TricyCall: A Tricycle Hailing App

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Team Members

Elijah Monjardin

Elijah Monjardin

UI Developer & Researcher

Louis Sindao
Louis Sindao
Project Manager
Jake Birad
Jake Birad
Programmer
Jehiel Camiling
Jehiel Camiling
Quality Assurance

Overview

Development a cloud-based multi-platform tricycle hailing system with real-time chat, emergency assistance, and GPS tracking for Tower TODA. The project aimed to address the challenges faced by commuters of Tower TODA, a barangay in the Philippines, by providing a convenient and reliable mode of transportation.

Key Features

  • Dynamic Booking System: Developed a real-time booking system that allows passengers to easily book rides, select passenger count, and apply discounts.
  • Live Tracking: Integrated real-time location tracking for both passengers and drivers to ensure accurate and up-to-date trip statuses.
  • Emergency Assistance: Implemented automatic SMS alerts for all drivers in the event of an emergency, increasing safety for both drivers and passengers.
  • Chat Support: Introduced real-time chat functionality for better communication between passengers and drivers during their trips.
  • Driver and Passenger Management: Designed intuitive dashboards for managing trips, availability, and trip history for both drivers and passengers.
  • Ticketing System: Created a report, rating and review system that allows passengers to provide feedback on drivers, helping to maintain service quality.

Technologies Used

The following technologies were utilized by the development team to build the app. My contributions focused on UI design, coding the user interface in React Native, and conducting user research and documentation.

  • React Native: For building mobile applications.
  • Expo: For simplifying the development process with React Native.
  • Google Maps: For integrating maps and geolocation features.
  • Node.js: For server-side JavaScript runtime.
  • Express: For building web applications and APIs.
  • MongoDB: For a NoSQL database solution.
  • EJS: For templating and rendering dynamic HTML views.
  • Bootstrap: For responsive design and UI components.
  • Socket.io: For enabling real-time communication in the app.
  • Semaphore: For SMS alerts and OTP.

Challenges and Learnings

One key challenge was conducting research to understand the needs of commuters in Tower TODA. I learned how to speak to a client and write and conduct interviews and surveys that the respondents would understand to gather insights and feedback from potential users. This helped me identify key functionalities that would address their and gauge their level of tech literacy. I learned that it is important to consider the user's perspective when designing a product to ensure it meets their needs and expectations.

Another challenge was ensuring the interface was user-friendly for both drivers and passengers. As the UX/UI Designer, I researched for inspirations and ideas to create a design that easy to navigate, understand, and use, while also ensuring the app was visually appealing. I learned how to effectively communicate with developers to ensure the design was implemented correctly.

Outcome

TricyCall is now a fully functional prototype, tested in real-world scenarios, and recognized for its innovative approach to addressing commuter needs. The project received overwhelmingly positive feedback during its presentation, highlighting its significant potential for scalability. It was also selected for presentation at STI Research Symposium 2024, showcasing its impact and relevance in solving transportation challenges.