Recently, two talented team members from Brucira, Roshan and Ritesh had the incredible opportunity to visit the Maldives on a business trip. Their mission was to kick off the discovery phase of an exciting project with a new client, Only Maldives by TMA.
Here’s a recap of their thrilling adventure.
Client Overview
Only Maldives, a unique entity under TMA, aims to become the Maldives’ very own version of Luxury Escapes. Unlike traditional travel platforms, Only Maldives focuses on selling unforgettable experiences rather than just resorts or islands. They also handle all transportation logistics, ensuring guests can effortlessly hop between various luxurious resorts scattered across the islands.
Arrival and Warm Welcome
Upon arriving in the Maldives, Roshan and Ritesh were warmly welcomed by representatives from Only Maldives. The client’s offices were not the typical corporate setup but rather a bustling terminal with sea planes, exuding an air of excitement and adventure. It was here that they met their primary contact and client, Manoj, who would guide them through the project.
Dive into the Discovery Phase
From the very next day, the real work began. Monday through Wednesday were packed with in-depth discussions and meticulous documentation. Roshan, the detail-oriented Senior Product Designer, diligently worked on the Product Requirements Document (PRD), capturing all the necessary details for the project. Meanwhile Ritesh, our talented Product Designer, was immersed in redesigning the website, auditing previous designs, and making significant improvements. Their goal was ambitious: to complete 2-3 weeks’ worth of design work in a condensed timeline.
Culinary Adventures
Despite their busy schedules, Both Roshan and Ritesh made sure to explore the different cuisines Maldives had to offer. They indulged in a variety of dishes, including the Sri Lankan Kottu Roti and some delicious Thai cuisine. A visit to Central Park coincided with a vibrant food festival, adding an extra layer of excitement to their culinary journey.
Island Hopping for Research
The client generously provided them with flight tickets to visit two different islands for research purposes. Armed with cameras and a keen eye for detail, they captured videos that would later serve as valuable references for creating engaging banners. These island visits offered them a firsthand experience of the unique aspects that Only Maldives aims to highlight in their marketing efforts.
Mid-Week Progress
By Thursday, Roshan had crafted a rough draft of the discovery phase document, ensuring they were on track and had gathered all the necessary information. This draft served as a foundation for clarifying any ambiguities and aligning the team’s efforts with the client’s vision.
Scuba Diving Adventure
Friday brought a mix of work and play. Both the members decided to embrace the local culture by trying their hand at scuba diving. Although their initial attempts with vendors near their resort were unsuccessful, their determination led them to Villingili Island. There, at Zoona Diving, they received comprehensive gear training and a briefing on underwater signals.
Equipped with their newfound knowledge, they embarked on a thrilling 45-minute dive at Villimale House Reef, plunging to a depth of 12 meters. This adventure not only provided a break from their work but also offered an unforgettable experience of the Maldives’ underwater beauty.
Fun Fact: The boats used for transportation in the Maldives are called ‘Dhoni’! 🛥️
Wrapping Up
After their exhilarating dive, the team returned to their hotel and enjoyed a delightful dinner with the client, indulging in mouth-watering pizza. The dinner served as a perfect conclusion to their productive week, strengthening their bond with the client. The next day, they boarded their flight back home, feeling accomplished and inspired by their journey.
Key Takeaways
The discovery phase is a critical component of any project, and being on-site can significantly enhance communication and efficiency. By immersing themselves in the client’s environment, the Brucira team managed to condense 5-6 weeks of effort into a productive 2 weeks, saving time, cost, and effort for the client.
Final Thoughts
The trip to the Maldives was a perfect blend of work and play. The Brucira team returned with a wealth of insights, great memories, and a strengthened partnership with Only Maldives by TMA. Their adventure highlighted the importance of a thorough discovery phase and the value of firsthand experience in crafting unique and compelling designs.
Until next time, Maldives! 🌊🌺
Stay tuned for more updates from Brucira!
