TopCoder puts mobile technology in the hands of next generation electricians
Highlights
- The UI was completed in 3 days and the prototype was delivered in 3 weeks.
- The mobile application was built in PhoneGap, an HTML5 app platform that allows access to APIs and app stores across multiple mobile platforms.
- The mobile app was presented on 6 different mobile devices at a conference in Dallas in August 2011.
- 51 TopCoder community members from 15 countries registered interest in the project.
Challenges
Although electricians are masters of their art, some of the old “pen and paper” methodologies are holding back efficiency and limiting knowledge share within the industry. To appeal to next generation electricians, the customer wanted to build a mobile app solution for pipe bending calculations. By converting an existing excel spreadsheet solution to an easy-to-use mobile app, pipe bending calculations are now as easy as a tap of a finger.
Solutions
By leveraging PhoneGap, the customer was able to produce an application that is accessible on 6 different mobile platforms. This app will allow electricians to make pipe bending calculations for 9 of the customer’s bender models with 7 bend types for EMT, IMC and Rigid Material pipes. Electricians can use this app on-the-go without worrying about the inaccuracy of using a pen for marking. With features like “Favorites” and “View History,” users can easily find recent bends or frequently used bends. Most importantly, the app opens up a line of communication for knowledge between electricians in the industry.
Benefits
- The customer was able to reach next generation electricians with a new technology that provides improved efficiency and accuracy when compared to the existing methodology.
- Established new communication lines with electricians across the community.
- The innovative application helped drive consumers and members of the industry to the customer’s new website and additional products & services.
- Analytics provided by mobile downloads broadened the customer’s knowledge of the market and user behaviors.
- Entered the customer into the mobile market and influenced future development of more mobile prototypes and exploration of other development opportunities with TopCoder.