Client Guide - Getting Started with Projects eXchange

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star Welcome to Projects eXchange

Projects eXchange connects you with talented student teams who can bring your project ideas to life. Whether you're from industry, a charity, public sector, or any organisation with a real-world challenge, our students are ready to deliver innovative solutions.

lightbulb Perfect for: Software development, research projects, data analysis, mobile apps, websites, system design, and many other technology-related challenges.
What Makes This Programme Special
  • Real Impact: Students work on genuine problems that matter to your organisation
  • Professional Quality: Teams are guided by experienced academic staff
  • Cost-Effective: Access skilled development teams at no direct cost
  • Fresh Perspectives: Students bring innovative approaches and latest technologies
  • Structured Process: Clear timelines, deliverables, and regular communication
rocket_launch Getting Started - Your Journey
1
Create Your Account

Register on the platform to start posting projects and communicating with students.

2
Submit Project Brief

Describe your project, requirements, and what resources you can provide to teams.

3
Staff Review & Feedback

Academic staff review your brief and may suggest improvements to ensure student success.

4
Project Goes Live

Students can view your project and express interest in working on it.

5
Receive Team Bids

Student teams submit detailed proposals showing their approach and team composition.

6
Select Your Team

Review proposals and choose the team that best fits your project needs.

edit Writing an Effective Project Brief

A well-written brief is crucial for attracting the right student teams. Here's what to include:

title Project Title

Keep it concise but descriptive. Example: "Mobile App for Restaurant Booking" rather than "App Development"

description Overview

Include:

  • Clear description of the problem you're trying to solve
  • Background context about your organisation
  • Main objectives and goals
  • Who will use the final solution
  • Why this project matters to your organisation
playlist_add_check Deliverables

Be specific about what you expect:

  • Software applications (web, mobile, desktop)
  • Documentation and user guides
  • Reports or research findings
  • Design assets or prototypes
  • Data analysis or visualizations
handshake Resources You Provide

What can you offer to help teams succeed:

  • Your time commitment (be specific: "2 hours per week for meetings")
  • Access to systems, APIs, or data
  • Software licenses or cloud credits
  • Domain expertise and guidance
  • Testing environments or user feedback
  • Meeting spaces or equipment
psychology Required Skills

Select technical skills students will need. Don't worry if you're unsure - academic staff will help refine these during the review process.

settings Managing Your Project
Working with Student Teams
visibility Reviewing Bids

Teams submit detailed presentations showing their understanding, approach, and team composition. Look for clear communication and relevant experience.

star Shortlisting Process

You can shortlist multiple teams before making your final choice. This gives you time to ask questions and clarify details.

check_circle Team Selection

Choose the team that best demonstrates understanding of your needs and has the right mix of skills for your project.

schedule Project Timeline

Projects typically run for one academic semester. Teams will establish regular check-ins and milestone reviews with you.

forum Communication & Support
Staying Connected
  • Platform Dashboard: Track project progress and manage team communications
  • Email Notifications: Receive updates about bids, team activity, and important milestones
  • Direct Contact: Communicate directly with your selected team through the platform
  • Academic Support: Staff members are available to help resolve any issues
support_agent Need Help?

Academic staff are available throughout the process to help with project scoping, team selection, and any challenges that arise. Don't hesitate to reach out!

rocket_launch Quick Start

Ready to get started? Follow these steps:

person_add Create Account login Sign In
schedule Important Timelines
  • edit Project Submission: Submit briefs early in the academic year for best team selection
  • rate_review Staff Review: Allow 1-2 weeks for academic review and feedback
  • visibility Student Bidding: Projects are live for 2-3 weeks to allow team formation
  • build Project Work: One academic semester (approximately 12-16 weeks)
tips_and_updates Pro Tips
  • check Be specific about deliverables and success criteria
  • check Clearly state your availability and commitment level
  • check Consider projects that can be completed in one semester
  • check Provide real data or test environments when possible
contact_support Get Support

Need help or have questions?

email Contact Us info Programme Details