of all the animals, dogs usually end up helping us humans, but what about the owls? The Productivity Owl sits on a little branch in the lower-left corner of any site you visit, waiting to swoop up and close the tab after a predetermined time. 

### Alternatives: 

- [Cold Turkey](https://getcoldturkey.com/support/extensions/chrome/) can be used to limit yourself off of social media, addicting websites, and games so that you can get your work done! 

## [Clockify Time Tracker](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/clockify-time-tracker/pmjeegjhjdlccodhacdgbgfagbpmccpe)

Clockify's extension is the best and Lexis Solutions approved! It can track the time from anywhere on the web and improve productivity. Remember to download it! 

### Alternatives:

- [ClickUp](https://clickup.com/chrome-extension) is one of the best Clockify alternatives on the market. It allows users to track time from anywhere via any device - all within a non-invasive pop-out or through its Chrome browser extension.

## [Grammarly](https://www.grammarly.com/browser/chrome) 

Even though we already recommended you Grammarly in our article devoted to [content creation](https://www.lexis.solutions/blog/powerful-and-free-tools-for-content-creation), we must mention again how useful it is. The cloud-based typing assistant reviews spelling, grammar, punctuation, clarity, engagement, and delivery mistakes in English texts; the platform also detects plagiarism.

### Alternatives: 

- [Ginger](https://www.gingersoftware.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiAh9qdBhAOEiwAvxIokzwz0_NzMgUZ2voFaX9BY95g7IyYzBjyW_NAjdnO2l4AcrE5luw0uRoC6D0QAvD_BwE) corrects all types of mistakes, from grammar and spelling to punctuation and syntax, with unmatched accuracy. 

## [Save to Pocket ](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/save-to-pocket/niloccemoadcdkdjlinkgdfekeahmflj?hl=en)

Sometimes bookmarks or tab managers aren’t enough. If saving something to read later is essential for your work, why not Save to Pocket? This extension organizes every content that you wish to keep at hand in a clean, distraction-free space that you can access from all devices. 

### Alternatives:

- [Booky](https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/bookyio-extension/pmcpkkipiedakcaolhnbijibndfemckf?hl=en) is not precisely similar, but it's so far the best bookmarking service to keep links organized. It can transform new tab pages, and it supports every web browser. The great thing is that it allows users to create custom Dashboards based on preference.


Want to increase your productivity? Check out these 7 Google Chrome extensions! 

7 Google Chrome Extensions for Higher Productivity

## Let's talk about: Tailwind CSS

When it comes to [web development](https://www.lexis.solutions/services/next-js-development), there are so many CSS frameworks out there, including Bootstrap, Foundation, Tailwind CSS, and Materialize, etc. with so many frameworks, and figuring out which and when to use them can be challenging.

## What is Tailwind CSS?

Tailwind CSS is entirely utility-first and provides users with low-level CSS classes that can be used to define components and designs independently. Instead of delivering pre-designed elements as Bootstrap does, Tailwind gives building blocks that provide flexibility & customization; due to that, it has gained popularity in recent years mainly because of its simplicity and ease of use.

## Why I like Tailwind CSS

I love using Tailwind, and it's made my development workflow so much better. Here are some benefits I've gained from using Tailwind over a traditional framework or custom CSS.

### Customization

Tailwind was built from the ground up to be super customizable. You can customize all the elements from there, be it colors, spacing sizes, styling, themes, etc. It comes with a default configuration, but it's straightforward to override the default configuration with a `tailwind.config.js` file in your project.

![screenshot-css](//images.ctfassets.net/5gydaotbo8jm/3jbXnO4dtWRT2RoKXRypQX/31e30b12c71daac71d0d71b8875bf3cf/screenshot-css.png)

In the above example, I added new color called `gunpowder` and new max width and height values, and you can apply them within the HTML, e.g., `bg-gunpowder` to set the background color of an element, and you can say `max-w-4` to restrict its width.

### No Naming Things

With traditional CSS, organizing each class can be a tedious task. Which courses should be specific? Which classes should be more generic? How do you manage them all and make sure they cascade in the correct order? This is where Tailwind CSS steps in, and the library provides utility classes for you, so you don't have to name anything.

### Development Speed

Because you don't need to name things, you don't have to switch context as much, and you're not fighting the framework to make customizations, prototyping and implementing custom designs is fast using Tailwind. Much faster than most other CSS frameworks and quicker than writing custom CSS.

### Well Documented

Tailwind comes with excellent in-depth, well-written, and easy-to-navigate documentation. Internal links are provided throughout all the documentation pages to make it easy for a user to expand on a piece of information. Also, it allows for going back to a prerequisite page or chapter that is essential to understand the insights provided on the current page.

### Tailwind CSS compared to other frameworks

Much like other frameworks, Tailwind CSS aims to ease creating a website. Websites can be built faster thanks to predefined classes and general CSS rules. Because the principle is always the same, experienced users can switch between frameworks more rapidly. While conventional solutions provide fixed components such as buttons or navigation bars, Tailwind CSS delivers the tools to create such components.

## Pros & Cons

### Pros:

- It promotes a consistent design style across a project.
- It allows you to create custom designs without writing custom CSS.
- It can help you to build a design system faster.
- It has a large and active community.
- It is well-documented and easy to learn.

### Cons:

- If not configured properly, it can result in larger CSS files because it generates a lot of utility classes (However, JIT solves this).
- It may not be suitable for projects that require a lot of design work, as it does not have built-in components like other CSS frameworks (However, tailwindui solves this). 
- Default styles may not suit your needs, and you have to override them.
- Requires a learning curve. Tailwind has a different approach to styling compared to traditional frameworks.
- Not great for beginners, as they might miss out on CSS fundamentals

## Final Thoughts

Tailwind has become my preferred styling solution. It has solved most of the drawbacks I have encountered in my journey through different CSS solutions. It has increased my productivity, made me more consistent, and changed my development paradigm.

Overall, it is a powerful and flexible tool that can help developers create custom, responsive designs quickly and easily. If you're looking for a CSS framework that allows you to focus on building great designs rather than writing complex stylesheets, Tailwind is definitely worth considering.

The answer to "Why is Tailwind CSS worth considering?". 

From the front lines