shellymegan

On-demand apps are a convenient and time-saving option for modern-era customers. Here’s one such amazing On-demand ordering app, Exut! It allows users to instantly place an online order while on-track driving and quickly grab essentials on the go. Exut has consolidated multiple stores that have uploaded their products which include essentials, beverages, alcohol, etc. Exut comes with the user module and the merchant module. Here’s how the app works.

Challenges Faced While Integration

1. Displaying real-time data without reloading the page.

Solution: - By using jQuery.
Click Here for Code

2. User interface customization in accordance with the client's requirements.

Solution: - By using bootstrap and with the help of jQuery.
Click Here for Code

3. Customizing the filters and labels that appear on the charts.

Solution: - With the help of HTML, CSS, and jQuery.
Click Here for Code

4. Retrieve the necessary data from the backend to present the results.

Solution: - Write an API in Laravel (PHP) to get the data and prepare by using jQuery to Display the google chart.

In Conclusion

Data visualization with Google-provided Charts can work wonders in your web development process. And, the good news is that the charts are continuously being updated with new features and enhancements to stay relevant as per the changing trends and offer advanced functionalities to users.

However, you must take care that your chart is captivating enough to make your point more convincing and add credibility to the presentation. Also, follow the best practices while you implement these charts. You may consider hiring professional Google chart developers if your requirements are complex and you lack the necessary expertise.

The transportation and logistics industry must necessarily adopt IoT-powered app solutions to smarten their workflow and eliminate the existing challenges.

These smart apps automate the workflow and hence, ease out the management of the supply chain, inventory, warehouses, and fleet; helps in optimizing routes and rule out chances of errors.

Biz4Solutions excels in developing remarkable IoT based transportation applications that will transform your business operations for a more productive outcome.

We aim at creating transport and logistics app solutions that improve customer services, enhance the efficiency of your supply chain and boost your ROI as well.

Would you like to harness the potential of IoT for maximizing profitability? Partner with us and we will build a customized software solution to revamp your transportation business.

Contact us to discuss your project requirement! Visit our webpage - https://www.biz4solutions.com/iot-in-... and check out our transportation domain success stories.

Did you know?

Global expenditure on Blockchain services is estimated to cross 15.9 billion by the year 2023, which was just 1.5 billion in 2018!- as per a report generated by Statista- a renowned online marketplace for statistics.

These staggering numbers portray a massive growth of this technology in just 5 years. Needless to say, Blockchain is going to be a game-changer. Introduced in 2011, Blockchain as a Service has already been the talk of the town and widely adopted by nearly 44% of organizations worldwide.

So, what is Blockchain technology? What is Blockchain-as-a-service? What are the potential advantages it offers to businesses? All such queries will be answered in this write-up.

What Is Blockchain Technology?

The term ‘Blockchain’ represents a digital ledger that enables writing data into ‘blocks.’ Every new block created is added to the previous one, thus creating a chain i.e. Blockchain. Every single block is secured through encryption while writing. In this system, users can access sensitive information using a unique key code. Besides, this peer-to-peer system does not need any third party for managing the transaction, making it a more secure system. Also, this digital ledger cannot be altered after the blocks are added to the chain, hence this system is very authentic.

Though explained in simple terms here, Blockchain is not that easy to implement. The operational overhead and technical complexities involved in developing, configuring, functioning, and maintaining Blockchains stand as a barrier. For instance, it’s difficult to estimate the transaction time in Blockchain solutions as the time may fluctuate from milliseconds to hours. As such, several businesses are struggling to leverage Blockchain solutions. Hence, you need experienced and competent Blockchain developers for correct development and implementation. Yet, it is one of the fastest-growing technologies today due to its key features like decentralized nature, encryption, top-level security, and trustworthiness while saving and processing sensitive data.

What Is Blockchain-As-A-Service (Or BaaS) All About?

Blockchain-as-a-Service i.e. BaaS has emerged as a third-party system for building and managing cloud-based networks for businesses to design powerful Blockchain-based applications for themselves. It enables them to create, host, and operate their own Blockchain applications and related functionalities.

This business model is considered to be a remarkable invention as Blockchain expands far beyond its most popular applications in cryptocurrency and can extensively be used for all kinds of transactions at minimal costs. It enables businesses to utilize Blockchain technology without the need for investing in an in-house team. BaaS acts like a kind of web host, running the back-end operation for Blockchain app development services. It also provides support activities like suitable allocation of resources, bandwidth management, data security features hosting requirements, etc. Thus, Blockchain Service Providers with the help of the BaaS model can access the Blockchain services from the cloud and develop the blockchain application at a minimum cost.

Today, the giants like Microsoft, Amazon, PayStand, and R3 are known to be the best BaaS providers across the globe.

Applications And Characteristics of Blockchain-as-a-Service!

Decentralization

Here, decentralization means transferring control over data and related decisions from a centralized authority to a distributed network. Usually, most of the data is stored in local devices and computers and single entities monitor them. In case the employees are unavailable or those devices are shut down, accessing or restoring the data in real-time becomes tedious. In such cases, Blockchain is quite useful. It has a distributed ledger database where the data is stored in blocks. Here, data isn’t managed by any single node due to which other nodes too can access and control the data even if any single node isn’t working.

Smart Contracts

A smart contract is a contract where some particular conditions and situations are specified for the automatic execution of predefined tasks. These are programmed in such a manner that actions are taken automatically when the related terms of the agreements are performed. All this drastically reduces the requirement of intermediaries, enhances the speed of execution, makes the transactions cost-effective, and more reliable, and secure.

Smart contracts are employed in several applications like voting systems, supply chain management, healthcare data processing, payment and rent agreements, identity access, personal information access, intellectual property rights understanding, royalty distribution agreement, etc.

Traceability

All the data is stored and can be accessed publicly in a Blockchain system, allowing everyone to view it and make modifications to it for ensuring no false data is used. But, the whole process is governed by Blockchain consensus algorithms. Due to this, without the permission of all other participants, no one can make any alterations. Also, nodes are used for recording every single action taken. Thus, traceability is ensured resulting in effective communication and improved business relationships.

Transparency

Along with traceability, Blockchain app development also ensures transparency in the business processes. Since Blockchain is unchangeable in nature, the data in the blocks can’t be added, modified, or eliminated anonymously. Also, it is possible to track everything in real-time due to the distributed ledger technology. All this ensures accountability, gains the trust of the clients, and thus, improves business relationships.

Data Security and Privacy

As explained earlier, all the data and content are open, accessible publicly, and encrypted. However, only the users that are approved by the node manager can access the content and modify it. This property of Blockchain leads to high security and privacy of data from those outside the complete system.

Cases of data breaches and hacking crimes are on the rise and Blockchain’s security feature can tackle this problem completely. It applies several cryptographic techniques, hash keys, Merkle trees, etc. making it highly difficult to revise or steal the data. Besides, projects like Eximchain and Signal have been developed to ensure seamless and secure business communication and transactions.

Pros And Cons of BaaS

Take a look at the pros and cons of Blockchain as a Service

Pros:

• Ease of use due to the availability of ready-made customizable templates and modules.
• Outsourcing tasks like operations, implementation, and maintenance to the BaaS partner greatly helps in reducing operational costs to a large extent.
• Focused on customization
• High security and protection from fraudulent transactions
• Owing to the customizable modules and templates that BaaS provides, there is an ease of use in developing Blockchain systems.

Cons:

• Possibility of service disruption. Issues in business continuity in case the service provider goes bankrupt
• Low control and visibility of the owners due to dependency on BaaS service providers
• Challenges in data compliance
• Still in its infancy. Businesses do not have in-depth knowledge of how it works. Also, finding adept Blockchain app developers is quite difficult.

Wrap-Up:

The world is witnessing the emergence of various Blockchain-based services at a fast pace. Blockchain app development and BaaS solution for business are impacting numerous industries like Information Technology, Insurance, Healthcare, eCommerce, Entertainment industry, Advertising, Retail, Finance Industry, Cloud Computing, Energy, Government Projects, etc. with a wide range of applications.

These are promising offerings that can revolutionize business functions and help organizations gain a competitive advantage. Adoption of Blockchain app development services can provide businesses of all categories an opportunity to emerge as a leader and a pioneer amongst their peers. The organizations leveraging this technology are sure to bring a paradigm shift in the way they deal with data and perform several business transactions.

The education industry is undergoing a sea change with the rising popularity of eLearning apps. The eLearning sector is booming like never before. Peek through an interesting statistical fact stated by the popular research portal Research and Markets:

“The market value of the eLearning sector will touch US$ 350 billion by the year 2025 thanks to technological innovations.”

With multiple disruptive advantages over conventional learning, online learning is gaining momentum at a fast pace. A well-designed eLearning solution addresses several limitations existing in traditional learning and offers transformative add-ons like never before. Also, multiple disruptive technologies have revolutionized and broadened the spectrum of eLearning. Today, it has become one of the lucrative options for learners, instructors, and educational institutions unanimously. eLearning is constantly evolving and promises a brighter future for the education sector.

This post provides detailed insights about the basic and advanced features to include in a future-friendly eLearning mobile app and discusses the advantages of eLearning.

Basic Features to include in a new-age eLearning App

User-friendly UI/UX

A user-friendly interface design and a smooth user experience are must-haves for an eLearning app. An aesthetic design and easy navigation are driving factors to make an app all the more pleasing, appealing, and widely acceptable. So, avoid using complex features that are not necessary. This will cause confusion amongst users and lead them to abandon your app. Therefore, design an easy-going UI and integrate the relevant functionalities only.

Support for different Learning Formats

An eLearning application needs something more than just simple and monotonous printed lessons. Most eLearning apps support multiple course formats like podcasts, captivating pictures, audio lessons, high-definition videos, etc.

Video Lessons

Video content & live streaming are must-have features of an eLearning mobile app that makes it stand out from traditional teaching methodologies. Whether it’s a live video streaming session with the faculty or eLearning content in the form of pre-recorded videos, the impact on students is profound.

Also, video sessions are recorded so that students who have missed the session can attend the lectures at a convenient time. Recorded sessions can be replayed by learners as many times as they wish to gain a better understanding of the subject matter. Students have the convenience to pause and then replay videos resulting in improved comprehension. This approach resolves one of the most age-old challenges of conventional learning and elevates learning experiences to the next level.

Progress Report Generation

eLearning applications must provide users with instant performance feedback by generating progress reports. Such reports assess a learner’s performance from different angles like the level of understanding, the degree of exam preparedness, etc. Clear and concise reports help the students and their instructors to identify the area where the learner is struggling.

Offline Support

This feature is crucial to make an eLearning app more engaging and enhance its usability. Users may not always have access to an internet connection or may face connectivity issues at times. Learners can download educational content and access it in an offline mode. So, whenever the internet connectivity is disrupted because of a glitch or slow loading speed; the offline mode saves hassles for learners.

Multi-language Support

If your eLearning app targets global audience groups, it should support the relevant languages. An app will lose its value if users located in certain parts of the world are not able to access it due to language barriers. An eLearning app with multi-language support will be widely accepted globally and will maximize audience outreach.

Revolutionary Offerings of Modern-day eLearning Apps

Microlearning

Microlearning is a popular eLearning approach offered by mobile applications. Modern-age learners have a shorter attention span and the microlearning approach aims to address this issue. Here, apps generate bite-sized learning content so that users can consume information in the form of small-sized manageable chunks. This makes room for repetitive study and helps users to retain information more easily.

Interactive Content

New-age eLearning mobile app development solutions provide interactive content like animations, videos, audio files, quizzes, and simulations. Live tutorials and doubt-clearing sessions are highly sought-after functionalities. Such an approach facilitates interaction and communication between learners and instructors.

Coming to quizzes, you can include different formats. Some examples are filing the blank spaces, MCQs, sorting & matching to essays & surveys, etc. You can also have leaderboards, define limits for tests, include random questions, and offer interesting hints wherever needed.

Interactive content makes learning more fun, exciting, and engaging. Hence, users’ learning outcomes are more productive and they can retain information better.

AI-powered Personalized Learning

Artificial intelligence adds to the productivity of an eLearning app by delivering personalized learning experiences. AI-powered algorithms identify the specific requirements of every learner, track a student’s progress, and figure out the areas of improvement required. AI/ML algorithms also generate customized study material tailored to meet the unique interests and preferences of learners. AI-empowered apps analyze the behavior of every learner to produce such targeted content. Moreover, if a learner finds it difficult to grasp a specific concept, the app provides extra study material based on their needs. This helps the learners learn at their own pace and allows them extra time and guidance until they master a concept entirely. As such, the usage of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning guarantees improved learning outcomes and adds value to the teaching-learning process.

Immersive Experience using AR/VR

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality have made their way into the eLearning landscape. AR/VR-empowered eLearning mobile solutions offer learners an immersive experience. The potential of AR/VR lies in the fact that these technologies can create an illusionary circumstance to make learners virtually experience what they are learning. A virtual immersive experience creates an everlasting impact on human brains and proves way more effective than traditional teaching-learning methodologies. It helps a student to process information faster and retain the information. Hence, AR/VR wearables assist students to grasp a subject better. Imagine a scenario where students get a virtual feel of space, historical events, or visiting various places in the world.

AR/VR solutions also provide effective training scenarios. For example, employees undergoing safety training using VR headsets would get the real feel of emergencies without having to face danger. 

Gamification Techniques

Some eLearning apps even offer gaming elements for learners. Now, the question that pops up in your mind is: “Are gamification elements of any use to a teaching-learning solution?” Well, gamification is a disruptive feature that motivates users to learn better and improve their performance. But, how? Elements like leaderboards, earning points and badges for achievements, etc. add a new meaning to learning. Learners try to excel for earning rewards and faring better than their co-learners.

eLearning Mobile Apps: Key Advantages

Flexibility & Accessibility

Traditional classrooms are mostly restricted to young learners. Conventional learning methods are not much useful for learners who are unable to attend offline classes. eLearning mobile applications have resolved this limitation and brought learning out of the confines of classroom teaching. Individuals can access courses regardless of their age or availability.

eLearning mobile applications make study material available to users in the form of videos or audio on users’ smartphones. So, learners can access educational content and other resources from any place and at any time. All they need is a mobile phone and an internet connection for accessing education. For example, learners get the advantage of accessing learning material while waiting in queues, in transit, or during work breaks.

Due to such a high level of flexibility, users with super-busy schedules can adjust their study time at their convenience quite easily. This way, busy learners can access knowledge without having to disrupt their daily routines.

Peer-to-peer Collaboration

Most eLearning solutions offer the functionality of learner-instructor interaction via messaging. But, not every solution offers collaboration with other learners. Peer-to-peer collaboration is a desirable feature in an eLearning solution that modern-day mobile apps offer. Features like discussion forums, chat rooms, group projects, etc. facilitate collaboration among learners. Learners can remotely connect and interact with other learners and instructors regardless of their location. This approach promotes knowledge sharing between peers. Also, learners experience the feeling of community learning.

Self-dependency

eLearning app solutions promote self-dependency among students as well as instructors. Students have to no longer depend on school teaching to gain educational insights, extra knowledge, or study material for competitive exams. With access to eLearning, factors like a student’s inability to attend classes due to illness or physical disability, a teacher’s absence from classes, non-availability of books, or long vacations cannot hamper the flow of education.

Teachers need not depend on conventional classes to earn a living. Instructors can take classes online from anywhere at any time regardless of any barriers like mobility issues, location, etc.

Cost-effectiveness

One of the major reasons why a learner and educational institute invest in an eLearning mobile app solution is cost efficiency. Learners need not travel to conventional classrooms or buy books. This saves time and money.

An educational institute finds it immensely profitable to impart education through an app rather than traditional classroom settings. Institutes save on infrastructure costs, overheads, etc. You need not spend on traditional teaching resources like pen, paper, books, etc. A well-designed admin dashboard saves administrative costs as well.

So, education industry providers investing in eLearning app development can save costs considerably. The only expense you need to incur is a one-time setup cost at the beginning. You need to hire professional programmers who will develop a custom eLearning app based on your specific requirements. Once developed, an eLearning solution will be a continuous source of revenue generation without having to bear maintenance expenses. Also, you can upscale or downscale your business operations effortlessly as per the demand.

Closing Views

eLearning apps have transformed the way people learn and gain access to educational material. And, eLearning mobile apps have revolutionized this approach further. Now, accessing education is a finger click away. Furthermore, cutting-edge technologies like AI, ML, AR, VR, etc. are opening up new avenues never thought of before. Benefits like flexibility, accessibility, personalization, improved interaction, user engagement, and cost-efficiency; are driving factors to elevate eLearning to unimaginable heights.

The demand for eLearning mobile solutions is higher than ever before. It’s the right time to invest in eLearning mobile app development. If you would like to design a transformative eLearning mobile app, partner with a professional mobile app development company with experience in building eLearning solutions.

Hypertext Preprocessor, commonly known as PHP, happens to be one of the most widely used server-side scripting languages for developing web applications and websites. Renowned names like Facebook and WordPress are powered by PHP. The reasons for its popularity can be attributed to the following goodies PHP offers:

• Open-source and easy-to-use
• Comprehensive documentation
• Multiple ready-to-use scripts
• Strong community support
• Well-supported frameworks

However, to leverage this technology to the fullest and simplify tasks, PHP developers utilize certain tools that enhance programming efficiency and minimize development errors. PHP development tools provide a conducive IDE (Integrated Development Environment) that enhances the productivity of PHP web development.

The market currently is overflooded with PHP tools. Therefore, it becomes immensely difficult for PHP development teams to pick the perfect set of tools that will fulfill their project needs. This blog enlists the best PHP application development tools along with their offerings. A quick read will help you to choose the most befitting tool for your PHP development project.

Top PHP Software Development Tools

PHPStorm

PHPStorm, created and promoted by JetBrains, is one of the most standard IDEs for PHP developers. It is lightweight, smooth, and speedy. This tool works easily with popular PHP frameworks like Laravel, Symfony, Zend Framework, CakePHP, Yii, etc. as well as with contemporary Content Management Systems like WordPress, Drupal, and Magento. Besides PHP, this tool supports JavaScript, C, C#, Visual Basic, and C++ languages; and platforms such as Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X. This enterprise-grade IDE charges a license price for specialized developers, but is offered for free to students and teachers so that they can start open-source projects. Tech giants like Wikipedia, Yahoo, Cisco, Salesforce, and Expedia possess PHPStorm IDE licenses.

Features:

• Code-rearranging, code completion, zero-configuration, and debugging
• Support for Native ZenCoding and extension with numerous other handy plugins such as the VimEditor.

Functions:

• Provides live editing support for the leading front-end technologies like JavaScript, HTML5, CSS, TypeScript, Sass, CoffeeScript, Stylus, Less, etc.
• It supports code refactoring, debugging, and unit testing
• Enables a PHP developer to integrate with version control systems, databases, remote deployment, composer, vagrant, rest clients, command-line tools, etc.
• Coming to debugging, PHPStorm works with Xdebug and Zend Debugger locally as well as remotely.

Cloud 9

This PHP development tool is an open-source cloud IDE. It offers a development eco-system for PHP and numerous other programming languages like HTML5, JavaScript, C++, C, Python, etc. It supports platforms like Mac OS, Solaris, Linux, etc.

Features:

• Code reformatting, real-time language analysis, and tabbed file management.
• Availability of a wide range of themes
• In-built image editor for cropping, rotating, and resizing images
• An in-built terminal that allows one to view the command output from the server.
• Integrated debugger for setting a breakpoint
• Adjustable panels via drag and drop function
• Support for keyboard shortcuts resulting in easy access

Functions:

• With Cloud 9, one can write, run and debug the code using any browser. Developers can work from any location using a machine connected to the internet.
• It facilitates the creation of serverless apps, allowing the tasks of defining resources, executing serverless applications, and remote debugging.
• Its ability to pair programs and track all real-time inputs; enables one to share their development eco-system with peers.

Zend Studio

This commercial PHP IDE supports most of the latest PHP versions, specifically PHP 7, and platforms like Linux, Windows, and OS X. This tool boasts of an instinctive UI and provides most of the latest functionalities that are needed to quicken PHP web development. Zend Studio is being used by high-profile firms like BNP Paribas Credit Suisse, DHL, and Agilent Technologies.

Features:

• Support for PHP 7 express migration and effortless integration with the Zend server
• A sharp code editor supporting JavaScript, PHP, CSS, and HTML
• Speedier performance while indexing, validating, and searching for the PHP code
• Support for Git Flow, Docker, and the Eclipse plugin environment
• Integration with Z-Ray
• Debugging with Zend Debugger and Xdebug
• Deployment sustenance including cloud support for Microsoft Azure and Amazon AWS.

Functions:

• Enables developers to effortlessly organize the PHP app on more than one server.
• Provides developers the flexibility to write and debug the code without having to spare additional effort or time for these tasks.
• Provides support for mobile app development at the peak of live PHP applications and server system backend, for simplifying the task of harmonizing the current websites and web apps with mobile-based applications.

Eclipse

Eclipse is a cross-platform PHP editor and one of the top PHP development tools. It is a perfect pick for large-scale PHP projects. It supports multiple languages – C, C++, Ada, ABAP, COBOL, Haskell, Fortran, JavaScript, D, Julia, Java, NATURAL, Ruby, Python, Scheme, Groovy, Erlang, Clojure, Prolong, Lasso, Scala, etc. – and platforms like Linux, Windows, Solaris, and Mac OS.

Features:

• It provides one with a ready-made code template and automatically validates the syntax.
• It supports code refactoring – enhancing the code’s internal structure.
• It enables remote project management

Functions:

• Allows one to choose from a wide range of plugins, easing out the tasks of developing and simplifying complex PHP code.
• Helps in customizing and extending the IDE for fulfilling project requirements.
• Supports GUI as well as non-GUI applications.

Codelobster

Codelobster is an Integrated Development Environment that eases out and modernizes the PHP development processes. Its users do not need to worry about remembering the names of functions, attributes, tags, and arguments; as these are enabled through auto-complete functions. It supports languages like PHP, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS and platforms such as Windows, Linux, Ubuntu, Fedora, Mac OS, Linux, and Mint. Additionally, it offers exceptional plugins that enable it to function smoothly with myriad technologies like Drupal, Joomla, Twig, JQuery, CodeIgniter, Symfony, Node.js, VueJS, AngularJS, Laravel, Magento, BackboneJS, CakePHP, EmberJS, Phalcon, and Yii.

Offerings:

• It is an internal, free PHP debugger that enables validating the code locally.
• It auto-detects the existing server settings followed by configuring the related files and allowing one to utilize the debugger.
• It has the ability to highlight pairs of square brackets and helps in organizing files into the project.
• This PHP development tool displays a popup list comprising variables and constants.
• It allows one to hide code blocks that are presently not being used and to collapse the code for viewing it in detail.

Netbeans

Netbeans, packed with a rich set of features is quite popular in the realm of PHP development services. It supports several languages like English, Russian, Japanese, Portuguese, Brazilian, and simplified Chinese. Its recent version is lightweight and speedier, and specifically facilitates building PHP-based Web Applications with the most recent PHP versions. This PHP development tool is apt for large-scale web app development projects and works with the most trending PHP frameworks such as Symfony2, Zend, FuelPHP, CakePHP, Smarty, and WordPress CMS. It supports PHP, HTML5, C, C++, and JavaScript languages and Windows, Linux, MacOS, and Solaris platforms.

Features:

• Getter and setter generation, quick fixes, code templates, hints, and refactoring.
• Code folding and formatting; rectangular selection
• Smart code completion and try/catch code completion
• Syntax highlighter

DreamWeaver

This is one of the most popular PHP application software development tools. It assists one in creating, publishing, and managing websites. A website developed using DreamWeaver can be deployed to any web server.

Offerings:

• Ability to create dynamic websites that fits the screen sizes of different devices
• Availability of ready-to-use layouts for website development and a built-in HTML validator for code validation.
• Workspace customization capabilities

Aptana Studio

Aptana Studio is an open-source PHP development tool used to integrate with multiple client-side and server-side web technologies like PHP, CSS3, Python, RoR, HTML5, Ruby, etc. It is a high-performing and productive PHP IDE.

Features:

• Supports the most recent HTML5 specifications
• Collaborates with peers using actions like pull, push, and merge
• IDE customization and Git integration capabilities
• The ability to set breakpoints, inspect variables, and control the execution

Functions:

• Eases out PHP app development by supporting the debuggers and CLI
• Enables programmers to develop and test PHP apps within a single environment
• Leverages the flexibilities of Eclipse and also possesses detailed information on the range of support for each element of the popular browsers.

Final Verdict:

I hope this blog has given you clear visibility of the popular PHP tools used for web development and will guide you through selecting the right set of tools for your upcoming project. If you are a start-up or lack technical expertise in PHP application development, it’s advisable to hire an experienced PHP application development company for executing your project.

Biz4Solutions is a Texas-based software solutions company mainly focus on developing complex custom software solutions for our start-up and enterprise customers. We help our clients to achieve their goals on a global scale, offering our services to the clients from the U.S., Australia, Europe, and Asia Region. We collaborates with highly skilled and experienced solution architects and developers from india to help build top-quality products for our customers in technology services. We are proficient in IoT development, Mobile/Web application development,Robotic process automation(RPA), AI, , Cloud services and have done numerous large and complex projects for different industries.  Interested to begin your digital transformation journey with Biz4Solutions? visit https://www.biz4solutions.com/

Online pharmacy apps have gained a lot of traction in recent years. Pharmacy providers as well as end-customers benefit from medicine delivery apps. Modern-era consumers prefer the convenience of online medicine ordering and doorstep delivery. Pharmacy services are utilizing apps as a tool for brand recognition and creating new channels for revenue generation.

Building an online pharmacy app is a great way to grow your business and establish your digital footprints amongst your target audience groups. So, this post explores pharmacy app development from different angles. A quick read will provide you with answers to the following questions:

What is a medicine delivery app?

What are the key Business Models of Pharmacy App Development?

What are the major Features to include in your application?

What are the advantages of Pharmacy Apps?

How to go about the online medicine delivery app development process?

So, let’s explore the different aspects of pharmacy app development!

What does an online Pharmacy App do?

A medicine delivery app allows consumers to order medicine online and get doorstep delivery. Buyers can choose from different options and reap the benefits of competitive pricing. Some pharmacy apps offer additional services like online booking of laboratory tests, preventive healthcare check-ups, etc.

Pharmacy App Business Models

You need to choose the right pharmacy app model that serves your business goals. The two most prominent online pharmacy app development models are the inventory-based model and the aggregator-based model.

Inventory-based Model

The inventory-based online pharmacy app model is applicable for licensed pharmacy businesses that have a huge inventory of medicines stored in offline stores or warehouses. Many of these businesses may operate through various regions as well.

This is how the inventory-based model functions. The ePharmacy receives online orders from consumers. Customers need to upload a valid scanned prescription or an ePrescription while placing the order. Then, a certified pharmacist verifies the prescriptions and the pharmacy dispenses medicines. Pharmacists pack the medicines inside a tamper-proof package and deliver them to consumers’ doorsteps using their in-house resources or a third-party delivery service.

Examples: Medlife, CareOnGo, Netmeds, and Myra.

Marketplace-based Model

The marketplace-based online pharmacy app model is an aggregator service; it connects the consumers to the pharmacy operators. It acts as a facilitator between licensed medicine suppliers and end-customers.

The owners of such pharmacy apps need not own medical supplies. They tie up with licensed medical providers or third-party pharmacies. The pharmacy providers registered with the app enlist their products on the website or mobile app. Consumers compare different pharmacies, choose products, and place orders. The marketplace app aggregates medicine orders from end customers, processes orders, and sends those orders to external pharmacy delivery drivers. Such an app is also called a Prescription delivery app. Pharmacies then verify the price and prepare the order. The pharmacy may also cancel the order if there isn’t any valid prescription against a specific order. The end customers get home delivery of their orders through a courier service.

Examples: PharmEasy and 1MG.

Pharmacy App: Key Features

Take a look at the basic and advanced features of a complete online pharmacy app development solution. A complete solution comes with different categories.

Customer App

Basic Features:

• A UI that’s easy to navigate
• User profile with the necessary details
• Registration/Login
• Prescription uploading
• Category-wise browsing with advanced search filters
• Medicine details with usage instructions & possible side effects
• Comparison of medicine pricing across various pharmacies
• Substitutes of unavailable medicines
• Saving order history and the option to repeat orders
• Order tracking
• Secured wallet system and multiple payment modes

Advanced Features:

• Automated prescription refilling reminders based on the previously uploaded prescription data
• In-app chat for real-time interaction with a certified pharmacist
• Chat options for addressing consumer concerns
• Multi-lingual capabilities
• Voice commands
• AI-powered personalized recommendations
• Consumer Loyalty Programs (points for each purchase that can be redeemed)

Admin’s Dashboard

Basic Features:

• User management & pharmacy management
• Order tracking & management
• Tracking received orders and incomplete/ongoing deliveries
• Managing Returns & Refunds
• Report generation in a few clicks
• Order verification
• Managing inventories & earnings
• Real-time notification on stocks – low inventory levels & drug expiry dates
• Performance tracking analytics & reports
• Customized Campaigns

Advanced Features:

• Consumer profiles integrated with EHR to get data on a patient’s past treatment history
• Aggregation with pathology & imaging labs displaying pricing information
• Number Masking to protect users’ identities (Only the admin & delivery agents have user information)
• CRMs for tapping prospects

Vendor’s Dashboard

Features:

• Vendor profiles with delivery histories
• Status of medicine availability along with timelines
• Push notifications related to order requests
• Management of order requests
• Real-time insights regarding medicine delivery drivers
• On-demand report generation on orders, sales, & daily transactions

Driver (Delivery Personnel) App

Features:

• Driver profile with the necessary details
• Tracking of location
• Information on delivery & order status
• Google Map integration to optimize routes
• Instant Notifications for completed deliveries & new order requests

Pharmacy App: Advantages

Consumer’s Perspective

Online pharmacy app users enjoy better accessibility to medicine delivery services and an elevated customer experience. An app allows consumers to order medicines and other related products from any store regardless of their location. Consumers can search for the desired medicines or medical equipment easily and quickly and that too from the comfort of their homes. Advanced search filters make the search activity more precise and save users time and effort. Users can get their prescriptions verified by licensed pharmacists. So, they can be assured that they are taking the correct medication and the right dosage, ruling out any chances of grave errors.

Users can compare the medicine prices and choose from multiple pharmacies. Some online pharmacy applications even allow consumers to schedule the order delivery at their convenient timings. For instance, one can set delivery hour preferences like post 5 PM or opt for weekend delivery. This benefits consumers with busy schedules. Real-time tracking enables customers stay informed about the delivery status of their orders. The customer support feature helps users resolve their queries and concerns in real time.

Reminders for taking medication and prescription refills before the stock of their current medication is over, are an added advantage for individuals using a pharmacy app. Moreover, online pharmacy apps adhere to security protocols. Hence, consumers’ data is safe and their purchases are kept private.

Also, patients get detailed information on a specific medicine and its side effects. Some pharmacy solutions offer add-ons like online healthcare consultations and booking of emergency services like ambulances. These services are real deal-breakers for several consumers.

Business’s Perspective

An online pharmacy app brings a lot to the table for pharmacy stores. Some examples are speedy medicine deliveries, 24X7 customer support, secure packaging, discounted offers on medicines, and crucial medicine-related reminders. As such, pharmacy stores leveraging apps can effortlessly gain customer loyalty. Also, you’ll be able to move your pharmacy business beyond the confines of your brick & mortar store and maximize customer outreach.

An app helps pharmacy owners to provide amazing customer experiences just as the consumers are looking for. This applies to not just medicine delivery but also other related services like medical tests, virtual doctor consultations, and many more. Modern-day pharmacy app developers are implementing more such disruptive features that add immense value to a pharmacy solution’s usability. The outcome is happy customers.

Pharmacy apps are quite effective in creating new avenues of revenue generation and boosting sales of pharmacy stores as well as pharmacy delivery aggregators.

Key Steps to develop an online Pharmacy App

Define the Scope & Functionalities

Determine what purpose your pharmacy app will serve and which functionalities it will offer. Include a combination of generic and advanced features. Also, include USPs.

Pick the correct combination of Platform and Programming Languages

There are a wide variety of platforms and programming languages to choose from. You need to pick the right combination that fits into your existing skills and use case requirements. For example, choose the programming language Java for the Android platform and pick Swift if you are targeting iOS. If you plan to go for cross-platform development (android & iOS), React Native will be an apt choice.

Design the UI

Create the UI (User Interface) and UX (User Experience) design. While creating the design keep in mind that the UI should be clean and user-friendly. Make an intuitive design that is easy to use.

Develop the Backend of the App

The pharmacy app’s backend will communicate with servers and handle crucial tasks like data storage and processing. Develop the app’s backend to be reliable, scalable, and secure.

Integrate the necessary APIs

An online pharmacy app requires integration with certain external healthcare systems and devices for certain functions. So, integrate the necessary APIs so that your application can communicate with other services & systems like EHR (Electronic Health Records), drug databases, pharmacy management systems, etc. Integration with external healthcare systems will allow your app to offer additional features and data to end customers.

Test, Launch, & Maintain your App

Thoroughly test your pharmacy app to identify bugs and check whether the features are working as expected. For this, you can employ automated testing tools or hire a QA specialist for carrying out manual testing. I would recommend a combination of both- manual and automated testing - to achieve the best results.

Once you are satisfied with the app’s usability and sure that all the features are working as desired, it’s time to deploy your app. Launch your app in relevant stores like the Apple App Store and Google Play.

After your online pharmacy app goes live, maintain your app. Fix bugs and resolve issues at the earliest. Also, update your application with the latest features and security patches.

Closing Views

Developing an online pharmacy app can be challenging. It requires a combination of software development skills, interface design capabilities, and knowledge of pharmacy delivery operations. You also need to know about the ongoing trends and most wanted functionalities consumers look for in a pharmacy app.

But, if you plan the product development lifestyle carefully, follow the best practices, and comply with mandated regulations like HIPAA; you can create a valuable solution. So, select the right Software development service for executing your project.

With the large number of Web Development technologies surfacing to build modern-day web apps, web app development is getting increasingly complex and challenging. With the internet brimming with abundant web applications, users abandon and switch to other web applications in no time, if the application fails to satisfy their expectations, thereby damaging the company’s brand reputation. So, for delivering a successful end product, the organization needs to carefully execute each of these developmental and promotional stages to minimize errors, conform to business objectives, and provide a rich user experience.

However, fulfilling all the aforesaid factors becomes quite complicated and time-consuming. Hence, chances of lapses are likely; specifically, if your team is inexperienced or in a hurry to complete a project within the set timeline. Therefore, the web development team should maintain a checklist of the essential tasks; to avoid any misses.

This blog provides web development checklists that your team needs to refer to; for building a successful web application or a website. The following checklists have been created by consolidating the inputs from software-sector veterans and will help a Web Application Development Company to ensure that important action items are not neglected or overlooked.

Before we dive deeper let’s have a look at why web development checklists are required.

Checks For Web Development

Every web development project must undergo the following validations to ensure the creation of a flawless website. Let’s have a look at the key checklists and understand their importance.

Design, UX, and SEO checks

Optimize your website for all kinds of devices – mobiles, tablets, laptops, and desktops.

• Get rid of irrelevant images.
• Check whether the UX design has been executed as per the set standards.
• Make sure your website is free of broken links and validation errors. Broken links – the links which show an error or the “page not found” message on clicking – adversely affect the UX and also the website’s SEO score.
• Remember to include meta tags – title, description, etc. – as they improve the website’s position and boost the chances of ranking in the search engines.

Readability checks

• Cross-check the website content for any possible mistakes regarding spelling, grammar, etc. before the website’s live launch.
• Make sure that your content is unique and free of plagiarism.
• Adjust the font style to ensure that your web page is easy to read and scan; as this factor is a game-changer in terms of user retention.

Functionality and Performance checks

• Check the appearance and loading speed of your images. In case they are slower in loading or appear blurred; have this problem fixed by optimizing the image size. Optimization of images improves performance as well as search engine rankings.
• Check the loading time of your website. If the loading time turns out to be more than 4 sec, get the issue fixed, or else it will adversely affect your viewership.
• Check your website’s rendering and performance on trending browsers such as Mozilla, Chrome, Safari, Opera, Internet Explorer, etc.
• Your website’s caching should always be turned on as caching optimizes the speed of a webpage and also minimizes the server load by minimizing scripts like JavaScript and CSS that are time-consuming. A cache plugin named ‘W3 Total Cache’ can be easily installed if WordPress is being used to build the website.
• Ensure that your web page involves effortless navigation and all the links are functional.

Security checks

• SSL (Secured Socket Layer): Possessing an SSL (Secured Socket Layer) certificate is desirable if your website gathers sensitive user information such as personal details, and credit card/banking particulars.
• An anti-malware Plugin: The usage of anti-malware plugins helps to combat malware threats and protect a website from viruses and malware attacks.

Handy Web Development Checklists and Their Offerings

Now have a look at the ready-made Web development checklists recommended for your team!

Checklists related to an app’s pre-launch and post-launch

The pre-launch checklist  parameters include optimizing SEO, testing for bugs, optimizing performance, reviewing content, integrating social media, integrating analytics, devising a data backup & recovery plan, deployment plan, etc. The post-launch parameters include continuous monitoring, collecting user feedback, rolling out security and content updates, reviewing analytics, app promotion, offering user support, etc.

• The Essential Pre-launch Checklist for Your Website comprises functionality, design elements, cross-browser testing, content editing, and SEO.
• Website Launch Checklist by Glasgow developer offers tools for checking actions after completion, greying out items that are not applicable, and resetting the checklist to make it ready for the next project. It includes content editing, links’ testing, navigation usability, CSS and HTML validity, GDPR compliance, Communication, infrastructure, styles and scripts’ minification, compatibility, analytics, accessibility, performance, etc.
• The Essential Launch Checklist for Web Apps and Mobile Apps by Ben Cheng enables product managers to test the performance level, checking the legal compliances, security, compatibility, and broken links in applications.

Web Development Checklists on Front-end performance

These checklists guide you through carrying out front-end web app development tasks like making the design responsive, validating HTML and CSS, ensuring accessibility, optimizing performance, and cross-browser compatibility.

• A front-end Deployment Checklist by Fred Rocha, guides on validating the markup; and checking the performance, the console for JavaScript, and many more.
• The Front-end Checklist by David Dias is a digital interactive tool wherein one has to enter the project’s URL to get a full report on areas such as CSS, HTML, JavaScript, head, web fonts, images, SEO, performance, and accessibility. This check is an exhaustive one and categorizes items based on high, medium, or low-priority requirements.
• Front-end Performance Checklist 2020 by Vitaly Friedman offers the following items How to get ready on planning and metrics and how to set realistic goals, define the environment and assets, build and deliver optimizations, monitoring, testing, etc.

Web Development Checklists related to the backend server and database security

The following checklists provide guidance on executing the web app development tasks related to the server side. Some examples are configuring the server, designing the database, creating the APIs, etc.

• Back-end Best Practices provide stack-agonistic guidance on the best available practices involving different back-end architectures like security, data storage solutions, app monitoring, server environments, etc. It also offers a responsibility checklist for organizing the team tasks and a release checklist needed at the time of the launch of the app or website.
• Database Testing Checklist offers items regarding stored procedures, database integrity, field validation, transactions, security, constraints, etc.

Web Development Checklists on Cross-browser testing

Cross-browser testing is essential to make sure that a web app or a website looks and works consistently across various types of OSs and browsers. The key testing parameters include website layout, image rendering, responsiveness, font rendering, website functionality, audio & video playback, compatibility with existing browsers, etc.

• Cross-browser Testing Checklist Before Going Live includes testing on font rendering, element alignment, API connections, etc.
• Cross-browser Testing Checklist offers all items needed for testing on various browsers and OS.

Final Verdict:

Web application development involves multiple phases like web designing, development, project management, extensive testing, deployment & maintenance post-deployment. Each stage needs to be executed skillfully to avoid mistakes and costly rework. Additionally, the project has to be delivered within the set timeline. Therefore, chances of lapses are likely; particularly if your team lacks experience or is in a hurry to meet deadlines.

Thus, comprehensive knowledge about these web development checklists is essential for architecting a flawless and universally acceptable web app or website for your business.

Key Steps to test animated views in iOS

• Identify the type of animation you intend to use in the app -zoom in/zoom out, fade in/fade out, slide in/slide out, etc.
• Set the duration time of the animation – the time taken for the completion of the animation. Decide on this time very carefully as it determines the effect of your animation.
• Identify the specific user interactions or the particular events that will trigger the animation to function. Examples of such triggers include scrolling, button tapping, etc.
• Examine how accurately and precisely the animation will be working or behaving.
• Check how the animation is impacting the app’s CPU, performance, and memory usage.
• Consider the feedback app users will get during and after the animation – visual indicators or haptic feedback.

What are the different Methodologies to test Animated Views in iOS?

Concluding Views:

Internet of Things (IoT) applications are transforming several industries in the ways never thought. Check out how smart IoT Applications can transform your Business Operations and fetch you a high ROI!

There are several IoT application development services in the market which deliver high-end IoT solutions to diverse industries. If you want to take your business to the next level of success with advanced IoT solutions, Biz4Solutions can be your partner. To know more about our IoT solutions, visit us at https://www.biz4solutions.com/internet-of-things/

The software outsourcing industry is growing in leaps and bounds! The advantages of offshore software development are being leveraged by large-scale as well as small-scale enterprises and even start-ups! Check out some interesting 2022 statistics researched by Zippia.com, about the US outsourcing industry!

• The value of the global software outsourcing market was $92.5 Billion in 2022. This accounted for $62 billion of the entire international market revenue.
• The US outsources approximately thirty-thousand jobs every year.
• 59% of companies outsource to cut costs.
• 66% of the business enterprises in the US outsource services for at least one department.
• 78% of the global organizations that outsource services hold a positive attitude towards their respective technology partners.
• The outsourcing market has been predicted to grow at a CAGR of 4% between the years 2021 and 2025.

Why is software outsourcing so popular? Well, this post discusses how offshore outsourcing models bridge the gap in existing IT operations and why every company, big or small, must consider offshore outsourcing.

Offshore Outsourcing Software Development Model

Offshore Software Development Services: Long-Term Advantages

Hassle-Free Resource Hiring

For creating an in-house IT team from scratch, you need to invest an enormous amount of time, effort, and money. This is because, for carrying out the processes of recruitment, onboarding, and advanced training to the newly appointed resources; you need to assign resources, working hours as well as funding.

Contrarily, if you adopt the software outsourcing approach, you can save on the cost and hassles of recruitment processes. You just need to define the project requirement and your outsourcing partner will take care of the rest. The offshore firm will provide you with resources that best suit your project specs. The resources can be either dedicated developers or an entire team of software professionals depending on your need.

Usually, software development outsourcing services maintain a curated pool of pre-screened candidates and so, do not need to invest additional time in conducting screening tests, interviews, and coding assessments. As such, your partner company can build a perfect team for you much faster than you can imagine.

Access To Flexible Team Structures

Your business enterprise may not need resources with the same kind of skillsets all the time. A majority of IT projects require a team of professionals with expertise in different areas of IT during various product developmental stages. Moreover, the project requirement may change at any time to keep up with changing times. And, the more flexibility to change the technology stack, team structure, and business model; the faster will the project be able to adapt to ever-evolving specifications.

But, it’s difficult to achieve this flexibility with an in-house team, as it lacks a variety of skillsets. Mostly, you are left with very few options and have to settle down for the available resources even if they do not possess the required years of experience or specialized skills. Several companies invest in training their in-house resources for specific software development tasks.

In this regard, the offshore software development strategy proves beneficial as it offers a flexible team with a wide variety of skillsets for software engineers, programmers, developers, testers, etc. During the initial stages of the product development cycle, when more front-end engineers are needed, your software outsourcing vendor provides you with front-end development experts. And, when the server-side logic is being created, back-end development professionals will be allocated. This approach will be followed with each product development stage. As such, you’ll easily get specialized resources based on the requirement for each developmental phase.

Usage Of the Latest Technologies

Most of the distinguished outsourcing partners have specialists and certified professionals skilled in the latest cutting-edge technologies. Such kind of expertise is rare to find within in-house teams. However, knowledge and expertise to work with emerging tech stacks are necessary for crafting a product that is competitive and relevant as per the modern market requirements.

Addresses Scalability Woes

It’s difficult to identify beforehand how many resources you will be requiring at each stage of your software product development cycle. So, with an in-house development team, scaling up and down as per the project needs become challenging. You either end up overpaying for resources or fall short of resources at certain product development phases.

The offshore software development model helps you to successfully address scaling issues. You can hire extra resources and expand your team when the demand surges or you need to speed up the development process. And, when the demand for resources is low, you may reduce the number of specialists. Offshore partners usually offer various outsourcing models like resource augmentation or dedicated teams, and you get to pick the model that suits you best.

Advantages Of Time-Zone Differences

Remote resources of an offshore development company working from a different time zone may seem challenging to many but is actually a boon for product development. It leads to faster time-to-market. Remote offshore development teams working from different time zones with some overlapping hours make way for continuous services and round-the-clock development activity. And, as there’s always some resource working on the project, you can identify issues at the earliest and resolve them promptly.

This benefit is not available with in-house teams. So, during major service updates, your in-house resources need to work additional hours in late-night shifts. This again involves extra expenses in the form of additional wages to the staff. Contrarily, with the offshore software development approach, you always have IT professionals from different locations working on your project, a few hours ahead or behind your time zone. Hence, changes can be executed without disrupting the normal workflow or asking professionals to work extra hours.

Time To Concentrate on Core Business Functions

Business enterprises that have outsourced development tasks to offshore technology partners do not have to worry about managing complex, time-consuming, and hassle-prone tasks related to project development. This leaves them enough time and energy to focus on core business activities and decision-making processes.

Lower Infrastructure & Operational Costs

The in-house software development approach requires you to invest heavily in infrastructural & operational expenses like maintaining office spaces, employee recruitment, obtaining software licenses, paying salaries to IT professionals, employee supervision, and many more. Also, you need to spend a humongous amount to keep your IT ecosystem relevant and updated with the latest market trends.

Hence, outsourcing software development to third-party companies saves you from all hassles as you only need to pay for the services delivered by a dedicated development team or developers for the project assignment within a said timeline. However, the labor costs in some countries like the US, Australia, Canada, etc. are very high regardless of the experience and expertise of the workforce. On the other hand, outsourcing software development services in India will enable you to get a skilled workforce at minimal costs. Such an offshore business model promises to offer a partnership with experienced tech nerds, affordable product development rates, and flexible pricing models to choose from.

It has been observed so far that offshore software development services outsourced from South Asian countries like India offer the maximum value for your money.

Advanced Tools Used by Offshore Companies to Bridge the Communication Gap with Clients

It is essential for your in-house team to have continual and seamless communication with offshore software development teams. For this reason, most experienced outsourcing partners have a well-built communication infrastructure. It allows continuous, prompt, transparent, and secure communication with clients regardless of time-zone differences. Advanced tools such as Zoom, Slack, Skype, Hangout, Asana, LastPass, HelloSign, Hackpad, etc. are used for convenient and safe communication between both parties. For instance, Slack, Google Hangout, and Skype are utilized for offering regular updates, Jira for project updates, Hubstaff for managing time, GitHub for managing the code, and so on.

An experienced offshore software development company has been using these advanced communication tools for years and so, the team members are well-trained in their usage. Such tools allow the client to effortlessly track the performance of their offshore team members, handle reporting functions, and understand the status of the project at any given time. Team calls via video conferencing are one of the most popular practices for synching the members of teams working from different locations.

Wrapping Up:

The offshore software development model brings a lot to the table for business enterprises. It offers benefits like access to a large pool of talent, innovation, and expertise. Offshoring also promises a cost-efficient development cycle. Besides, you can get much-needed advice and new business insights from your experienced software outsourcing company, leading to productive outcomes and flawless decision-making.

You need to just select the right offshore team with the necessary experience and expertise needed for your project.

What Is Deep Linking?

How Does The Concept Of Deep Linking Work?

Deferred Deep Links?

What Are The Benefits Of Deep Linking?

How Can You Implement Deep Linking In React Native Apps?

Configuring Deep Linking In IOS And Android

Configuring Deep Links In React Native Android Apps

Step#1 Defining Deep Links

Step#2 Configuring The Intent Filter

Step#3 Intent Handling

Configuring Deep Links In React Native IOS Apps

Step#1 Defining The URL Scheme

Step#2 Handling Code Implementation

Step#3 Testing

Step#4 Universal Link Handling