Forbes Councils Members-Only App

Project Overview

Forbes Councils, a private membership platform for entrepreneurs, executives, and industry leaders, required a modernized application to enhance usability, improve scalability, and introduce new tools for member interaction.

The goal was to replace the legacy app with a high-performance solution capable of handling a rapidly expanding user base and offering robust functionality to meet the dynamic needs of the community.

Client: Forbes Councils
Year: 2023
Tech Stack: Flutter, Firebase
Category: Business

Challenges

Legacy System Bottlenecks

Slow performance, lack of modular architecture, and inefficient data handling.
Scalability

The existing infrastructure could not efficiently accommodate a growing user base.
Interactivity and Collaboration

Limited tools for real-time communication and content sharing among members.
Data Security

Ensure robust compliance with privacy standards, including secure messaging and data encryption.

Solution

Synergy Labs worked with the Forbes Councils team to create a new application suite.

Web Application

Responsive platform accessible on any browser for seamless desktop use.
Mobile Application

Optimized iOS and Android apps for convenient on-the-go access.
iPad Version

Tablet-specific app with a layout designed for larger screens.

One suite, every screen

The same member experience across web, mobile and tablet.

Key Features Built

Event Management

We built a serverless event registrations system to handle traffic spikes. Built calendar syncing for personal calendars and automated notifications.
Member Directory

Built an advanced search feature allowing users to filter and find members by industry, location, or expertise.
Real-Time Messaging

We implemented instant messaging with WebSocket protocols, end-to-end encryption, and optimized offline syncing for seamless communication.
Custom Notifications

Developed a tailored notification system enabling users to select updates for specific groups, events, or topics of interest.
Group Collaboration

Created modular discussion boards with topic threading and Markdown support.
Interactive Polls and Surveys

Added tools for members to create and participate in polls or surveys, promoting active participation in community decisions.

Results

40%

Community Engagement

Increased member participation in events by 40%, with significant growth in group discussions.
4.8

High Rating

Maintained an average rating of 4.8 stars across app stores, reflecting high user satisfaction.
100K

Application Success

Over 100,000 downloads across web, mobile, and iPad platforms within the first six months of launch.

“Synergy Labs did an amazing job helping us build our app. They made it easy to use, added great features like event tools and messaging, and really improved the overall experience for our members. We've seen a big boost in engagement, and our members love it. Couldn't have asked for a better team to work with!”

Scott Gerber

Founder of Forbes Councils