Frequently asked questions

We build custom web applications, mobile apps, SaaS platforms, e-commerce systems, and enterprise software. We also provide CTO-as-a-Service - fractional technology leadership for companies that need senior technical guidance without a full-time hire. If it involves custom software, we can probably help. If it's not a fit, we'll tell you upfront.

Typical projects range from $50,000 to $150,000, with a $10,000 minimum for initial engagements. The final cost depends on scope, complexity, and timeline. We work on a fixed-price basis - you'll know the cost before we start. For ongoing support and maintenance after launch, we offer hourly retainers.

Most large projects take 3 to 9 months from kickoff to launch. Smaller projects or focused builds can be completed in 1 to 8 weeks. We can usually start within one to two weeks of signing off on a proposal. Every project includes a detailed timeline with milestones, so you'll always know where things stand.

Both. We work with startups building their first product, scale-ups adding new capabilities, and established businesses modernizing legacy systems. What matters to us is that you have a clear idea of the problem you're solving and the budget to do it properly.

Yes - our portfolio includes projects like the Edmonton Valley Zoo mobile app, Crystal Glass's online quoting platform, Beamdog's game distribution system, Yardstick's multi-tenant eLearning platform, and many more. Visit our Services page to see the full portfolio, or ask us about projects relevant to your industry.

We start with a discovery phase to understand the problem and define the scope. Then we put together a fixed-price proposal with a clear timeline. Once approved, we move through design, development, and launch in iterative sprints with regular demos. You'll see working software throughout - not just at the end.

We handle both. Our process includes UI/UX design - from wireframes through to high-fidelity mockups - before development begins. We have designers on our team who work closely with developers to ensure what gets designed is what gets built.

Requirements evolve - we expect that. When a change comes up, we evaluate the impact on scope, timeline, and budget, then discuss it with you before making any adjustments. This keeps the project on track without locking you into a rigid spec that no longer fits.

Most clients move to an ongoing support and maintenance retainer. We handle bug fixes, feature additions, security updates, and performance monitoring on an hourly basis. Many of our client relationships have been running for over a decade on this model. You get a team that already knows your codebase - no re-onboarding every time you need something.

Yes. You own everything we build for you - source code, designs, documentation. It's your product. We'll set up your repository, deployment pipeline, and infrastructure so that you're never locked in to working with us (though most clients choose to stay).

Our primary stack is React, Next.js, Node.js, and TypeScript, with MUI for component design and AWS for infrastructure. We use Next.js for public-facing applications where SEO and performance matter, and React with Vite for internal or paywalled apps. For mobile, we use React Native for cross-platform development.

We can, but we don't recommend it for most new projects. If you have an existing WordPress site that needs maintenance or improvements, we're happy to help. For new builds, we recommend modern frameworks like Next.js - they're faster, more secure, and more flexible long-term.

Yes. We build cross-platform mobile apps with React Native, which lets us ship to both iOS and Android from a single codebase. For apps that require native-level performance (games, AR, heavy video processing), we can build native as well.

Absolutely. API integrations, database migrations, and connecting new software to legacy systems are a core part of what we do. We've integrated with everything from payment processors and CRMs to government APIs and custom enterprise systems.

CloudOwl is based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. We serve clients across North America - from Vancouver and Calgary to Toronto, Seattle, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles. Most of our work is done remotely, though we're happy to meet in person when it makes sense.

We're in Mountain Time (MST/MDT). We have experience working with clients across North American time zones and adjust our availability as needed. Core overlap hours work for everyone from Pacific to Eastern time.

However works best for you. Most clients use a combination of Slack or Teams for day-to-day communication, regular video calls for demos and check-ins, and email for formal deliverables. You'll have direct access to the project manager throughout.

An in-house senior developer costs $120K-$180K/year in salary alone, plus benefits, equipment, and management overhead. It takes months to hire, and you're betting on one person. With us, you get a team with 20+ years of shipped projects, a PM who's also the CTO, and you only pay for the work you need. If your project is a 6-month build, you pay for 6 months, not a permanent headcount.

We work in sprints with regular demos specifically so problems surface early. If something isn't working, we adjust scope, approach, or timeline, and we talk to you about it before making changes. Our fixed-price model means budget surprises don't happen. And because we build with open-source tools (React, Node.js, PostgreSQL), you're never locked in. You own the code, and any competent developer can pick it up if you decide to go a different direction.

Most of our clients have been with us for years. Some for over a decade. After launch, we move to a support retainer where we handle bug fixes, updates, and new features on an ongoing basis. We stay invested because repeat clients are how we make our living. We don't chase new logos and abandon old ones.

Yes. We're happy to connect you with clients who can speak to what it's like to work with us. Just ask during our initial conversation and we'll set it up.