Team spotlight: Mobile app development

When this team needs to recharge, they take things to a new level! 

And we mean this literally because they go to the empty floor above our offices and toss around a stress ball. 

All jokes aside, our talented mobile app development team—Marko Pavičić, Leo Svjetličić, Mato Zečević, and Adrian Župarić, led by Miran Hrupački—has already completed notable projects despite their status as a young team of professionals.  

Let’s check out how this team works “behind the scenes”!

What motivated you to choose to work at Barrage while studying for exams instead of just enjoying your free time and partying?

ADRIAN: I first heard about Barrage from a friend, which sparked my interest in gaining real-world experience early on. Seeing others balance work and studies motivated me to do the same. Working here has given me practical skills I can’t get from university alone, especially when it comes to problem-solving and handling bugs. 

Surprisingly, during exam periods, coming to work actually feels like a mental break. It helps me switch focus and refresh. Beyond technical skills, I’ve also improved in teamwork, communication, and self-confidence. Overall, Barrage has been a great place to grow both professionally and personally.

MATO: Working while studying might not be the typical choice, but when a friend told me that Barrage was opening its renowned Forge program, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. Forge gave me the chance to channel what I was learning at university into real projects, broadening my perspective far beyond academic theory. 

Alongside my studies, I’m gaining hands-on experience and working with experienced mentors and a team that’s always willing to help and share knowledge. Ultimately, working at Barrage has become more than just a job; it’s a chance to grow and connect with people who share my passions.

MARKO: I was drawn to work at Barrage during my studies because I saw it as an opportunity to blend learning with practical experience. The hands-on projects here allow me to apply what I’ve studied directly to real-world applications, which is something you can’t get from textbooks alone. 

Instead of seeing work as a sacrifice of free time, I felt it was a chance to grow both personally and professionally. Barrage’s supportive environment and team culture made it a rewarding place to develop skills early on, which felt more meaningful to me than simply enjoying time off.

LEO: It might sound a bit surprising, but I thought working at Barrage could actually be a nice break from just studying all the time. I mean, studying for exams is important, of course, but I figured getting some real work experience would also be really useful. Plus, I thought it might help me learn things that would be helpful for my studies, too. Also, I think I just wanted to try something new and see what it’s like to work in a real company. And I thought it could be a good chance to meet people who are passionate about similar things.

What is your proudest moment as a team?

MIRAN: Completing projects together as a team, where we always supported each other, has been a great achievement. Even when we were less experienced, we proved that we could work well together and deliver good results.

ADRIAN: My proudest moment as a team was definitely working on my first project, Travelspot. It was a huge learning experience for me, especially since I was new to everything. 

One of the toughest challenges we faced was implementing the chat feature, but the way the team came together to solve problems was inspiring. No matter what issues came up, we were always there to support each other, which made the experience even more rewarding. It showed me the true value of teamwork and collaboration.

MATO: I think our proudest moment as a team was when we successfully delivered a highly challenging project that pushed us out of our comfort zones. Facing unexpected issues along the way actually brought us closer and showed us the strength of our teamwork. Completing that project together proved what we’re capable of as a team and gave us a huge sense of accomplishment.

MARKO: Our proudest moment as a team was launching a complex project under a tight deadline. Everyone came together, contributing their strengths—whether in problem-solving, coding, testing, or just motivating each other. We faced unexpected challenges, but seeing how each team member stepped up and collaborated reinforced the value of our team spirit.

LEO: Our proudest moment, in my opinion, was when the team tackled a project that initially seemed beyond our abilities. We had to learn new tools and adapt quickly, and everyone contributed ideas and took on extra responsibilities to make it happen. As we progressed, we realized how much we were growing as a team and individually.

How do you add value through your work, and what inspires you the most to do what you do?

MIRAN: The team is made up of young people who are eager to advance and contribute to the company. They are always ready for new challenges and new technologies, which makes my job easier. I am glad they constantly push boundaries and make this job more exciting. There are always ups and downs, but we always reach a solution that satisfies everyone as a team. 

What inspires me in this job is that there is always something new to learn, whether on my own or from other colleagues. What also inspires me is when we complete a project and see how much we have accomplished and how much experience it has brought us as a team.

ADRIAN: I add value by constantly exploring new approaches, architectures, and solutions to recurring challenges. I’m always looking for ways to improve how we solve problems and make our projects more efficient. What inspires me most is simply the passion I have for what I do. I genuinely enjoy trying new techniques and continuously learning, which keeps me motivated to push boundaries and bring fresh ideas to the team.

MATO: My focus is on creating reliable code and testing it thoroughly to meet our team’s high standards. I make a point to contribute by staying proactive, asking questions, and taking on tasks that allow me to grow while supporting the team’s goals. I’m inspired by the chance to learn and grow with guidance from more experienced team members. Knowing that my contributions support the team’s progress motivates me to keep improving and take on new challenges.

MARKO: I add value by focusing on clean, efficient code and ensuring the user experience is smooth and reliable. As mobile developers, our goal is to create apps that are not only functional but also engaging and intuitive, making the end user’s experience enjoyable. What inspires me most is the impact my work can have on people’s daily lives, whether it’s making tasks easier, enhancing their experiences, or simply creating a product that users can rely on. The idea that something I build might make a positive difference is what drives me to keep learning, improving, and pushing the limits of what our team can achieve.

LEO: People aren't very patient when it comes to mobile apps, so I put my best effort into making sure everything looks and runs as smoothly as possible. This challenge is also one of my biggest inspirations. I love challenging myself to create seamless, engaging experiences that users will enjoy. Knowing that I have to meet high expectations motivates me to continuously learn and improve as a developer. My goal is not only to satisfy users but also to make things easier for my team and let them know they can always count on me.

What do you do when you run into a blocker you can’t seem to resolve?

MIRAN: When I encounter a problem, like everyone else, I try to solve it on my own first. I think about whether I have faced a similar situation before, and if not, it's always best to break the problem down into smaller parts to make it easier for myself. Of course, like any developer, I rely on Google because it knows everything :). However, sometimes it’s better to seek help from your team or colleagues because everyone thinks differently. You can always hear something interesting, and someone can give you an idea, or remind you of things you might not have considered.

ADRIAN: When I encounter a blocker, I treat it as an opportunity to learn something new. I usually take a step back and approach the problem from a different angle, almost like solving a puzzle. Sometimes, even taking a short break to clear my mind can reveal a solution I hadn’t considered before. If I’m still stuck, I don’t hesitate to reach out to my team. I’ve learned that discussing the issue with colleagues can spark new ideas and solutions that I might not have thought of alone. For me, collaboration isn’t just a fallback—it’s a way to grow and make the entire team stronger.

MATO: When I run into a blocker, I first try to understand the core of the problem and experiment with different approaches on my own. If I still can't resolve it, Google and Stack Overflow are my best friends. I search through documentation and examples to see if others have faced similar issues. If that doesn’t lead to a solution, I turn to my team for advice. Discussing the issue with others often brings new insights and helps me find the solution more efficiently.

MARKO: When I hit a blocker, my first step is to analyze the problem from different angles and try to break it down into smaller, manageable pieces. If that doesn’t work, I’ll research solutions, looking through documentation, forums, and open-source examples to find relevant insights. If I’m still stuck, I’ll reach out to my team; we have a culture of open communication, and discussing issues often spark fresh ideas or reveals perspectives I hadn’t considered. This collaborative approach not only helps resolve the problem but also strengthens our team’s collective knowledge and troubleshooting skills.

LEO: The first thing I do when I run into a blocker is try to understand the problem in detail. Then, I research possible solutions that others may have found. If that doesn’t bear fruit, I reach out to my colleagues for help. As the saying goes, two pairs of eyes are often better than one, especially after spending too much time on a single issue, where it’s easy to get stuck in one way of thinking.

What does your typical day at work look like?

MIRAN: A new workday never begins without coffee and a catch-up with colleagues. After that, it's time to check the calendar, handle meetings, go through Jira, and work on developing a strategic plan for the team. This is followed by focus time and working on tasks while looking forward to the lunch or coffee break. Throughout the day, we always try to take short breaks to clear our minds.

ADRIAN: My day at work starts with catching up on some tech articles while waiting for the rest of the team to arrive. Once everyone’s in, we head up to the 12th floor for our ritual morning coffee break—it’s a great way to kick off the day. After that, I dive into coding and problem-solving. But it’s not all serious work; we keep the atmosphere fun and lively. Throughout the day, there’s plenty of playful banter, whether it’s unplugging each other’s monitors, hiding keyboards, or even locking someone’s chair under the desk. This mix of productivity and laughs keeps the energy high and makes every day enjoyable.

MATO: My typical day begins with a quick look at Slack and email to catch up on any messages or updates. I then check my calendar for any scheduled meetings and review Jira to see what tasks I need to focus on that day. I like to touch base with colleagues for a few quick chats to align priorities or get feedback on ongoing projects. Once I have a clear plan, I get to work on coding, whether it’s building new features, fixing bugs, or optimizing performance. I also take short breaks with my team members to stay fresh and focused. 

MARKO: A typical day at work starts with catching up on emails and messages to stay updated on any important communications. I then check Jira for new tasks and updates, prioritizing what needs to be done. After that, I dive into coding, focusing on feature development or bug fixes while collaborating with my teammates as needed for feedback or assistance. Throughout the day, I make time for code reviews and participate in any meetings or stand-ups. I like to wrap up by documenting my progress and setting goals for the next day, ensuring I'm organized and ready to tackle whatever comes next!

LEO: A typical day at work usually starts with a brief team meeting, where we discuss our ongoing projects and any issues we might be facing. After that, I start coding, sometimes implementing new features, fixing bugs, or optimizing existing code. I usually spend a good portion of my day writing and testing code, making sure everything runs smoothly on different devices and screen sizes. I also take time for research, whether it’s learning about new libraries, keeping up with industry trends, or exploring best practices.

If you weren’t working as a mobile app developer, what do you think you’d be doing?

MIRAN: If I weren’t working as a mobile app developer, I’d probably try my hand at a career in DevOps. Although I don’t have much knowledge in that area yet, I find it really interesting because it plays such a crucial role in the project lifecycle—from initial setup to being involved throughout the project. After that, I think I’d likely specialize in security, as it’s another area that fascinates me and is becoming increasingly important in today’s technology world.

ADRIAN: If I weren’t a mobile app developer, I could see myself diving into backend development. I’ve always been intrigued by the challenge of building robust systems that work seamlessly behind the scenes. However, if I were to step outside the world of tech entirely, I’d probably be in the cockpit of an airplane. When I was choosing my field of study, I was genuinely torn between computer science and becoming a pilot. There’s something exhilarating about the freedom of flying and the precision it requires. Even now, the idea of navigating through the clouds remains a dream of mine, and who knows—maybe one day I’ll take it up as a serious hobby!

MATO: If I weren’t working as a mobile app developer, I think I’d be working in a field closely related to engineering. I had a tough time deciding between Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering when choosing my studies because I’ve always had a passion for 3D modeling and CAD software. The idea of designing complex systems and creating physical prototypes fascinated me. If I’d chosen Mechanical Engineering, I could see myself working on product design and developing mechanical systems. 

MARKO: If I weren’t working as a mobile app developer, I think I’d be pursuing a career as a software developer in a different domain, perhaps focusing on backend development or systems administration. I enjoy the challenge of optimizing systems and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Working on server infrastructure or database management would allow me to apply my problem-solving skills and technical knowledge in a different way. Ultimately, I believe I’d still be in the tech field, as my passion for technology and development drives me to explore various aspects of the industry.

LEO: If I stayed in the software and programming field, I could see myself working in machine learning and AI. It would be rewarding to witness and influence the many benefits these technologies bring to our everyday lives. Outside of programming, I could envision pursuing a career in chemistry. I’ve always been fascinated by the science behind reactions and the principles of how and why things work. Working in a lab, whether researching new materials or developing pharmaceuticals, would be exciting. I believe it would be fulfilling to contribute to advancements in science and technology.

What’s the best way for the team to recharge during a break from work?

ADRIAN: The best way our team recharges is by heading up to the 12th floor for some much-needed fun and caffeine. It usually starts with a coffee break but quickly escalates into a friendly game where we kick around a stress ball, aiming to hit someone (usually in the head) for laughs. It’s our way of letting off steam and forgetting about bugs and deadlines for a bit. These moments of playful chaos bring us closer and help us reset so that when we return to work, we’re refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes next.

MATO: The best way our team likes to recharge during breaks is by heading up to the floor above, where we have a bit of fun with a stress ball, hitting it around and laughing together. It’s a quick and simple way to let off some steam and reset. Another favorite is grabbing a fresh cup of coffee from our kitchen and chatting with colleagues. These small moments of relaxation help us recharge and create a lighter, more connected atmosphere when we get back to work.

MARKO: One of the best ways to do this is by grabbing a stress ball and taking it up to the 12th floor, where we can kick it around. It’s a fun way to let off some steam and enjoy a bit of friendly competition. Plus, the change of scenery and the light physical activity help us clear our minds and boost our energy levels. It’s amazing how a simple activity like this can refresh us and get us ready to tackle the tasks ahead!

LEO: The best way our team likes to recharge during breaks is by stepping away from our screen. We use this time to bond as a team, whether we’re discussing things outside of work or kicking around a stress ball. These moments help us relax and strengthen our connection, making it easier to collaborate when we return to our tasks.

MIRAN: Although I didn't initially plan to write about what we do with the stress ball during breaks so as not to be misunderstood, I see that my colleagues have already mentioned it. But yes, a bit of joking around always helps to take our minds off work and have a good laugh.

Your team is known to be tight-knit: how do you handle when a team member decides to go to America?

MIRAN: Although having a shortage of people in the team is always tricky, we somehow always find a compromise, come to a solution, and pull together as a team to make things easier. We never want to deny anyone such an experience because it's an opportunity that doesn't come often. And we always keep in mind that there will be gifts from America :)

ADRIAN: When one of us decides to head off to America like I did last year and Mato did this year, it’s always a mix of excitement and friendly teasing. We keep in touch through messages, checking in on how they’re adjusting, what jobs they’re taking on, and how they’re enjoying the experience. But, of course, it wouldn’t be us without a bit of banter—we’re constantly joking that they’ll fall in love with the States and never come back. It’s our way of staying connected and keeping the vibe light, no matter the distance.

MATO: When I decided to go to America, it was definitely a mix of excitement and a little sadness. I know my teammates were excited for me to have the chance to experience something new. We stayed in touch through messages and Slack updates, so it feels like I’m still part of the team, even from across the ocean.

MARKO: When a team member decides to go to America, it’s definitely a bittersweet moment for us. On one hand, we’re excited to see them pursue new opportunities and know they’ll bring our shared experiences with them. On the other hand, we’re going to miss having them around! We stay in touch, supporting each other across time zones through messages, video calls, and project updates. It’s a reminder that no matter where we are, we’re always connected as a team.

LEO: It’s definitely a big change, and we know we’ll miss them, but we still stay in touch through calls and messages, which helps it not feel like they’ve really left. Of course, we’re also excited and happy for them to experience new things and learn about different cultures, especially when they bring us back gifts.

If you could work remotely from anywhere in the world, where would you choose and why?

MIRAN: If I could choose where to work during the summer, I’d probably pick somewhere with a beach, either on our coast or somewhere in Asia. In the winter, I’d love to be in a small house in the northern regions, surrounded by snow, Christmas decorations, and lights, because I love winter weather.

ADRIAN: If I could work remotely from anywhere in the world, I would choose Thailand. The blend of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and warm climate makes it the perfect backdrop for productivity. Imagine coding with a view of crystal-clear waters and taking breaks to explore the rich history and street food markets. The relaxed atmosphere would be perfect for finding inspiration while still having the energy of bustling cities like Bangkok when you need a change of pace.

MATO: If I could work remotely from anywhere, I would choose the Croatian coast. Our beautiful Adriatic Sea, charming coastal towns, and sunny weather would create an inspiring and peaceful atmosphere for work.

MARKO: If I could work remotely from anywhere, I would choose a cozy cabin in the mountains, surrounded by nature. The tranquility of this environment would provide the perfect backdrop for focused work and creativity. Being away from the hustle and bustle of the city, I could enjoy fresh air, stunning views, and the sounds of nature, which can be incredibly relaxing.

LEO: This is an easy choice for me. I absolutely love nature, whether it’s in the mountains, among the trees, or relaxing on a beach. I would choose a remote house in a small town surrounded by trees, with a small river nearby. Waking up to the sound of birds singing and enjoying the peacefulness without the loud noises of the city, like honking cars and people shouting, would be a dream come true.

If you could bring any feature or technology from a movie/game/comic book to life, what would it be and why?

MIRAN: If I had the option, I’d choose teleportation because it would revolutionize how we experience the world. The ability to instantly travel anywhere would break down geographical barriers, making it easier to connect with family and friends, explore new places, and expand professional opportunities. It would also reduce the environmental impact of transportation, which is a big plus. 

Invisibility would also be an intriguing choice, as it could provide both freedom and privacy. It would give me the ability to observe and experience the world without being noticed, which could be valuable in certain situations. However, I think teleportation would have more practical, everyday applications that would benefit both my personal and professional life in the long run.

ADRIAN: If I could bring any technology to life, it would definitely be Tony Stark’s assistant, J.A.R.V.I.S. Imagine having something that could handle everything from organizing tasks, debugging code, optimizing workflows, and even predicting potential issues before they arise. It would be a game-changer, freeing up time to focus on creative problem-solving and innovation. Plus, having a capable assistant would make every day at work feel a little more futuristic and fun!

MATO: If I could bring any technology to life, it would definitely be Cerebro from “X-Men”. Imagine having a tool that scans millions of lines of code in seconds, finding bugs and vulnerabilities before they even appear. It would speed up debugging, predict issues, and ensure higher code quality with minimal effort.

MARKO: I would love to bring the concept of instant skill acquisition from “The Matrix” to life, where individuals can download skills directly into their brains. Imagine being able to learn programming languages, design techniques, or even new frameworks in a matter of seconds! This technology would revolutionize education and professional development, allowing people to adapt quickly to changing job requirements or explore new interests without the lengthy learning curve.

LEO: I know it might seem like an obvious choice, but having a time machine from “Back to the Future” would be absolutely incredible! The opportunity to witness historical events firsthand, meet influential figures, and learn about different eras would be invaluable. Imagine being able to explore the past, understand how our world has evolved, and even glimpse into the future! The knowledge gained from such experiences could profoundly change our perspective on life and help us make better choices today.

If your team was a TV show, what would the title be? 

MIRAN: Just like bands that take frequent breaks are called 'break bands,' we’d probably be called 'Team Break'.

ADRIAN: 12th Floor

MATO: Codefellas

MARKO: If our team were a TV show, I’d call it “The Fantastic Five.” It captures our dynamic as a team of mobile developers, ready to tackle any challenge that comes our way!

LEO: The first thing that comes to mind is a show that highlights how completely different we are as individuals, yet we come together to work perfectly toward the same goal. I would call it “United in Diversity.” 

Join the mobile app development team!

It’s the driven teams, such as mobile development, that build the motivational culture we nurture at Barrage. 

If you would like to be a part of that culture and get to know the team, check out our open positions.