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The Alice Prize

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 05:13:40 GMT

One simple place for entries, judging, results and coordination.

The Alice Springs Art Foundation partnered with HutSix to replace a fragmented manual awards process with a fully integrated digital platform.

The result is a streamlined system that brings entries, judging, communications and publishing into one place, reducing administration time and delivering a more professional experience for artists, judges and organisers.

The Challenge

The Alice Springs Art Foundation was managing its annual awards program across a mix of disconnected tools, including WordPress, Zoom, Mailchimp, spreadsheets and manual workflows.

Each stage of the process required significant hands on coordination. Entries needed to be reformatted, payments manually tracked, judging materials compiled and website updates handled separately. This created duplication, inconsistencies and ongoing administrative pressure.

The Coordinator was spending over 270 hours per awards cycle managing these tasks, often chasing missing information and manually preparing files across multiple systems.

The Solution

HutSix designed and delivered a centralised Awards Hub, giving the Foundation a single, secure dashboard to manage the entire awards cycle.

Built on AWS and integrated with the Duda website, the platform connects every part of the process into one system. From entry submission to final publishing, everything is managed in one place with automated workflows reducing the need for manual input.

The Impact

The Awards Hub has significantly reduced the time and effort required to run the program.

Administrative workload has dropped from over 270 hours per cycle to under 40 hours. Tasks that previously required weekly manual input are now automated or completed in minutes.

The Outcome

The ASAF Awards Hub represents a shift from manual coordination to a streamlined, automated process.

The Aice Prize now delivers a more consistent and professional awards experience while significantly reducing administrative workload.

The result is:

Major time savings
Reduced operational complexity
Improved data accuracy
Faster publishing and production timelines
A secure, centralised archive for future use

This is a practical, long term investment in the efficiency and sustainability of the Alice Springs Art Foundation’s awards program.

The 30% Problem: Why Remote Councils Are Losing Good People to Bad Systems

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:15:00 GMT

Remote councils are stretched thin.

Roles sit vacant for months. Good people carry double the load. Inboxes blow out. Reports pile up. Everyone talks about recruitment, retention, and the challenge of distance.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth.

Your staff are not leaving because of the outback.

They are leaving because of the systems.

We keep blaming location for a systems problem

Remote work is hard. Nobody’s pretending otherwise.

But remote councils have always worked in tough conditions. They know how to solve practical problems. They know how to get things done with limited resources. What burns people out is not the reality of regional and remote Australia. It is being forced to wrestle with software, reporting processes, and admin systems that were never built for the way they actually work.

Systems designed for metro offices get sold into remote Australia every day. On paper, they look polished. Scalable. Cost-effective. Proven. In practice, they create workarounds. More spreadsheets. More duplicate entry. More reporting after hours. More time fighting the system instead of serving the community.

That is not digital transformation. That is digital drag.

When systems don’t fit, good people carry the cost

Every broken workflow lands somewhere.

Usually, it lands on the person already doing too much.

They stay back to finish reporting. They manually move data from one system to another. They chase information that should have been easy to find. They build their own workarounds just to keep things moving.

Over time, that becomes the job. Not the meaningful work. Not the reason they took the role. Just endless admin friction. That is how councils lose good people.

Not in one dramatic moment. In a slow grind of frustration, overtime, and systems that make competent people feel ineffective.

This is where HutSix started

HutSix did not start with a pitch deck or a trend.

It started with a bloke named Bradley.

Bradley runs a construction company maintaining town camps in Alice Springs. He was drowning in reporting. Weekends disappeared into paperwork. The work mattered, but the systems around it were making the job nearly impossible.

He was close to walking away. Not because he could not do the work. Because the systems made the work harder than it needed to be.

So we built something that fit.

Something purpose-designed for the way his team actually worked. Something that reduced friction instead of adding to it. Something useful, practical, and built around real conditions.

That is still the mission.

Generic systems are not neutral

A lot of software gets sold as if it is universal. It is not.

Every system is built around assumptions. Assumptions about internet reliability. Assumptions about staffing levels. Assumptions about workflows, reporting, approvals, mobility, and capacity. Most off-the-shelf systems are built around city assumptions. Stable connectivity. Bigger teams. More internal support. Less operational complexity across distance.

Remote councils are anything but average.

So when a generic system fails in a remote context, that is not bad luck. It is a design failure.

Purpose-designed means built for reality

At HutSix, we build systems for how people actually work. That means asking practical questions.

What happens when the internet drops out?
Who actually uses this every day?
What reporting is essential, and what is duplication?
Where are people losing time?
What does the workflow look like in the field, not just in the office?

That is the difference between adapted software and purpose-designed systems.

Purpose-designed systems are built to fit the job. Built to reduce admin load. Built to support staff instead of exhausting them. And importantly, built so councils own the result.

No per-user fees. No being trapped on someone else’s roadmap. No paying more every time your team grows.

The cost of bad systems is bigger than software

This is not just a technology issue. It is a workforce issue. A service delivery issue. A community impact issue.

When systems are clunky, slow, or disconnected, they do not just frustrate staff. They weaken the whole organisation. Decisions take longer. Reporting becomes reactive. Good workers burn out. Knowledge walks out the door.

Councils end up spending more money and getting less value, all while wondering why it still feels so hard.

The answer is often sitting in plain sight. The system does not fit.

Built in Alice Springs, for remote Australia

HutSix is based in Alice Springs because that matters.

We are not flying in, making assumptions, and flying out again. We live where the problem lives . We understand the pressures of remote service delivery. We know that software only works if it works in the real world, with the people and conditions it was built for.

That is why we believe remote Australia does not need more generic tools.

It needs better-fit systems.

The question councils should be asking

Not: what software is everyone else using?

Ask this instead: Does this system actually fit the way our people work?

Because if it does not, your staff will keep paying the price. And eventually, some of them will decide it is not worth it.

Let’s fix the right problem

Remote councils do not need another polished platform with a slick sales pitch.

They need systems that reduce friction, support staff, and work in the conditions they are actually operating in.

That is the work.

That is what we build.

And that is why your staff are not leaving because of the outback.

They are leaving because of the systems.

Want to talk about what’s not working in your current setup? Get in touch today .

The CEO's Real Job in a Remote Council (And Why the Right Software Matters)

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:30:07 GMT

Ask a remote council CEO what their job involves and you'll get an answer that surprises most people.

Yes, there's the governance — board meetings, funding acquittals, government reporting. There's the strategy — how do you build a sustainable organisation when your workforce turns over faster than most city businesses and your community's needs are growing every year?

But there's also the day-to-day. The housing maintenance calls. The youth worker who needs support. The community in the next region dealing with something that needs a decision from the top, now, even though it's 6pm and you're three hours away.

Remote council CEOs aren't just executives. They're operational leaders carrying accountability across a range of services that would, in any major city, be spread across a dozen government agencies.

The weight of that is real. And for too long, the systems they've had to work with have added to it rather than reduced it.

What the right system actually gives back

We talk a lot in technology about efficiency. But for a remote council CEO, efficiency isn't a productivity metric. It's the difference between being able to visit the community that needs you and being stuck in the office wrestling with a spreadsheet that won't talk to the reporting system.

The right software gives back time. It gives back visibility — a clear picture of what's happening across all your communities without needing three phone calls. It reduces the cognitive load of managing multiple programs, multiple reporting requirements, multiple funding streams, in one place.

It doesn't solve everything. Nothing does. But it removes enough friction that the people who run these organisations can focus on what they actually do: leading communities through complexity.

What we hear most

When we talk to remote council CEOs, the recurring theme isn't "we need more technology." It's "we need systems that work the way we work."

That means offline capability. That means simple interfaces that any staff member can pick up without training. That means reporting that serves the funding body's requirements without taking three days to compile. That means a system that reflects the reality of community life — not the assumption of a stable, metro, English-first environment.

It starts with listening. That's where every good system begins.

Beyond Roads and Rates: What Remote Councils Actually Do

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 02:03:53 GMT

Most Australians know what a local council does. Roads. Rates. Rubbish collection. Maybe a community pool and a complaints form.

For remote councils in the Northern Territory, that's the start of the list.

When the nearest hospital is three hours away on a dirt road, councils become health referral networks. When housing is in crisis, councils become property managers for hundreds of dwellings across dozens of communities. When kids aren't in school, councils run youth programs. When family violence escalates, council staff are often the first point of contact. When the power goes out, it's the council. When the bore pump fails, it's the council. When a family needs emergency food, it's the council.

This is not extraordinary. This is Tuesday.

Remote NT councils are carrying the weight of services that, in any metropolitan area, would be spread across a dozen separate agencies — each with their own dedicated staff, funding streams, reporting systems, and infrastructure. Remote councils do it all, often with a fraction of the resources, on Country where the distances between communities can be measured in hours, not minutes.

The complexity is invisible to most

The challenge isn't just the breadth of services. It's the systems — or the lack of them.

Software built for metro councils assumes stable connectivity. It assumes staff who trained on the system, stayed in the role, and have time to troubleshoot. It assumes English as a first language. It assumes an IT department.

Remote councils assume none of that. Staff turnover is high. Connectivity drops out. Communities speak multiple languages. The "IT department" might be one person shared across fifteen communities.

What they need isn't a watered-down version of metro software. They need something built for where they actually operate.

What we've learned from working alongside remote councils

At HutSix, we've spent years building systems for councils like Macdonnell Regional Council and Tiwi Islands Regional Council. Every project starts with the same question: what does this community actually need this system to do?

The answer is rarely what the software manuals say it should be.

It's a youth case management system that works offline. A housing maintenance app that any community member can use without training. A dashboard that gives a CEO visibility across fifteen communities at once without needing three spreadsheets and a prayer.

The people doing this work deserve better tools

It's software that respects the reality of where it's being used.

Remote council CEOs and their teams are running some of the most complex community organisations in Australia. They're accountable to their communities, to government, to funding bodies — and they're doing it in conditions that would stop most organisations cold.

They don't need more complexity. They need systems that quietly make the hard work a little less hard.

That's what we build. And it starts with understanding what remote councils actually do.

Is Your Organisation’s Data Stuck in a Digital No Man’s Land?

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Across regional and remote Australia, many councils, night patrols, and funded organisations are struggling with the same problem. Their data is critical, sensitive, and growing fast, but the systems behind it are outdated, fragile, or wildly over engineered.

I f this sounds familiar, you are not alone.

Most organisations fall into one of three common traps.

1. The Server in the Cupboard

On premises servers are still surprisingly common across local government and community services.

They are expensive to maintain, vulnerable to failure, difficult to secure, and rely heavily on a small number of people who understand how they work. When something breaks, everything stops.

From a security perspective, this setup is increasingly risky. Physical access, outdated software, limited redundancy and inconsistent backups put sensitive community data at risk.

This is why many government agencies now recommend moving away from on premises infrastructure and into secure cloud environments like those provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS) .

2. The Band Aid Solution

The second trap is running essential services on shared folders, Dropbox and spreadsheets.

While file sharing tools are fine for basic collaboration, they are not designed to manage complex operational data like night patrol rosters, incident reporting, compliance tracking, or grant acquittals.

This approach creates silos, version control issues and limits your ability to report accurately to funders or boards. There is no single source of truth, just a growing mess of files.

At scale, this becomes a risk not only to efficiency but also to compliance.

3. The Enterprise Overkill

At the other end of the spectrum is spending thousands of dollars per month on platforms like SharePoint or large enterprise ERPs.

These systems are powerful, but often far more complex than what community focused organisations actually need. Staff struggle with adoption, customisation is expensive and you end up paying for features you never use.

It is not uncommon to see organisations spending $5,000 or more per month just to keep these systems running.

There Is a Better Way

At HutSix, we specialise in custom cloud software for councils, NGOs and community services.

We build systems that sit in the sweet spot between spreadsheets and enterprise bloat.

Our approach is simple.

Move you off premises, into the cloud, and build software that matches how your organisation actually works.

Why Moving Off Premises Wins

Security Comes Standard
HutSix is an AWS Select Tier Partner, which means we build on infrastructure trusted by governments and enterprises worldwide. AWS provides a secure computing environment with built in encryption, redundancy, access controls and compliance frameworks. Security is not an add on. It is part of the foundation.

Lower Costs and Better Value
Organisations typically save around 60 percent when moving from on premises infrastructure to cloud based systems. Instead of fixed licence fees, cloud infrastructure allows you to scale resources up or down based on real usage. You only pay for what you need, when you need it.

Software Built for Real Workflows
Off the shelf platforms do not understand regional realities. They do not understand night patrol operations, remote connectivity, funding body reporting, or culturally appropriate service delivery. We design and build systems around your workflows, bringing data together into one clear, secure and usable platform.

The result is better reporting, less admin, and more time spent delivering services on the ground.

Built for Regional and Remote Australia

HutSix is based in Central Australia and works closely with organisations operating in some of the most challenging environments in the country.

We understand connectivity constraints, workforce turnover, compliance pressures and the importance of protecting community data.

Our custom cloud solutions are designed with these realities in mind.

Ready to Leave the Digital No Man’s Land?

If your organisation is struggling with spreadsheets, overpaying for enterprise tools, or worried about the risks of on premises servers, it is time to look at a better option.

Let’s build a system that actually fits your organisation.

Book a demo today: connect@hutsix.com.au

Why Our AWS Select Tier Partnership Matters

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:49:55 GMT

HutSix is an AWS Select Tier Partner working on Australian Government–approved cloud infrastructure.

That matters if you are responsible for IT in a council, NGO, or funded organisation.

Security, compliance, uptime, and cost control are not optional. They are expected.

AWS is trusted by Australian government agencies because security is built in. Identity control, encryption, audit logging, and compliance are part of the platform, not add-ons. We design systems that meet funding and audit requirements without overcomplicating day-to-day operations.

On-premise infrastructure in regional and remote Australia carries real risk. Hardware fails. Power drops. Connectivity fluctuates. AWS provides highly available, resilient infrastructure designed to keep critical services running. We use it to remove single points of failure.

Cloud only works when spend is controlled. We build environments with visibility and guardrails from day one, so systems scale with demand and funding, not guesswork.

Most organisations struggle with fragmented systems and scattered data. AWS allows us to integrate platforms, centralise information, and create a single source of truth that simplifies reporting and decision-making.

We operate from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) and Tarntanya (Adelaide). We understand regional constraints and build systems small IT teams can actually support.

Global standards. Government-approved infrastructure. Local delivery.

That is why our AWS partnership matters.

Ready to make the impossible, possible?

Let’s talk.

One dashboard to rule them all

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Most organisations do not suffer from a lack of tools. They suffer from too many tools that do not talk to each other.

HR lives in one system. Projects live in another. Finance sits somewhere else entirely. Every report requires logging into multiple platforms, exporting spreadsheets, and manually stitching information together just to understand what is actually going on.

This is where connected systems and a single dashboard change everything.

What does “one dashboard” actually mean?

A single dashboard is not about forcing everything into one platform. It is about connecting your existing systems so the right data flows into one clear, reliable view.

Instead of jumping between tools, leaders and teams can see key information in one place. Project status, financials, workloads, and performance metrics are all visible without extra admin.

The goal is clarity, not complexity.

Why disconnected systems create hidden problems

When systems are not connected, small issues turn into big ones fast.

Data gets duplicated or goes out of sync. Teams waste time reconciling numbers. Decisions are made using incomplete or outdated information. Leaders become the bottleneck because only they know where the “real” data lives.

Over time, this creates frustration, slows growth, and makes things harder to manage than it needs to be.

The real benefits of connected systems

When systems are integrated properly, the impact is immediate.

You spend less time chasing information and more time acting on it. Reporting becomes faster and more accurate. Teams trust the data they are working with. Leadership gains a clear, real time view of the organisation without constant interruptions.

It also reduces manual work, which means fewer errors and less burnout across the team.

Common mistakes organisations make with dashboards

One of the biggest mistakes is trying to build a dashboard that shows everything. More data does not mean better insight.

Another is choosing tools before understanding what questions the dashboard needs to answer. A good dashboard starts with the decisions you need to make, then works backwards to the data required.

Finally, many organisations underestimate the importance of clean, consistent data. A dashboard is only as good as the systems feeding it.

How to approach building the right dashboard

Start by identifying your core systems. These usually include finance, project management, CRM, and time tracking.

Next, define what visibility actually matters. What does leadership need to see weekly or monthly? What does the team need day to day?

From there, integrations can be designed to pull the right data into a single, reliable source of truth without overcomplicating the setup.

One source of truth changes how you work

A well designed dashboard does more than report on the past. It helps organisations spot issues earlier, plan with confidence, and move faster without losing control.

When your systems are connected, your organisation runs smoother, decisions are easier, and the constant background noise of admin fades away.

Ready to make the impossible, possible?

Let’s talk.

2025: AI Took Over, SaaS Cracked, and Local Government Finally Asked WTF Are We Doing

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 21:30:00 GMT

At HutSix, we believe technology should make work simpler.

Yet for many organisations, daily operations still involve endless email chains, duplicated work, and new staff struggling to find the information they need.

That’s where AI steps in. Not as a gimmick, but as a genuine tool for clarity, consistency and connection across your organisation.

Simplifying Onboarding and HR

If onboarding a new team member feels like a scavenger hunt, you’re not alone. From chasing forms and credentials to explaining “how we do things here,” onboarding can drain time from HR teams and new hires alike.

By embedding AI into onboarding systems, organisations can:

Automate the setup of new accounts and training modules
Guide new staff through tailored checklists based on their role
Provide instant answers to “where do I find…” questions through an AI assistant

No more digging through folders or emailing three people to find a document. Instead, new hires can self-serve and be confident that the information they’re getting is up to date and accurate.

Creating a Knowledge Base That Works for Everyone

Think of a knowledge base as your organisation’s collective brain with everything your team needs to know, stored in one secure, searchable space. When you pair that with AI, it becomes even smarter.

AI-driven knowledge bases don’t just hold information; they learn what people are looking for. They can:

Suggest relevant articles or policies as staff type
Flag outdated content for review
Surface popular questions to improve internal communication

The result? Fewer repetitive questions, fewer “quick emails,” and more time spent on actual work.

Reducing Time Wasted on Emails and Admin

It’s estimated that employees spend up to 28% of their workweek managing email. That’s more than a day a week lost to inbox clutter. AI tools can dramatically cut this by handling repetitive tasks like approvals, data entry, or answering standard HR queries automatically.

For example:

An employee requests annual leave via a chat interface, and the AI routes it for approval
A manager asks, “How many days of leave does Jordan have left?” and gets an instant answer
Company-wide reminders are triggered automatically instead of being manually sent

Less admin. Fewer delays. Faster decisions.

Scalable Solutions for Any Organisation

Whether you’re a five-person start-up or a 500-person enterprise, the challenges are often the same with too many systems, not enough cohesion.

We develop custom software solutions that scale with you, integrating AI and knowledge management tools that fit your existing workflows rather than replacing them.

You don’t need to overhaul everything. You just need the right systems to help your team operate smarter, not harder.

Let’s Make the Impossible, Possible

At HutSix, we help organisations uncover where they can save time, strengthen processes, and reduce noise.

Whether it’s automating HR workflows, introducing AI-driven onboarding, or building a knowledge base that empowers your team, we design technology that actually works for people.

Because in the end, working smarter isn’t just about AI.

It’s about giving your people back their time.

Ready to make the impossible, possible?

Let’s talk.

HutSix and AWS: A Strong Foundation for Secure, Scalable Systems

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 23:51:08 GMT

Amazon Web Services (AWS) underpins the secure and scalable software we build for councils, remote communities, and organisations operating in complex or high-compliance environments.

As an AWS Select Tier Partner, we combine reliable cloud infrastructure with custom solutions designed to improve operations and support distributed teams.

Why We Build on AWS

Using AWS allows us to deliver cloud solutions that are:

Highly secure , with industry-leading controls for data protection and governance
Scalable , supporting growth without disrupting operations
Reliable , even in regional or remote locations with inconsistent connectivity
Cost-efficient , through flexible service selection and resource optimisation

This foundation ensures every HutSix platform is stable, future-ready, and aligned to real operational needs.

Cloud Solutions Designed for Real-World Challenges

Many organisations we support work across varied environments, remote regions, or multi-agency workflows. By combining AWS infrastructure with thoughtful software design, HutSix delivers solutions that:

Maintain uptime and performance across dispersed teams
Work offline where connectivity is limited, with smart syncing
Support diverse user groups and complex workflows
Scale seamlessly as data volumes and user needs grow

Our platforms rely on AWS for performance and resilience, ensuring consistent access across Australia.

The Value of the HutSix + AWS Partnership

Choosing a HutSix system built on AWS provides:

A secure, enterprise-grade cloud environment
Custom software designed around organisational workflows
Strong performance for operational and field-based teams
Confidence that your technology will evolve with your organisation

In short, AWS gives us the infrastructure. HutSix ensures it works for your people, your operations, and your long-term strategy.

Ready to make the impossible, possible?

Let’s talk.

AI is Transforming Organisational Efficiency

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 22:30:01 GMT

At HutSix, we believe technology should make work simpler.

Yet for many organisations, daily operations still involve endless email chains, duplicated work, and new staff struggling to find the information they need.

That’s where AI steps in. Not as a gimmick, but as a genuine tool for clarity, consistency and connection across your organisation.

Simplifying Onboarding and HR

By embedding AI into onboarding systems, organisations can:

• Automate the setup of new accounts and training modules

• Guide new staff through tailored checklists based on their role

• Provide instant answers to “where do I find…” questions through an AI assistant

No more digging through folders or emailing three people to find a document. Instead, new hires can self-serve and be confident that the information they’re getting is up to date and accurate.

Creating a Knowledge Base That Works for Everyone

AI-driven knowledge bases don’t just hold information; they learn what people are looking for. They can:

• Suggest relevant articles or policies as staff type

• Flag outdated content for review

• Surface popular questions to improve internal communication

The result? Fewer repetitive questions, fewer “quick emails,” and more time spent on actual work.

Reducing Time Wasted on Emails and Admin

For example:

• An employee requests annual leave via a chat interface, and the AI routes it for approval

• A manager asks, “How many days of leave does Jordan have left?” and gets an instant answer

• Company-wide reminders are triggered automatically instead of being manually sent

Less admin. Fewer delays. Faster decisions.

Scalable Solutions for Any Organisation

Whether you’re a five-person start-up or a 500-person enterprise, the challenges are often the same with too many systems, not enough cohesion.

We develop custom software solutions that scale with you, integrating AI and knowledge management tools that fit your existing workflows rather than replacing them.

You don’t need to overhaul everything. You just need the right systems to help your team operate smarter, not harder.

Let’s Make the Impossible, Possible

At HutSix, we help organisations uncover where they can save time, strengthen processes, and reduce noise.

Whether it’s automating HR workflows, introducing AI-driven onboarding, or building a knowledge base that empowers your team, we design technology that actually works for people.

Because in the end, working smarter isn’t just about AI.

It’s about giving your people back their time.

Ready to make the impossible, possible?

Let’s talk.

Value, Quality, and Impact in Every Project

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:01:52 GMT

Value-Based Pricing: Investing in Outcomes, Not Hours

Value Over Effort: At HutSix, we price our work based on the value and impact it delivers, not simply the hours it takes. This value-based pricing philosophy means we start by understanding your goals and defining success together. By aligning our fees with the outcomes you need, we ensure our incentives are the same as yours – achieving real results that advance your mission.

Why it Matters: Instead of charging for every minute or pushing unnecessary features, we focus on what will truly benefit your organisation. You pay for so lutions that move the needle, not for busywork. The result is a partnership built on trust and transparency – we’re accountable for delivering measurable improvements, and you know exactly what you’re investing in. This approach leads to efficient projects and meaningful outcomes, without surprise costs.

Ready to see how value-based pricing can work for your project? Contact us to explore how we can maximise impact for your budget.

Premium Quality, Lasting Value

Specialised Expertise: We understand that custom software done right is a serious investment. HutSix brings highly skilled engineers and consultants with deep sector experience to tackle complex challenges. Our team’s expertise ensures problems are solved correctly the first time , using best-practice architectures and robust security. This level of quality and care comes at a premium – and for good reason . You’re engaging seasoned professionals who know how to deliver mission-critical projects without compromise.

Why Pay More? Premium pricing means you’re investing in durability and peace of mind . Cheaper options or off-the-shelf products might seem convenient, but they often force you to change your processes or come with hidden costs down the line. In contrast, our tailor-made solutions are built to fit your needs and scale with you, avoiding the expensive workarounds that generic software can cause. We also don’t saddle you with per-user fees or restrictive licenses – you own the system outright , free to grow and adapt it as needed. Over the long run, a solution crafted for you saves time, reduces manual effort, and minimises costly disruptions. It’s an upfront investment for a future of efficiency and long-term savings .

The Bottom Line: With HutSix, you’re paying for quality, reliability, and domain-specific know-how that add value far beyond the initial project. Our clients rarely lose sleep over tech troubles – our solutions just work, day in and day out, allowing you to focus on what matters most: serving your community and stakeholders.

Ready to invest in a solution that truly fits your needs? Reach out and let’s talk about how premium quality software can pay off for your organisation.

Outcome-Focused and Impact-Driven

Results Above All: We measure our success by the real-world outcomes we achieve for our clients. From day one, we work with you to define clear objectives and KPIs – whether it’s cutting down administrative work, reaching more people, or improving service delivery. Every feature we design and every line of code we write is aimed at moving those needles in the right direction. We don’t just deliver software and walk away; we ensure the solution makes a tangible difference for your organisation and the people you serve.

Proven Impact: Our approach has helped clients unlock significant improvements and social outcomes. For example, we developed a custom system that reduced a client’s reporting process from 2 weeks to just 2 days, freeing their team to focus on frontline services. In another project, our software solution now distributes over $100,000 per month to Indigenous community members by digitising and streamlining royalty payments – getting funding out faster and more reliably than ever. We’ve also replaced paper-based workflows with efficient apps, improving responsiveness and clarity for critical services like rural mental health support. These are not just IT projects to us – they’re initiatives that improve lives and efficiency in measurable ways.

Efficiency Gains: Automating tedious manual tasks and paperwork so your staff can spend time on what really counts. (One client’s custom CRM cut monthly reporting time from 14 days to 2 days)
Better Reach: Leveraging mobile and offline-capable technology to reach remote users and deliver services where internet is unreliable. (We’ve built apps that work offline and use icon-driven interfaces to include users with low literacy.)
Data-Driven Decisions: Providing real-time dashboards and reports for informed decision-making, improving transparency and outcomes for stakeholders.
Faster Service Delivery: Streamlining p rocesses (from approvals to payments) so that help and resources get to those who need them without delay.

Outcome-focused means we never lose sight of why the project exists. By emphasizing user adoption, training, and iterative improvements, we make sure the technology achieves its intended impact. When you partner with HutSix, you gain a team that is just as invested in your goals as you are – your success is our success.

Interested in achieving these kinds of outcomes? Contact us and let’s discuss how we can turn your goals into reality!

Cultural Understanding & Sector Expertise

We Know Your World: Working across government, Indigenous communities, and nonprofit sectors requires more than technical skill – it d emands understanding people, culture, and context. HutSix was born in regional Australia, and our journey has been deeply rooted in working with diverse communities and organisations. We pride ourselves on our cultural competency and our ability to meet you where you are. Technology is never one-size-fits-all, so we take time to learn what makes your environment unique – from local customs and community needs to regulatory requirements and funding pressures.

Government: We have firsthand experience with the public sector’s standards and challenges. Our team understands government procurement processes, compliance mandates, and the importance of security and accountability. We design solutions that tick all the boxes – meeting strict security, accessibility, and reporting requirements – while staying flexible and user-friendly for staff. You get innovation without the risk.

Indigenous Communities: Respect and collaboration are at the heart of our work with Indigenous organisations and communities. We engage with cultural advisors and end-users to ensure our solutions are culturally appropriate and accessible. W hether it’s using local language terms, incorporating an icon-based interface for non-readers, or enabling offline access in remote areas, we build with the community’s needs in mind. Most importantly, we take the time to listen and build trust. We understand that successful technology in community settings is about people first, tech second – we’re there to walk beside your organisation to create change, not impose one-size-fits-all ideas.

Nonprofit Organisations: In the nonprofit sector, every dollar and every hour counts toward your mission. Our team has extensive experience partnering with NGOs and charities, so we appreciate the need for cost-effective solutions that deliver maximum impact. We help nonprofits streamline their operations (often with limited IT resources), improve service delivery, and gather the data they need to demonstrate outcomes to funders. All our work is done with a keen eye on sustainability – solutions that are easy to maintain and scale, ensuring you get the most value over time. We share your passion for social good and adapt to your ways of working, so technology becomes a booster to your mission, not a burden.

Trusted Partner: In each of these sectors, HutSix acts as a true partner . Our clients often remark that we “get it” – we speak your language, understand your constraints, and champion your cause. By combining our technical know-how with empathy and sector-specific insight, we build software that fits your users and your vision of success. When you work with HutSix, you gain a team that’s already fluent in your environment. We hit the ground running and stay by your side from project inception to long after launch, ensuring long-term success and adaptability.

Ready to Make the Impossible Possible?

When you’re ready to take the next step in your project – whether you have a clear brief or just a complex challenge in mind – we’re here to help. Our friendly, experienced team will listen to your needs and work with you to craft a solution that truly makes a difference. Don’t settle for just any software; choose a partner who truly cares about your outcomes and community.

Contact us today to start a conversation about your goals. Let’s work together to turn the impossible into possible, and create lasting impact through technology.

The Default Isn’t Always the Best Fit

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:01:25 GMT

There’s a quiet assumption in the IT world: “If it comes as part of the enterprise package, it must be the right choice.” And look — those tools do a lot well. We work with them. We integrate with them. Most of our clients use them every day.

But somewhere along the way, that familiar ecosystem has started to feel less like a helpful foundation… and more like a limiting box.

Because here’s the thing: just because it’s the default doesn’t mean it’s the right fit.

Familiar Doesn’t Always Mean Flexible

The big-name enterprise stack is everywhere — documents, email, cloud storage, dashboards, chat, CRMs, spreadsheets. If you work in government, councils, or large organisations, chances are you’re running half a dozen of these tools already.

They tick the compliance box. They integrate (kind of). They look impressive on paper.

But here’s what we hear all the time:

“It sort of works… but we’ve had to make do.”
“We can’t configure it properly without hiring someone else.”
“It’s powerful — but no one’s actually using it.”
“We’re paying for features we don’t use and still need workarounds.”

Sound familiar?

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

These tools are built for millions of users across every industry. That’s impressive — but it also means they’re rarely tailored for your team, your environment, or your way of working.

At HutSix, we don’t rip and replace just for the sake of it. We build around the systems you’ve already invested in, alongside them if they add value, or outside them when they’re slowing you down.

Because sometimes:

That file-sharing system is too clunky for frontline teams
That all-in-one chat platform gets noisy fast and isn’t task-friendly
That off-the-shelf CRM is too bloated for what you actually need
And those rigid dashboards don’t make sense in a low-connectivity, field-based environment

Trying to force a giant system to fit your unique workflows? That often ends up being more expensive and time-consuming than starting fresh with something purpose-built.

Integration Without Imitation

We’re not anti-enterprise — far from it. We regularly integrate with those tools:

Single Sign-On through your identity provider
Calendar and email integrations
Cloud file storage connections
Data exports and dashboard feeds

But we don’t default to them. We start with what you need — not what’s already on your licence agreement.

The Bottom Line

Those big-brand tools aren’t the villain. But they’re not the answer to every problem either.

Sometimes the smartest move isn’t adding another licence.

It’s asking a better question: Is this system actually working for us — or are we just working around it?

Feeling boxed in by your current tech stack?

Let’s build something that fits you — not just the status quo. Reach out and see what we can do.

Who Owns Your Data? (And Why That Matters)

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 22:30:00 GMT

You’ve probably heard the phrase “your data is your most valuable asset” — but what happens when it’s not really yours at all?

In a world full of cloud platforms, third-party tools, and subscription software, data ownership isn’t always as straightforward as it should be. And if you’re not thinking about it now, you could be setting yourself up for some nasty surprises later.

Wait — Isn’t It My Data?

That depends.

Some platforms make it crystal clear: you own the data, full stop. Others bury it in terms and conditions. And in some cases, you might only have access to your data as long as you keep paying for the service — or until they decide to change their terms.

In short: just because you enter the data doesn’t mean you own or control it.

Why It Matters

Here’s why data ownership isn’t just a legal checkbox — it has real consequences:

Access: If your provider shuts down or changes pricing, can you still get to your data?
Portability: Can you move your data elsewhere if you change platforms?
Privacy & Compliance: Are you meeting your obligations under Australian privacy laws? Do you know where your data is stored — and who can access it?
Trust: If you’re collecting sensitive or community-based data (like night patrol reports or service delivery records), you need to be absolutely certain it’s secure, private, and in your control.

How HutSix Approaches It

We believe in data sovereignty — that is, our clients own their data, always.

We build software using our own proprietary libraries, which gives us complete control over how your systems are built, secured, and scaled — and lets us avoid relying on third-party platforms that might have murky data terms. Your system is tailor-made, but your data stays yours.

We design platforms that:

Clearly separate your data from the underlying infrastructure.
Let you export or move your data at any time — no lock-in.
Store data in Australia (where required), in line with privacy and governance standards.
Include audit trails, role-based access, and security by design — especially important for councils, Indigenous organisations, and service providers working with sensitive or regulated information.

If you want to understand exactly how we handle data and ownership, we’ve laid it all out in plain English in our Terms & Conditions .

Own It, Don’t Lease It

At the end of the day, your data tells the story of your work. It’s how you measure impact, prove compliance, and plan ahead.

So you should never be in doubt about who owns it, where it’s stored, or what happens if you want to make a change.

We build systems that put you in control — because your data should work for you , not the other way around.

What’s the Real Cost of a Workaround?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 22:30:00 GMT

We’ve all done it. The spreadsheet that became a system. The side-channel email that fills a gap in the process. The “just for now” tool that’s still in use three years later.

Workarounds start out harmless — quick fixes that keep things moving. But over time, they pile up. And before you know it, they’re costing more than they’re saving.

What Is a Workaround, Really?

A workaround is anything you’re doing outside your main system to get a job done.

It might be:

A manual process that replaces missing functionality
An Excel file on someone’s desktop instead of a shared database
A text message or WhatsApp group because the system doesn’t notify properly
Re-keying the same data into multiple systems because they don’t talk to each other

They’re not always obvious — but they’re everywhere.

The Hidden Costs

Workarounds aren’t just inconvenient. They come with a real price tag:

Time Wasted

Entering data twice, chasing updates, fixing errors — it all adds up. Multiply that across a team or an entire organisation, and it’s hours (or days) lost each week.

Errors and Inconsistencies

Workarounds often rely on manual entry or isolated systems. That increases the risk of incorrect data, out-of-date info, or things falling through the cracks.

Security Risks

Saving files locally, emailing sensitive data, or using unofficial tools might get the job done — but it can open the door to compliance issues or data breaches.

Staff Frustration

If your team is constantly finding ways around the system, it’s a sign the system isn’t working for them. Morale drops. People stop trusting the tools they’re given. And that leads to even more disconnected processes.

Missed Opportunities

When your data is scattered or incomplete, reporting becomes a nightmare. That means missed insights, slower decision-making, and less impact from the work you’re doing.

Why It Happens (and How to Fix It)

Workarounds are usually a symptom, not the problem. They happen when the tools you’re using don’t quite fit — when the system can’t do what you need, or the process doesn’t reflect how people actually work.

That’s why we don’t just build systems — we fix the gaps.

At HutSix, we work with your team to understand what’s really happening behind the scenes.

Then we design smart, secure, and easy-to-use systems that:

Remove the friction
Automate the repetitive
Connect the disconnected
Capture the right info, once, in the right place

No more sticky notes. No more doubling up. No more “just for now” fixes.

Ready to replace your workarounds with a proper solution?

Let’s talk about how we can make the right way the easy way.

Scale with Respect: Let the System Be the Hero

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Progress isn’t just about speed. It isn’t about one brilliant individual carrying the weight of everyone else.

Real progress is when the system itself holds the load, and anyone can step in, contribute, and succeed without needing to be a hero.

Is progress resting on a few heroes, or on systems anyone can run?
Are decisions based on tribe and taste, or designed to work for everyone?
Is equality consistent, or is it political, loud and uneven?
Are you trading standards for status? Applause for reliability?
Do defaults make the right thing easy, or is it back to graft and manual work?
Is power concentrated with the heroic few, or spread by design?
Are you burning more hours, more stress, more effort… for what outcome?

Be honest: are you committing to one idea, especially a large-scale software provider, as the way? That’s not dignity at scale. That’s just another tribe.

Build Rails, Not Pedestals

When you design systems that anyone can run, you’re choosing dignity at scale. Scarcity fades. Lock-in disappears. Progress stops being about who you know, or what camp you’re in.

• Make the default fair.

• Design for choice, portability and open standards.

• Teach the why, not just the steps.

• Measure friction, not effort.

Systems become the hero when they are built to carry the weight.

No Gatekeepers

Scaling with respect means making learning stick without gatekeepers. Not everyone learns the same way, but everyone deserves access.

• Teach principles, not rituals.

• Set a default path, but allow alternatives that meet the same standard.

• Assess outcomes, not obedience.

• Mix formats: show, do, reflect.

• Design for portability; avoid platform lock-in.

• Pull feedback from the edges, where reality lives.

• Scaffold early, loosen later; autonomy grows with competence.

Scale with Respect

When power is spread by design, work gets better for the many, especially when no one’s watching.

As Stewart, one of our senior engineers, put it: “We build systems that scale without sacrificing respect for the people who use them.”

That’s the line in the sand. Scale with respect, or stop calling it progress.

What If Your Systems Could Talk to Each Other?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 22:30:02 GMT

Ever feel like you’re entering the same info in three different places? One system for reports, one for finance, another for compliance — and none of them seem to know what the others are doing?

Welcome to the world of disconnected systems. It’s common. But it’s also fixable.

At HutSix, we build software that doesn’t just work in isolation — it plays nicely with others. Because when your systems talk to each other , everything else runs smoother.

The Problem with Silos

Siloed systems lead to:

Double-handling: Entering the same data into multiple platforms
Errors: Typos, inconsistencies, missed updates
Wasted time: Chasing info, cross-checking records, doing manual work that should be automated
Blind spots: Data stuck in one place when it could be helping somewhere else

And when you’re stretched for time or working across remote teams, that extra effort adds up fast.

What Integration Actually Means

When we talk about systems “talking,” we’re talking about integration. That might sound technical, but here’s what it looks like in real life:

Completing a report in your field app, and having the data automatically show up in your management dashboard.
Logging a service in your CRM, and having it sync to your finance system for invoicing.
Collecting inspection results, and having a summary auto-attach to a project file in SharePoint.
Triggering notifications or tasks in other systems based on a single action in one platform.

No copy/paste. No chasing things up. Just flow.

What We Do Differently

At HutSix, we design platforms that work with your existing systems — not against them. We can:

Integrate with tools you’re already using (Xero, SharePoint, ERPs, CRMs, HR systems — you name it)
Design custom APIs where out-of-the-box integrations don’t exist
Create smart workflows that automate repetitive tasks and keep things consistent across the board

And we make sure it’s done securely, with the right permissions and privacy controls in place.

Why It Matters

When systems talk, people don’t have to repeat themselves. Everyone’s working from the same info, in real-time, and nothing slips through the cracks.

You save time. You reduce risk. You make better decisions. And you make life a whole lot easier for the people actually using the system day to day.

Sick of systems that don’t speak the same language?

Let’s build something that connects the dots — and gives your team one less thing to chase. Contact us today.

From Idea to Action: Why Scoping Matters

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 22:30:00 GMT

You’ve got a brilliant idea. A vision for how things could work better. You know what’s broken — and maybe even what “better” could look like. But turning that into a working, reliable piece of software? That’s the hard part.

That’s where scoping comes in.

At HutSix, scoping is where we turn big, sometimes messy ideas into clear, buildable plans — and it’s one of the most valuable parts of any project we do.

What Scoping Actually Involves

Scoping isn’t just a quote and a list of features. It’s about sitting down with you and really understanding what you’re trying to achieve — not just what you think the software should do.

We ask things like:

Who’s using this system, and what’s their day actually look like?
What are you doing now, and where are the pain points?
What needs to stay? What can go?
How will this system scale in 6 or 12 months?
What hasn’t worked before — and why?

We dig in, map out workflows, challenge assumptions, and translate your goals into real functionality — without buzzwords, tech jargon, or filler.

Why It Matters

Good scoping avoids:

Misaligned expectations
Bloated features no one uses
Endless back-and-forth during development
Systems that don’t quite work the way people need them to

It’s where we make sure we’re solving the right problem — not just building a shinier version of the current workaround.

Real Vision, Built the Right Way

Whether you’re replacing an ageing system, digitising a manual process, or starting something entirely new — the scoping phase is where the “aha!” moments happen.

It’s where:

You see your rough idea mapped out clearly
You start getting feedback from real users early
You realise what you don’t need — and what’s missing
You lay the foundation for a system that actually gets used

We often say: if the scoping’s solid, the build is smooth. And it’s true.

Got an idea for better software but not sure where to start?

Let’s sit down , scope it out, and turn your vision into something real — and usable.

Reporting That Actually Works for People

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 22:30:00 GMT

When most people hear the word report, their eyes glaze over — and fair enough. For many systems, “reporting” just means dumping data into a spreadsheet and leaving you to figure it out. Cue the endless scrolling, frantic Googling of Excel formulas, and trying to make it all look halfway decent before your next meeting.

At HutSix, we do things differently.

The .CSV Export: Basic but Bare Bones

Let’s start with the default: the humble .CSV export.

It’s fast, raw, and flexible — if you know what to do with it. But that’s also the problem. For most people, it’s not really a report. It’s just data. Lots of rows and columns, no context, no visuals, and definitely no time-saving.

It works for data analysts who want to manipulate and dig deep — but for the everyday user or frontline team member, it’s a bit like being handed a toolbox with no instructions.

What We Do Instead

We build reporting tools that work for humans , not just spreadsheets.

Clear, formatted PDFs that are ready to share straight out of the system — no fiddling required.
Graphs and visual summaries that make patterns obvious, not something you have to hunt for.
Photos and context included right in the report — so you’re not cross-referencing 12 different tabs to get the full picture.
Click-to-generate functionality, so anyone can produce a polished report in seconds — whether it’s for management, council meetings, or compliance checks.

No formatting. No formulas. No faffing about.

Designed for Real-World Use

Whether it’s a night patrol team needing quick summaries of their shifts, council workers reporting on inspections, or a remote manager prepping for a stakeholder update — reporting shouldn’t be a burden.

Our systems are built so reports don’t just contain the data — they communicate it. Clearly, visually, and instantly.

Because good data is only useful if people can actually use it.

Get in touch with us to improve your reporting today!

Why Offline Capability Matters

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 22:30:00 GMT

We take a lot for granted when we’re connected. Cloud software, video calls, real-time data updates — they all rely on one thing: a stable internet connection. But in many parts of Australia, especially across remote and rural regions, that kind of connection just isn’t a given.

That’s where offline capability becomes a game-changer.

So, What Is Offline Capability?

Offline capability is exactly what it sounds like: the ability for an app or software system to keep working even when the internet drops out.

It means users can continue to access, input, and interact with the system — whether they’re deep in the bush, in a remote mining camp, or anywhere else that connectivity can’t be guaranteed.

Once the device comes back online, any data or changes made offline will sync up automatically, keeping everything up to date.

Why It Matters Out Here

In remote and regional Australia, offline capability isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Many of the essential services that keep communities running are delivered by people working in low- or no-connectivity environments.

Local councils often operate across vast areas, managing infrastructure, inspections, and community services in places where mobile reception is patchy or non-existent.
Night patrol teams play a critical role in community safety, often working at night and in remote locations where internet access simply isn’t available.
Remote housing and essential services teams need to log maintenance, check conditions, and collect data — all without relying on a live internet connection.
Community health workers may travel between outstations, needing systems that can record visits, access files, and sync back to central systems once they’re reconnected.

Offline capability ensures these vital services don’t grind to a halt when the signal drops. It means work can continue, data is captured safely, and nothing is lost in the gaps.

Building for the Real World

At HutSix, we design and build software that works in the real world — which means planning for imperfect conditions. Offline capability isn’t just a feature; it’s a lifeline. It ensures that work doesn’t grind to a halt, that data doesn’t get lost, and that people can stay safe and effective no matter where they are.

From day one, we bake resilience into the tools we build. Because software should support people — not the other way around. Looking for a solution for your team? Get in touch with us today .

Finding the Right Fit (Not Just the Right CV)

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:30:00 GMT

When to comes to finding new team members, technical skills and experience are only part of the story. The other part—the more important part—is how people work together. That’s why, as part of our recruitment process, we use personality profiling.

Building Stronger Teams

Software development is a collaborative effort. No one works in isolation, and how a team communicates, problem-solves, and supports each other can make or break a project. By using personality profiles, we get insights into each candidate’s natural working style—whether they’re more detail-focused, people-oriented, results-driven, or steady and consistent. This doesn’t put people into boxes. Instead, it helps us understand how different strengths can complement each other to create well-rounded teams.

Setting Candidates Up for Success

Recruitment isn’t just about whether someone can do the job. It’s about whether they’ll thrive in it. By looking at personality profiles, we can identify the kinds of environments and roles where a candidate is most likely to succeed. For example, someone who thrives on structure might struggle in a fast-changing, experimental R&D project. On the other hand, someone who loves big-picture thinking might not enjoy a role requiring meticulous attention to detail every single day.

Personality profiles help us place people in positions where they’ll feel challenged in the right way and supported to do their best work.

Protecting Our Team Culture

At HutSix, we’ve worked hard to build a collaborative, encouraging, and flexible team culture. Bringing in new people is about more than filling a skills gap—it’s about making sure the dynamics of the team stay strong. Personality profiling gives us another layer of information to help maintain that balance. It helps us avoid a mismatch that could disrupt the flow of communication or create unnecessary tension.

The Little Things Matter Too

Beyond personality profiles, we also look for the small signs that someone is genuinely committed. Things like following the instructions in the job ad: yes, that means emailing us (hint, hint) instead of hitting “apply now” somewhere else, to show us that a candidate pays attention to detail and can follow process.

We also ask applicants to complete a short technical test covering AWS, Docker, and PHP. The test isn’t about passing or failing. It’s not a barrier to entry. What it does show us is whether someone is willing to put in the effort. For us, it’s less about the score and more about the attitude.

Supporting Growth Beyond Recruitment

We use the insights to guide onboarding, team-building, and even career development. It’s a tool that helps us communicate better with each other, resolve conflicts more effectively, and lean into each person’s strengths.

Why It Matters

At the end of the day, our goal is simple: to build a team that delivers outstanding work while enjoying the process of getting there. By using DISC personality profiles—and by paying attention to those small but telling details—we give ourselves the best chance of finding the right people, setting them up for success, and protecting the culture we’ve built.

Because when the team works well together, everything else flows.

Automating Routine Tasks: Boosting Productivity and Reducing Errors

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Let’s face it — there’s no shortage of big challenges facing Aussie organisations right now. But staffing? That’s a big one. Across industries, across the country, the story’s the same: it’s hard to find good people and even harder to keep them.

That’s why automation isn’t just a tech upgrade. It’s a people strategy.

Because when your best staff are stuck doing repetitive admin, chasing missing forms, or fixing errors that shouldn’t have happened in the first place — they burn out. Or worse, they leave.

Automation: It’s Not About Replacing People

Automation gets a bad rap sometimes — as if the goal is to swap humans for machines. But that’s not how we see it.

At HutSix, we use automation to take the boring , repetitive , and error-prone jobs off your team’s plate — so they can focus on the work that actually matters. The stuff that needs judgment, care, and experience.

What Kind of Tasks Can Be Automated?

More than you think. In the systems we build, we regularly automate:

Data entry duplication — e.g. when someone logs a report, it auto-fills related forms or records
Email and SMS reminders — for upcoming tasks, expiring documentation, or missing information
Workflows — e.g. completing a step automatically triggers the next one (like submitting an incident report that starts a case review)
Invoicing and claims — pulling from existing data, with no need to re-key anything
Shift scheduling and attendance — with built-in logic and notifications

It’s not flashy — it’s just efficient. And it means your people spend less time doing admin, and more time doing their actual jobs.

Fewer Mistakes, Better Morale

Manual processes aren’t just slow — they’re risky. Typos, missed steps, forgotten follow-ups… they happen. But when they’re happening every week , that’s not human error — that’s a design flaw.

By automating routine tasks, you reduce those slip-ups — and reduce the stress that comes with constantly fixing them.

That builds confidence. And it keeps your team from feeling like they’re doing busy work all day.

Make the Work Work Better

With the current staffing squeeze, organisations can’t afford to waste the people they’ve got. Automation helps you:

Get more done with fewer hands
Support the people who do show up
Keep your processes consistent, even when staff changes
Create a better experience for both staff and the people you serve

It’s not about doing more with less. It’s about doing better with what you’ve got.

Feeling stretched? Let’s talk about what your systems could be doing for you — automatically.

Because keeping your team should start with making their work easier.

What’s a CRM — and Why Would You Need a Custom One?

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Let’s start with the basics. CRM stands for Customer Relationship Management — but it’s not just about keeping a list of names and phone numbers.

A CRM is a tool (or more often, a whole system) designed to help you manage relationships, track interactions, follow up on tasks, and keep your team on the same page when it comes to clients, stakeholders, and community contacts.

Sounds simple, right? But that’s where things can get messy.

What Off-the-Shelf CRMs Do (and Don’t Do)

There are plenty of out-of-the-box CRMs on the market. Some are huge, complex platforms with more features than you’ll ever use. Others are light and affordable — but too rigid to flex around how you actually work.

The common issues we hear:

“We’re not a sales team — it doesn’t make sense for how we work.”
“We can’t track the info we actually need.”
“It’s become a glorified address book no one uses properly.”
“We’re paying for features we don’t even use.”

In short, off-the-shelf CRMs can feel like trying to force a square peg into a round hole.

Why a Custom CRM Might Be the Better Fit

At HutSix, we build custom CRMs that are designed around your team, your workflows, and your goals. No fluff. No wasted clicks.

Just a system that helps you:

Track the right info: Whether it’s community engagement, service delivery, funding milestones, or incident follow-ups — you get fields and data that actually matter to your work.
Streamline your processes: Automate the admin. Set reminders. Trigger tasks. Keep everyone in the loop without chasing people around.
See what’s going on: Dashboards, reports, and visual tools that give you instant visibility — no spreadsheets needed.
Work across teams: From front-line workers to managers and finance, everyone sees what they need, when they need it.
Link to your other systems: Need it to talk to Xero, SharePoint, or your existing registers? No problem.

Not Just for “Customers”

Don’t be fooled by the name — CRMs aren’t just for traditional “customers”.

They’re just as useful for managing:

Clients and service users
Volunteers and stakeholders
Community members
Partners, donors, or funding bodies
Internal teams and task tracking

If you’re still managing relationships across shared inboxes, Excel files, or notepads, there’s a better way. One that gives your team a clear view of what’s happening and helps you deliver better outcomes with less faffing about.

TL;DR

A CRM helps you manage relationships, track interactions, and stay organised. A custom CRM helps you do all of that your way — no workarounds, no wasted features, and no more “we’ll fix it later” spreadsheets.

Want to chat about what a custom CRM could look like for your team?

We’re here to make it make sense — and make it work.

What We Learned From Building a Better Load Management System

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 22:30:00 GMT

We heard stories of pilots doing weight and balance calculations on spreadsheets — or worse, jotting down flight-critical info on paper and leaving it under a rock before take-off. When that’s your backup plan, you know something’s not right.

Managing aircraft operations — especially when they involve complex missions, tight timelines, and strict safety protocols — isn’t something you want to leave to disconnected systems or improvised fixes. That’s why we built a custom weight and balance platform that brings precision, automation, and clarity to flight preparation.

And in doing so, we were reminded of one simple truth: when software works the way your team works, everything else gets easier.

Built for the Job, Not Just the Spec Sheet

This project was all about operational readiness. We needed to create a platform that could handle every moving part of a flight — crew, cargo, weapons, fuel, emergency scenarios — and bring it together in a way that felt seamless.

So, we designed a system that does exactly that:

Allows pilots and planners to configure aircraft in detail — from mission equipment to weapons and countermeasures
Performs real-time weight and balance calculations, with instant CG (centre of gravity) updates
Supports offline access using synced local data — so no one’s grounded by a weak signal
Generates Form F load sheets with digital signatures — so compliance isn’t an afterthought
Offers dynamic visualisations of aircraft loadouts — so you’re not just trusting the numbers, you can see them

And it’s all wrapped up in a clean, user-friendly interface that works just as well in the field as it does in the planning office.

Not Just a Flight Tool — A Whole Operational Ecosystem

This wasn’t just about the app. Behind the scenes, the platform includes:

A central admin server for managing aircraft configurations, reusable load data, and user access
Secure multi-user, multi-organisation support — with clear controls and audit-ready tracking
Custom form templates to match each aircraft’s unique specs
Authentication that fits the context — from secure credentials to device-based access

The result? A system that supports every mission phase — pre-flight, mid-air refuelling, emergency response — with confidence and clarity.

Designed With, Not Just For

Like everything we do at HutSix, this project wasn’t just built in a vacuum. It was shaped through real consultation with real people — those on the ground (or in the air) who needed better tools.

And that’s our favourite part of this kind of work: turning operational complexity into software simplicity. No bloat. No fluff. Just tools that do the job properly — and make everything else easier along the way.

Need a system that works with your environment, not against it?

Let’s talk about what we can build to get your operations flying smoother — without the turbulence.

A Better Way to Manage Grants: From Application to Disbursement

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Managing grants and scholarships isn’t just about funding — it’s about trust, transparency, and making sure the right support reaches the right people at the right time.

This becomes even more important when you’re working in remote communities, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, where access, clarity, and cultural sensitivity all matter. That’s why we built a custom grant management platform — designed specifically for organisations delivering funding support in regional and remote Australia.

Built With Community at the Centre

This wasn’t a generic off-the-shelf system. It was created for a remote organisation supporting Indigenous people across a wide area — with features that reflect how things actually work on the ground.

We developed:

A dedicated applicant portal, where community members can apply for grants or scholarships, check their eligibility, track progress, and update their details — all in plain language with guided steps.
An admin portal, where staff can manage incoming applications, configure funding rules, generate reports, and communicate with applicants by email or SMS — even in areas with limited connectivity.

Designed for Real Life (Not Just the Guidelines)

We know that applying for funding can be a complex process — especially in communities where digital access may be limited, and where applicants may be first-time users.

That’s why we prioritised:

Simple, step-by-step forms, pre-filled with known data
Flexible login options, including mobile one-time codes and Facebook login
Clear progress tracking so applicants know where they’re at
Automated communications to keep everyone in the loop
Rules and filters that match real-world funding structures and eligibility criteria

Everything is designed to reduce admin effort, prevent confusion, and ensure decisions are made fairly and consistently.

Supporting Stronger Outcomes

Transparency and accountability matter — especially when distributing funds on behalf of community trusts or partner organisations.

Our system includes:

Application and payment dashboards, searchable and filterable
Status tracking and audit trails for funding decisions
Built-in reporting to help with governance, reconciliation, and future planning

It gives staff a clearer picture of what’s happening, and gives applicants a fair, visible process that supports trust and engagement.

Still managing grants with spreadsheets and email chains? Reach out today!

Let’s build something that works for your team — and your community.

We Don’t Just Build Features — We Solve Problems

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 22:30:00 GMT

You don’t come to us asking for a “feature.” You come to us because something isn’t working.

Maybe your staff are doubling up on data entry.

Maybe your reports are full of gaps.

Maybe you’ve outgrown the spreadsheet that once held your whole operation together.

Maybe your team is burnt out trying to hold everything together with inboxes, PDFs, and crossed fingers.

We’re not here to tick off features. We’re here to fix that.

The Problem with Feature-First Thinking

It’s tempting to focus on features: “We need a form for X,” “Can you add a button for Y?”, “We just need a dashboard.”

But the truth is, features without context often miss the bigger picture. You get more tools — not better outcomes.

That’s why we always start by asking: “What’s the problem we’re solving?”

Because once we understand the friction points — the bottlenecks, confusion, workarounds, or risks — then we can design something that actually helps.

Our Approach

At HutSix, we work backwards from the real-world problems our clients face.

That might mean:

Replacing six scattered tools with one clean interface
Automating repetitive admin so your staff get their time back
Making sure night patrols can log reports offline in the field
Helping a manager track funding impact without needing to dig through emails

We build systems that make people’s jobs easier, data clearer, and workflows tighter. And yes — they still have features. But those features are deliberate, necessary, and useful .

Designed for People, Not Just Specs

Whether you’re managing grants, running council programs, delivering health services, or overseeing operations in remote Australia — the best solution isn’t the one with the most buttons.

It’s the one that solves the problem without getting in the way.

Got a problem your system can’t solve?

Let’s skip the feature wish list and talk about what’s really going on — and how we can help. Get in touch .

What is SaaS?

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 22:30:00 GMT

If you’ve ever used software in a web browser — like Google Docs, Xero, or even Netflix — you’ve already used SaaS.

But what exactly is it?

SaaS, in Plain English

SaaS stands for Software as a Service. It’s a way of delivering software over the internet, rather than installing it on your computer or server.

Instead of buying a program once and running it locally (like the old-school days of CD-ROMs and one-off licences), SaaS lets you access software on demand — usually through a monthly or annual subscription. It’s hosted in the cloud, and all you need to use it is a device and an internet connection.

Think of it like streaming movies instead of buying DVDs. The experience is smoother, updates happen in the background, and you can access your content from anywhere.

Why SaaS is a Big Deal

SaaS isn’t just convenient — it’s a complete shift in how businesses think about software.

Here’s why it matters:

Always up to date: No more manual installs or patching bugs yourself. Updates happen automatically, often without you even noticing.
Use anywhere: Whether you’re in the office, on site, or working remotely, your tools are available — just log in.
Scales easily: Adding users or functionality is simple. Perfect for growing teams or changing needs.
Lower upfront cost: Instead of a large upfront investment, you pay as you go. That makes budgeting easier and software more accessible.

Custom vs Off-the-Shelf

Plenty of SaaS products come “off the shelf” — ready-made tools built to suit the most common use cases. These can be great if your needs are simple and you’re happy to adapt to how the software works.

But sometimes, your processes don’t fit the mould. That’s where custom software comes in.

At HutSix, we build custom platforms tailored to your workflows — not the other way around. You get only the features you need, designed to suit the way your team actually works. And we don’t start from scratch every time. If you’re already using systems like Xero, SharePoint, ERPs, or CRM platforms, we can link them in and make everything talk to each other.

Because good software should fit in , not take over .

What It Means for Our Clients

Whether it’s a tool for tracking night patrols, managing council services, or streamlining internal workflows, we design SaaS platforms that are:

Secure
User-friendly
Cloud-hosted
Built for real-world environments (including offline if needed)
Connected to the systems you already use

We also handle the infrastructure and maintenance behind the scenes, so our clients can just log in and get on with their work — no IT headaches required.

TL;DR

SaaS = software that lives in the cloud, works anywhere, and updates automatically.

We build custom versions that fit your processes — and we’ll make sure it talks to the tools you’re already using.

Software That Works Without Training Wheels

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:30:00 GMT

We’ve all seen it before — a new system gets rolled out, and suddenly there’s a 40-page manual, three half-day training sessions, and a growing list of people quietly going back to their old spreadsheet.

If your software needs a full induction and a cheat sheet just to do the basics… something’s gone wrong.

Tech Should Make Work Easier, Not Harder

At HutSix, we believe good software should be like a well-designed tool: easy to pick up, obvious to use, and quietly powerful in the background. It should support your team — not slow them down.

We design systems that work without the training wheels.

That doesn’t mean we don’t offer support or guidance — of course we do. But it does mean that the systems we build are:

Intuitive: Clear labels, smart layouts, and no guessing where to click.
Consistent: Once you’ve done one task, the next one feels familiar.
Friction-free: No clutter, no bloat, no features that exist just to tick a box.
Role-based: People see exactly what they need — and nothing they don’t.

Because most people don’t want to learn a system. They just want to use it.

Designed for the People Using It — All of Them

We work with a huge range of users — from senior managers to night patrol workers, often across regional and remote Australia. That means designing for real people, not just digital natives.

Many of our users are non-native English speakers, so we keep language simple and direct — and where helpful, we incorporate custom iconography in partnership with our sister company, bellette . That way, there’s no second-guessing what each button or function is supposed to do.

We use required fields and guided workflows to gently enforce behaviour, ensuring that critical data is captured without the need for reminders or admin follow-up.
And we design for hierarchies of access — so frontline users, coordinators, and managers each see what’s relevant to them, with the right level of responsibility and visibility.

It’s all about building confidence and clarity into the experience — from first-time login to daily use.

Training Is a Backup — Not a Strategy

We’ll always support clients through onboarding and change management. But our goal is for the system to make sense without needing a manual.

Because when the software just works, people actually use it. And that’s when the real benefits kick in — better data, better decisions, and way less time spent chasing people up.

Looking for a system your team won’t fight with?

Let’s build something that works straight out of the box — no training wheels required. Get in touch with us.

What a Custom Telehealth Platform Taught Us About Good Software

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 22:30:00 GMT

There’s something powerful about building a system that just fits — no workarounds, no clunky menus, no “we’ll figure it out later” admin load. That’s exactly what we set out to do when we developed a custom telehealth management platform for a frontline call-based support service.

It reminded us of something we believe in deeply at HutSix: when software is designed for real-world use, it doesn’t just save time — it transforms how teams operate.

Turning Complexity Into Clarity

These teams are dealing with high-pressure, emotionally complex situations — often in real time. They don’t have time to re-enter details, flick between systems, or guess if a shift was covered.

So we built a platform that:

Logs and categorises calls with different sensitivity levels
Tracks caller mental state, risk, referrals, and interventions — all in one streamlined flow
Sends live SMS alerts for missed calls, shift changes, and voicemails
Automates scheduling, claims, and invoicing
Provides reporting and analytics that actually inform decisions, not just tick compliance boxes

From Patchwork to Purpose-Built

Before we stepped in, their process was a familiar mix: spreadsheets, emails, shared drives, and crossed fingers. Like many service-based organisations, they were doing their best with disconnected tools — and absorbing the inefficiencies as part of the job.

Our platform replaced all that with a single, integrated system that:

Shows critical info on a daily dashboard
Connects teams through a live handover console
Keeps data secure with role-based access
Tracks caller history, community trauma, and consent — safely and consistently

It’s not just a software upgrade. It’s a full operational shift.

More Than Just a Tool

The real value? This platform frees people up to focus on what matters most — the service itself. Less chasing. Less double-handling. More confidence in the process.

That’s the HutSix difference: we build software that doesn’t just meet a brief — it removes the noise, strengthens communication, and helps teams deliver at their best.

If your systems are still a mix of band-aid fixes, email chains, and crossed wires, there’s a better way.

Need a platform that actually works the way your team does?

Let’s build something that fits — without the faffing around. Reach out today and see how we can help you.

From Data Entry to Insight: What Your Reports Should Be Doing

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 01:15:00 GMT

We see it all the time: teams spending hours entering data into a system… only for it to sit there gathering digital dust. Reports, if they exist, are hard to generate, difficult to understand, and don’t actually help anyone do their job better.

Let’s be real — if your data isn’t helping you make smarter decisions, then what’s the point?

At HutSix, we design systems where data entry leads to insight, not frustration. Reports should work for you — not just exist to tick a box.

Data In → Insight Out

Good reporting starts with good design. We build systems that:

Capture the right information — cleanly, consistently, and with minimal effort from the user.
Prevent incomplete entries using required fields and guided forms.
Connect data to context — photos, timestamps, GPS locations, user info — so you’re not left guessing what actually happened.

Once that’s in place, the magic’s in what you can see .

What a Good Report Should Tell You

Your reports shouldn’t just regurgitate the raw data. They should highlight the story behind it:

Trends over time – Is something improving, declining, or staying the same?
Activity by location – What’s happening where? Are any areas under-serviced?
Gaps or risks – Are reports missing? Are certain tasks being skipped?
Workload summaries – Who’s doing what, how often, and where the pressure points are.

And all of this should be clear at a glance, not buried in a spreadsheet.

Visual Reporting That Makes Sense

We build reports that look good — but more importantly, that make sense:

Clickable dashboards with live data and filters
Heatmaps to visualise coverage and activity
Graphs, charts, and breakdowns that suit your specific needs
Exportable, shareable formats like clean PDFs with embedded images, summaries, and visual context

Whether you’re reporting to a funding body, presenting to council, or trying to improve operations internally — your reports should help you make a case, spot a gap, or decide what’s next.

Real-Time Means Real Action

Forget waiting until the end of the month to know what’s going on. With real-time dashboards and automated reports, you can respond as things happen — not weeks later.

This matters when:

You’re managing services across wide regions
You’re trying to keep people safe
You need to stay compliant or hit targets
Or you just don’t have time to chase data manually

Insight > Admin

At the end of the day, your data should do something . It should make life easier, not harder. And your reports should be more than output — they should be a tool for action, visibility, and clarity.

We build systems that get you from data entry to insight — faster, cleaner, and with far less faffing about.

Want reports that actually tell you something useful?

Let’s talk about how your data could be working harder (so you don’t have to).

What is Single Sign-On (SSO)?

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Let’s be honest — no one likes remembering passwords. Especially when you’re juggling five different systems, each with their own login. It’s clunky, frustrating, and more than a little bit risky.

That’s where Single Sign-On (SSO) comes in.

It’s a simple idea with a big impact: log in once, and access everything you need — no juggling usernames or forgetting which password you used for which platform.

So, What Is SSO?

Single Sign-On (SSO) is a way to let users access multiple systems or apps with just one secure login. It means once you’re signed in to your main identity provider — like Microsoft, Google, or your organisation’s internal system — you’re automatically logged in to the other tools connected to it.

No need to log in again. No password fatigue. Just in — and on with the job.

Why It Matters

SSO isn’t just a convenience feature. It’s a smarter, safer way to work.

Fewer passwords to remember = less chance of being locked out or writing them down on sticky notes.
Less IT support required = fewer reset requests or login issues to manage.
More secure = access is controlled through a central identity provider, making it easier to apply organisation-wide policies like two-factor authentication or automatic lockouts.
Faster onboarding and offboarding = when someone joins or leaves your team, you can grant or remove access in one place.

It’s particularly handy for larger teams, rotating staff, or field workers who don’t have time (or the headspace) to manage multiple logins.

How We Use It at HutSix

When we build systems, we can integrate Single Sign-On using providers like Microsoft, Google Workspace, or other custom identity platforms your organisation already uses.

We can also connect your custom HutSix system to your existing SSO setup — so your users don’t have to remember yet another password just to log an incident report, update a record, or complete a form.

It’s one less barrier to adoption — and it makes your digital systems feel more seamless.

TL;DR

SSO = one login, multiple systems.

It’s faster, safer, and a lot less painful than juggling a dozen passwords.

Curious if SSO could simplify things for your team?

Get in touch — we’ll help you connect the dots and make logging in one less thing to worry about.

More Than Just Advice

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 22:30:00 GMT

When people hear the words “strategic advisory,” they often imagine long reports, high-level recommendations, or consultants who parachute in, talk theory, then disappear.

That’s not how we do things at HutSix.

For us, strategic advisory means practical, hands-on, and deeply informed support — built around your goals, your constraints, and the realities on the ground. We roll up our sleeves and help you bridge the gap between vision and delivery.

We’ve Been in Your Shoes

Our advisory work is led by Brad Bellette and Claire Hoban — two leaders with decades of experience in strategy, operations, and organisational transformation.

Brad brings 27 years of experience leading businesses, peak bodies, and complex NT government facilities. He’s known for his deep understanding of governance, regional service delivery, and how to actually get big plans moving — particularly in remote and Indigenous contexts.
Claire brings executive-level operational experience across start-ups, digital identity, agribusiness, and high-growth environments. With a PhD in Medicine and a background in scaling businesses, streamlining processes, and expanding into new markets, Claire brings clarity and rigour to everything from workforce planning to compliance.

Together, they offer far more than surface-level advice — they offer strategic execution, backed by real-world know-how.

When Strategy Needs Structure

Whether you’re rethinking service delivery, planning for growth, or just trying to make your systems work better together, we help you:

Map what’s working — and what’s not
Prioritise goals and timelines
Design efficient, future-proofed processes
Align your team and stakeholders
Plan tech or operational upgrades that actually stick

We’ve helped councils, trusts, community orgs and national bodies move from reactive decision-making to focused, measurable progress — with the right KPIs, the right tools, and the right support.

No Fluff. Just Strategy That Works.

Our advisory services often include:

Discovery and consultation to understand your needs
Operational reviews of your processes, systems, and team structure
Workshops to bring stakeholders into alignment
Implementation roadmaps that turn strategy into action
Ongoing advisory support, if needed, to keep things on track

And we don’t just leave you with a report. We help you deliver it — or design the systems to make it happen.

Get in touch to see how HutSix can help bring structure, clarity, and momentum to your goals.

Empowering Remote & Regional Communities: A New Era for Service Delivery with HutSix

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:16:43 GMT

In Australia's vast remote and regional landscapes, NGOs and local governments are the backbone of community wellbeing.

Yet, delivering vital services in these areas comes with unique challenges: immense distances, connectivity gaps, and the relentless administrative burden of reporting and compliance. What if you could overcome these hurdles, empower your teams, and amplify your impact, all while drastically reducing your workload?

Our Australian Story: Deep Roots and Shared Vision

At HutSix, we don't just build software; we build solutions that transform how community services are delivered. Proudly based in Alice Springs, NT, with additional operations in Adelaide, SA, we serve a diverse range of clients across Australia. With over 15 years of experience in consultancy, operational process, and custom software development, we bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Coming from regional Australia ourselves, we have a profound understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that regional Australians often face, and we are driven to create positive change. Our name, HutSix, is inspired by the legendary Hut 6 at Bletchley Park, where cryptographers revolutionised codebreaking during World War II. This legacy of intelligence, precision, and innovation continues to guide our approach in the digital age, as we turn complex challenges into actionable solutions. We believe that technology, paired with a shift in workplace culture, can empower people and businesses to achieve more, regardless of their location.

The Challenge: Bridging the Divide, Reducing the Burden

Organisations operating in remote and regional Australia face significant operational hurdles. Limited access to technology, patchy internet, and phone coverage are pervasive issues, often leading to financial crises and social exclusion due to inaccessibility of essential services. Furthermore, the administrative load of managing multiple programmes and meeting diverse funding body reporting requirements can overwhelm already stretched resources.

Our Solution: Technology Designed for Real-World Impact

HutSix delivers a technological edge specifically crafted for these environments:

Offline Functionality, Seamless Sync: Our systems are designed to work seamlessly on any device, ensuring accessibility for all users. Crucially, they are built for offline use, allowing operations to continue uninterrupted in remote areas with limited connectivity, and automatically syncing data when in range. This means no activity lag, just continuous, impactful work.
Live Data, No Lag: Our robust automation and reporting tools provide live data and insights at all times, eliminating reporting and activity lag. You get real-time visibility into your programmes, enabling immediate, informed decision-making.
99% Workload Reduction: Our tools can generate reports tailored to match the specific requirements of any funding body, significantly reducing your administrative workload by up to 99%. This automation also means you can manage all your programmes efficiently without additional administrative burden, freeing up valuable resources for direct community support.

Our Tailored Community Services

HutSix offers a comprehensive range of community services, each designed with flexibility to adapt to the diverse needs of remote and regional communities. Each service is built on a foundation of support, structure, and empowerment:

Night Patrol (CARE): Community Assistance, Response & Engagement

Your Need: Addressing anti-social behaviour and enhancing local safety, a key community service priority for local governments and a concern for NGOs.
Our Solution: Provides a structured framework for local presence and care, supporting community safety initiatives and de-escalation efforts.

Youth Development (GROW): Goals, Respect, Opportunity & Wellbeing

Your Need: Tackling youth unemployment, educational disengagement, and fostering resilience, particularly critical in remote areas where youth participation in education or employment can be low.
Our Solution: Programmes designed to build essential life skills, create positive pathways, and engage young people meaningfully.

Aged Care (YARN): Yarning, Advocacy, Respect & Nurture

Your Need: Providing culturally safe and respectful support for elders, especially given the growth in homelessness among older people in some remote areas.
Our Solution: Focuses on deep listening and community wisdom, enabling elders to remain connected to their culture and community, ensuring services are designed around local culture.

Sport & Recreation Reporting (PLAY): Participation, Logging, Activities & Youth

Your Need: Promoting youth wellbeing, community engagement, and data-driven insights for programme effectiveness.
Our Solution: Captures engagement, tracks activities, and provides valuable reporting tools to demonstrate impact and support grant accountability, helping organisations meet reporting requirements for funding bodies.

Outside School Hours Care (KIND): Kids in Nurture & Development

Your Need: Supporting working families and children's development in areas with limited early childhood education and care (ECEC) supply, and contributing to workforce retention.
Our Solution: Provides a nurturing environment for children, fostering creativity and consistency, and contributing to workforce retention in your communities. This aligns with efforts to increase participation rates of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children in ECEC settings, a "Closing the Gap" measure.

Our Partnership Philosophy: Co-designing for Lasting Impact

HutSix's engagement model is built on principles proven to succeed in remote and Indigenous contexts:

Community Ownership and Co-design: We believe the most effective solutions are those defined and controlled by the community itself. Our platforms are flexible, designed to be adapted and co-managed by local communities, ensuring genuine autonomy and commitment over all aspects of the project.
Cultural Safety at the Core: We prioritise the Indigenous worldview, ensuring our services are culturally competent and respectful, built around local culture rather than merely accommodating mainstream approaches. Programmes are unlikely to be effective if they lack cultural competence and do not have strong Indigenous ownership and community support.
Building Enduring Trust: Recognising historical challenges and systemic failures that have created distrust in some remote areas, we are committed to long-term relationship building, transparency, and sustained presence to foster genuine credibility and overcome scepticism. Investing in relationships to deeply understand the unique strengths and challenges of each community is critical.
Local Workforce Integration: Effective solutions in remote contexts must be place-based, employing local, language-speaking residents who possess an intrinsic understanding of local drivers and nuances. We actively seek opportunities to train and employ local community members in the delivery and support of our services. This not only aligns with local employment goals but also enhances cultural responsiveness and sustainability.

Why Partner with HutSix?

By choosing HutSix, your organisation gains:

Unprecedented Efficiency: Drastically reduce administrative workload and reporting time, freeing up resources for direct community impact.
Real-time Insights: Access live data for immediate decision-making and proactive programme management.
Seamless Operations Anywhere: Our offline-first systems ensure continuity, even in areas with limited connectivity.
Simplified Funding Compliance: Generate custom reports that perfectly match funding body requirements, enhancing your ability to secure and manage grants.
Empowered Communities: Foster genuine community ownership, cultural safety, and local employment through co-designed solutions.
Proven Expertise: Leverage over 15 years of experience in delivering tailored software and operational efficiencies in regional Australia.

Let's Build Stronger Communities Together

HutSix is more than a service provider; we are a partner invested in the future of Australia's remote and regional communities. We invite you to connect with us to discuss your specific organisational and community needs and explore how our tailored solutions can support your vital work.

Ready to transform your community service delivery?

We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate and contribute to a more robust, sustainable, and empowered future for all NGOs and local governments across the Northern Territory, South Australia, and Western Australia.

Too Many Emails?

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Email is great — until it’s not.

We’ve seen inboxes that look more like to-do lists, shared mailboxes with no ownership, and team comms buried under endless CCs. If your team is drowning in emails just to get the basics done, it might be time to rethink the system — not just the inbox.

At HutSix, we help teams reduce email noise by building custom software and setting up smarter workflows that keep conversations where they belong.

The Problem with Email

Email was never meant to be a task manager, service log, or communication tool for teams of ten or more.

But that’s how it ends up being used — and that leads to:

Missed messages: Critical info lost in long threads or buried under new emails.
No visibility: If someone’s off sick or leaves, no one knows where a conversation is at.
Double-handling: People forwarding, copying, retyping or rechecking information that’s already been sent.
No accountability: Shared inboxes with no clear owner can lead to things slipping through the cracks.

And worst of all? It slows everything down.

Custom Software > Email Chains

When we build custom systems, one of the first things we aim to do is pull the conversation out of email and into a shared space that’s clear, searchable, and trackable.

That might look like:

Internal notes and updates on specific records or reports (instead of back-and-forth emails)
Task assignment and tracking built into the platform
Status indicators so you don’t have to ask, “Has this been done?”
Notifications that go to the right person — not everyone
Automatic updates triggered by actions, not emails

The result? Less noise. More clarity. And a much more efficient way to work.

When a Shared Inbox Still Makes Sense

For some teams, a smart shared inbox is still the right tool — especially when you need a public-facing address (like info@ or support@).

Even then, we help teams use them properly:

With clear roles and ownership
Integrated tagging and filtering
Auto-routing and templated responses
Linked data, so responses are tied to client records or service logs

It’s about structure, not chaos — and making sure the inbox supports your process, not becomes the process.

The Big Picture

Whether we build you a system that removes the need for email entirely (yes, it’s possible), or help you set up a shared inbox that actually works — the goal is the same: get the right info to the right person, with as little friction as possible.

Because email isn’t going away. But it doesn’t have to run your day.

Ready to get out of your inbox and back to the work that matters?

Let’s design a better way to communicate .

Heatmaps, Maps, and What They Can Tell You

Sun, 25 May 2025 22:30:00 GMT

You don’t need to be a data scientist to spot a pattern — you just need to see it. That’s where maps and heatmaps come in.

At HutSix, we use mapping tools to turn raw data into clear, visual insights that actually help people make decisions. Whether it’s tracking patrol activity, service delivery, or incidents in remote communities, spatial data adds context you just can’t get from a spreadsheet.

First Things First — What’s a Heatmap?

A heatmap is a visual overlay that shows how often something happens — and where . The “hotter” the colour, the more activity in that area. Think of it like a weather map, but instead of temperature or rainfall, you’re seeing patrols, service calls, inspections, reports, or incidents.

And unlike rows of data or timestamped logs, heatmaps give you instant answers to questions like:

Where are we most active?
Where are we not reaching?
Are there patterns we weren’t aware of?

Why Visual Data Matters

When you’re delivering services across vast, regional or remote areas — or juggling limited staff and resources — visibility is everything.

Maps and heatmaps help you:

Make operational decisions faster (Where do we need to allocate more support?)
Report back to funders or councils clearly (Here’s where your investment is going.)
Spot trends early (Why are reports increasing in this region?)
Back up your gut feeling with evidence (You knew the team was busy — now you can show it.)

Built-In, Not Bolt-On

We don’t use heatmaps as a fancy afterthought. We design systems where spatial data is built in from the start — so it’s part of the daily workflow, not something you have to export and analyse later.

From interactive maps with clickable detail to automated weekly snapshots, the goal is always the same: give people the tools to understand what’s happening — and act on it.

And we can tailor it to your world. Whether you need maps that show:

Patrol coverage in specific communities
Asset inspections across council regions
Incident types by location
Service gaps over time

…we’ll build the map to match your goals, not the other way around.

Seeing Is Believing

At the end of the day, maps and heatmaps don’t just show where things are happening — they show where things aren’t . And that’s just as powerful.

Because when you can see what’s going on, you can respond faster, plan smarter, and show your impact with confidence.

Curious what a heatmap could show you?

Let’s take your data and turn it into something that makes sense at a glance. Get in touch today!

From Enigma to Encryption: What We Do (and Why It Matters)

Sun, 18 May 2025 22:30:00 GMT

If you’ve ever heard of the Enigma machine — the cipher device famously cracked during World War II — you’ll know it was designed to send coded messages that only the right people could read.

Fast-forward to today, and while the machines look very different, the need to protect sensitive information is more relevant than ever. At HutSix, we’re not cracking codes — we’re building modern software that makes sure your data stays uncrackable .

The Modern Enigma: Secure Systems for Sensitive Environments

We design and build secure, cloud-based platforms that let people work with sensitive data safely and efficiently — even in places with patchy internet, low tech literacy, or unique operational challenges.

Whether it’s:

Protecting community records in remote regions
Supporting night patrols and safety services
Handling confidential council or government data
Building digital workflows for sectors where trust is non-negotiable

We’re building systems with encryption and access controls baked in from the start. Think of it as your own modern Enigma — but instead of passing around paper codes, you get real-time tools that are secure, streamlined, and built for the people using them.

Data That’s Safe — and Anonymous

We have developed a platform that uses fully anonymised data — meaning no personal information is stored or shared, yet decision-makers still get access to the insights and reporting they need. It’s a smart way to balance privacy with progress, especially in environments where data sensitivity is paramount. We believe privacy isn’t a limitation — it’s a design opportunity.

Built for the Field, Not Just the Firewall

Security isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about making sure systems work in context . We build:

Cloud-based platforms with secure login and role-based permissions
Offline capability for when the connection drops but the work can’t stop
Audit trails so actions are trackable without being intrusive
Data storage and hosting that meets Australian privacy standards

All wrapped in interfaces that feel approachable, not intimidating.

Why It Matters

Just like Enigma, the work we do often sits behind the scenes — invisible to the end user, but critical to the mission. Whether we’re helping a council improve services or giving frontline workers better tools to keep people safe, we know that if the tech fails, the trust goes with it.

That’s why we build things properly. Securely. Thoughtfully.

Because the best systems don’t just work — they protect what matters most.

What is AWS and Why We Use It for Hosting

Sun, 11 May 2025 22:30:00 GMT

If you’ve spent any time around developers, tech teams, or startup founders, you’ve probably heard the letters A-W-S thrown around like confetti.

But what actually is AWS, and why do we at HutSix trust it for hosting the software we build?

AWS in a Nutshell

AWS stands for Amazon Web Services. It’s a cloud computing platform — essentially a massive collection of online tools and infrastructure that lets you store, run, and scale software without the hassle of managing physical servers.

Think of it like renting an incredibly flexible and secure space on the internet. Need a little storage? Done. Want to spin up a new server in another country? Easy. Hosting a website or application that gets traffic spikes? It’ll scale to meet demand.

Why We Use AWS at HutSix

We choose AWS because it ticks a lot of boxes that matter:

Reliability: AWS is built for uptime. Its global infrastructure means even if something goes wrong in one region, services can keep running.

Scalability: Whether we’re launching a lightweight internal tool or a large public-facing system, AWS scales with us — and our clients.
Security: With industry-grade security features, encryption, and compliance support, we can build infrastructure that keeps sensitive data safe.
Speed to deploy: We can launch and iterate faster, focusing our time on solving real-world problems rather than fiddling with servers.

Always Improving, Always Evolving

We don’t just “set and forget” our infrastructure. We work closely with AWS experts, who help us stay on top of industry best practice and ensure we’re constantly refining the way our systems are built and managed.

Whether it’s optimising performance, tightening security, or just making things more efficient behind the scenes, this ongoing partnership means our infrastructure evolves with the tech — and our clients are always well looked after.

Built for the Future

Using AWS (and working with people who know it inside-out) helps us future-proof what we build. As AWS rolls out new services and tools, we’re able to adopt them where it makes sense — keeping our work sharp, scalable, and smart.

At the end of the day, we’re all about building clever solutions that work seamlessly in the background. AWS helps us do that — and do it well.

User Permissions and Role-Based Access: Balancing Security and Usability

Mon, 05 May 2025 22:30:00 GMT

We’ve all seen it — a system where everyone has access to everything “just in case.” Or the opposite: a setup so locked down that people can’t do their jobs without calling for IT support every other day.

Finding the balance between security and usability isn’t just a technical decision — it’s a trust and workflow issue. And it’s something we build into every system we deliver.

Because when permissions are designed well, the system fades into the background. People see what they need, do what they need, and nothing else gets in the way.

What Is Role-Based Access?

Put simply, role-based access means giving people different levels of access based on their job — not on who shouted the loudest or got the login first.

A coordinator might need full visibility of service reports across multiple teams. A field worker might only need to complete their assigned tasks. Finance might need read-only access to payments. And the system should just know the difference.

This isn’t about limiting people — it’s about protecting data, reducing clutter, and making sure the system works for everyone .

Why It Matters

Without a clear permissions structure, things start to get messy:

Data gets overwritten or deleted by accident
Sensitive information is shared too broadly
User experience suffers — people are swamped with features or data they don’t need
Compliance risks creep in — especially if personal or financial data is involved

And when trust in the system drops? People stop using it properly. Or at all.

How We Do It at HutSix

We design permissions with clarity, consistency, and context in mind:

Customisable roles — tailored to your real job functions, not just generic admin/user splits
Field-level access control — so sensitive details can be restricted even within a shared record
Audit trails — so you always know who changed what, when
Access management tools — so you can update roles easily as your team grows or changes

And we make sure the system stays intuitive. No one should need a manual just to understand what they can or can’t see.

Designed for Trust

Especially when working with vulnerable people, Indigenous communities, or sensitive government or health data — role-based access isn’t optional. It’s essential.

Done well, it improves:

Efficiency (fewer blockers, less confusion)
Accountability (clear records and change history)
Security (data stays protected without being buried)

It builds confidence in the system — and that flows through to the quality of work people do with it.

Want to make sure your team sees exactly what they need — and nothing they don’t?

Let’s build a system that balances access and trust, without locking things down unnecessarily. Get in touch today .

Spreadsheets Are Not a System

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Let’s be honest — we’ve all used Excel for more than it was ever designed for. Rosters, project tracking, budgeting, asset registers, timesheets, incident reports, inspections… the list goes on.

And why not? It’s flexible, familiar, and already on most computers.

But while Excel is great for quick fixes, it starts to crack under pressure when you’re relying on it to run your operations.

The Excel Trap

Spreadsheets are like duct tape — incredibly handy, but not a long-term structural solution.

Here’s where Excel starts to fall short:

No user controls: Anyone can edit anything, formulas can get accidentally wiped, and there’s no way to track who did what.
No automation: Everything’s manual — data entry, formatting, reporting, chasing people to update their bit.
Hard to scale: What works for one user on one laptop quickly becomes chaotic when 10 people are using 12 different versions of the same file.
Zero integration: It doesn’t talk to your other systems. You’re stuck copying and pasting between platforms.

Version What?

One of the biggest productivity killers with Excel is version control — or more accurately, the lack of it.

We’ve all seen it:

report_final_FINAL_v3_updated.xlsx
“Oops, I didn’t get the latest version.”
“Someone opened it while someone else was editing it — and now the data’s gone weird.”

When multiple people are working from different copies of the same spreadsheet, it’s a recipe for confusion, duplication, and errors.

And if a file gets corrupted or lost? Unless you’ve got a backup system (most don’t), that’s hours — or days — of work down the drain.

It’s not just annoying. It’s a genuine risk.

What Custom Software Does Differently

At HutSix, we build systems designed specifically for the job at hand — and the people doing the work.

Here’s what you get with custom software:

Tailored workflows: Built to reflect your real processes — not shoehorned into a spreadsheet format.
Role-based access: Everyone sees just what they need to, and changes are traceable.
Automation: From reports to notifications, the system handles the admin so you don’t have to.
Real-time data: Always up to date, always available — no version control nightmares.
Visual reporting: Dashboards, graphs, even maps — all at the click of a button.
System integration: We can hook into your existing platforms (finance, HR, compliance, you name it) to reduce double-handling and improve accuracy.

When It’s Time to Level Up

If you’re spending more time fixing spreadsheets than doing your actual work, it might be time to upgrade. We’re not here to bash Excel — it’s a brilliant tool in the right context. But when your work is growing, your team is expanding, or your processes are getting more complex, custom software can save serious time, reduce risk, and make things a whole lot easier.

We’ve helped teams move from duct-taped spreadsheets to clean, purpose-built systems — and the feedback is always the same:

“Why didn’t we do this sooner?”

Ready to retire the spreadsheet? Let’s chat about a better way to get things done.

One Less Step: The Power of Continuous Improvement

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:05:48 GMT

If there’s one thing we’ve learned from building systems for people on the ground — it’s that the small stuff matters.

One less form to fill in. One less tab to open. One less email trail. One less phone call to confirm something the system should’ve told you.

We’re big believers in continuous improvement — not as a buzzword, but as a way of working. Because every time you remove a step, you save time, reduce friction, and make life that little bit easier for the person doing the work.

Efficiency Isn’t About Doing More — It’s About Doing Less

You don’t need a full digital transformation to find efficiencies. Sometimes, it’s as simple as asking:

Why are we doing this step?
Could this happen automatically?
Do we already have this information somewhere else?
Can we collect this once instead of three times?

By shaving off small inefficiencies again and again, you create a workflow that feels smooth, fast, and purpose-built — rather than something your team has to wrestle with every day.

How We Approach It at HutSix

When we design systems, we don’t just build what’s asked for — we look for ways to streamline, simplify, and sharpen. Our process is always driven by real people doing real work.

That might mean:

Auto-filling data based on past entries or user roles
Combining forms so users don’t enter the same info twice
Triggering actions when a step is completed (like alerts, updates or tasks)
Removing unnecessary clicks and focusing only on what’s essential
Surfacing the right info at the right time — without making the user dig for it

It’s not about bells and whistles. It’s about thoughtful design that reduces effort without reducing clarity.

Better Every Time

We know that organisations evolve. So should their systems.

That’s why we build with improvement in mind — adding features, simplifying flows, and listening to feedback as teams grow and change. It’s not about launching something perfect on day one.

It’s about creating a system that can get better every time you use it.

Even if we only remove one small step at a time — that’s still progress. And it adds up.

Want to talk about what “one less step” could look like for your team?

Let’s find the friction — and remove it.

Why Cybersecurity Needs More Than Compliance

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical issue — it’s a trust issue. And right now, Australia’s cybersecurity laws aren’t keeping pace with the reality on the ground.

Minimum standards? Tick-box compliance? They’re often outdated, inconsistent, and don’t reflect how people actually use systems — especially in community organisations, regional service providers, and not-for-profits.

The law might say you’re compliant.

But would your community feel safe if they knew how their data was being stored?

Would your team feel confident in what to do during a breach?

That’s the real test.

Why We Don’t Settle for “Compliant”

At HutSix, we build systems that go beyond what’s legally required — because we know the work our clients do often involves:

Sensitive data
Vulnerable communities
Remote and low-tech environments
Staff with varying levels of digital confidence
Cultural expectations around privacy and ownership

The legal standards don’t cover all that. But our design choices do.

Real Security = Real Design Thinking

Cybersecurity isn’t just about encryption and firewalls.

It’s about:

Role-based access and clear permissions
Local data storage for sovereignty and compliance
Educating users through design, not just training
Building in “safe defaults” to minimise risk
Creating systems people actually use properly (because that’s where most breaches happen)

We believe that just being compliant is the floor, not the goal.

If you’re worried your system wouldn’t hold up in the real world — even if it’s legal on paper — let’s talk .

Because real responsibility goes beyond what the law says. It starts with how your systems are built.

Accessible Anytime, Anywhere: The Importance of Cross-Device Compatibility

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 01:13:54 GMT

Not everyone sits at a desk. In fact, many of the organisations we work with are based in regional and remote Australia — where people are out in the field, on patrol, at community meetings, in vehicles, or working from home. They’re using tablets, phones, or shared devices to get the job done.

That’s why cross-device compatibility isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s critical infrastructure.

If your system only works properly on a desktop, you’re cutting out a huge part of your workforce — and creating extra workarounds that slow everything down.

What Cross-Device Compatibility Actually Means

When we talk about cross-device compatibility, we’re talking about systems that are:

Responsive — they adapt to any screen size: desktop, tablet, or mobile
Optimised — not just visible on a phone, but actually usable
Consistent — no matter where you log in from, it feels familiar
Offline-capable — because connectivity shouldn’t be a blocker to doing your job

This isn’t about flashy interfaces. It’s about practical design that works where the work is actually happening.

Why It Matters in the Real World

Cross-device systems mean:

Field staff can log data on the go — not wait until they’re back in the office
Managers can check dashboards on the fly — from an airport lounge or a community visit
Staff in remote areas aren’t left behind because they’re on older or shared hardware
Training and onboarding are faster — because the experience is consistent across all devices

When you don’t have to fight the tech just to enter a report or get the info you need, work flows better — for everyone.

What We Do at HutSix

We design software that’s made for real-life environments — not just office-bound ones.

That means:

Mobile-ready interfaces that don’t break under pressure
Clear navigation and inputs that work just as well with thumbs as they do with a mouse
Offline modes and local data sync options
Systems that load fast, even on patchy regional networks
Design that accounts for shared devices, accessibility, and low-tech confidence

Because if your system isn’t accessible wherever your team is, then it’s not really working.

Need your systems to work beyond the office?

Let’s build something that goes where your people go — and works, no matter what’s in their hands.

A Developer’s Perspective on Staying Secure

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 22:30:00 GMT

When people hear “cybersecurity,” their minds often jump straight to firewalls, encryption, or Hollywood-style hackers in dark hoodies. But according to Stewart, one of our our Senior Developers at HutSix, the most common vulnerability isn’t found in code or servers—it’s found in people.

This April, we’re revisiting cybersecurity with a fresh focus on the human side. We sat down with Stewart to hear his thoughts on the evolving risks we all face, the importance of culture, and how to strike that delicate balance between strong security and good user experience. His insights are equal parts practical and personal, and they’ll leave you thinking twice the next time you’re asked for your mother’s maiden name.

From your experience, what’s the most common security mistake people make—both in organisations and as individuals?

Falling for scams or targeted phishing attacks. It can be hard to break into a well configured system, but easy to manipulate a person through social engineering to give you the ‘keys to the castle.’

How do you and the team at HutSix build secure systems without sacrificing user experience?

It is a delicate balancing act between security and user experience, one where the sensitivity of stored data and client requirements come into play. If you’re working with low-literacy users, you can’t insist on ultra-secure passwords, as these people simply won’t use the system. This can be balanced by reducing what those users can access, mitigating the risk to a degree. Where possible, we implement single sign-on (SSO) - this is where you are authenticated with your company’s Microsoft or Google account, for example. In this way, the system is not managing ‘another’ password, and access for employees leaving your organisation can be managed centrally.

Can you share an example of a real-world security issue you’ve encountered in a project, and how you handled it?

Many years ago, I was asked to take over the development of a legacy (read: ‘old’) payment system. This app handled online credit card payments; however, it did so in a non-PCI-compliant manner. Seeing as I like sleeping at night, I quickly set about refactoring the system to ensure credit card data was handled correctly. This was an involved process that required coordination with other parts of the organisation and had costs involved, but was ultimately the right move.

In your view, what’s the biggest cybersecurity threat businesses face right now—and what should they be doing about it?

Your people. Are your employees trained enough to discern a phishing email? Could your staff be fooled into inadvertently handing over sensitive information over the phone? Systems can be hardened as much as possible, but it takes only one person (disgruntled or otherwise) to compromise it all. Train your staff to identify dodgy emails and send simulations regularly to test their skills.

What’s something non-technical people should know about cybersecurity that would genuinely make a difference in how they work or behave online?

Take better care when it comes to passwords - don’t reuse them and don’t write them down. Instead, use a password manager like 1Password or LastPass to generate and store strong passwords. These tools can be used on your computer or device, so you only have to remember the password for the password manager itself. They also have browser extensions that can automatically fill in passwords for you, saving time. If given the option, activate multi-factor authentication (MFA), which will use your phone as a secondary measure to verify your identity.

Are there any day-to-day habits or tools you personally use to stay secure online?

Outdated software can often have vulnerabilities, so I keep all my tech up to date with the latest updates. I use 1Password to manage logins for the various systems I look after, but I can also store all sorts of things that need to be securely stored. Lastly, I have registered my email addresses with ‘ Have I Been Pwned’ , a free service that notifies you when your email has been discovered in a data breach. If I get notified about a breach, I change the affected password as soon as possible.

What role does culture play in keeping an organisation secure? Is it all about the tech, or is there more to it?

Australians are known for their laid-back culture - you’ll often hear, “She’ll be right.” But when it comes to security, “Actually, she won’t be right.” We are all increasingly becoming the targets of data breaches, and with companies increasingly asking for large swathes of personal information, many are becoming victims of identity theft. Personally, I think twice before handing over my personal information. I ask myself, “Why do you need to know this?” or “What is the minimum I need to hand over?”

With AI and automation becoming more common, how is cybersecurity changing—and what should we be watching out for?

AI can be an amazing tool, but we don’t yet know the full extent of the security issues it may cause. Deepfakes, voice simulators, and photo generation are all tools that can be used to manipulate people, spread disinformation, or project a false sense of legitimacy. Tools like ChatGPT can be used to write perfect English with no spelling or grammar mistakes - normally a dead giveaway when discerning the legitimacy of an email, for example. Laws are, unfortunately, woefully inadequate, and common sense is not always common. So, until the law catches up, everyone needs to be more skeptical and question everything.

Stewart wanted to leave you with this final image—a light-hearted tribute to organisations operating with the classic mindset: “The security budget’s gone, but confidence remains high.”

Operational Efficiency: Working Smarter, Not Harder

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Operational efficiency isn’t about how busy your team looks—it’s about how much meaningful work gets done with the least amount of wasted time, effort, and resources. It’s the difference between a well-oiled machine and one that’s just making a lot of noise.

Too often, businesses and organisations mistake activity for productivity. Endless meetings, clunky workflows, and outdated systems can make a team look busy, but they don’t necessarily translate into real results. Operational efficiency is about maximising output while minimising waste—so you can grow without unnecessary complexity slowing you down.

Why Operational Inefficiencies Cost You More Than You Think

If your organisation is dealing with inefficiencies, you’re losing more than just time:

Time Drain – Employees stuck in repetitive manual processes lose valuable hours that could be spent on strategic work.
Hidden Costs – Outdated systems and workarounds lead to increased labour costs, missed opportunities and even fines for non-compliance with regulatory requirements.
Employee Frustration – Clunky workflows and inefficient tools create frustration, which can lead to disengagement and turnover.
Reduced Agility – Slow decision-making and poor visibility into operations can make it harder to adapt to market changes and grasp opportunities.

How Software Can Help You Work Smarter

The right technology isn’t just a convenience—it’s a game-changer for operational efficiency. Software solutions tailored to your business can:

Automate repetitive tasks – Free up time by eliminating manual processes.
Improve visibility – Centralise data so teams have the information they need when they need it.
Enhance collaboration – Streamline communication and document sharing.
Reduce errors – Automate workflows to eliminate human mistakes.
Scale effectively – Grow without increasing admin burdens.

A Handy Checklist: Is Your Business Running Efficiently?

To find out if inefficiencies are creeping into your operations, ask yourself:

Are employees spending too much time on manual data entry or repetitive tasks?
Do you have multiple systems that don’t integrate properly?
Are bottlenecks slowing down workflows?
Do employees struggle to find the information they need?
Are meetings and approvals taking longer than they should?
Do you rely on spreadsheets where automation could be used?
Are your teams frequently reinventing the wheel instead of following optimised processes?
Is your reporting inefficient or lacking insights to drive decision-making?

If you answered ‘yes’ to more than a couple of these, you could benefit from a systems and process review.

Getting Started: Improve Efficiency with HutSix

At HutSix, we help identify, refine, and optimise processes using technology that makes operations leaner, smarter, and more effective. Whether it’s automation, integration, or process refinement, we can work with you to remove roadblocks and build a scalable, high-performing operation.

Efficiency isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter (our favourite saying!). Let’s make your business run better.

Need help? Get in touch with us today .

Cybersecurity: Are You as Secure as You Think?

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 22:30:00 GMT

Cyber threats are evolving at an alarming rate. What was secure yesterday may be vulnerable today. With cybercriminals refining their tactics and businesses becoming more digitally connected, the need for robust cybersecurity has never been greater. But how do you know if your organisation is truly protected?

The Changing Cyber Threat Landscape

Cybercrime is no longer limited to large-scale data breaches or sophisticated nation-state attacks. Today, organisations of all sizes are being targeted by:

Ransomware Attacks – Malicious software that locks you out of your own systems until a ransom is paid.
Phishing Scams – Deceptive emails or messages designed to trick employees into revealing sensitive information.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities – A weak link in your software vendors or third-party providers could expose your business.
Credential Theft – Attackers exploiting weak or reused passwords to gain unauthorised access to critical systems.

Ignoring cybersecurity is no longer an option. A single breach can lead to financial loss, reputational damage, and legal implications.

Compliance: The Other Side of Cybersecurity

Beyond the immediate threats, organisations must also navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. The Australian Government is tightening data protection laws, and non-compliance can be just as costly as a cyber attack.

The Australian Privacy Act (under review in 2024) – Proposed reforms could introduce stricter data handling rules, higher breach penalties, and greater transparency requirements.
The Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) Scheme – Businesses must report serious data breaches to affected individuals and the OAIC or face regulatory action.
Essential Eight & ASD Guidelines – The Australian Signals Directorate’s framework is becoming a benchmark for cybersecurity best practices, particularly in government and corporate sectors.
ISO 27001 Certification – Increasingly expected in industries handling sensitive data, supporting both security and compliance obligations.

With tougher regulations on the horizon, reviewing your security and compliance measures now can help you avoid penalties and reputational damage.

The Importance of Regular Security Reviews

Many organisations assume their security measures are strong enough—until they aren’t. Conducting regular security assessments ensures your defences keep pace with emerging threats.

A comprehensive security review should cover:

Access Controls – Are employees using strong authentication methods?
Software & Patch Management – Are systems up to date with the latest security patches?
Network Security – Is sensitive data encrypted, and are firewalls properly configured?
Incident Response Plan – Do you have a tested strategy in place for dealing with a cyber incident?

Get Ahead of the Threats

Cybersecurity isn’t just about defence—it’s about resilience. Being proactive rather than reactive is the key to protecting your organisation. At HutSix, we can help you with cybersecurity strategy and risk mitigation. Whether you need a full security review, penetration testing, or guidance on best practices, we can help you strengthen your defences.

Don’t wait for a breach to reveal your weaknesses. Contact us today for a cybersecurity review and ensure your organisation is ready for whatever comes next.

2025 Resolutions and Software Development Trends

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 23:20:56 GMT

As we usher in 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what’s ahead.

Tackling niche, unexpected challenges is where we shine—turning “that can’t be done” into “look what we’ve achieved.”

With this mindset, we’ve laid out our resolutions, examined the shifting tides of our industry, and identified key trends that will shape how we create and innovate in the year ahead.

Our 2025 Resolutions

Scalability and collaboration

We’re doubling down on scalable solutions. As we continue growing, seamless collaboration between our teams and clients will be a top priority. Our goal is to maintain our flexible, encouraging culture while enhancing operational efficiency.

Creative solutions for challenges

Not every problem comes with a roadmap, and that’s where we excel. From obscure software issues to unprecedented project demands, we’re doubling down on crafting bespoke solutions that redefine what’s possible for our clients.

Client focused innovation

Our mission is simple: to solve your most pressing challenges. By listening, collaborating, and innovating alongside you, we’ll build tools and systems that work seamlessly—even in the most complex scenarios.

Streamlined processes

Efficiency isn’t just about speed—it’s about adaptability. By refining our processes and adopting new tools, we’re setting the stage for a smoother, smarter way of working in 2025 and beyond.

R&D growth

Research and Development has always been at our core. This year, we’re committing to pushing boundaries even further, using emerging technologies to solve the kind of problems others shy away from.

2025 Software Development: What’s In and What's Out

What’s In:

AI-Powered solutions: From smart coding assistants to real-time data analytics, AI is transforming how we approach problems.
Tailored systems: One-size-fits-all software is out; hyper-specific, client-driven solutions are in.
Sustainability in tech: Energy-efficient coding practices and green hosting options are becoming non-negotiable.
Decentralised Applications (dApps) : Blockchain and distributed ledger tech are finding more practical use cases beyond cryptocurrency.

What’s Out:

Rigid, off-the-shelf models: Customisation is key, and static solutions no longer meet the demands of a dynamic world.
Monolithic architectures: Microservices continue to dominate as businesses prioritise modular, scalable designs.
Reactive development: 2025 is all about being proactive—planning ahead and pivoting fast when the unexpected arises.

Top Trends for 2025 in Software Development

Hyper-personalisation: AI-driven insights will take personalisation to new heights, enabling software to adapt dynamically to individual users’ needs.
Privacy-first development: With increasing scrutiny around data usage, 2025 will see a rise in solutions designed with privacy as a core feature—think privacy-preserving AI and secure data processing methods.
Edge computing expansion: As the demand for real-time data processing grows, edge computing will play a pivotal role in reducing latency and improving performance for IoT and mobile applications.
Serverless architecture adoption: Serverless computing will continue to gain traction, enabling developers to focus on writing code without worrying about the underlying infrastructure.
Continuous Integration and Deployment (CI/CD) evolution: With the rapid pace of software development, CI/CD pipelines will become more sophisticated, automated, and user-friendly, ensuring faster delivery without compromising quality.

At HutSix, we’re excited about the opportunities 2025 brings. By staying true to our values and embracing innovation, we’re ready to tackle complex challenges, build strong partnerships, and deliver solutions that make the impossible possible.

If you’re looking to improve efficiency, solve unique problems, or explore emerging trends, let’s chat. Get in touch with the HutSix team today to take the first step.

HutSix: Stronger and Ready for 2025

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 02:18:26 GMT

At HutSix, our identity has always been anchored in the legacy of resilience and ingenuity inspired by the original “Hut 6” of WWII.

These were the minds that cracked the Enigma code, overcoming impossible odds to secure victory.

Now, as we launch our rebrand, we’re doubling down on the spirit that has driven us from the start: solving the impossible to deliver the improbable.

Our refreshed brand reflects more than just a new look. It’s a bold declaration of who we are and where we’re headed. With sharper visuals, enhanced clarity, and a reinforced commitment to security and innovation, our rebrand signals our evolution as a company—ready to tackle the most complex challenges of tomorrow.

The foundation of our work remains the same. We engineer custom software solutions designed to empower organisations to operate at their strongest and most secure. But now, we’re telling that story with a sharper focus. From the design of our logo to the refinement of our messaging, every element of our brand embodies our dedication to precision, strength, and collaboration.

As we look ahead to 2025, we’re energised by the possibilities. Our roadmap includes:

• Expanding our capabilities to support emerging industries.

• Deepening our partnerships to unlock new efficiencies for our clients.

• Pioneering innovative solutions that make even the most improbable results a reality.

Our guiding philosophy—‘when you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth’—continues to underpin everything we do. It’s the lens through which we view challenges and the compass that drives our solutions.

To our clients, partners, and supporters: thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’ll continue to innovate, collaborate, and secure success, no matter the odds. Here’s to a transformative 2025!

Stay tuned—our best is yet to come.

CRANAplus Bush Support Line (BSL)

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:39:49 GMT

Reduced admin time by 70%, freeing 10+ hrs/week for frontline support.

HutSix developed a secure, agile solution for CRANAplus’ Bush Support Line (BSL) , replacing paper records with a fully digital system that streamlines data entry, reporting, and compliance. This tailored system supports efficient, holistic mental health support for rural healthcare workers, enhancing responsiveness and operational clarity across CRANAplus’s mental health services.

The Challenge

CRANAplus’ Bush Support Line (BSL), a critical mental health resource for rural and remote healthcare workers, relied on paper-based documentation, which slowed reporting, complicated compliance, and limited case management capabilities.

The paper-heavy system hindered the ability to quickly process calls, roster shifts effectively, and coordinate with stakeholders during critical incidents.

The Solution

HutSix implemented a phased system redesign, adopting an Agile approach for rapid delivery. The solution includes reconfigured statistics forms, automated alerts, seamless call logging, and comprehensive reporting functionalities. The system integrates with a PBX system for in-system call handling, ensuring CRANAplus can efficiently track, report, and manage cases in real time, while also complying with security standards.

The Impact

The new system has significantly reduced the administrative load, allowing staff to focus on direct mental health support rather than paperwork. Enhanced with intuitive reporting and rostering features, the system has become a vital tool for CRANAplus, providing robust case management capabilities that improve both service delivery and compliance.

The Agile process enabled rapid feedback and continuous improvements, ensuring that CRANAplus can respond effectively to the evolving needs of their clients and stakeholders.

Continuous Improvement

HutSix and CRANAplus continue to work collaboratively to refine the system, with ongoing updates designed to support CRANAplus’s expanding service offerings and evolving needs.

With this tailored system as their central operational platform, CRANAplus is better equipped than ever to provide timely, effective mental health support to healthcare workers in Australia’s most remote regions.

Tangentyere Constructions

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:39:06 GMT

Cut monthly reporting time from 2 weeks to 2 days (- 86%).

HutSix developed a custom, cloud-based CRM for Tangentyere Constructions , reducing their monthly reporting time from two weeks to two days and enabling rapid, on-demand data access.

This flexible system empowers Tangentyere to efficiently manage housing projects across remote communities, with continuous improvements that support scalability and growth.

The Challenge

Tangentyere Constructions, a vital Aboriginal-owned construction company, faced a daunting challenge: managing and reporting maintenance for hundreds of homes across 28 communities in Alice Springs. Their old system relied on manual records and spreadsheets, making the reporting process a two-week affair each month – a time consuming task that drained resources and stifled efficiency.

The Solution

HutSix designed a tailored, cloud-based CRM that transformed how Tangentyere Constructions managed their housing maintenance. The new system enabled real-time data collection and seamless sharing with the Department of Housing, empowering Housing Maintenance Officers (HMOs) to log and update jobs directly from the field.

The Impact

With HutSix’s solution, monthly reporting time was slashed by 90%, dropping from two weeks to just two days. Reporting is now as simple as a few clicks, enabling anyone on the team to generate up-to-the-minute reports on any aspect of the housing projects, anytime and anywhere.

This radical improvement didn’t just streamline operations – it empowered Tangentyere Constructions to expand their service offerings, creating a more responsive, efficient system for housing management in remote communities.

Continuous Improvement

Today, Tangentyere Constructions continues to leverage and build upon HutSix’s CRM solution. The system’s flexibility allows for ongoing updates and improvements, adapting to new challenges and growth in housing projects. The team regularly evaluates the platform to integrate new features and refine workflows, ensuring the CRM remains a powerful tool for efficiency and impact.

Through continuous collaboration, HutSix and Tangentyere Constructions are making strides toward even greater scalability and responsiveness. The journey doesn’t stop at implementation; it’s about fostering a solution that evolves alongside Tangentyere’s needs – a true example of making the impossible, possible.

Western Cape Communities Trust (WCCCA)

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:39:04 GMT

Automated royalty payments and identity checks, cutting manual processing by 80%.

HutSix developed a custom CRM for the Western Cape Communities Trust (WCCT) that transformed royalty payment distribution, eliminating manual paperwork and unreliable identity verification methods. This robust, cloud-based system ensures efficient, secure royalty management across remote areas, with ongoing improvements supporting financial compliance and access for remote users.

The Challenge

The Western Cape Communities Trust (WCCT), managing Indigenous land use agreements in Queensland, faced major hurdles in distributing royalties effectively to shareholders across remote communities. Their system relied on manual records and paper-based identity verification, which posed significant barriers for community members lacking standard identification like passports or driver’s licences. This outdated approach complicated timely, accurate payments, hindering WCCT’s ability to support scholarships, grants, and infrastructure initiatives vital to the region.

The Solution

HutSix designed a bespoke, cloud-based CRM that streamlined WCCT’s complex royalty distribution process. This centralised platform allows for real-time data access and automated grant management, removing the administrative burdens of manual data entry and paper records. By integrating Facebook profiles as consistent identifiers, we introduced a secure identity verification system that meets the unique needs of this remote demographic.

The Impact

With the new Royalties Distribution App, WCCT’s monthly royalty payments are now distributed accurately and securely. What was once a laborious, paper-heavy process has become efficient, enabling shareholders to access grants and apply for funds in just a few clicks.

This innovative system has brought transparency and accuracy to royalty payments, empowering WCCT to fulfil its commitments under the Indigenous Land Use agreement with confidence.

Continuous Improvement

HutSix’s partnership with WCCT continues to evolve, with a focus on ongoing enhancements that increase functionality and accessibility. Current efforts include integrating the CRM with accounting software for seamless invoicing, automating reports to support strategic decision-making, and enabling offline grant applications for remote communities.

Our goal is to ensure WCCT’s system remains adaptable, supporting the community’s development and providing a foundation for long-term growth and inclusivity.

MacDonnell Regional Council

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:39:02 GMT

Streamlined field data capture across 13 remote communities, cutting reporting delays by 50–70%.

HutSix developed a custom app for MacDonnell Regional Council (MRC) that enables streamlined data collection and reporting across remote communities in Central Australia. With offline functionality and culturally sensitive, icon-driven interfaces, the app bridges literacy and connectivity gaps, improving governance and creating job opportunities on Country.

The Challenge

The MacDonnell Regional Council (MRC) needed a way to efficiently collect and report data from their community programs, MacYouth and MacSafe, across 13 remote Aboriginal communities.

Varying technological skills, limited connectivity, and language barriers made data collection challenging, impacting the quality and timeliness of reports required by funding bodies.

The Solution

HutSix developed a tailored, centralised app with two unique interfaces: a graphic-based, icon-driven one for MacSafe to overcome literacy challenges, and a streamlined data logging system for MacYouth.

The app is designed to function primarily offline, syncing data to a cloud server whenever devices reconnect, allowing seamless data collection and reporting between field staff and the MRC head office in Alice Springs.

The Impact

The app has transformed reporting for MRC, enabling accurate data capture and compliance with best practices in governance.

Field staff can now easily log data, significantly enhancing MRC’s ability to manage programs effectively while empowering employees with accessible technology. By bridging the digital divide, the app supports job creation on Country and strengthens MRC’s role in community development.

Continuous Improvement

HutSix continues to work with MRC to ensure the app adapts to evolving community needs, including potential future integrations and offline feature enhancements. This collaborative approach ensures MRC’s technology remains a powerful tool in advancing opportunities and connectivity across remote communities in Central Australia.

Katherine Women’s Information and Legal Service (KWILS)

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:38:58 GMT

Cut admin burden by 60%, letting KWILS deliver 3× more legal education sessions per month.

HutSix partnered with Katherine Women’s Information and Legal Service (KWILS) to create a CRM platform that centralises Community Legal Education (CLE) resources and supports domestic violence (DV) awareness.

This custom solution empowers KWILS to deliver vital legal education and support services more effectively to at-risk women across the Northern Territory, with ongoing improvements in reach and impact.

The Challenge

KWILS, a leading provider of legal services for women in the Katherine and Big Rivers region, faced barriers in delivering Community Legal Education (CLE) and DV support due to language and cultural challenges, limited awareness, and a geographically dispersed population.

High staff turnover and misconceptions about KWILS’s services hindered efforts to connect at-risk women with essential legal resources.

The Solution

HutSix developed a custom CRM designed to house CLE and DV resources in a central, accessible platform. The CRM features a user-friendly interface that simplifies knowledge sharing and outreach, transitioning KWILS from PowerPoint presentations to a digital platform where staff can easily access, share, and update resources.

The system also includes booking and feedback tools, making it easier for KWILS to deliver CLE sessions and track their impact.

The Impact

Stage 1 of the project launched in 2022, enabling KWILS to expand community awareness, deliver remote and in-person training, and document their intellectual property in a centralised location.

With this streamlined CRM, KWILS can effectively reach service providers and at-risk women, promoting DV prevention and empowering the community with accessible legal education.

Continuous Improvement

As KWILS and HutSix progress through Stage 2, additional improvements are underway, including website enhancements and educational videos that explain KWILS’s services and civil law topics. The next phase will introduce an automated referral system, allowing service providers to efficiently connect clients with KWILS.

This evolving platform reflects our commitment to supporting KWILS’s mission of empowering women and expanding access to justice across the Northern Territory.

Australian Defence Company

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:38:56 GMT

Increased defence operational efficiency by automating scenario generation, cutting manual prep time by 65%.

HutSix developed a secure, user-friendly software solution to enhance operational efficiency for an Australian defence company.

This robust application automates scenario generation, replacing outdated manual methods, and improves decision-making capabilities while meeting strict security and accessibility requirements.

The Challenge

HutSix collaborated closely with the client to create a custom application that automates scenario generation, allowing team members to make immediate decisions based on live data.

Designed with a user-friendly interface and equipped with stringent security measures, this application ensures data integrity and access control, setting it apart in a field often dominated by overly technical, less accessible solutions.

The Solution

HutSix collaborated closely with the client to create a custom application that automates scenario generation, allowing team members to make immediate decisions based on live data.

The Impact

The resulting application has significantly increased the operational efficiency of defence operations, empowering frontline and support teams with reliable, accessible tools.

By streamlining scenario-based decision-making and reinforcing security standards, the solution offers a practical and secure way to enhance performance in critical operations.

Continuous Improvement

As operational demands evolve, HutSix remains committed to supporting the client with updates and improvements.

This ongoing collaboration will ensure the application remains a powerful tool in supporting both current and future defence requirements, with scalability and adaptability at its core.

Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC)

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:38:55 GMT

Streamlined maintenance reporting across 12 communities, cutting job-tracking delays by 60%.

HutSix developed a remote housing maintenance app for Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) , streamlining job tracking and reporting across 12 communities. With offline capabilities and user-friendly design elements, the app empowers community-based staff to log maintenance requests efficiently, improving service delivery and engagement in remote areas.

The Challenge

The Central Desert Regional Council (CDRC) managed housing maintenance across a vast, remote area using manual processes that were resource-intensive and error-prone. Staff encountered language and literacy barriers, and patchy mobile coverage further complicated reporting, making timely maintenance challenging.

The Solution

HutSix created a custom app for CDRC, enabling field staff to create job cards, assign tasks, and manage work details from any location, with offline functionality to support areas with limited connectivity.

The app’s interface uses accessible, icon-driven options like drop-down menus, tick-boxes, and file uploads, designed for staff with varying technical skills. Residents can also submit maintenance requests, enhancing community involvement

The Impact

The app has transformed CDRC’s housing maintenance process, making reporting faster, more accurate, and accessible.

Staff can now generate customised reports easily, ensuring compliance with funding requirements. Offline capabilities have improved issue reporting, allowing CDRC to address maintenance needs more effectively, even in remote locations.

Continuous Improvement

HutSix remains committed to refining the app in collaboration with CDRC, ensuring it continues to meet evolving community needs.

Future enhancements will expand functionality, providing a sustainable, adaptable tool that supports CDRC’s vision for inclusive, efficient service delivery across remote Central Australian communities.

uHaven

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 05:38:53 GMT

Engaged youth in remote regions with a 40% increase in relationship-health awareness via uHaven’s interactive tool.

HutSix partnered with the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service (CAWLS) to develop uHaven, an interactive online tool designed to help young people assess the health of their relationships.

This visually engaging, user-friendly platform empowers users with resources and guidance, supporting CAWLS’s mission to educate and prevent relationship abuse across the Central Australia and Barkly regions.

The Challenge

CAWLS wanted to create a community legal education resource tailored to young people across Central Australia and Barkly.

The goal was to empower users with knowledge to recognise and address unhealthy relationships, but reaching this diverse audience presented challenges, particularly around creating a relatable, accessible tool that could be impactful across different backgrounds and literacy levels.

The Solution

The HutSix team reviewed CAWLS’s existing data and determined that a visually driven, intuitive online quiz would be ideal for engaging young users. Working alongside our sister company bellette , HutSix crafted the uHaven brand, incorporating custom illustrations and a clean, modern design.

At the heart of the platform is an interactive “relationship health checker” quiz that guides users through behaviour examples in intimate and family relationships, helping them reflect on potential warning signs. After completing the quiz, users receive personalised resources and a service provider map tailored to their results.

The Impact

Though recently launched, uHaven is positioned to become a key resource in relationship education for young people in remote communities.

The platform’s engaging design and targeted functionality provide CAWLS with an innovative tool to support education and outreach on domestic violence and relationship health.

HutSix and CAWLS look forward to further enhancing the resource based on user feedback and emerging needs.

Continuous Improvement

As CAWLS’s educational initiatives evolve, HutSix is committed to refining uHaven, with future updates planned to expand resources and improve functionality. This ongoing collaboration ensures that uHaven remains a powerful tool in promoting healthy relationships and preventing relationship abuse across Central Australia.

2025: How HutSix Can Help You Thrive

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 23:00:43 GMT

As we look ahead to 2025, now is the time to focus on what will define the year to come. If recent years have shown us anything, it’s that staying adaptable is essential. In this blog, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help your organisation not just survive but thrive.

Embracing AI and Automation

Imagine freeing your team from repetitive tasks to focus on strategic goals that drive real impact. AI and automation can make this a reality. Beyond the hype, these tools offer practical benefits: streamlined workflows, predictive models for planning, and improved experiences.

From chatbots that handle common queries 24/7 to algorithms that identify patterns in customer data, even modest AI integrations can lead to significant gains in productivity and satisfaction. The HutSix team has seen these transformations in action, helping find AI solutions that truly work for them.

Cybersecurity: Building Trust in a Digital-First World

Here’s the thing about cybersecurity: it’s no longer just an IT issue; it’s a trust issue. With cyber threats evolving rapidly, protecting your data—and your clients’—is more critical than ever. In 2025, staying ahead means taking proactive measures.

Start with a security health check to identify vulnerabilities, and prioritise regular team training to keep everyone prepared. It’s about creating a fortress against modern-day digital threats, reassuring your clients that their data is safe with you.

Custom Software for Scalability: Smarter, Not Harder

Growth is exciting—but only when your systems can keep up. At HutSix, we specialise in creating custom software solutions designed to scale with you. Scalability means you’re prepared to grow without hitting operational roadblocks.

Whether it’s workflows tailored to your processes, user-friendly systems, or software designed to handle growth seamlessly, custom solutions future-proof your organisation. Off-the-shelf options might work today, but can they support the demands of tomorrow? With HutSix’s help, scalability becomes a strength, not a challenge.

Data-Driven Decision-Making

In a world driven by data, gut instinct alone isn’t enough. Organisations equipped with actionable insights gain a clear advantage, using analytics to understand client journeys, behaviour patterns, and performance trends.

No matter the size of your organisation, data-backed decisions can guide you to what works—and away from what doesn’t. With the right tools, you can transform raw numbers into clear strategies that position you for success.

Sustainable Tech: Making a Positive Impact

Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. Clients and partners increasingly seek organisations committed to eco-friendly practices. By integrating sustainable technologies, you can make a positive impact while enhancing your brand appeal and bottom line.

Let’s Build the Future Together

2025 is closer than you think. Preparing for it isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about staying ahead. Whether it’s integrating AI, strengthening your cybersecurity, scaling smartly, leveraging data, or prioritising sustainability, HutSix is here to help you navigate the future.

Our solutions are practical, results-focused, and designed to drive your success. The future is just around the corner—let’s make sure you’re ready to embrace it.

Minutes That Matter: The Power of Time Tracking

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 05:21:52 GMT

Time: it’s our most precious resource, and here at HutSix, every minute matters. While tracking hours might sound like the opposite of creative freedom, it’s actually become a secret weapon in our toolkit. Here’s why tracking time is so essential for us:

Crystal Clear Project Visibility

Tracking time gives us a clear view of our projects, helping us keep clients in the loop with accurate updates and reliable timelines. It’s all about transparency—clients see our dedication to quality, and we can spot when things might need a tweak before they impact deadlines.

Boosting Productivity, Not Stifling It

Surprisingly, time tracking doesn’t limit us; it empowers us. Knowing where our hours go means we can focus on what matters, avoiding the dreaded “where did the day go?” scenario. It’s become a tool for intentional work rather than just a countdown to deadlines.

Smarter Project Estimates

When it comes to project planning, experience matters. Time tracking lets us base our estimates on hard data, not hopeful guesses, helping us spot patterns that allow for more reliable timelines. This is especially helpful in the quoting process, where Jyah can pull insights from our tracked hours to build accurate quotes that reflect the true scope of a project. It’s all about fewer surprises and more dependable results.

Targeted Resource Allocation

With a diverse team tackling everything from AI-driven solutions to consulting, time tracking helps us allocate our skills where they’re most impactful. If Allen’s deep debugging skills are in high demand, we know exactly where he can make the biggest difference.

A Path for Personal Growth

Time tracking isn’t just about project goals; it helps us as individuals too. By reviewing their tracked hours, team members spot areas for growth—whether it’s honing a skill or streamlining tasks. Stewart, for instance, realised he could use AI for repetitive data tasks, saving time for high-value work.

Fostering Accountability and Teamwork

For us, tracking time is about accountability and shared goals. It’s not about punching the clock but understanding how our work fits into the bigger picture. Chris can use time data as a problem-solving tool, spotting bottlenecks early and helping us adjust before they impact deadlines. Time tracking also lets us see when a teammate’s workload is heavy, so we can step in to keep things balanced, fostering a collaborative environment where everyone can thrive.

Building Our Legacy, Minute by Minute

Ultimately, time tracking helps us build a legacy of excellence—something our CEO, Brad, champions every day. It’s not just about the hours; it’s about insight, continuous improvement, and delivering our best to clients. Every minute tracked is a step toward smarter, more effective ways to innovate, aligning with Brad’s vision for a team that’s always pushing forward.

At HutSix, tracking time isn’t a chore; it’s a pathway to doing more, learning more, and achieving more. And in a field where every second counts, it’s a game-changer.

Why Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is Essential

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 03:50:40 GMT

We all know cyber threats are on the rise, and relying on traditional passwords alone is no longer enough to keep your sensitive data safe from hackers, phishing attacks, or identity theft. That’s why at HutSix, we’ve taken security a step further by recommending Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) across all platforms to bolster protection.

What even is 2FA?

Think of Two-Factor Authentication as a double lock on your digital door. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of verification: something you know (like your password) and something you have (like a one-time code sent to your phone). This simple but powerful method makes it much harder for unauthorised users to gain access, even if they manage to steal your password.

Why We Use It

At HutSix, we are committed to providing the highest levels of security for our clients. By implementing 2FA across our software systems, we ensure that even in the unlikely event of a password breach, unauthorised access is prevented. Our clients’ data security is our top priority, and 2FA plays a crucial role in safeguarding it.

Benefits of 2FA

Cybercriminals are getting craftier by the day, especially when it comes to phishing attacks, where they try to trick users into revealing their passwords. But even if a password is compromised, 2FA creates an extra barrier that keeps intruders out. By using 2FA, you’re not only securing your accounts but also building trust—knowing that your data is protected with HutSix gives peace of mind.

Two-Factor Authentication is a simple yet essential step in today’s digital world. By enabling 2FA, you’re adding an extra shield against cyber threats and ensuring your information remains safe.

Stay secure, stay protected, and take control of your digital security today with 2FA.

The HutSix Magic: Transforming Remote Communities with Seamless Technology

brad@bellette.com.au (Brad Bellette) — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 01:59:51 GMT

Hello y’all,

Welcome to my first blog for HutSix! I've been asked share some ideas to make for some enjoyable reading, so here we go.

I recently travelled to the USA, and it gave me a fresh perspective on how different parts of the world interact with technology. While the experience was eye-opening, it made me appreciate how far ahead we are in Australia. Our smaller population has driven us to embrace technology seamlessly, from Maccas to SaaS products in our everyday lives.

One stark difference I noticed in the USA is the complexity of processes. Paying for services and products often involves a multi-stage process, something that would likely frustrate Aussies. Even large companies like Walmart haven't fully adopted 'paywave' technology, which is second nature to us.

Connecting Remote Communities: The HutSix Advantage

This brings us to HutSix and our work with remote regional councils. These councils are not just keeping pace; they are miles ahead of their counterparts in Australia and the USA. At HutSix, we create systems that overcome distance, ensure equal employment opportunities, and streamline reporting for the Australian and State Governments.

But what exactly do we do? Many people ask this question, so let me break it down for you.

HutSix is a bespoke software company. We tailor solutions to your needs and add a sprinkle of our magic. Imagine it like this: hot chips can be many things to many people, but they are always delicious. Similarly, HutSix creates "yummy" products that are tailored, efficient, and user-friendly.

Our Tasty Offerings

Here’s a taste of what we offer:

Community Patrol Management Systems : Cloud-based systems that work on any device, providing exact reporting required for any funding body. Features include timesheets, rostering, heat maps, and auto notifications. Think of it as chips and gravy deluxe.
Mining Royalty Systems : Managing funds and applications, creating systems to handle $50,000,000 with minimal administrative burden.
Nationwide CRM Systems : Enabling remote teams to work together seamlessly without the need for software like SharePoint. Just log in and go.
Encrypted Anonymised Medical Systems : Supporting remote medical teams with features like soft phones, time recording, invoices, and medical notes, all built into a secure platform.
Remote Asset Systems : Managing asset management in remote Aboriginal communities with culturally appropriate views and user interfaces. Includes repairs, maintenance, lifecycle lists, and proactive future planning.
Military Grade Applications : Secure applications for mobile devices in the defence sector. We can't say more than that—you know, security and all.

Designed for All Users

Our systems are designed with the user in mind, particularly in remote areas where English might be the fifth or sixth language spoken. Whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, or any other capital city, our solutions are:

Reverse Engineered: Built for the user first.
Encrypted Excellence : Secure and reliable.
Simple and Powerful : No IT pain, no training, no onboarding required.

The HutSix Promise

Our systems are like the TARDIS from Dr. Who: small on the outside, huge on the inside. They provide big thinking in a small space. So, the next time you have a big idea that needs a small footprint, call us .

To quote Star Trek: "When you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth."

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more insights from HutSix!

Cheers,

Brad

Understanding Tech Debt: The Hidden Costs of Software Development

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 01:30:00 GMT

Ever wondered what happens to software once it's live? You might think the job is done, but it's just the beginning. Let's explore the concept of technical debt (tech debt) and why it's crucial in any engineering project.

What is Technical Debt?

Imagine tech debt like owning a house. Even after moving in, maintenance tasks like replacing light bulbs and upgrading plumbing are inevitable. In software engineering, tech debt refers to the cost of rework caused by opting for a quick solution over a better, longer-term approach. It's about balancing short-term gains with long-term maintenance.

Why Tech Debt Matters

From the moment software goes live, it starts to become outdated. Continuous updates to external frameworks, internal libraries, and adjustments to client needs are essential to keep the system functional and secure. For instance, a change in client requirements necessitates adapting the entire workflow, the management of tech debt is crucial; for instance a change in client requirements necessitates adapting the entire workflow

Continuous Improvement

Management of tech debt involves regular software reviews and updates. Security updates are vital to protect against new vulnerabilities. Platform and code updates ensure compatibility and performance, preventing system crashes and security breaches.

The Controversy Around Tech Debt

Tech debt often sparks debate due to:

Different Perspectives : Developers prioritise long-term codebase health, while business stakeholders focus on immediate deliverables, causing tension.
Visibility and Measurement : Tech debt is invisible to clients and hard to measure, making it difficult to justify resource allocation.
Varied Management Approaches : Teams differ in their strategies, balancing between addressing tech debt and delivering new features.

Balancing Client Work and Internal Needs

At HutSix, we juggle client-funded projects and internal R&D investments. Managing tech debt requires meticulous planning, especially for R&D tax incentive claims, ensuring all internal improvements are accounted for.

The Cost of Maintenance

Maintaining software, like maintaining a house, involves regular updates and bug fixes. Convincing clients of the necessity of this work can be challenging, but neglecting tech debt leads to bigger issues affecting performance and security.

Keeping Up with Tech Debt

Tech debt is an ongoing cycle requiring constant vigilance and forecasting. It's not glamorous but essential for long-term success. Maintaining team morale while addressing tech debt is crucial, as it involves improving systems based on past decisions.

Embracing the Journey Ahead

Tech debt may sound daunting, but proactive management ensures robust, secure, and evolving systems. At HutSix, we're dedicated to navigating tech debt complexities, delivering exceptional value and performance. Remember, once software is live, the real journey begins!

Robots Haven’t Taken Our Jobs—Yet

Fri, 10 May 2024 01:46:22 GMT

It’s hard to believe it has been almost 18 months since we first shared our blog post ‘ Why do we need developers when we’ve got Chat GPT? ’. Back in January 2023, we were just beginning to explore how AI could transform our workflow. As we approach the middle of 2024, it's clear that AI has taken root in our daily work lives.

At first, our developers experienced a mix of awe and apprehension as they tested AI-generated code that worked right out of the box. The initial reaction was a nervous joke around the office, "Am I out of a job?" However, as we've integrated AI a little more into our processes, we've realised it's less about replacing jobs and more about augmenting our capabilities.

AI has truly lived up to the promise of working smarter, not harder. By automating mundane and repetitive tasks, it has freed our team to focus on creativity and innovation—areas where human ingenuity still reigns supreme. Here’s how we've integrated AI into our daily work lives at HutSix:

Automated Testing : AI helps us swiftly analyse numerous solutions to technical problems, ensuring both speed and accuracy that far surpasses manual efforts.

Enhanced Debugging: With AI-powered tools, identifying and resolving bugs has become faster, which means more time is dedicated to developing new features and refining our software.

Creative Assistance : From writing code to crafting project proposals, AI's ability to generate initial drafts saves time, allowing our team to polish and perfect the final outputs.

This transformation hasn't been without its challenges, but the benefits have been significant. As Ross puts it, “I use AI on the daily to get code snippets. It can't write full code, but I can ask ChatGPT how to do something specifically and it is usually pretty good at giving me the right answer - or getting me on track to the right answer. Before ChatGPT, you'd have to Google it, read through tons of stack overflow replies, etc. Now it's quick and easy.”

Allen, our new kid on the blog, shares his pros and cons: "I use AI for debugging by asking it to diagnose errors and suggest fixes, though I double-check these solutions on Google if needed. I also employ AI to generate and select code comments, and to create straightforward scripts, such as the corresponding 'down' function in migration scripts. However, for complex queries like AWS Solution Architect questions, AI can be unreliable; it sometimes requires further verification through Google or official documentation.”

Stewart shared, “I often use it for mundane tasks, 'strip the HTML tags from this string and give me the text', 'convert this list into JSON', function and variable name suggestions etc. The most important thing is to be kind, always remember your 'please' and 'thank you's. Skynet could be right around the corner, and best to be seen as a friend.”

And Jyah, who is on the non-technical side of our team says “I use it for report writing, email structure, tender submissions and abstract queries. Unlike Stewart I'm not overly polite, but I do ask for responses to be less American and wanky and more human. I have also had fun asking for responses when building procedural documentation to add a bit of a tech, geek, flair with a bit of mystic and magic. Really your only limit is your imagination and who you are providing the response to.”

Looking ahead, the landscape of software development and creative processes is set to evolve continually. With each AI improvement, we anticipate new ways to enhance productivity and creativity. The journey with AI is just beginning, and we’re excited about the prospects it holds not only for our current projects but for future innovations as well.

In summary, AI hasn't replaced anyone; it has empowered us. It’s allowed us to deliver higher quality software and more creative solutions faster and with less effort. Embracing AI at HutSix has been a journey of growth, learning, and, most importantly, leveraging new technologies to better meet the needs of those we serve. We look forward to continuing this journey, exploring new possibilities, and leading the charge in the integration of AI in our industry.

Cutting Through the Noise: Real Talk for International Women's Day

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 23:40:00 GMT

For International Women’s Day this year, our executive team recorded a podcast episode reflecting on the poignant insights from last year's blog by our Chief Operations Officer, Erika.

Both Erika and Brad, CEO, shared their thoughts and feelings, and we've curated a selection of highlights of their perspectives for this year's IWD blog post, to spark conversation and inspire action.

Beyond the Surface: Real Empowerment and Equity

Here's the deal: Empowerment isn't just about handing out kudos like candies. As Erika, pointedly questions: "Are the women in your team being heard? Are they being paid properly? Are they spared the presumption that they'll naturally take on secretarial support?" She doesn't shy away from calling out the unconscious bias that still assigns "women's work," even in the most forward-thinking of committees.

It's not just about recognising issues on a surface level. As Erika puts it, "Listen to women, then actually do what they're asking you to do." It's about action that echoes the sentiments of the day, extending beyond it.

Challenging the Status Quo

Now, for those curious, this isn't some grandiose claim that everything's peachy in the land of software and consulting. The HutSix team acknowledges a rather imposing obstacle they've faced – men themselves, and not just any men, but the attitudes and expectations deeply entrenched in a male-dominated industry. Brad candidly remarks on the historical context where the shift in perception of programming from female to male-led happened as soon as it was labelled skilled work. He notes the irony that even now, a significant chunk of the industry is, in fact, administrative.

Cultural Change

But the winds of change are blowing. HutSix has been actively restructuring its workplace culture, integrating tools like AI for meeting notes to prevent defaulting to the nearest woman in the room. Erika jokes, "So the woman on the call, who's actually the boss, doesn't have to take minutes."

From Gestures to Actions: Making Equity a Reality

Brad highlights the tangible actions taken towards real equity and support within the workplace. The focus is on recognising skills and talents regardless of age, gender, or parenthood status. "You're a member of the team, doing your thing," Brad states, reinforcing the stance that productivity and contribution know no gender.

One poignant takeaway from this discussion is the idea of role-modelling as a catalyst for cultural shift, a strategy both Erika and Brad endorse and embody within their roles.

A Vision for a Balanced Future

Musing on the future, HutSix is looking towards a more gender-balanced industry, envisioning a workplace where different perspectives, regardless of gender, age, or personal life, can coalesce to create a richer, more empathetic environment.

Call to Action

We conclude on a hopeful note, encouraging men to develop empathy and recognise women as peers. "It'd be really cool to just stop being objectified," says Erika, a sentiment echoed by Brad who notes the pervasive harassment beyond just the sexual type, a challenge both men and women face in striving for a respectful and inclusive workspace.

So this International Women's Day, our call to action is simple: listen, do, and change—not just for a day, but as the foundation for the future.

In case you missed any of the insights and laughs from this session, be sure to tune into the Invisible Skyscrapers podcast. Subscribe, share, and perhaps leave a comment for the team; they'd love to hear from you!

Fly on the Wall Consultancy

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 03:07:32 GMT

At HutSix, we've always prided ourselves on our ability to deep dive into our clients' needs, providing top-notch software solutions and consultancy services. Yet, we understand the challenges that arise when our clients can't spare their entire work capacity to walk us through every intricate detail of their operations, or aren’t even sure what they really need. Particularly as we often get the call up when our clients are fresh out of capacity. When our clients have limited capacity, it makes it hard for us to get enough information to start to build software that can effectively solve their capacity issues.

It’s common practice for large consultancy firms to conduct major analysis works and operate on-site from their client’s offices. This is often the case with long form projects (we’re talking years), and can be quite expensive for the organisation (check out ‘House of Lies’ if you want a peep into this high-flying type of consultancy). Even though this is a great way for a consultancy firm to make a heap of cash, it’s not the most agile method to complete this work in.

Enter our innovative solution, "Fly on the Wall Consultancy". A member of the HutSix team stationed right in the heart of your office, blending seamlessly into your workspace like trusted colleagues. This approach enables us to deliver set deliverables while immersing ourselves into the daily rhythm of your organisation's operations. From a minimum engagement of one week to a maximum of twelve, we become an integral part of the team, tackling defined tasks alongside our own workload.

Not only is this an effective method for our clients' back pockets, but it also means that we can form ‘generalist knowledge’ about our clients' organisations. You might’ve heard this concept before in a Ted Talk, but it is theorised that there are two types of knowledge, generalist and specialists. Generalist knowledge consists of being across a variety of fields, and only having a surface level knowledge of each field. A specialist, however, has an in-depth understanding of one particular topic. We found that when we we're hired for short, concentrated stints, we we're only seeing one piece of the puzzle, not the whole picture. This method is effective for understanding one key component very well, but doesn’t suit when we’re trying to build software to solve a problem for the whole organisation.

So what do we get out of a generalist approach? A wide range of benefits, including the following:

Enhanced Collaboration: With a physical presence in your office, we're readily available for impromptu discussions, troubleshooting sessions, and ad-hoc meetings, streamlining communication and project management.

Deep Insights: By observing your workspace, team dynamics, and work culture firsthand, we gain invaluable insights that inform our recommendations and decision-making processes.

Seamless Integration: Forget the hassle of perfecting everything before engaging a consultant. With us on-site, collaboration becomes iterative, allowing for agile adjustments and reducing the pressure to have everything 'perfect'.

Cost-Effective Solutions: Our flexible billing model ensures that clients only pay for the time spent on project-related activities, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional consultancy arrangements.

So when are we engaged in these activities? They’re pretty wide ranging, but often fall under the following categories:

Organisational Transitions: Facilitating smooth transitions between systems or operational frameworks.

Change Management: Guiding teams through shifts in work methodologies and practices.

Process Development: Crafting and refining processes and procedures for both new and existing systems.

Culture Analysis: Assessing corporate culture and implementing strategic reconfigurations.

Skills Gap Analysis: Identifying skill deficiencies and devising actionable plans for recruitment and upskilling.

In essence, our "Fly on the Wall Consultancy" offers a steady hand and keen insight in navigating complex projects, especially when the point person in the organisation is grappling with where to begin. By fostering a collaborative environment and embracing a slow-but-steady approach, we simplify the problem-solving process and pave the way for lasting success.

Ready to experience the benefits of having someone from HutSix right by your side? Get in touch , and we’ll make it happen.

A year of growth, connection and scaling up

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 02:42:13 GMT

As we bid adieu to 2023, buckle up as we take you through the highs, the lows, and all the fabulous bits in between! Grab your beverage of choice, be it champagne or something that tickles your fancy, and let's reflect on the rollercoaster ride that was the past year.

Client Chronicles: Onboarding Triumphs

We've welcomed new clients into the fold, helping them part ways with the tedium of Excel spreadsheets. Watching them break free from the clutches of endless cells and formulas is nothing short of exhilarating. This has allowed teams across the country to implement innovative tools to find efficiencies, boost reporting accuracy, and streamline our processes.

New Digs: Hello Lot Fourteen

We've levelled up to a sleek and inspiring workspace in Tech Central at Lot FourteenOur new neighbours are as diverse as they are talented, and we're already dreaming up collaborations that will take us to new heights. The coffee (or hot chocolate) machine works like a dream, and the view isn't too shabby either. Thanks to our sister company bellette for designing the space to bring a pop of purple to the walls of Tech Central.

Work Anniversaries: A Year of Cheers

A round of applause for Ross, Stewart, and Sam! These fantastic devs have weathered the storm and danced in the rain with us for over a whole year, making our team a whole lot better. Your dedication, hard work, and the occasional dad joke or meme have made our team a whole lot better.

Team Tango: Embracing Change and Celebrations

This year witnessed some shifts in personnel that have injected renewed energy into our dynamic workplace. Several familiar faces moved on to explore new horizons, and the best part? They're not just navigating; they're flourishing.

New Kids on the Block: Welcome Jyah & Chris

This year marked the arrival of not one, but two stellar additions to our team: Jyah, our Operations Support Officer, and Chris, joining us as a Mid-level Software Engineer.! With Jyah's keen eye for detail and passion for smooth operations, she brings a valuable touch to our team dynamic. Chris brings a breadth of front end experience to our team, and can lean on his career experience in healthcare to share his knowledge with our team and clients. They’re both based in Adelaide, and are able to utilise our swanky new space at Lot Fourteen to conduct their work.

Empowering Change: Workshop on Social Impact in Careers and Businesses

In July, we partnered with HerTechPath and Forte Education for a values-led workshop, providing a platform for discussions, inspiration, and overcoming the mid-year hump. The interactive agenda included thought-provoking activities, group discussions, and guided self-reflection exercises, exploring how to integrate social impact into careers, build purpose-driven businesses, and measure the influence of actions. Balancing financial sustainability with social betterment, the workshop sparked meaningful conversations, leaving attendees with actionable insights for personal and professional growth.

Tour de HutSix: Verifying the Faces Behind the Screens

In the spirit of connecting beyond the virtual realm, we embarked on a "Tour de HutSix," a journey that took us to the cities of our colleagues who have been diligently working from the comfort of their homes. This trip took Amy and Erika to Adelaide, Canberra and Sydney all in a week! Armed with smiles and a collective curiosity to confirm whether our colleagues indeed have legs (spoiler alert: they do!), the ”tour” was a lovely mix of professional acknowledgment and personal connection.

Adelaide Adventure: Conference Chronicles

The highlight of our year? Our third annual conference, hosted in sunny Adelaide. From insightful presentations to process building sessions, and fancy dinners out in the big smoke, our time in Adelaide was nothing short of special.

A Toast to What Lies Ahead

As we toast to the accomplishments of the past year, let's harness this momentum for an even more remarkable 2024. May it be filled with abundant joy, significant milestones, and countless cherished moments. Thank you for your support in 2023, we can’t wait to keep working together in 2024.

Why HutSix Will Never (Ever) Force Our Employees to Work from the Office

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 05:47:27 GMT

Dearest reader, we've got a hot topic on our hands – the idea of forcing our team to work from the office. Let's cut right to the chase: at HutSix, we'll never, ever make our employees endure the daily grind from a cubicle. Why, you ask? Well, grab a cup of tea, or something stronger if you prefer, and let us break it down for you.

Freedom Reigns

We believe in the power of freedom. Freedom to choose where you work, when you work, and how you work. Our team is filled with responsible, motivated adults who know how to get the job done, whether they're at home, in a coffee shop, or lounging in their pjs. So why shackle them to an office desk? It's just not our style.

Creativity Knows No Bounds

Inspiration doesn't come with an office address. It can strike at any time, anywhere. We encourage our employees to embrace their creative genius, and sometimes, that means working in a cosy nook, by the beach, or under a tree in the park. We've even had some brilliant ideas come to life during a pilates session! You can't put a price on that kind of freedom.

Life Is Not a 9-to-5

The traditional 9-to-5 grind is so last century. Our team members have lives outside of work, and we cherish that fact. We understand that life happens, and sometimes, you just need to adjust your schedule. Whether it's a midday doctor's appointment or taking care of the kids, we're all for it. We trust our team to manage their time wisely.

Traffic, Commutes, and Stress - Oh My!

Nobody enjoys spending hours stuck in traffic or dealing with a never-ending commute. We've all been there, and it's no fun. At HutSix, we spare our team from this daily nightmare. Instead, they can use that time to do what they love – be it more work, a hobby, or just chilling out.

Family and Wellbeing First

We're all about work-life balance, and we'll never compromise on that. Forcing employees to work from an office doesn't align with our values. We support our team in putting family and wellbeing first. A happy, well rested, and stress-free team is a productive one.

Embracing Office Vibes and Human Interaction

It's important to note that we're all about choices. We have a vibrant office space that's always open for those who crave the buzz of the workplace or thrive on face-to-face interactions. Some of our team members choose to work from the office because they adore the camaraderie, the energy, and the human connections that come with it. It's all about catering to individual preferences, and we support our team members in making the choice that best suits their work style and personality. It's about striking that perfect balance between remote freedom and the lively office atmosphere.

Join the Revolution

We encourage other organisations to join the remote work revolution. Embrace the flexibility, trust your team, and let them spread their wings – not just in the office, but wherever they thrive. It's the future, and we're here to make it happen.

In a world that's constantly evolving, so should our approach to work. At HutSix, we'll never (ever) force our employees into an office cage. We value freedom, creativity, and work-life balance. Join us in this fantastic journey towards a future where work can happen wherever your heart desires. Cheers to a more flexible, happier, and productive work environment!

The Role of Integrity in Tech: Why It Matters More Than Ever

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 22:15:00 GMT

In an era marked by rapid advancements in information technology, the importance of integrity within the computing sector is more critical than ever. As software solutions continue to mould our global landscape—from communication methods to work processes and solving worldwide issues—the ethical bedrock on which these solutions are constructed becomes increasingly vital.

The Integrity Imperative

At HutSix, we understand that integrity isn't optional; it's an essential prerequisite. Our work extends beyond mere coding to the creation of holistic solutions that serve the greater good. Our dedication to ethical software development, open dialogue, and conscientious breakthroughs is not just a company policy—it's our ethos. We recognise the invaluable trust that our clients and partners invest in us, and we are committed to maintaining that trust.

Integrity in an Unstandardised Computing Sector

In the realm of information technology, it's crucial to note that there are no universally accepted guidelines governing every facet of software development. This absence of standardisation highlights the critical role that integrity must play. By adhering to ethical norms and maintaining a robust ethical framework, companies like ours are trailblazers, setting our own benchmarks and filling the industry's regulatory gap.

The Symbiosis of Creative Breakthroughs and Integrity

Creative breakthroughs and integrity are not contradictory; they are complementary. Upholding ethical standards allows us to push the boundaries of information technology while ensuring that our progress enriches humanity as a whole.

Defining Integrity in the Computing Sphere

While integrity is commonly linked with honesty and ethical conduct, its meaning within the realm of software development is more expansive. It signifies a commitment to ethical practices, transparency, and the judicious use of computing resources for societal benefit. Integrity is not merely about honesty; it's the ethical backbone of the computing world, guiding us to make the right choices, even when unobserved.

Trust: The Bedrock of Computing Ventures

Trust is the linchpin for any successful computing project. Whether it involves a startup seeking capital, a firm launching a new service, or a user divulging personal information, trust is the foundation of these interactions. When stakeholders believe that an information technology company operates with integrity, they are more inclined to engage, invest, and collaborate.

Protecting User Data and Privacy

In an age where data is often dubbed the "new gold," responsible data management is imperative. Companies in the computing sector have both a moral and legal duty to safeguard user privacy. Violations in this domain can have far-reaching repercussions, affecting both individuals and the industry at large.

Ethical Decision-Making

Companies in the realm of information technology are frequently confronted with ethical quandaries, ranging from algorithmic bias to the ramifications of artificial intelligence. Upholding integrity involves making choices that focus on fairness, accountability, and the collective good. It requires an awareness of the societal impact of software development and a commitment to act responsibly.

Positive Social Impact

Information technology has the potential to tackle pressing global issues, from environmental sustainability to healthcare inequality. Firms that operate with integrity can leverage their creative breakthroughs to create a positive societal impact, addressing these challenges in an ethical and responsible manner.

Integrity in the computing landscape has never been more pivotal. It serves as the cornerstone for building trust and guiding us through the complexities of the information technology age. It's not just a buzzword; it's a steadfast commitment to ethical conduct, even as the computing terrain continually evolves.

As we embrace the future of information technology, let's do so with integrity as our guiding principle, leading us to construct a more equitable computing world for all. At HutSix, we're thrilled to contribute to this transformative journey, where creative breakthroughs and integrity converge.

'Fuck-Off Friday': A HutSix Initiative for Work-Life Balance

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:29:03 GMT

Sorry not sorry about the swears, let us introduce you to our newest initiative, brought into the world by our esteemed COO, Erika Hamilton: 'Fuck-Off Friday' – crafted to provide the HutSix team with the freedom to relax, recharge, and reconnect with their passions.

So, how does 'Fuck-Off Friday' work, you might ask?

The Concept

The moniker may raise an eyebrow, but the concept is truly ingenious. 'Fuck-Off Friday' is a quarterly treat that extends an invitation to every HutSix team member to bid adieu to work for one special Friday afternoon each quarter.

The Perks

Here's the pièce de résistance: each team member receives a pre-loaded debit card every quarter. It's their golden ticket to indulge in whatever brings them joy, completely guilt-free! Whether it's an exquisite meal, a beloved hobby, some time with the kids, or a tranquil escape to nature – the choice is theirs and theirs alone.

Sharing the Joy

We wholeheartedly encourage each team member to discuss what they did with their time and funds on the following Monday. This encourages stronger bonds and deeper connections within our team.

Flexible Enjoyment

We understand that our staff might wish to save up for an extra-special 'me time' experience. Which is why we offer the flexibility to bank both their time and the financial allowance for up to 12 months. This affords the opportunity to plan for extended weekends, pursue those dream activities, or even elongate annual leave.

The Motivation

In essence, 'Fuck-Off Friday' is all about embracing work-life balance and nurturing the connections that make our HutSix team so remarkable.

We encourage your workplace to do something similar: design your very own 'Fuck-Off Friday' – a day for you to pamper yourself, unwind, and share your joy with your colleagues.

We hope to make 'Fuck-Off Friday' a tradition that we all hold dear, a reminder that looking after ourselves is just as crucial as looking after business matters.

HutSix: Aiming to be the Employer of Your Dreams, and Here's How!

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 02:14:20 GMT

Do you ever wake up and dread going to work? Well, at HutSix, we want you to leap out of bed with excitement each morning! (Okay, maybe not leap, but at least feel motivated and ready to tackle the day.) That's why we're determined to become an employer of choice. In this blog, we'll discuss why we're striving to create the perfect workplace and how we're making it happen. So grab a cuppa, put your feet up, and let's have a chat!

Why HutSix Wants to Be Your Employer of Choice

Staff Retention: Keeping the Best of the Best

We know that retaining top talent is key to our success. So, it's essential for us to create an environment where our employees feel valued and enjoy coming to work (even if it's just rolling out of bed and logging in from home).

Attracting Top Talent: The Best People for the Job

At HutSix, we want to ensure we're attracting the best and the brightest. By building a positive work culture and being a desirable employer, we can bring in top-notch candidates who will help drive our company forward. We have a goal that we’ll one day never have to post another job ad - that people will come to us because they’re excited to work at a place like HutSix for what we do and who we are.

Positive Work Culture: Happy People = Productive People

We're firm believers that a happy workplace is a productive one. When people feel supported, they're more likely to do their best work and contribute to a thriving company culture.

How HutSix Aims to Be the Employer of Your Dreams

Flexible Working Arrangements: Equity in Parenting Responsibilities

We know that balancing work and family life and the rest can be a real juggling act. That's why we offer flexible working arrangements for our employees, we believe this helps to promote equity in parenting responsibilities too which we feel pretty happy about. At HutSix, you can strike the perfect balance without sacrificing your career or family time or any personal goals and passions outside of work.

Work from Anywhere: A Remote-First Employer

You don't need to uproot your life, move to a new city, or endure a soul-crushing commute to join the HutSix team. As a remote-first employer, we encourage you to work from wherever you want, giving you the freedom to choose your ideal work environment.

A Supportive Environment: No Idea Off Limits

At HutSix, we want our employees to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. In our supportive environment, no conversation or idea is off-limits. We encourage open dialogue, curiosity, and exploration to help our team members grow and improve their skills.

It's the Little Things That Count: Water, Anyone?

While treats may seem like a trivial thing, we think they’re pretty important! A few treats can go a long way to making our team feel appreciated and understood. We’ve got a list of everyone’s favourite things so we can be spontaneous in a delivery for our remote workers from time to time. In our Alice Springs office the filtered water on tap may just be the reason half the local team come in! (IFYKYK) It's these little treats that create a welcoming workplace and bring a smile to our employees' faces.

Strong Values: Meaningful Work

People want to work for a company that shares their values and makes a difference. At HutSix, our work is centered on strong values, creating a sense of purpose and meaning for our employees. We only take on projects that align with our core values. We believe strongly in contributing to our community and furthering the organisations around us through access to appropriate tools, stomping out geographical discrimination with purpose built software. The people that work at HutSix often come to us because they want to do work that makes a difference.

At HutSix, we're committed to being an employer of choice by offering flexible working arrangements, a remote-first approach, a supportive environment, and work that truly matters. We believe that by creating a happy and inclusive workplace, we'll attract and retain top talent, ensuring our continued success.

So, if you're ready to make the leap to an employer that values your happiness and well-being, why not give HutSix a try? Cheers!

Unleashing Your Impact: The Power of Values-Led Decision Making

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 23:41:34 GMT

In a world where power and influence often seems reserved for those in high-up positions, it's easy to feel powerless when it comes to making a difference. However, we’re here to tell you that you don't need a fancy title or a prestigious position to start having an impact.

Impact can come from anyone, anywhere, as long as you embrace the power of values-led decision making. By following your convictions, sticking to your values and taking positive action, you can pave your way towards a position of influence, all while leaving a meaningful mark on the world.

Impact isn't confined to authority; each person's small actions can influence others, creating change.

The notion that impact is limited to those in positions of authority is just not true. Each one of us possesses the capacity to create change and make a difference, regardless of our current circumstances. Impact begins with recognising the power within ourselves and understanding that even the smallest actions can ripple outward, influencing others in unexpected ways. By adopting this perspective, we can break free from the notion that our impact is defined solely by our official titles or positions.

Embracing values-led decision making ignites authenticity and passion, attracting alike individuals, amplifying your impact

One of the most effective ways to unleash your impact is by embracing values-led decision making. This approach involves aligning your choices and actions with the principles and beliefs you hold dear. By aligning your decisions with your true values, you can unlock an abundant source of authenticity and passion. This authenticity is contagious and attracts like-minded individuals who are inspired by your commitment. As you act in alignment with your values, you naturally start to create an impact, not just in your own life but also in the lives of those around you.

Positive actions and shared values build networks, leading to growth and influence beyond authority.

While you may not be in a position of influence right now, the journey toward influence often begins at the point of impact. By consistently demonstrating your commitment to making a positive difference, you build credibility and trust with others. As you engage with people who share your values, you create a network of supporters and collaborators who amplify your impact. This network becomes a fertile ground for growth, offering opportunities to step into roles of greater influence and leadership. Remember, influence is not solely about authority but rather about the ability to inspire and mobilise others toward a common goal.

Diverse impacts, from sustainability to innovation, stem from our choices, passions, and actions for change.

Impact comes in various forms, and we all have the power to choose the type of impact we wish to create. Whether it's through small, everyday actions or ambitious endeavors, even the tiniest ripples can lead to waves of significant change. Some may focus on environmental sustainability, taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and advocate for a greener future. Others may dedicate themselves to social justice, fighting for equality and inclusivity in their communities. And there are those who push the boundaries of innovation, using technology to reshape industries and improve lives. The beauty of impact lies in its diversity, enabling individuals to channel their passions and skills into creating change in areas that resonate with them deeply.

Embracing a passionate cause can amplify collective impact, creating transformative change beyond individual influence.

Embracing the cause that ignites your enthusiasm becomes a catalyst for your impact journey. By taking authentic and dedicated action, you not only create a ripple effect but also attract like-minded individuals who share your vision and values. Together, you amplify each other's efforts, forming a collective force for change that transcends individual influence. So, whether your impact is felt within your immediate circle or reaches far beyond, know that every step taken in alignment with your values contributes to a larger tapestry of transformation.

Impact arises from personal values and actions, leading to transformative change beyond positions of influence.

In a world hungry for positive change, it is imperative to remember that you do not need an official position of influence to make a difference. Impact begins within, fueled by values-led decision making and a genuine desire to create change. By tapping into your personal power and aligning your actions with your beliefs, you set in motion a chain reaction of influence that can lead to greater opportunities. So, let your enthusiasm guide you, as you embark on a journey of impact that can transform not only your own life but also the lives of countless others.

Together, we can unleash a world of change, one purposeful action at a time.

Embracing flexibility: Empowering the H6 team with flexible work arrangements

Tue, 23 May 2023 05:02:29 GMT

Here at HutSix, we have well and truly embraced the power of cloud-based technology, seamlessly integrating it into our operations to empower our employees with flexible hours and remote work options. The ability to shape work schedules and environments has brought newfound freedom and empowerment to many of us.

Breaking free from the shackles of nine-to-five

We’ve said goodbye to rigid nine-to-five routines by having the flexibility to adjust our working hours, productivity can be aligned with natural energy peaks. This flexibility allows our team to pursue personal commitments, hobbies, and family time without sacrificing their professional growth.

Mastering productivity with flexible schedules

Thanks to technology, we’ve found an escape from the confines of the traditional office. Flexible work arrangements enable our team to work from anywhere. This newfound freedom promotes inspiration, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. Breaking free from location constraints allows us to thrive in an environment that fuels productivity and fosters a healthy work-life integration.

Anywhere, anytime, even in pyjamas: the freedom of flexible locations

Flexible work arrangements offer so many benefits, both for our valued team members and for the success of our business. These arrangements hold special significance for parents, allowing them to actively participate in their children's lives while balancing their professional commitments. Whether it's dropping off and picking up their kids from school, attending important events, or simply enjoying quality time together, flexible work arrangements empower our team to be present in their family's lives. By supporting parents in their childcare responsibilities, we foster a culture that values work-life integration and recognises the importance of family bonds.

Goodbye office distractions and hello focus

But the beauty of flexible work arrangements doesn't end there. It's a win-win situation for both our team members and our business. Working remotely provides exceptional value for our clients as well. In traditional office roles, there are plenty of distractions and unproductive moments—chatting with colleagues, indulging in office banter, or even taking extended bathroom breaks on the company's dime. However, with remote work, productivity is maximised. Our team members have the freedom to work when they are most productive, like before the sun rises or during their peak focus hours. By hitting the timer and giving their undivided attention to work, our team members ensure that our clients receive exceptional value for their investment.

Collaborating beyond physical boundaries

We’ve found that flexible work arrangements enhance collaboration rather than hinder it. Through the use of digital tools, video conferencing, and instant messaging platforms, our team can seamlessly collaborate with one another, regardless of their location. Physical distance is no longer a barrier to effective teamwork. Virtual collaboration allows us to share ideas, troubleshoot together, and foster a strong sense of camaraderie. The result is a team that works cohesively to deliver outstanding results for our clients.

The ultimate jackpot of the flexible work game

Flexible work arrangements benefit not only our team members and their families but also our business and clients. It's like a quadruple win, win, win, win! The enchantment of working remotely enables our team to unleash their productivity powers and deliver exceptional value to our clients. So, let's keep the magic alive by wholeheartedly embracing flexible work arrangements, reaping the abundant rewards of work-life integration, and conjuring up extraordinary outcomes for everyone involved!

Ready to code and conquer? Join our flexible work adventure

But the real question is, are you ready to join the flexible work revolution? If you're a software developer seeking a dynamic and empowering work environment, look no further! We invite you to explore the possibilities and join our team of passionate coders who are making waves in the world of flexible work. Embrace the freedom to shape your work-life balance, work from anywhere that sparks your creativity, and unleash your coding genius during your most productive hours.

IWD: You can keep your pink cupcake

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 01:49:07 GMT

For International Women’s Day, our impassioned COO Erika Hamilton has put pen to paper to share how she truly feels about IWD and how to bring gender equality and equity into fruition.

I have always been a passionate advocate for the rights of women. I took the subject ‘Women’s Studies’ for two years in high school, have volunteered and campaigned for reproductive rights for regional women, rebuffed diet culture, experienced and fought against workplace harassment, actively contributed to the curation of women’s herstory and individual journeys, and identified as a feminist as soon as I understood the term.

When IWD comes around every March 8th, it always fills me with pride. The solidarity with women around the world to highlight the problems that face us every single day is always an encouraging feeling. This space, dedicated to discussing these issues in a group forum is valuable.

The downside of IWD I feel, is the virtual signaling that can be felt within both corporate and non-corporate organisations. No pink cupcake studded morning tea makes the inequality go away – particularly as these events are often organised (and cleaned up) by women within the organisation on top of their already overloaded plates. Waxing lyrical about how amazing women are and all they do for one day a year but doing the bare minimum for the systemic issues faced by women in the workplace for the rest of it is just plain hypocritical.

Working in a male dominated industry as I do can be exhausting. Having to recalibrate actions, deal with micro (and macro) aggressions and the mental gymnastics on how to ensure that your ideas and processes are listened to and adapted is a lot to handle. The proportion of female executives in the tech industry is only 15% , with women in senior leadership positions sitting at 20% . In addition, the average age of a CEO in Australia is 47. So where does that leave people like me? A woman in her mid-twenties, living in remote Australia leading a team and trying to inspire people 10 and 20 years ahead of me?

To that, I say, ‘why not me?’

This statement was coined by Mindy Kaling, and her book of the same name was released in 2015. Mindy is from an Indian migrant family, and operates in the television and writing industry, another particularly male dominated field. To help her have her seat at the table, she would always ask herself, ‘why not me?’ when she is presented with an opportunity that no one like her may have had in the past.

With this attitude in mind, I got myself into a very high seat at the table, working with an incredibly supportive team. Since being bestowed this position, I’ve continued making noise to move HutSix into the paradigm that aligns with the core values of gender equality, mutual respect and communication.

So, in lieu of a pink cupcake studded morning tea and toast from our CEO, I want to reflect on what we as HutSix have been able to accomplish over the past three years of our organisational transformation:

We’re getting close to a 50/50 gender split in our team. In 2018, the four employees of HutSix were all men. In 2023, five out of eleven team members are women, with three of those women holding senior positions.
Out of all of our clients, 30% are male and 20% of those report to female management within their own companies.
We made a conscious decision to only accept work that makes the world a better place, and bring a purpose-led nature to the work that we do.
We honour flexible working conditions – no, like we actually do it. HutSix is free from the ‘two days from home, three in office’, ‘business happens in business hours’ rules that fill other organisations. It doesn’t matter what the reason for flexibility is, we make it happen. This has been anything from working location, to working hours, to the types of projects, clients and team members the employee works with. We treat our employees with mutual respect and like the grown ups they are.
Information is stored publicly in Jira products like Confluence and Jira Service Management, so it’s easy to share information and work together.
Team members are actively mentored and supported to progress up the ladder – no matter their age, background or experience (look at me!).

I feel like the above isn’t rocket science or ground breaking (and I kind of feel that now re-reading my work), but when I speak about this in social and professional networks, I often get looks of shock and revelation that the luxury of understanding people as humans and treating them with mutual respect is truly possible.

That is the impact (or one of them) of having women in charge and listening to them. And that’s what IWD conversations should be centred around – how to best support women-led organisations to help make adjustments that are better for everyone.

So what do I want to do next? Well, here’s some of my thoughts:

Increase parental leave no matter the gender beyond the government bare-minimum requirements
Contribute to child care costs for working parents
Continue to provide flexibility to all employees – whether they have children or not
Increase sick leave to accommodate for menstrual, menopausal and fertility related leave
Provide funding and mentoring opportunities for marginalised groups to participate in computing studies
Fire Brad - ha, just kidding! Instead, I want to keep doing the opposite. Hire and retain men who want to work with strong women so we can help each other succeed.

So you can keep your pink cupcakes and morning tea washing up, I’ll take promotions, support, accountability by the men in our team, and more amazing female clients any day.

Now, get out of my way.

Why do we need developers when we’ve got Chat GPT?

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 06:06:05 GMT

As many people have in the last few months, we’ve caught the AI bug around here lately. We’ve been playing with Chat GPT for all kinds of things: writing letters and songs, telling jokes, even writing code. At first, our devs were a bit taken aback, testing the code produced and seeing that it actually worked, there was a bit of ‘uh oh, am I out of a job?’ going on. But we’ve been here before, we know how fast technology and innovation moves. Each new advancement is an opportunity to incorporate a new process into your work and life to make things easier and more efficient, giving you time to focus on the bits you enjoy most.

Have you ever heard the saying, "Work smarter, not harder"? That's exactly what artificial intelligence (AI) is all about in the world of software development.

Sure, you might be thinking, "But isn't AI going to take all of our jobs?" Well, the short answer is no. While it's true that AI has the ability to automate certain tasks, it's also going to make our jobs as software developers better.

Think about it this way: AI is like having a super smart assistant that can handle all of the repetitive and time-consuming tasks for you. This frees up your time and energy to focus on the more creative and complex aspects of your job. And as a result, you'll be able to produce higher quality software, faster.

How we might use AI

Imagine you're working on a project and you need to test a large number of possible solutions to a problem. With AI, you can train a model to analyse all of the data and find the best solution for you. This not only saves you a lot of time, but it also ensures that the solution is more accurate, because AI is able to find patterns in the data that humans might miss. This is in line with the research done by Gartner, which stated that "by 2022, 30% of all software development tasks will be automated." (Source: Gartner.com)

Another way we might use AI to make software development better is to help us identify bugs and errors in our code. AI-powered debugging tools can help reduce the time it might take to identify the root cause of a problem and fix it. This means less time spent trying to figure out what went wrong and more time spent actually writing original code. (Source: Accenture.com)

As much as we all love a good bit of problem solving, you can imagine how frustrating it can be trawling through hundreds of lines of code just to find out why a button is glitching. Sending a robotic minion in there to do that for you sounds like a pretty great time and mind saver.

But will our jobs be taken by robots?

58 million new positions . (Source: World Economic Forum) On the thought of AI replacing real-people-jobs, forecasts actually say that AI is expected to create new software job opportunities. While yes, the data shows that jobs are being lost to automation and AI - a staggering 75 million of them; the number of jobs created as a direct result of the same tech is far higher. It is predicted that around 133 million new jobs will be created, rounding the number of new jobs out to around 58 million new positions . (Source: World Economic Forum)

AI-related jobs such as data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI researchers are increasingly in demand, as more and more organisations look to incorporate these technologies into their business operations.

While it’s still a bit scary - because change can be scary - and the bread and butter jobs we have now are somewhat at risk, it should be exciting too - it’s the boring bits that are getting taken over by robots. Your job is only going to get more interesting! We’re also excited to see the evolution of trades and industry as they step into this space and what our kids and future generations will be choosing and viewing as lucrative or interesting work.

So! We’re not scared that our jobs are going to be taken by robots, instead we’re excited to see how our jobs will evolve. We’re also excited to see how it can improve our software. When we’re given more time to develop a product there’s no doubt that it will only add more benefit. AI is not a threat to software development jobs, it's a tool that will make our jobs better and more efficient. It will help us produce higher quality software, faster, and with less effort. So, welcome our new AI assistant, it's here to help us work smarter, not harder.

Language loss

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 04:50:38 GMT

The death of language literacy in the digital world

The HutSix mission is something that Erika and Brad have been yelling from their soap box ever since the middle of 2021. A strong pivot to providing culturally appropriate technological solutions to increase the social capital held by people on the ground is the bedrock that is being laid down for the next phase of HutSix.

The benefits of creating culturally appropriate software that fulfils the needs of the client is that it helps to open doors for the user. These doors are opened and users are welcomed through, receiving the benefits of gainful employment which butterfly out into the wider community. The user that we are referring to is a person who is based on the ground and comes from the same background as the people their employer is providing support to. This might be a regional council, an Aboriginal land council, a board of trustees, health provider or an NGO.

The benefit of engaging with the person who is already on the ground is that a whole range of cultural lore, understanding and language can be tapped into and utilised to help people in crisis faster and in an appropriate way. As we see English become the dominant language across the world, where does that leave people who speak it as their third, fourth or fifth language? What opportunities are there for them?

Languages – where are they going?

The idea for this blog came from a Ted Talk our CEO Brad found online. It proposes that, by the end of this century, pretty much every language (all 6,700 of them) will be obsolete and it’s likely that we’ll all speak English. This deadline is being faced even sooner with Indigenous people across the world, with one language lost every two weeks . This is because 96% of these languages are spoken by Indigenous people – who only make up 6% of the global population .

We are heading for our own linguicide in Australia, as only 20 of our 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are widely spoken .

The clock is truly ticking to preserve these languages for the next generation of First Nations people, not just in Australia, but the wider world.

Why do we need languages?

The history of the act of preserving, researching or wiping out languages has been driven by colonialism in the majority of colonised countries. It’s hard to talk about the future, longevity and preservation of languages without acknowledging the (settler) elephant in the room. The last 250 years in Australia – and even longer abroad – has resulted in a variety of traumatic events to dictate First Nations cultures and assimilate First Nations people into colonial society, most recently with the Stolen Generation in Australia which only ended in the 1970s. This is an experience that is shared by many other cultural and language groups throughout the world, with intersections such as gender and class adding further complexities and levels of discrimination.

Language transcends so much more than communication. Language is a complex and extensive system of knowledge that has been developed over hundreds of thousands of years. Preservation of language leads to the preservation of culture and the passing on of shared history. There are a variety of cultural and context cues that are passed on when these discussions are had in the language that they were intended to be heard in.

Language uptake in immigrant communities continues to drop across the world , with a strong onus on assimilating as soon as possible into a new homeland which starts with learning the local language. There are a variety of barriers surrounding language uptake in immigrant communities, some cross over with First Nations peoples’ experience in Australia. A lack of formal teaching, pressure on families to speak in language at home, and the set up of a society around only one language type can make it really hard for immigrants to keep their mother tongue and learn the language of their new home.

We’ve seen the same thing happen in the computing industry. We’ve hit just over 30 years of the world wide web, but there are only four programming languages that are widely available in multilingual versions – two of these are actually used to teach kids how to code. The rest are all in English first .

Outside of this, there are about 100 other programming languages that are available in a language other than English. You can use translating services to translate a programming language from one to the other, as programming languages often don’t have the cultural nuances that we have with spoken languages. So, if you don’t speak English fluently, you can get by with a bit of hacking around – but what about the community?

Any programmer worth their salt knows that programming is more than just writing code – it’s about research, community engagement and troubleshooting via Google and Stackoverflow. There is the need to engage with a community to figure out the why – to avoid cargo cult programming.

Saving a language, preserving a culture

To truly prioritise the value of cultural diversity and knowledge sharing through language, there needs to be systemic change. The ability to complete complex reporting documentation shouldn’t supersede the ability to make culturally appropriate connections, but we see it time and time again. So how do you flip the script on ensuring that cultural appropriate hiring practices stay the top priority? Change your reporting and administrative practices.

It may seem tricky to have a lot of control on how much can be changed on an administrative level, but in our experience that reporting requirements and timesheets are the best place to start. We’ve built systems for organisations that have no words written on them at all, they’ve instead been centred around creating culturally appropriate iconography for the demographic that it was serving. Meanwhile, on the back end, data can be exported into designed reports and spreadsheets and sent off to funding bodies, boards and management. The frontline worker doesn’t have to do any further administration work, instead they get to focus on doing their job well for the people who need it most. With a seemingly simple change like this, it has revolutionised the ability for people on Country to hold down a job without being fluent in English. This helps to support the value placed on knowing language and culture, and opens doors for people that weren’t open before.

We’ve been sharing this process with a variety of people and organisations. When we shared this particular instance in a group setting interstate, a well meaning person said ‘why don’t you share this iconography with the world? Make an open source database where all of these graphics can be in there?’. This is an incredibly valid point, and there’s already a wide variety of these databases out there that have iconography and favicons around a multitude of symbols that are super important for sharing information without having to know a language. These symbols could be disabled toilets, emergency exits and warning signs for animals. But this idea doesn’t align with the understanding that, despite similar issues being experienced across marginalised communities – such as assault, suicide and property destruction – this can look different in a community that’s only a mere 100km away. Taking the time to sit, learn and listen to the communities that will actually be doing the groundwork is the first step to ensuring that culturally appropriate solutions are delivered, and languages are preserved for the next generations.

Geographical discrimination

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 05:27:49 GMT

Geographical discrimination in the age of COVID-19: does location still matter?

Remember a time before 2020? Before we even knew what COVID-19 meant? Or owned a variety of reusable face masks that you washed with your delicates? It’s hard to imagine that there was a world before the one we live in now. Before COVID-19, remote work was tricky to come by, and most clients needed to see the people they were dealing with face to face.

Well, we’ve seen significant changes since then.

HutSix has been around since 2010, and we’ve seen a lot happen over the last decade or so. From mass ransomware attacks, changes in technology, and what we actually do as an organisation – pretty much everything has changed. When HutSix started up, we had clients who were mostly in Alice Springs or the NT. Any clients located outside of the NT once had their head office here. We’ve still got quite a strong presence in the NT, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen a burst in clients who aren’t located in the NT who’d like to work with us.

So, why the sudden surge? What’s changed?

We think one of the biggest changes is geographical discrimination, and how we fall victim to this assumption with our work. Geographical discrimination is discrimination based on the region a person or organisation is born, or is based. Assumptions are made about their region, which are presumed to hinder their abilities.

We have often fallen victim to this type of discrimination: losing contracts due to our remote location; not getting a foot in the door, as everything has to happen on site; and having people assume we don’t really know what we’re doing, compared to similar businesses on the east coast. This hasn’t just happened to us with interstate clients – it’s actually happened to us with clients from within the NT!

The idea that, because we’re based in the Northern Territory and South Australia, we’re not as talented as east-coast developers in Sydney and Melbourne is quite a common experience for us. We have clients that often assume we aren’t up to date with best practices, or that we don’t have enough experience. We’ve been spoken down to in conference calls by fellow city-side developers, had our point of view not taken into consideration, and our remote experience dismissed by both clients and people in the industry. We can be stereotyped as backwards hicks, or stuck in our ways (we’re quite stubborn, so we can kind of see where that comes from). The evidence is clear when we almost never lose work based on price. It’s usually due to our location and the lack of ‘face to face’ opportunity with a city-based head office.

This has just been ‘the way things are’ for us in our Alice Springs-based head office. We’ve always felt a bit like an underdog, like we’re sitting at the kids table at a grown up dinner party. Some of this chip-on-our-shoulder attitude has come off in our communication with our clients – which we apologise for; we’re working on our people skills, we promise! These experiences have given us a bit of imposter syndrome too, that helps us strive to be better at our jobs, and to keep innovating our services and systems.

Breaking down barriers

As border restrictions went up and we all moved to work from home over the last 18 months, suddenly, the rules changed. It doesn’t matter how flash someone’s office is – if they can’t communicate well, it can be really difficult to establish and maintain a strong working relationship. We’ve seen a complete shift in the way that we communicate both internally and externally, as expectations have truly shifted in workplace relations.

We’ve noticed that we’ve become more open with our clients, and they’ve become more open with us. It’s tricky to not share a bit about your personal life when people can see your cat jumping around your kitchen during a Zoom call.

We’ve also seen a shift in our perceived expertise. With restricted borders, we’ve actually been getting more enquiries from NT businesses who would traditionally go outside of the NT for technological solutions. We’re able to take ourselves more seriously and bring a vote of confidence that people in the NT aren’t just the east coast’s poor cousin. Not only that, people from the east coast are realising that there is more talent out there. Some of our new clients have come to us because they were on the fence with their current provider, and COVID-19 was the final push to look for something better.

The remote specialists

With beginnings in Alice Springs, we understand what it’s like to live in a remote area: extremes in climate, poor access to resources, terrible internet connectivity (what NBN?), and a small pool of people to rely on is our bread and butter. We’ve been able to become remote specialists in the last year, pivoting what we always thought was our biggest failure into our biggest strengths:

Working somewhere where you don’t have phone range? No problem.

Do you have employees with English as a third, fourth or fifth language? Easy.

Struggling to keep up with reporting requirements imposed by a wide variety of funding bodies? We can automate those reports with our eyes closed.

Working with clients who don’t have a consistent email address or phone number? Facebook validation can solve that problem.

What we thought negatively impacted our ability to get work, has actually made us expand our reach. It has helped switch our geographical discrimination on its head. Suddenly, every tech company in Australia (and the world) is on the same open playing field. Companies can no longer hide behind flashy offices or fancy lunches – all the cards are shown, and talent and know-how are what’s on display.

Has this truly been a result of COVID-19? Or are we, as a company, getting better at communicating with our clients and taking things a bit less personally? We’ve had some big organisational changes in the last 18 months; everyone we’ve hired in the last two years are all excellent communicators, and we’ve fully embraced the Agile methodology. Maybe the chip on our shoulder is slowly being filled in with understanding, compassion and, of course, Portugese tarts from The Bakery next door.

Our team is happier, calmer and better at communicating internally – maybe this is rubbing off on our clients, and helping us keep and win contracts? Or maybe clients are more accepting of remote-based companies now, and prepared to go the distance with us to deliver something truly remarkable – software that’s the equivalent of an invisible skyscraper. There’s no way to know, but we hope that this phase of HutSix is here to stay for a little while longer.

Security case study

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 05:27:48 GMT

So you think you’re unhackable? Think again.

Ransomware was once a buzzword in the tech industry, but has now become a prominent fixture within the technology space. With the growing trend of ransomware, losses are expected to exceed USD$20 billion by 2021 , with criminals taking off with more money than ever before. We usually associate these attacks happening to big corporations, but 62% of them are actually targeted at small and medium sized businesses, who may not have the resources to respond appropriately to these attacks.

What is ransomware?

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that is released and gains access to files or systems and removes access for the owner of these files. These files or systems are held at ransom to the owner – and are often encrypted – until the owner pays the fine. Ransomware has been around for decades, but it has become more sophisticated in the new-age of ransomware

How do you get it?

Ransomware can make its way to your organisation in a number of ways, but the most common way is describing something as a super important email attachment – like an invoice or a bill from an important client or the ATO. An email like this will encourage people to open the attachment – which spreads the ransomware throughout the organisation quickly. A similar thing can happen on social media, when a profile is created and messages are sent out to people’s “friends'' with an attachment or link to be clicked on. And, one of the oldest tricks in the book is the classic browser pop up.

It couldn’t possibly happen to me, right?

It’s easy for us to be doom and gloom about the outside world – but there is a solid reason behind it. It goes beyond our innate paranoia, but is drawn upon by the personal experience of a few of our valued clients.

One of our clients was a victim of ransomware at the end of 2019. Their computers were hacked into by a foreign cyberespionage company via their Wi-Fi router – which still had its factory supplied username and password. Once they had access to the Wi-Fi, they could enter a staff member’s computer who hadn’t updated a desktop application. Right there on the staff member’s desktop was a digital sticky note of all of their important passwords. The hackers could use this information to get into all of their systems.

This client was held ransom and didn’t pay the fee, so all of their information was wiped and they had to start from scratch. So how does it happen?

How easy is it to attack someone?

A ransomware attack is actually relatively easy to execute, because a lot of basic security protocols often aren’t followed by individuals. Ransomware is typically executed by hacking groups who may be based overseas. They usually don’t own up to the attack and keep their identity a secret. This helps them stay agile and out from the crowd, and continue to run a system that works.

There was a hack in 2017 in Lake City Florida that was executed by a group of Russian cyber security criminals who demanded USD$530,000 in BitCoin from the Council – which they paid and then fired their IT manager for falling victim to the attack in the first place. This particular bit of ransomware is called Ryuk, and earned the creators more than USD$3.7million in its first four months of operation.

In fact, some of our team members have been known to pick on one another with their own hacking. One of our former staff members didn’t believe that hacking was as easy as we said it was, so one of our developers put it to the test and got into his Facebook, email, bank account and home Wi-Fi router – all within an hour! What started as a fun joke ended up being a serious conversation about how easy it is to get into these systems – and that’s without any malicious intentions.

What happens if you’re attacked?

You might think that, if you’ve been hacked, you are the victim and will be compensated accordingly by your financial institution or insurance company – however, this isn’t always the case. If you’ve agreed for a third-party platform – such as a budgeting app – to access your banking information, if that app is hacked, your bank is unlikely to refund you the funds, as you gave permission for this application. Read the ABC article about how this happened to an Adelaide man.

Who is liable?

In Australia, banks are liable to replace any stolen funds, but it does depend on the extent of the fraud and how this was carried out. This isn’t the case overseas, in Canada there aren’t the same protections we have here, with banks not being held liable for any stolen funds. Customers have to appeal any transactions, which undergo an investigation, with no guarantee of any of the funds being returned back to the customer.

This was the case in the UK up until a few years ago. When their government switched the liability, security within financial institutions skyrocketed and fraud plummeted as investment in online security was increased.

Can insurance protect you?

You might think that insurance could help negate any of these difficulties, but cyber insurance companies may not always pay out your claim. Just like how insurers are unlikely to pay out a claim if you left your keys in your car or your house unlocked, cyber insurance providers can reject a claim if you didn’t apply ‘reasonable care’ to your systems. A failure to follow or maintain security best practice in your organisation can result in a claim not being made at all – causing more heartache and stress in an already tumultuous time.

How to prevent an attack:

Update your applications

We’ve all been guilty of seeing the pop ups telling us to update our computers and our applications and snoozing them until later. They often come at an annoying time in your day, but they are helpful in updating everything on your computer.

Make backups

If you are a victim of ransomware but have a backup of your information in a separate location, you won’t have to pay their ransom to get your data back. This helps to ensure that your data is accessible in the event of a ransomware attack, or in the event of something happening to your computer, a physical robbery or even a natural disaster. These back ups might be to a cloud based server, or a physical server.

Adopt a consolidated IT approach

Just like how every business is required to have a work health and safety policy, we believe every organisation should have an enforceable IT policy. Such a policy should have the same checks and balances as all your other policies. We have our own IT policy that outlines a variety of major touch points with our systems and people, including:

How we dispose of old computers
How we onboard our staff and what they get access to
How often our computers are updated
What anti-virus software we use
How we secure our building and monitor who comes and goes
Two-factor authentication (more on that later)

We complement this policy by having a cyber security officer and quarterly meetings checking over every point of the document. This ensures it’s still being executed and helps to identify any new gaps or changes in technology. Having this accountability makes sure that we actually follow through on our word, and that everything is up-to-date every quarter – because even we can get a bit lazy sometimes.

Long-term best practice

Operate from a zero-trust security mindset

Just like work health and safety practices, there does need to be a cultural shift to ensure any IT policies are followed and adhered to. Further, all staff members need to follow up in the event that they aren’t. One of the most popular ways of enforcing this is implementing a zero-trust mindset in your cyber security. Adopting a zero-trust mindset means you remove any trust from your employees and their devices and recognise their ability to be an internal threat to a part of your system.

Up until recently, best practice was to lock down the perimeter of your organisation, protecting it from the scary internet and all of its dangers. This assumes that if you are in the building on the local network, everything will be fine. As we’ve seen the sophistication of ransomware change – and the downside of assuming tech literacy in the workplace – this model no longer works. Not only that, it doesn't allow people to work from home – which has become essential in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Not only that, real life isn’t perfect. People leave their passwords on a sticky note, or fall for phishing and ransomware attacks that penetrate the perimeter. People often use their own devices for work systems and emails – which the IT department really can’t control. Zero trust isn’t like that, it doesn’t make any assumptions, basing decisions on robust authentication mechanisms and context-aware access control.

Use two-factor authentication & geolocation tools

Context and identity are the two main cruxes of zero-trust security management. Managing people's identities and their access to different systems is paramount to maintaining security.

Identity

Now, in a perfect world, we always use different passwords that are super varied and up to best practice standards, and we change them regularly. In reality, we get lazy, and have a bit of cognitive dissonance about this.The best way to protect against a weak or compromised password is two-factor authentication. If our client mentioned above had two-factor authentication enabled for their emails, banking etc., the ransomware hackers would’ve had a harder time trying to get in – if they could get in at all. Utilising an app like Authy is one of the safest ways to do this, otherwise you can use the SMS feature, which is more likely to be compromised than an app like Authy.

Context

Even if someone has confirmed their identity, the context behind why they want access to something should still be considered. Enforcing factors such as geolocation information, device type, operating system and network context are important factors when considering your access policy. For example, an email request comes through from the CEO (who would be given permission to access classified information), but it has come from an unknown device, in an unknown location, and from an IP address that’s based in a country she’s never been to before. These are all red flags that signal that yes, even though we’re checking identities, there might still be a gap in the system.

Now, that may all seem pretty doom and gloom, but ransomware attacks do happen and they’re more common than you think. So, it’s important to make your best efforts to protect yourself. These are just some of the simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your business.

Job loss with technology

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 05:27:43 GMT

For a long time now, the sky has been falling regarding jobs for everyone. In the industrial revolution, we thought machines were taking our jobs. Instead, they moved people off the land into factories. This gave work to men, women (and children) – and even though today's safety conditions and benefits weren’t in place yet, it was another door opened for people to gain employment. Over time, we saw machinery move offshore or become streamlined, no longer needing as many (if any) humans involved to produce products at a higher rate.

About 100 years later, we had the mass rollout of computers, using their technology to help improve workplace efficiency and creating a whole new field of jobs – IT support, programmers and engineers. Less than 50 years later, we’ve had the mass rollout of AI technology, with the same concerns being heralded again and again about who’s going to lose work and who’s going to gain – and, are we prepared to keep up with this rapid, evolving change? In 25 years, will we have another groundbreaking technology that will spark this same age-old conversation again?

Where we’ve seen things change

The reason we at HutSix began this navel gazing journey is because we threw out our deskphones this week. A system that cost us $20,000 to install five years ago became obsolete in March 2020 when we all had to work from home. Suddenly, we couldn’t all be based in the office, but our clients still needed us over the phone. So, what was the solution? Forwarding all calls to our CEO, having him take a message, send a text to the staff member who could help, and hope they would call back as soon as possible – since we couldn’t surveil our employees like we used to.

This was a major inconvenience for everyone involved. Clients were getting frustrated, our CEO was missing calls because he was already on the phone, and our team were having to call clients back on their own phones – so we had clients calling our team members mobiles directly at all hours. Luckily, in the NT, we weren’t in a forced lockdown for that long at all, only about six weeks. But when we all came back to work, a lot of us didn’t want to come back to the office full-time, most of our team adopted flexi arrangements between home and the office. It was clear that there was no going back post-lockdown to the way things had been.

So, we went looking for a new solution. We ended up with a company called Dialpad (which we strongly recommend) and found the whole process really easy. Suddenly, our team members were able to operate from anywhere in Australia to work on projects of varying scales. Phone calls to and from clients could be made through a computer or a smartphone. Our employees were able to form a kind of work life balance as they are able to control the hours of the day their work line is on. The stress around a simple phone call disappeared, and with features like group calling, auto transcribing and integrations with Gmail and Google Drive, it made life really easy.

How did we get here?

You might think that this isn’t a major deal, it’s just a phone, but it goes much further. It speaks to the true integration of work and life, of the intertwining of these two parallels into one, and of changes in traditional business practice. Pre-COVID-19, it was all about the office. Of having the big, fancy, open plan office with high-gloss features, fancy desks, table tennis tables and beanbags. It was a space to show off to your client about how successful you are, to create a physical environment that staff actually want to work in.

All meetings and big decisions were made in person, to look someone in the eye to see if they were serious or not. As email slowly moved into our worlds, it became the norm for approvals and small conversations, but over the phone and in person were preferred for that bigger picture discussions and to build trust.

And now, that is no longer an option. In 2020, it wasn’t possible to jump on a plane from Sydney to Melbourne to attend just one meeting, that meeting is now on Zoom or Teams. Despite the pandemic, life must go on. We were getting married, attending funerals, meeting as a board, forming companies and having birthday parties online. We had to keep going with our lives, despite the physical limitations we were living amongst. Suddenly, it became normal to make big decisions in the virtual world.

When HutSix moved back to the office, we had a long delay from seeing clients again. Even now, almost a year on, we don’t see as many clients in person as we used to, but our work level has increased. Suddenly, it becomes easier to deal with people who aren’t in your same city – a taboo has been dropped.

What will the next evolution be?

Now that the taboo has eased, where will we go next? How will we continue to have positive communication with each other and our clients? Well, we think it will go in the way of instant messaging. Texting has become a normal way to communicate with various providers, using texts to confirm beauty and mechanic appointments, to our favourite thing, two-factor authentication.

We’ll start to see the world change in the face of email, which is a form of communication that is quite private, and is often used for the sender’s benefit. In fact at HutSix, we don’t run any internal email, and all of our client requests go through a ticketing system that outlines priority, with a workload shared between all team members.

We keep all internal information in a central location that can be accessed by everyone, in a shared blog-like space called Confluence which is in the suite of Atlassian products we have integrated into our workload. That way, it doesn’t matter how messy someone's inbox is, or if they were with the company at the time of the inception of the project, the information is in a centralised location. This also helps flatten the curve of the mental IP as we don’t have a whole project hinging on one person, which can lead to bottlenecks.

What’s the future looking like?

We’re hoping for a future that’s more personal and more technically driven. We’re hoping we can get to a stage where we can text clients to get their approvals on projects, where clients can video call us in to see technical issues live. We will likely start to leverage customer service more, and with more AI assisted interactions, we might be a bit more enthusiastic about chatting with a human to get something sorted – on your own terms, and with your preferred technology.

As we see a natural shift into a younger workforce, it won’t seem out-of-step to have a continuous flow of communication across a multitude of platforms; we’re moving to working ‘wherever, whenever.’ Having mutual respect between everyone involved on a project, and working to our clients unique terms and experiences, is becoming the new normal.

HutSix enters South Australia with a big time scale-up venture

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 06:10:04 GMT

Software engineering firm, HutSix, is increasingly making waves as it enters the South Australian digital innovation realm. From its origins in Alice Springs building custom software for remote health practitioners and various Indigenous organisations, HutSix has spent the last six months making some firm decisions about the direction they want to take. They’ve got their eyes set on South Australia.

Last week, CEO Brad Bellette and EA Erika Hamilton, sat with leaders from some of South Australia’s most influential technology and innovation spaces to talk about the change they want to create. More than just custom software, HutSix has found its fire in tackling the social equity disparity in regional and remote Australia.

Speaking with the likes of AWS South Australia, 42, MIT, Lot Fourteen, Nik&Co Consulting and other change makers, it is clear that the HutSix vision is one that others are keen to support. Further than that, it’s new territory for a software led business to enter.

Brad Bellette said, “It’s just blown me away how keen everyone has been to get behind what we’re doing. We knew we were pursuing a pretty unique space, but the response we’re getting is just so encouraging. We really believe that we can use our superpowers for good and I can’t wait to see where it takes us and what change we can help create.”

The conversations that Brad and Erika have been having in Adelaide in recent months hope to build solid relationships in the industry to strengthen and support the way forward in their change-making mission.

As part of their full-steam-ahead approach, HutSix has entered into a sponsorship agreement with innovative education partner, 42 to take on a spade of new cadets throughout the year. The pair presented their values and approach to a booked out audience of 42 students who were eager to hear more. HutSix is excited to offer a workplace and mentorship to students who want to write code that brings change to a generation.

Louise Nobes, CEO of 42 said, "We are thrilled to have a company like Hutsix working with 42 Adelaide in their need for talent. Seeing the students respond so enthusiastically to the Hutsix story and purpose, gives us great confidence that the minds attracted to 42 are the minds that will help change the world"

HutSix has a number of Adelaide visits planned for 2022, each with the goal of firming a foothold in a space that has seen an impressive amount of innovative digital advancement in the last decade. Their strategic direction towards social equity will be an exciting one to watch as they form working relationships with others who share the passion to provide culturally appropriate technological solutions for those who have for a long time been missed by the innovation radar.

Taking a deep dive – why we scope

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 01:03:02 GMT

The last few years have been excellent for the words pivot, unprecedented and transition throughout the world as we’ve battled through the COVID-19 pandemic. The last years have forced us – and many others – to evaluate what worked and what didn’t. We’ve conducted a major shift in what kind of work we want to take on, and how we can help make a difference in the world with the projects we do – you can read more about this here. Stepping back from the blue sky thinking of saving the world one line of code at a time, how do we actually achieve it? We achieve it by actively listening to our clients.

A new way of quoting projects

Historically, whenever we had a client come to us with a problem, we’d quote up the job thinking about just the technical side of things, and not consider the actual logistics of running the system from the client's perspective. We were tech first – only thinking about what we needed to know and what we thought would work best, not how we could improve our clients' lives. This resulted in us building systems that were technically sound, but often didn’t meet the full requirements of the client's organisation, because we hadn’t thought to ask about how the system will integrate with their workplace, what other problems are faced when trying to get good data, and what the technical skill level of the team members is. This led to us not having the best post-release relationships with our clients, despite the software meeting the technical spec and being on par with the industry standard.

You might be thinking, ‘were you just selective listening?’, which may have been the case, but often our clients will come to us with not much information regarding what they need because they can’t quite name the whole problem. We often see our clients burnt out, frustrated, confused and overwhelmed by the sheer complexity and frequency of their reporting requirements. Coupled with staff shortages due to the high barrier of entry to work in these spaces, it’s a tricky place to be in. We often get clients who have been referred to us, or are at the point where they’ve run out of cells in their corrupted Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. Our clients are the experts in their fields, tackling big problems like unemployment, youth development and environment sustainability. They’re not experts in understanding what can be automated and how that should be designed, they just know there has to be another way.

When these clients come to us, they often come to us asking for an alternative to Microsoft Excel, and haven’t thought about all of the other ways they can do things. We used to overload them with a bunch of questions on the spot, and produce a quote straight after the meeting that would (probably) fulfill the needs we heard them say in the space of a 30 minute long meeting. Sometimes we’d get the work, sometimes we wouldn’t, but every single time, we would finish a project and think, ‘I wish we thought about that at the start, it would’ve made things even easier for the client’. This frankly wasn’t good enough in the democratisation of services, and in a world where listening and expressing empathy continues to be held in high regard.

Sharing is caring

So how could we improve our customer experience levels and ship even better software?

Asking questions and actively listening to our clients.

The IT/software industry isn’t well known for being great with people. If you think of good customer service, industries like hospitality, retail and professional services will likely spring to mind – not a bunch of IT nerds. This was the case for us up until 2021, when we decided to make an active shift to look at our clients and projects from a holistic perspective. The message sunk in that, when we’re all working remotely, you don’t get to have those conversations with people in person to learn more about what they value, prioritise and are impacted by. Therefore, we need to actively seek that information out ourselves, to ensure we’re building software that meets not just the technological, but the organisational needs of our clients.

Computer says no

So how do you make this happen in the real world? We decided to not try and make a square peg fill a round hole. We don’t force our creative team to code, so why would we force our engineering team to investigate people's motives?

To combat this, we’ve decided to expand our team. We are currently a team of engineers, with two people filling the project management space, to help maximise our output. Instead of hiring trained consultants, we’ve decided to hire a team of journalists. Why would we pick a journalist over a trained consultant? It’s simple really, we wanted to hire people who are professionally trained to build a story. To be patient with people who might never have spoken to someone in our field before, and to not be threatened by the prospect of traveling remotely to learn more about the organisation. We’re starting with the core characteristics of how we want this team to relate to our clients and training to add the technical elements from there.

Our team of journalists spend the time with the client on site to learn about the story of the organisation, how everything they do intersects – or doesn’t, and the logistical challenges of the organisation that they face every day.

This story is formulated into a document that outlines the organisation's needs, challenges and limitations. Only then, do we pass it over to our technical team to analyse and propose a technical solution that would help to solve the problem. Once we’ve got a plan of attack for the technical component, we collate everything into one big scoping document, supported by images/footage we shot on the ground too where applicable, and share it with our client. We chat through our thinking, and the best options to move forward with a system that meets all of their requirements – supported by a quote for us to undertake the work. From there, the client can choose to stick with us to undertake the work, or they can head out to market with an in-depth spec that will result in a system that meets their exact requirements once it’s completed.

Is this the death of the engineer?

Expanding our team into a multi-disciplinary group of engineers, journalists and project managers is the best way for us to ensure that we deliver systems that actually work on release. It is also much more meaningful work. We’ve been doing things this way for almost six months at the time of writing, and it is so rewarding to know that our clients are on board with the way we do things and we’re on board with the way they do things right from the get go.

Communicating these clear expectations from the start allows us to work on projects that lead to successful outcomes for both us and our clients. We used to be quite stressed that we were missing something when we were developing, because we didn’t allow for the time to properly spec out the project with the client to learn about all of the potential edge cases that might crop up once they got to use it. As somewhat of a young software company, we’ve learnt that this is not best practice, and we’re changing that. We’ve learnt that proper scoping is actually an integral part of all software projects.

Not only is the quality of the software greatly improved, but we are able to operate in a space where we can wear our critical thinking glasses, and look at a problem from all angles. As the technical component of our industry continues to change, we know that AI will never be able to automate or replace empathy. So we’re able to apply the human element to our clients' problems, spending time thinking about a problem before we get to the ‘doing’ part of the problem. The software industry moves in leaps and bounds that progress much faster than many other industries.

Prepping a solid spec before each phase of a major project also means we’re becoming much more in line with the Agile methodology that we love to practice. Having a customer-focused development approach is important to initiate from the start. Since we’ve moved to this style of working, we’ve been able to bring our clients into our Jira environments, and deliver cycles of software faster, because everyone’s on the same page.

We will always have our development team, who bring an important skill set to the table, and continue to develop software that is readily available and meets the requirements of our clients each and every time. Our development team can now breathe easy, focusing on the work they are excellent at, and leave the communication to the trained professionals.