Building a great software development company is not just about writing code—it’s about solving complex business problems, designing intuitive user experiences, and executing flawlessly.
Codebridge was created with these principles at its core, evolving from an internal development team at KPMG into an independent powerhouse known for its expertise in high-load and technically challenging projects.
The story of Codebridge begins with its founder, Konstantin Karpushin, a former KPMG partner who recognized the power of technology to transform business processes. What started as a small initiative to develop internal tools soon grew into something much bigger—a company driven by intelligence, innovation, and a commitment to delivering world-class software solutions.
This article takes you behind the scenes at Codebridge, exploring its journey, key differentiators, and the unique culture that fuels its success.
Origins Rooted in Excellence
The inception of Codebridge is deeply intertwined with the illustrious career of its co-founder and CEO, Konstantin Karpushin. As a partner at KPMG, one of the world’s leading audit and consulting firms, Konstantin was at the forefront of transfer pricing matters in Ukraine. Tasked with the formidable challenge of attracting $2 million in new clients, he spearheaded the development of innovative solutions to enhance client interactions.
In 2013, recognizing the need for a robust Client Relationship Management (CRM) system, Konstantin brought in a specialist to adapt a Microsoft Access template into a customized solution tailored to their needs. This initiative laid the groundwork for what would eventually evolve into Codebridge.
Pioneering Internal Innovations
The success of the initial CRM system paved the way for further technological advancements within KPMG. The team expanded, bringing on board new talents, and together they developed several internal tools, including:
- Goal-Setting and Tracking System: A platform where employees could log their objectives, and managers could review and approve them, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Benchmarking Tool for Transfer Pricing Analysis: By integrating with databases like Orbis and Ruslana, this tool enabled companies to compare strategies, assets, risks, and financial indicators, streamlining processes that previously took weeks into mere days.
These innovations not only enhanced operational efficiency but also significantly reduced human error, contributing to substantial revenue growth in transfer pricing services.
Ascending to Leadership in Innovation
Konstantin’s visionary approach did not go unnoticed. In 2015, he was appointed as the Head of Innovations for KPMG’s CIS region. Embracing this role, he established the Product Development Center (PDC), an internal software development unit dedicated to driving technological advancements.
The PDC was instrumental in creating key products such as:
- KPMG Smart: An alternative to SAP SuccessFactors and Workday for goal setting, enhancing performance management processes.
- Knowledge Cloud: An internal knowledge management system that centralized information, promoting collaboration and informed decision-making.
- Proposal Constructor: A tool designed to streamline the assembly of client proposals, ensuring consistency and efficiency.
- Key Project: A project management system tailored for accounting and compliance firms, facilitating seamless project oversight.
- Feedback Tool: A 360-degree feedback system for large companies, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and open communication.
While the PDC primarily served internal clients, its reputation for excellence attracted external projects, including a significant deal to create a system prototype, generating $600,000 in revenue.
Transitioning to Codebridge
Despite these successes, operating an internal development center within a large consulting firm presented challenges, particularly in hiring and retaining top-tier developers. In 2020, the decision was made to spin off the PDC into an independent entity, leading to the birth of Codebridge in early 2021.
Starting from scratch, Codebridge initially focused on UI/UX design projects on platforms like Upwork to quickly establish a client base. This strategy proved effective, with the design team rapidly expanding and generating over $1 million in revenue.
Core Differentiators Driving Success
Codebridge’s rapid ascent can be attributed to three key differentiators:
- KPMG Background: The team’s deep understanding of complex business processes enables them to tackle high-load, technically challenging projects with finesse.
- Focus on UX/UI Design: Prioritizing exceptional design ensures that even the most powerful software solutions offer an intuitive and engaging user experience.
- Innovative Hiring System: By applying marketing funnel techniques to recruitment, Codebridge processes approximately 1,000 candidates monthly, selecting top-tier talent to drive innovation.
Adapting to the Future
As the industry evolves with advancements in AI and Web3 technologies, Codebridge remains committed to leveraging its strengths in UX design, business expertise, and innovative hiring practices to stay ahead of the curve. With a steadfast dedication to excellence, the company is poised to continue delivering impactful solutions that drive client success.
Conclusion
Codebridge’s journey from an internal innovation hub within KPMG to a leading independent software development company exemplifies a culture deeply rooted in intelligence, innovation, and execution. By continually adapting to industry trends and maintaining a relentless focus on quality, Codebridge stands as a testament to what can be achieved when visionary leadership meets exceptional talent.