Case Study: How We Built a Freelance Marketplace That Reached 25,000+ Users
Overview
Needgr8r.org is a non-profit freelance marketplace created for a global community that wanted a trusted, values-driven environment to collaborate. Unlike commercial platforms, Needgr8r introduced a commission-free model and a built-in classifieds system, giving members multiple ways to connect, work, and support each other.
Today, the platform serves a growing network of 25,000+ registered users worldwide.
Problem
- Operated with no commission structure.
- Included a classifieds section (“Needlist”) where members could share services, trade, and support each other.
- Provided an independent alternative to mainstream freelancing platforms like Upwork.
Solution
Our process:
- Conducted requirement workshops with stakeholders.
- Designed a scalable architecture and feature roadmap.
- Delivered new functionality in Agile sprints every two weeks.
- Automated deployments on AWS EC2 for performance and reliability.
The result: a hybrid marketplace + classifieds platform that empowers members to hire, get hired, and exchange services in a commission-free ecosystem.
Features
The marketplace was designed to provide everything a freelancer and client community needs:
Core Features
- Registration & Authorization — secure onboarding for freelancers and clients.
- Dual Profiles — freelancers and clients under one account, no need for multiple logins.
- Power Search — find jobs, freelancers, and classifieds quickly.
- Job Posting & Bidding — simplified workflows for hiring and applying.
- Ratings & Reviews — transparent system for building trust.
Classifieds (Needlist)
– Members can post services, offers, or pre-owned products.
– Creates additional opportunities for community members beyond freelancing.
Payment Integration
– Secure online payments via PayPal, credit, and debit cards.
– Designed to handle multiple currencies for global reach.
Admin Panel
– Moderation tools to prevent spam or abuse.
– User support system integrated into the platform.
– Reporting dashboards for analytics and decision-making.
Team
1 frontend developer, 2 backend developers, 1 UI/UX designer, 1 quality analyst, project manager.
Technologies
PHP, Codeignitor 3, MySQL, TypeScript, JavaScript, Apache HTTP Server, AWS, Amazon EC2, AWS Elastic Beanstalk , Solr, Memcached, Paypal API, Stripe API, Twilio API, Sendgrid API
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Feature Highlights
Find remote/online jobs
As a freelancer, you gain access to a wide range of projects posted by clients across different industries. The platform makes it easy to filter jobs by category, type, and location, so you can quickly discover opportunities that align with your expertise. Each job listing includes clear details about the scope of work, budget, and deadlines, helping you decide which ones to pursue.
When you find a project that fits your skills, you can submit a personalized proposal highlighting your experience and approach. Once a client shortlists or selects you, both parties can connect through a secure built-in messenger. This tool allows you to chat in real time, share files, clarify requirements, and negotiate terms before moving forward.
After agreeing on deliverables, you can formalize the arrangement with a digital contract and get started right away. This smooth workflow ensures transparency, builds trust between freelancers and clients, and helps projects begin on the right track.
Classified Ads Platform
The platform also features a dedicated classifieds section fully integrated within the marketplace. This module allows users to post and explore a wide variety of classified ads, making it much more than just a freelance job portal. Users can search ads by country, subject, or specific keywords, ensuring that the right information is easy to find.
Listings cover a broad range of categories, from housing availability and transportation options to household items for sale, insurance services, and other community resources. This flexibility helps members connect not only for professional opportunities but also for everyday needs.
To make the experience seamless, the classifieds module is enhanced with Google Maps API and Google Places API. These integrations allow users to attach precise locations, view ads on an interactive map, and discover nearby services with greater convenience. Together, these features transform the platform into a multifunctional hub that supports both professional and personal connections within the community.
MyOffice: Workroom
The platform also includes a dedicated workspace called My Office, designed to make collaboration between freelancers and clients seamless. Within My Office, users can communicate through a private messenger that supports not only text-based conversations but also file sharing, making it easier to exchange documents, designs, or project resources without leaving the platform.
To keep interactions timely and efficient, the messaging system is complemented by an integrated notification center. Users receive alerts inside the application as well as through email notifications, ensuring that important updates, proposals, or project discussions are never missed. By combining communication, file sharing, history tracking, and smart notifications, My Office enhances productivity and builds stronger trust between clients and freelancers.
Results & Impact
The platform launched successfully and achieved strong adoption:
25,000+ registered users within the first phase of growth.
A thriving commission-free freelance ecosystem.
Seamless integration of freelancing and classifieds in a single platform.
Client Testimonial
“Team is great to work with… They get what you need and action it with great results. Problem solvers, fair, fast. We are using them on continued projects.”
— Lee Zinser, Founder, Needgr8r.org
