
Peer-to-Peer Marketplace for Scientists - Peerwith
Researcher services marketplace to connect experts with scientists

Industry
- Publishing
- Science
Technology
Services
Customer’s Location
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
About the Project
Peerwith is a peer-to-peer platform that connects non-native English-speaking academics with freelance editors. With Peerwith, researchers can find experts for services like copy editing, manuscript evaluation, and writing support. The platform builds trust through client ratings and testimonials on expert profiles. For editors, Peerwith offers access to cutting-edge research across fields from economics to climate change, proving both income and the satisfaction of helping important work reach publication. The straightforward payment system ensures both parties can focus on what matters - getting quality research into academic conversation.

The Challenge
Peerwith faced significant growth constraints as their user base expanded. The platform struggled to support its increasing network of partners and academic users seeking editorial services. They urgently needed solutions for marketplace expansion and implementation of new features to meet rising demand. Beyond immediate development needs, the startup required a flexible team scaling solution that could adapt to fluctuating development requirements throughout different project phases.
Our Process
ELITEX began our partnership with Peerwith in 2017, after the client had experimented with multiple freelancers and development companies without finding a satisfactory long-term solution. Our consistent approach and reliable delivery convinced them to establish a lasting relationship with our team.
We maintained exceptional flexibility throughout our partnership. Our development team composition evolved based on project demands, incorporating professionals with varying skill levels and specializations. We demonstrated strong capabilities in preparing and mentoring new team members joining the project, ensuring smooth knowledge transfer and consistent quality despite team changes.
Our Solution
We implemented a balanced management approach that satisfied both parties. While ELITEX handled internal team management, motivation, and professional development, Peerwith’s CTO maintained direct communication with our engineers, establishing priorities and managing task distribution.
We used the following technology stack:
Backend:
- Node.js
- Express
- MongoDB
- Elasticsearch
Frontend:
- AngularJS
- Angular 2+
- Polymer
- HTML/CSS
We deployed all web applications using AWS (Amazon Web Services), which enabled cost-effective infrastructure scaling while maintaining optimal performance under increasing load conditions.


As an outsourced team, ELITEX serves as a cost-effective development option. They have proven to be a reliable vendor that is capable of finding, training, and implementing the appropriate resources to meet project requirements. Their experience with an array of technology is a definite strength.
The Result
Our engineering team successfully developed numerous platform sections, including:
- Submission portal
- Complete invoicing system
- Enhanced ranking functionality
- Experts section
- Administrative sections
- Customized partners' webpages
During our cooperation, Peerwith also launched Cockpit—a sophisticated SaaS management console designed for partner-level administrative users. Our team contributed significantly to this product by developing essential features for:
- Detailed platform usage monitoring at a partner level;
- Access and controlling features related to a partner / institutional account;
- Administrative features (budgeting or billing);
- Reporting functionality.
While the core development work for Peerwith has been completed, ELITEX continued to provide valued support to the startup by developing new system components and refining existing ones for several years.
Our Project Team
The development team fluctuated between 2-6 specialists based on current project requirements. We maintained consistent front-end developer and project manager presence throughout the engagement, ensuring continuity and stable communication. Additional frontend, backend developers, and a DevOps specialist joined when needed for specific development phases or infrastructure improvements. This flexible staffing approach allowed us to match Peerwith’s changing needs while keeping costs optimized.


ELITEX can quickly scale the team up or down to meet our needs. They’re very flexible in that regard. If we tell them we need specific resources for a project next month, they recruit the people that we need, and it only takes a few days to get them up to speed. ELITEX prepares and mentors all of their employees well.
Why Partner With ELITEX?
Publishing and science organizations choose ELITEX for four compelling reasons:
-
Cost-effective development expertise
We deliver high-quality development at rates below Western European markets, allowing clients to invest more in platform features and security.
-
Industry-specific knowledge
Our experience with OA Switchboard, STM Integrity Hub, and Peerwith demonstrates our deep understanding of how scientific publishing works. We invest time learning industry regulations and data privacy requirements for each project—our clients receive a tech partner who really cares.
-
Seamless team integration
We adapt to your needs with flexible team scaling. Need more resources next month? We recruit and onboard quickly, with minimal ramp-up time. Our ability to integrate with existing teams makes us ideal for rapidly evolving projects.
-
Direct and transparent communication
No excessive management layers basically means you work directly with developers. Our transparent approach ensures quick decision-making and regular stakeholder updates.
Other Case Studies
Publishing Software Development - The OA Switchboard
An open-source publishing management hub
Problem
The OA Switchboard needed a technology partner to develop their platform from scratch, specifically requiring expertise in scholarly information and open-source solutions.
Solution
ELITEX built a serverless message hub using AWS services, complete with a user-friendly UI and custom connectors, allowing seamless communication between publishers, institutions, and funders.

STM Integrity Hub Development - Case Study
A publishing platform for research integrity
Problem
STM required a secure web-based platform to validate research papers while maintaining stict data privacy and compliance with legal standards. They faced challenges in creating a scalable system for multiple publishers and finding a flexible development partner to adapt to market demands.
Solution
ELITEX designed and built a secure, scalable platform using AWS serverless architecture and custom API connectors for publishers. The system ensures privacy, compliance, and seamless integration, enabling publishers to screen research papers and uphold scientific integrity.

Hotel Reservation and Property Management System Software Development
Cloud-based hotel and property management SaaS solution
Problem
The client needed to accelerate product development and feature delivery while maintaining high quality standards, specifically requiring senior-level engineers working from a single office location.
Solution
ELITEX provided team augmentation with senior frontend developers, later expanding to include backend and QA engineers to form an autonomous team with the office in Lviv, with adjusted work schedules to align with US operations.

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