# Hack Score methodology: a ranking with zero black box

The Hack Score is a public score out of 100, recomputed every night with the same fixed weighting for every agency. No position can be bought.

## Formula

```
Hack Score = reviews x 40% + internal x 25% + portfolio x 25% + badges x 10%
(each signal scored 0-100, then weighted; the weighted sum is the Hack Score /100)
```

## Signals

Each signal is scored out of 100, then weighted. The sum gives the Hack Score shown on profiles, rankings and the comparator.

### Verified client reviews — 40%

Average rating weighted by volume and freshness. A 2026 review weighs more than a 2023 one. The 4 sub-ratings (quality, deadlines, communication, budget) count equally.

Note: ONLY REVIEWS WITH PROOF OF COLLABORATION COUNT

### Internal algorithmic score — 25%

Profile completeness (every filled field earns points), update freshness and responsiveness to contact requests. A dormant profile mechanically drops.

Note: RECOMPUTED EVERY NIGHT AT 3AM CET

### Documented portfolio — 25%

Number of published projects and documentation quality: quantified results, verifiable live link, linked client testimonial. One project with 3 KPIs is worth more than 3 empty projects.

Note: OUTBOUND LINKS ARE CHECKED BY MODERATION

### Badges and certifications — 10%

Legal verification, partner certifications (n8n, Make, cloud certifications) with supporting proof, responsiveness badge. Each badge has public criteria. The website badge (embed the hackgency badge on your site, linked to your profile) is worth up to +5 points: +2 on detection, then +1 at 1, 3 and 6 months of continuous presence. It helps clients find your verified profile. Checked nightly: badge removed = points removed immediately.

## How a review gets verified

No review publishes itself. Every submission goes through three checks before appearing on a profile.

1. Proof of collaboration: Invoice, contract or dated exchange. The document stays private, only the "verified collaboration" mention is public.
2. Human moderation: The Hackgency team checks the proof and the text within 72h. It can ask for more details before publication.
3. Right of reply: The agency can reply publicly to every review. It can report an abuse, never delete a verified review.

## What never moves the score

- Paying Hackgency. There is no paid offer that touches the ranking.
- The volume of leads sent or received through the platform.
- Reviews without proof of collaboration. They simply never get published.
- Seniority on Hackgency. An agency that signed up yesterday can overtake one from 2024.

## FAQ

### How often does the score change?

Every night. A new review, a published project or an updated profile shows up the next morning.

### Why did my score drop without any action on my side?

Freshness matters. A profile without updates for 6 months loses points on the internal signal.

### Can rank #1 be sponsored?

No. There is no paid placement on Hackgency, not today and not when the agency plans launch.

### How do I dispute a review?

From your dashboard, "Report" button. Moderation re-examines the proof within 72h.


Source: https://hackgency.com/methodology
Directory: https://hackgency.com (independent ranking of AI, automation and no-code agencies; public Hack Score /100, verified reviews, no paid placement)