At Zappaty, we’re all about building things that last. Whether that’s a secure, reliable way for businesses to share their most important files, or backing something meaningful in the community, we believe in showing up, supporting progress, and sticking together through the journey.

That’s why we’re proud to be a sponsor of Milngavie FC Blue U18s again as they begin the 2025/26 season – their final year of youth football, and one that kicks off with them competing in the top tier in Division A of the Central Scotland FA.

A rise through the divisions

The Milngavie Blue 2008s (now U18s) have gone on an incredible run over the past three seasons, with an amazing 3 back-to-back promotions:

  • 2022/23 – Division D champions, winning the title by a single point
  • 2023/24 – Division C champions, finishing 10 points clear and lifting the Divisional Cup, with a near-miss in the League Cup final (losing out on penalties)
  • 2024/25 – Division B runners-up, just one point off the title, and securing their third straight promotion, plus a trophy win in a tournament in the Netherlands

 

They now start their final youth season in Division A – a fantastic achievement that reflects consistency, team spirit, and real progression.

What makes this story even better is that 14 of the 19 players in the squad played in Division D, and the entire squad is made up of local lads, with the squad being a relatively equal mix of the three main local secondary schools.

Why we’re supporting them

This team’s story resonates with us at Zappaty. It’s about long-term belief, steady progress, constant iterative improvement and surrounding yourself with people who stick with it. That’s how we’re building Zappaty too – through consistency, teamwork, and a drive to do things better.

We’re proud to support a team that reflects our values and our community. Wishing the players, coaches and families a brilliant season ahead.

 

Ever had an upload drop halfway through because your internet dropped? Or worse still, it hit 100%, but quietly failed, and you only found out when the client emailed or called to say, “That file won’t open.” Those are the kind of moments that steal time, patience, and sometimes your reputation.

Zappaty was built to solve this. Not by adding more complexity, but by reducing the friction so you can keep moving, even when systems don’t.

 

Why uploads fail so often

Many tools treat connection drops as a total failure. Miss a millisecond, and you start over. That five-minute upload delay suddenly becomes a thirty-minute nightmare. It’s wasteful – and borderline absurd in today’s connected world.

Most frustratingly, these hiccups always seem to happen at the worst possible moment – right before a deadline, when a team member needs that file, or when time is tight. We’ve been there. That’s why Zappaty pauses when needed and takes up from right where it left off.

 

Here’s how Zappaty brings resilience into file sharing

Uploads resume instantly – connection drops? No need to restart. Your upload picks up where it paused.

Files verified end-to-end – Zappaty checks that your files are exactly what you sent – no surprises, no corrupted versions.

Real-time clarity – your upload bar reflects actual progress, through interruptions and slowdowns.

 

We’re not promising magic – but when the unexpected happens, Zappaty keeps going.

 

Why resilience is essential

If your day involves sharing large files – whether it’s design assets, builds, legal documents, or anything in between – you need a system that won’t let you down.

Every failed transfer is more than just frustration. It’s lost time, broken flow, and often results in costly delays. You deserve a platform and app that understands that reality.

 

Ready to work without the reset?

See how it works for yourself – without the faff.

Register today – try Zappaty free for 90 days

Let’s be honest – file sharing shouldn’t be this hard in 2025.

And yet, here we are. Waiting for uploads to finish. Praying links don’t expire. Wondering if the file actually sent or whether we’ll have to explain the “version_final_FINAL_v7.zip” mess again tomorrow.

 

We’ve all been there. Our team certainly has. In fact, Zappaty exists because we hit breaking point trying to send large files back and forth in a video game development project. And if you’ve ever worked with large 3D models, 4K video, design assets, codebases, or big presentation decks, you’ll know the pain. This isn’t a story about reinventing the wheel. It’s about making the wheel actually turn.

 

It started with a problem. Ours.
We were trying to send massive files and folders – game assets, builds, documentation – and couldn’t find a tool that did the job properly. Uploads would fail. Links would break. Collaboration meant constant back-and-forth. Even using physical external drives.

 

Also, looking at digital options, many products and apps charged per user, which added up quickly. Others worked… until you needed to send something bigger. Or share it with more than one person at a time. We weren’t trying to change the world. We just wanted something that worked the way we worked. So we built it.

 

What makes Zappaty different?
Zappaty isn’t another bloated platform packed with features you’ll never use. It’s simple, secure, and does what it says on the tin. Here’s how we’ve made it better:

  • Uploads that resume, not restart – if your connection drops, you don’t start from scratch. Zappaty picks up where it left off.
  • No per-user pricing – invite who you like. Collaborate freely. After the free trial, your only charges are based on storage, not seats or people.
  • Your files arrive intact – Every transfer is encrypted and verified. Our blockchain-backed integrity checks mean you don’t need to worry about corrupted files or version drift.
  • It’s fast, fair and straightforward – click, click, done! No waiting, no changing files and folders to different formats, no nonsense.

Built for people who just want things to work
If your team sends or stores big files, and we mean BIG – and you’re tired of making do with the status quo, then give Zappaty a try.

It’s especially useful if you work in:

  • Game development and publishing
  • Creative industries (video, design, photography)
  • Tech and development teams
  • Media and production
  • Legal and financial services
  • Marketing and comms
  • Agencies or consultancies

Or if you’re just tired of chasing download links and watching upload bars hang at 97%. See if it’s for you and your team 

 

Try it for yourself
There’s no hard sell here. We believe Zappaty is the best alternative out there – because we built it to solve the exact problems we were facing.

It’s free to try for 90 days. No credit card. No hidden catches. Just a chance to see how much smoother file sharing and collaboration could be.

Give it a go. See what it’s like when things just… work. Register now 

 

An estimated 22% of businesses and 14% of charities have experienced cyber crime in the last 12 months in the UK alone, rising to 45% of medium businesses and 58% of large businesses (UK Government Cyber security breaches survey 2024). It’s no longer just large corporates facing the threat of a breach or cyber attack, as criminals target smaller businesses with less resources available to handle the impact on their business.

Businesses must identify, prioritise, manage, and monitor risks to their tech and infrastructure and continue to assess whether their way of working is resilient enough. A key risk to any business is where data and content is shared between locations or between internal and external parties.

In larger organisations and regulated businesses, Audit and Risk committees have also seen cyber threat rise to one of the top risks preoccupying the business, but with an estimated 14.8 cyber-attacks against UK businesses every minute, you’d have thought that tools to secure any data transfer would be a key requirement. Not so, as many businesses still use unsecure tools and basic email for sharing important and sensitive information.

Zappaty addresses this threat by providing robust encryption that ensures files are secured before they even leave the sender’s machine. This end-to-end encryption, over blockchain, means that data remains protected throughout its entire journey, reducing the risk of unauthorised interception, especially crucial when safeguarding sensitive or protected private information. Zappaty offers users peace of mind and confidence that their vital data and content is shared securely with external partners, clients, and collaborators.

Zappaty was built from the ground up to add an extra layer of protection to your data and security.

Feel the benefit of what Zappaty can bring to you or your business with our 90-day free trial, sign up today. https://www.zappaty.com/register

Growing a small business can be challenging enough without spending needlessly on tools to help you run it. Fortunately, there are several tools available for SMEs that can simplify operations and boost productivity without costing the earth. Here are our top 12 tools that small businesses should consider:

 

  1. Canva: A graphic design tool that makes it easy to create professional-looking designs. It’s intuitive, easy to get started and there are lots of videos online to get you putting promotions and ads together quickly – there is a free option but the paid-for version is a small cost with a big benefit. https://www.canva.com/
  2. Xero: Cloud-based accounting software that offers real-time financial data, making it easier to manage cash flow and make informed decisions. It can be a bit complex for beginners but once it starts to learn from you, it will greatly increase your efficiency. https://www.xero.com/
  3. Slack: If you have a small team, Slack can be a great tool. It’s a communication platform that makes team collaboration much easier – a perfect service alongside Zappaty. https://slack.com/
  4. Zappaty: Our secure file sharing and collaboration service helps you share important content with colleagues, clients and other teams … and lots of it … Zappaty quickly and easily helps you transfer files and stay in control. https://www.zappaty.com/
  5. Google Meet: A video conferencing tool essential for remote meetings. It’s easy to use and gives more free time than some of its competitors. https://meet.google.com/
  6. Trello: A project management tool that uses boards and cards to organise tasks. It is visually appealing and suited to small business needs and budgets. https://trello.com/
  7. Mailchimp: A low-cost and user-friendly email marketing platform that helps businesses reach their audience. It’s feature-rich but can be expensive for larger subscriber lists. https://mailchimp.com/
  8. HubSpot: If you need a more comprehensive way to manage your customer database and interactions, HubSpot may be for you. A marketing, sales, and customer service software that helps businesses grow and can scale with them. https://www.hubspot.com/
  9. Shopify: An e-commerce platform that supports businesses setting up an online store. It is user-friendly but keep track of transaction fees to help you stay competitive. https://www.shopify.com/
  10. Buffer: A social media management, publishing and tracking tool that allows you to schedule posts and improve performance. It’s comprehensive and not as complex as other tools on the market. https://buffer.com/
  11. Google Analytics: This is the most popular website analytics tool. If you have a digital presence or rely on digital sales, it measures your website traffic and conversions and also provides insights into your best and worst-performing pages, of your website so you can make quick improvements. https://analytics.google.com/
  12. AppSumo: Access this site to buy low-cost lifetime subscriptions to many software tools allowing you and your business to manage outgoings more easily. https://appsumo.com/

There’s a huge range of tools available to help your business grow but choosing the right ones is key. Zappaty can be an essential part of … yes, we’re biased … will help you share and collaborate on huge files – try us out on a 90-day free trial today https://www.zappaty.com/register

In today’s digital landscape, secure digital file transfer services have moved from being a nice-to-have to being a necessity. They offer a multitude of benefits that can significantly boost efficiency and help individuals and teams collaborate in a way they never thought possible. One such service is our very own Zappaty.

A service like Zappaty provides a stable and efficient way of transferring very large files. Traditional methods like email often have size restrictions, causing delays. With digital file transfer, you can send massive files to the other side of the room or the other side of the world quickly.

Zappaty offers robust security features, ensuring your sensitive data remains protected. It uses encryption protocols to safeguard your files from unauthorised access during transit and storage. This security allows businesses to focus on their core operations, rather than worrying about potential risks and threats.

Sending files through Zappaty you can monitor who has accessed the files and when, providing a clear audit trail. This transparency can improve accountability within any team, leading to increased productivity.

It is important to have cost-effective solutions as your business grows. Secure digital file transfer services like Zappaty can help with this. They offer great features without being a burden on your budget.

Secure file transfer and collaboration can be a game-changer for businesses looking to enhance productivity. By providing a stable, secure, and cost-effective way of transferring files, they allow businesses to operate more smoothly and effectively. So why not give Zappaty a try? Sign up for Zappaty today and take your business to the next level.

We’ve just rolled out Team Management within our encrypted large file-sharing service, making it even easier (and more cost-effective) for SMEs to collaborate securely.

Only pay for what you use
Unlike other services that charge per user, Zappaty’s Team Management ensures your business only pays for storage, not headcount. This means no unnecessary costs, no wasted subscriptions – just a simple, fair pricing model that scales with your needs. Also with the option of a 90-day free trial for you and your business.

Secure collaboration for your whole team
Register multiple team members under a single account admin and maintain tight control over access and security. Whether you’re working with in-house staff or external partners on an important piece of work, everyone stays connected within a fully encrypted file-sharing environment. It’s easy to set your team up:

  • Sign up for Zappaty at https://www.zappaty.com/register
  • Sign in to your Account and go to the Team Management tab
  • Invite team members using their name and company email address
  • Team members receive an email invitation to join your team
  • They download the Zappaty app and can start securely sending large folders straight away
  • As the admin, you’re in control—track the latest activity in your Zappaty Account

Hassle-free setup and management
Setting up your team is as simple as signing up, adding users, and managing permissions—all from one intuitive dashboard. No complex onboarding, no IT headaches—just a seamless, efficient way to bring your team together.

Scalable for growing businesses
As your business expands, Zappaty grows with you. Add new team members as needed without increasing your costs unnecessarily. You only pay for storage used! Whether you’re a startup, a creative agency, or a professional services firm, you stay in control of your data and your budget.

Work anywhere, with confidence
Remote teams? Multiple locations? No problem. Zappaty’s Team Management feature keeps everyone connected and productive, no matter where they are—without compromising on security or ease of use.

Ready to simplify and save? Sign up today at https://www.zappaty.com/register and get your team set up in minutes!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the demand for efficient and secure file-sharing solutions has never been higher. Enter Zappaty, a cutting-edge tech file-sharing startup that’s set to redefine the way we transfer and store large files. With its state-of-the-art technology and an impressive team behind it, Zappaty is quickly gaining recognition in the market. But there’s more to the story. We’re thrilled to announce that former professional rugby player and coach, Adam Ashe, has come on board as an investor and Business Development Manager, bringing his unique blend of sportsmanship and business acumen to this exciting venture.

Adam Ashe, a former professional rugby player, reached the pinnacle of playing for his country but also faced a challenging career marked by injuries. Despite these setbacks, he represented Scotland and played for Glasgow Warriors before joining the LA Giltinis in Major League Rugby (MLR). Ashe eventually retired from professional rugby through injury and transitioned into coaching, working with the Chicago Hounds in the MLR. He then decided to return to Scotland to focus on his post-rugby career. Besides coaching, Ashe became involved in various business ventures, including co-founding Pure Sport, where he remains a shareholder to this day.

Adam plays a crucial dual role at Zappaty as an investor and Business Development Manager. With a wealth of experience in professional rugby and a robust network within the sports industry, Adam is spearheading the initiative to attract further investment. His unique background and influential connections provide a strong foundation for expanding Zappaty’s market presence, ensuring the company’s continued growth and success in the tech industry. Adam expressed his thoughts on Zappaty saying: “What Zappaty are doing with innovative technology and secure encrypted file sharing really piqued my interest and made me want to get involved, both as an investor and also helping the business to grow in a high potential market. I’m excited about Zappaty, reaching out to my network for investments, and the unique skills our diverse shareholders bring to the table.”

Emphasizing the significance of this investment Zappaty’s joint CEO David Stickland stated: “Having Adam Ashe involved in our growth journey is a game-changer for us. His ability to connect with fellow rugby players and those in the wider rugby community, and share his enthusiasm for Zappaty’s innovative technology has already proven to be a significant asset. We are thrilled to have him on board, and his commitment underscores our potential to thrive and innovate in the tech industry.”

As we look ahead, Zappaty is poised for remarkable growth, supported by Adam and the rest of the team, with a mission to make sharing large files simple, secure, and efficient. We’re excited about the journey ahead, and with our expanding network and a shared commitment to excellence, the possibilities are endless. The future holds great promise for Zappaty and its expanding role in the tech world.

If you want to find out more about the business or how to get involved, contact Adam Ashe here at Zappaty. Like any investment, capital is at risk.

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, efficient file sharing has become an indispensable aspect of every professional’s workflow. As businesses increasingly rely on digital collaboration and data exchange, the need for a reliable and secure file-sharing platform has never been greater.

In the realm of file sharing platforms, several names have risen to popularity for their user-friendly interfaces and convenient file transfer capabilities. Platforms like WeTransfer, OneDrive, and Box have garnered widespread use due to their ease of use and compatibility with various devices and operating systems.

However, the ever-evolving landscape of file-sharing platforms, is constantly introducing new contenders, each aiming to address the limitations of their predecessors. These limitations include aspects like file size and storage constraints, security vulnerabilities, and complex pricing structures.

In this blog, we’ll delve into six distinctive aspects that set Zappaty apart from the crowd and why it’s the best choice for effortless and budget-friendly large file transfers and collaboration.

 

Summary

Discover Zappaty’s game-changing file sharing advantages, including the following:

  1. Resilient uploads
  2. Ironclad security
  3. Transparent pricing
  4. Two-way transfer
  5. Precise control
  6. Permanent storage

Start your 90-day free trial here for seamless collaboration and secure sharing for your large files.

1. Resilient Handling of Failed File Uploads:

Frustration with other file sharing tools often arises from their inability to handle failed uploads efficiently. Traditional platforms often lack the capacity to deliver a seamless experience, particularly in the face of unreliable internet connections . This situation, can lead to users performing repeated upload attempts, ultimately wasting time and inducing unnecessary stress.

Zappaty’s innovative technology and robust infrastructure are designed to tackle this challenge head-on. By implementing error recovery mechanisms, Zappaty ensures that even if an upload is interrupted, the system automatically resumes and completes the process once the internet connection stabilizes. This feature saves time and effort for users who might otherwise need to start the upload process from scratch.

2. Robust Encryption for Secure File Sharing between Corporate Companies:

When it comes to exchanging sensitive information between companies, file security is paramount. Many file sharing platforms, including popular ones like OneDrive, may not provide the level of security required for sharing sensitive information between various organizations. Additionally, relying on traditional email methods for such transfers, can lead to significant concerns about data breaches and unauthorized access.

Zappaty addresses these concerns by offering robust encryption protocols that secure files before they leave the sender’s firewall. This end-to-end encryption ensures that data remains protected throughout its journey, mitigating the risk of unauthorized interception and safeguarding sensitive information. As a result, Zappaty can provide users with peace of mind and confidence in its security capabilities, enabling individuals and businesses to securely share sensitive files with external partners, clients and collaborators.

3. Transparent Pricing Model:

Complex and unpredictable pricing models are a common frustration with other file sharing tools. Some platforms, such as OneDrive, WeTransfer and Box may employ a per user pricing model. This approach can pose challenges for businesses aiming to manage their file sharing costs effectively as their teams expand. Unfortunately, in some instances, these pricing models can become entirely cost-prohibitive, hindering organizations from efficiently expanding their collaborative efforts.

Zappaty sets itself apart by offering a simple and transparent pricing model that doesn’t penalize customers for adding more users to their account. This user-friendly approach ensures that businesses, big or small, can scale without worrying about escalating costs, making Zappaty an attractive and cost-effective option.

4. Two-Way File Transfer:

Collaboration often involves back-and-forth communication and file exchanges. Many file sharing platforms lack seamless two-way file transfer capabilities, leading to confusion, inefficiency, and delays.

Zappaty’s multi-way transfer functionality allows users to send and receive files easily within the same platform. This streamlined communication fosters teamwork, accelerates decision-making, and enhances overall productivity for businesses and individuals alike.

5. Enhanced Control over File Sharing:

In collaborative environments, maintaining granular control over file access and changes is paramount. Unlike many other file sharing tools that may lack sufficient control options, Zappaty stands out with its easy-to-use control features, putting you in charge of your data.

One of Zappaty’s unique features is the “1-Way” download setting. . This feature allows you to share files as read-only, preventing accidental changes from being uploaded – and overwriting the original file. This is particularly valuable when sharing critical documents or files where the reference copy must remain unchanged, ensuring data integrity and avoiding any unintentional modifications.

Another standout capability within Zappaty is its ability to “block” individuals from receiving any further changes to a previously shared file. There are instances when you may have shared a file with someone in the past, but circumstances change, and you no longer wish to provide them with access to the most recent updates or modifications. With this feature, you can revoke a user’s access to the latest changes while still allowing them to view the version they had previously received. This functionality is especially valuable in situations where project roles shift, team members change, or partnerships evolve. It grants you the flexibility to manage access rights effectively, ensuring that the right information reaches the right people at the right time.

By offering this level of control, Zappaty puts you in the driver’s seat for your file sharing interactions, enabling you to tailor access privileges to specific recipients. You can define who can view, edit, or download files, granting appropriate permissions to collaborators based on their roles and responsibilities. This level of customization ensures that sensitive data remains confidential and is only accessible to authorized individuals.

 

6. Permanent Storage with Version History:

Data loss and accidental file modifications can also be of significant concern with other file sharing platforms. Users may not have access to previous versions of files, or platforms may not make it easy for users to retrieve their version history, leading to data inconsistencies and potential setbacks.

Zappaty, on the other hand, solves this problem by offering a comprehensive version history feature that ensures no data is ever lost. As a permanent storage solution, Zappaty maintains a record of all previous versions of your files that have been uploaded, allowing you to access and restore any specific version whenever needed.

This powerful version control capability puts users in full control of their shared files. Whether you need to view what changes were made, assess past iterations, or revert to an earlier version, Zappaty’s version history provides a safety net to ensure seamless collaboration.

Imagine a scenario where multiple collaborators are working on a crucial project, and unintended changes occur. With Zappaty, you can easily examine each version, compare changes, and determine which iteration is best suited for your current needs. Users have the flexibility to download previous versions, review the contents, and decide whether to overwrite the current file by re-uploading a specific version.

By providing such fine-grained control, Zappaty empowers users to prevent errors, avoid potential data loss, and maintain the integrity of their shared files. This level of control promotes effective collaboration and decision-making, allowing users to make informed choices about their file versions, contributing to a seamless and productive working experience.

In summary, Zappaty’s version history feature offers users a powerful tool to access, review, and restore previous file versions effortlessly. This capability safeguards against data loss, empowers users to manage their shared files effectively, and fosters smooth collaboration among team members. With Zappaty, users can trust that their valuable data is preserved, ensuring uninterrupted progress and the highest level of data integrity.

In a landscape where efficiency, security, control, and collaboration are critical, Zappaty aims to distinguish itself by offering a thoughtful approach to enhancing the file sharing experience. By adeptly addressing the shortcomings of conventional platforms through resilient error recovery mechanisms, robust encryption protocols, transparent pricing, streamlined two-way file transfers, and comprehensive control over shared files, Zappaty is a compelling contender in the digital collaboration arena.

Experience these features firsthand by enrolling in a 90-day free trial of Zappaty.

In the rapidly evolving world of game development, the importance of robust backup and seamless collaboration cannot be overstated. Software that allows for secure data storage and effective team collaboration can significantly impact productivity and the overall development experience.

In our continuous efforts to better understand and cater to the needs of Unity developers, we recently conducted a survey focusing on the use of game development backup and collaboration platforms. The survey gathered responses on what software developers worldwide use, what features they appreciate the most, and what challenges they face with their current platforms.

 

Highlights:

  • The survey revealed that GitHub is the preferred backup and collaboration tool for 58% of Unity developers.
  • User-friendliness, comprehensive features, and flexibility are highly valued in game development platforms.
  • Challenges include managing merges/conflicts, learning complex interfaces, and handling large files.
  • Zappaty aims to address these pain points and enhance the game development experience.

Preferred game backup and collaboration tools

Our survey results pointed out a distinct preference among Unity developers: GitHub, which was the choice for an overwhelming 58% of responses. Other platforms such as BitBucket (5%), Plastic SCM (12%), and GitLab (3%) also had users, but none approached GitHub’s dominance. Lesser-used software tools including Unity Collaborate, Perforce, Sourcetree, Tortoise, and GitHub Desktop further underscored the supremacy of a few key platforms in the game development backup and collaboration domain.

GitHub’s dominance is unsurprising with its “State of the Octoverse 2022” report revealing that there are over 94 million developers on the platform.1 This prevalence is likely due to GitHub’s perceived ease of use, robust feature set, extensive community support, and its compatibility with numerous programming languages and environments. Not to mention since Microsoft’s acquisition of GitHub in 2018, the platform has seen significant improvements in its features and capabilities. Gaining the backing of a major player in the tech industry would no doubt have boosted the confidence of many users in the platform’s longevity.

With Unity’s adoption of PlasticSCM in 2020, you might expect a rise in adoption of this tool as Unity integrates it more closely with its platform. Only time will tell whether this acquisition will challenge Git’s dominance, or if a new tool on the block—like our very own Zappaty—will make some serious waves. Have you had the chance to experience the magic of Zappaty yet?

Pie chart displaying the distribution of software tools used by Unity developers for backup and collaborationFig 1: Preferred tools used by Unity Devs

Features that make a difference

When developers were asked about what they liked about these software platforms, 41% favoured user-friendliness and comprehensive features. This confirms the fundamental need for intuitive interfaces and comprehensive solutions that encompass various aspects of game development, such as version control, issue tracking, code reviewing, and project management features. Having all these features integrated into a single platform can streamline the development workflow and enhance productivity.
The preference for platforms with “Flexibility” is another noteworthy aspect. Game development projects can vary greatly in scope and requirements, and developers appreciate platforms that can adapt to different project needs. Specifically, a platforms ability to integrate with other development and project management tools was highly rated.

Other prominent aspects included ease of learning, cost-effectiveness, and community support. Accessible and comprehensive documentation helps developers understand the platform’s capabilities and effectively utilize its features. Furthermore, an active and supportive community fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving among developers. Platforms that cultivate a strong community can offer valuable resources and support to developers as they navigate the challenges of game development.

Pie chart depicting the most liked features of all reported software tools used by Unity DevelopersFig 2: Combined results of all the responses from Unity Devs of the most liked features in the tools they use.

The pain points

When asked what they dislike about existing platforms, the most reported issue was managing merges and conflicts, a concern for 18% of developers. This finding is unsurprising, given the complexities associated with version control, especially in large-scale projects. Platforms providing tools and features to manage code merges and conflicts efficiently is important as it significantly impacts developers’ productivity and workflow.

Difficulty in learning or finding interfaces confusing was another notable concern for 10% of developers. It’s true, mastering Git’s intricate command-line interface and its decentralised architecture can be steep learning curve for even the most experienced developer; further emphasising the need for platforms to produce comprehensive learning resources.

Handling large files was also a significant pain point. With game development projects often involving the management of substantial assets, it’s no surprise that this is high on the list of frustrations and there is a strong desire for robust solutions that can efficiently manage and store large files.

Other areas of dissatisfaction included collaboration, cost, and unreliability. The cost of using certain platforms can be a concern, particularly for indie developers and smaller studios with limited budgets, making platforms with free plans or low-cost tiers an attractive choice.

Pie chart depicting the most underwhelming features of all reported software tools used by Unity Developers for backup and collaboration purposesFig 3: Combined results of all the responses from Unity Devs of the most underwhelming features in the tools they use.

Conclusion

These survey insights offer a revealing look into the preferences and challenges of Unity developers. There’s a clear preference for certain backup and collaboration tools, most notably GitHub. However, we also see a pressing need to address challenges related to managing merges and conflicts, easing the learning curve, and effectively handling large files.

At Zappaty we are dedicated to enhancing the game development experience, we see these insights as a valuable guide in refining our service offerings. We aim to build on the strengths of existing tools while addressing their shortcomings.

Zappaty at its core simplifies collaboration with contractors, effortlessly handles large files, and has a minimal learning curve. It is budget-friendly, making it ideal for solo and smaller studio developers looking for a reliable backup solution, and with easy access to project history, Zappaty ensures that no work is ever lost. If you need a tool to keep your projects safe and facilitate seamless file transfers, look no further than Zappaty.

Our own development journey is far from over, these insights will continue to serve as a roadmap, directing us as we strive to deliver the ultimate backup and collaboration solution that meets the needs of Unity developers.

References

  1. 1. GitHub, 2022. State of the Octoverse 2022. Available at: [https://octoverse.github.com/2022/developer-community] (Accessed: 08 June 2023).

Disclaimer: This is based on qualitative data collected over a 4 month period from Unity Developers Globally on LinkdIn. Out of the 647 Unity Developers asked, 314 responded.

 

Download the full report in PDF format: Full Report Download.