Robots & Pencils Company Profile

Background

Founded in 2009, Robots & Pencils is a digital innovation firm specializing in mobile, web, and AI technologies to drive business transformation. The company operates across various industries, including education, financial services, healthcare, and consumer technology, delivering user-centered design services and world-class engineering solutions. With a mission to blend the humanities with the sciences, Robots & Pencils aims to unlock human potential through systematic innovation.

Key Strategic Focus

Robots & Pencils focuses on business transformation by leveraging mobile, web, and frontier technologies. The company's core objectives include developing consumer applications, transformative enterprise software, and pioneering education platforms. By applying and operationalizing frontier technologies such as machine learning, bots, and conversational user interfaces, Robots & Pencils enables clients to gain early and differentiated advantages, positioning them as future-proof organizations.

Financials and Funding

As a privately held company, Robots & Pencils has undergone two financing rounds, including private equity growth investments. The company has attracted investments from notable investors such as Next Sparc Growth Partners. The capital raised is intended to support the company's growth initiatives, technological advancements, and expansion into new markets.

Pipeline Development

Robots & Pencils has developed several key products and platforms:

TEx: A data-driven, mobile-only learning platform created for the University of Texas System, designed to personalize degree programs and enhance accessibility and affordability.

WestJet Mobile App: A top-ranking iPhone and iPad app offering a paper-free travel experience, providing instant access to booking, trip details, and inflight entertainment.

Varo: A personalized, mobile-only bank offering proactive feedback, non-predatory lending products, personal finance analysis, and real-time budgeting advice through a chatbot named Val.

chata.ai: A conversational analytics assistant built on computational linguistics and machine learning, enabling users to interact with data using natural language.

Missions: A workflow automation tool that allows users to create complex workflows within Slack without writing code. This product was acquired by Slack in 2018.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Robots & Pencils distinguishes itself through its proprietary technologies and innovative methodologies:

Proprietary Technologies: Development of unique platforms like TEx and chata.ai, showcasing expertise in creating tailored solutions for clients.

Scientific Methods: Utilization of machine learning algorithms and natural language processing to enhance user experiences and data interaction.

AI-Driven Capabilities: Integration of AI to drive return on investment and growth for clients, as highlighted in their service offerings.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at Robots & Pencils comprises experienced professionals:

Tracey Zimmerman: President & CEO since March 2021, Zimmerman has over 20 years of experience in marketing, technology, and process innovation. She joined the company as President in 2014 and has been instrumental in driving growth and strategic partnerships.

Blake Latta: Vice President of Business Development & Sales, Latta focuses on expanding the company's client base and fostering strategic partnerships.

Andy Wright: Vice President of Software Development & Architecture, Wright leads the technical teams in developing innovative solutions.

Brad Fagan: Executive Creative Director, Fagan oversees the creative direction and user experience design of the company's products.

Leadership Changes

In March 2021, Tracey Zimmerman was appointed as President & CEO, succeeding the previous leadership. Zimmerman had been with the company since 2014, serving as President before her promotion.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics: The digital innovation industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the increasing demand for mobile, web, and AI solutions across various sectors. Companies are seeking partners to help them navigate digital transformation and maintain a competitive edge.

Competitor Analysis: Key competitors include:

Mobomo: Specializes in web and mobile app development, offering services similar to Robots & Pencils.

Zibtek: Provides software development services, focusing on custom solutions for businesses.

ScienceSoft: Offers IT consulting and software development services, with a strong emphasis on digital transformation.

These competitors focus on delivering digital solutions to clients across various industries, leveraging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and user-centered design.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Robots & Pencils has established significant partnerships to enhance its market position and innovation capacity:

Slack: In 2018, Slack acquired the Missions product developed by Robots & Pencils, highlighting the company's capability in creating valuable workflow automation tools.

Salesforce: The company has formed strategic partnerships with Salesforce, focusing on business transformation in key verticals.

Operational Insights

Robots & Pencils differentiates itself through a talent-led culture, attracting hyper-skilled professionals who develop innovative solutions. The company's approach combines creativity and technology to engage, inspire, and entertain, providing clients with early and competitive advantages.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The company aims to continue its focus on innovation through EdTech, FinTech, and ConsumerTech verticals. By leveraging its expertise in mobile, web, and AI technologies, Robots & Pencils seeks to help clients maintain a competitive advantage in an era of rapid technological acceleration.