Checkbox – Qantas AVRO Accelerator 2018
By Evan Wong, Founder and CEO of Checkbox
checkbox.ai
A multi-award winning platform that enables the digital transformation of regulatory processes into software applications, all without coding. Using drag and drop, users rapidly build and deploy apps that produce automated assessments, advice and documentation.
Why did you apply to the program?
We’ve heard great things about Slingshot and seeing the opportunity to work closely with a great brand like Qantas made it a no brainer. Ultimately, we wanted a commercial deal with Qantas which would’ve been very difficult and time-consuming so we applied to the program to accelerate that goal.
What’s it been like working with Qantas?
Working with Qantas has been very enjoyable. One thing that we noticed across Qantas is that everyone is very helpful and friendly. They were also very proactive, professional, and organised which made navigating the organisation and getting to the next steps very efficient and productive. Having both internal champions as well as program champions facilitated by the program helped a lot.
What’s the biggest learning you’ll take away from the Slingshot program?
With a product like Checkbox, you can solve hundreds of problems just in the one organisation. And because of that, it’s easy to go broad. But the most effective engagement model is to find the “sweet spots” and really double down on nailing them end to end. Once value is proven in one specific use-case, the rest will follow. And working with Qantas really taught us that because of the breadth of their operations.
What was your favourite aspect of the program?
We loved how outcomes-orientated the program was. This was not a program for PR. Everyone involved was focused on outcomes. From optional workshops which we could send our employees to up-skill themselves, through to the way conversations were facilitated and conducted. Startup programs can sometimes be restrictive and a waste of time, but we didn’t feel that for a moment during this program.
What’s next for your Startup?
Because of the program, we now have a commercial deal with Qantas! So part of our next steps is to continue working closely with Qantas to help them automate and streamline their internal processes across multiple units including legal, procurement, and privacy. Beyond Qantas, we are also expected to release some pretty big features by the end of year and also build out our customer base in overseas markets.
