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12 Types of Trending Healthcare Software

 

Advancement in technology has opened the door to digital transformation in healthcare. The stakeholders are adopting new technologies to develop scalable, accessible, affordable, and sustainable healthcare solutions. The healthcare industry generates a humungous amount of data from different components including patients, hospitals, trauma care, and labs. Health applications are being introduced to unify and streamline this complex data using technology and the internet. Many medical applications have been developed to connect individuals at different locations with different skill sets and functions. The aim is to solve the problems of medical care with standard software engineering solutions. 

Many healthcare apps have been launched in different healthcare domains such as health diagnostics and healthcare informatics. These apps have different designs, functions, and implementations. Here is a list of 12 types of popular healthcare industry applications benefitting the healthcare sector in multiple ways.

1. Electronic Health Records (EHR)

EHR is one of the emerging technologies in healthcare software applications wherein the healthcare provider and patients can benefit from the ability to electronically exchange and save health information. Healthcare organizations are adopting such technology to provide quality and safe medical care. The quick and up-to-date health-related information enables the healthcare provider to provide efficient and coordinated care. EHR apps bring in reliable, accurate, and streamlined care and billing. These technologies offer high security and privacy to patient data. Besides improved productivity, EHR offers higher efficiency to meet the business goals of any organization. The EHR can be further classified into two popular types – Electronic Patient Record (EPR) Software and Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Software. The former is used to store patient information and the latter is used to record different data such as medical types, medicine dosages, patient procedures, and recovery courses of patients. 

2. Hospital Management Software (HMS)

HMS introduces management and information capabilities to help hospitals streamline their processes. HMS often has two separate portals for hospital management and patients. The former acts as a database for all information required for the administration and management of the hospital. The patient portal offers a digital page for registration, billing, insurance, and every other aspect concerning the patients. HMS solutions are known to offer numerous benefits including reduced paperwork, reduced cost, improved user experience, higher data security, streamlined communication, error-free administration, and location-free access to MIS reports. Such healthcare applications promote digital health which proves to be very beneficial in crisis-like situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic where we stressed to implementation of paperless and remote communication.

3. Telemedicine Software

The Telemedicine industry is booming at a fast pace. Statistics suggest that by the end of the year 2025, the industry will value at about $64 Billion. The COVID-19 pandemic has immensely contributed to this growth. Telemedicine is one of the profitable healthcare IT apps that enable patients to communicate with doctors and healthcare providers from remote locations. The patients can get appointments with the healthcare providers and communicate with them using chat messaging, emails, video calls, and telephone calls. It is one of the many profitable healthcare app solutions that facilitate people (elderly people, people with disabilities, and people living in isolated areas) with the potential to connect with healthcare providers from the comfort of their homes. Many healthcare companies are readily hiring healthcare app developers to develop productive solutions and capture consumers from the remote corners of the country.

4. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM)

Healthcare providers have come up with healthcare solutions to monitor and collect patient data from remote locations. RPM solutions enable healthcare providers to collect health data, conduct diagnoses and alert the doctor in case of any abnormal behavior. Healthcare providers hire healthcare app Development Company to develop RPMs with unique features that satiates their requirements and business model. Different features of RPM include data analytics, reporting, online doctor-patient communication, and patient data security. These apps also come with text-to-speech functionalities to be used by people with disabilities. Taking a step further, healthcare providers are leveraging the potential of IoT to integrate RPM with different health-tracking wearable devices to keep a check on device failures. 

5. Medical Imaging Software

Medical imaging software is gaining traction over its potential to analyze large datasets derived from images. Many radiologists use Machine Learning diagnostic tools with it to process a large volume of data and highlight the details that demand immediate attention from the doctor. These software solutions are also used to develop a customized 3D image of a human body or some specific body part. Such software facilitates the designing of equipment and body components such as coronary stents and prosthetic limbs. 

6. ePrescription Software

These are one of the most commonly used healthcare apps. ePrescription software keeps a track of old prescriptions and assists healthcare providers in refilling and generating new prescriptions. This kind of software has become a must-have for doctors, enabling them to track patient history and save time. The ability to send the prescription to the pharmacy in just one click makes these apps very handy and time-efficient. They also notify drug allergies, keep a check on prescription drug errors, monitor the use of the controlled substance, promote paperless culture, and save time on medicine procurement. 

7. Medical Diagnosis Software

Of all the medical software solutions and apps used in hospitals, healthcare diagnosis apps offer vast benefits to healthcare providers by offering a holistic view of the patient’s condition. Medical diagnosis healthcare software solutions have an automatic data-sharing feature that connects specialists from different departments and brings them to one platform. Healthcare professionals are integrating Artificial Intelligence in such healthcare software applications to process all the available patient information and provide a probable and potential diagnosis. At the same time, patients can use these apps to find out the severity of their medical condition and the need for medical consultation. 

8. Medical Billing Software

Medical billing apps have emerged as one of the key healthcare software development solutions for financial operations. These apps help users manage receipts, invoices, and insurance. Many healthcare institutions integrate these apps with larger systems such as EHR. Many hospitals include this software in their healthcare services. The key features include automated accounting, financial management, claims management, and patient registration. In any integrated health system, such healthcare software gets uninterrupted access to a centralized patient database, that helps in medical coding and billing. Compliance strength is another important feature that boosts any medical billing service by automatically staying updated with the latest billing laws. Healthcare organizations are widening the horizons of their health services by integrating Business Intelligence into medical billing systems to gain business insights regarding revenue generation. 

9. Health-Tracking Apps

Most of us must be aware of health-tracking apps that help us track our diet, overall well-being, and fitness. Wearable devices have only escalated the popularity of such medical apps. The mobile health apps industry has flourished over the last many years. The users get accurate health data such as Heart Rate and Oxygen level, enabling them to monitor their lifestyle and daily activities. Besides the trending usage, these apps have proved to be beneficial for patients in recovering from medical ailments. These apps can highlight changes in body parameters and alert the medical staff in case of any abnormal behavior. These health-tracking apps are promoting a healthy lifestyle to the common public. 

10. Healthcare CRM Software

Healthcare Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software boosts the doctor-patient relationship by automating and streamlining different services. Medical institutions are using such healthcare app development solutions for patient acquisition and retention. Healthcare CRM software has multiple features including lead management, a patient portal, an appointment scheduler, analytics and reporting, and marketing automation. All these features can help any healthcare institution offer personalized services and achieve its business goals. 

11. Appointment Scheduling Software

Health centers and physicians are increasingly adopting appointment scheduling software to streamline and speed up appointment scheduling. Appointment scheduling, sending reminders, rescheduling, and many other activities can be performed using this appointment-scheduling software. Such apps generate a clear picture of the doctor’s schedule. Also, such apps can automate the monotonous and manual work of receptionists and other workers. It comes with a patient-facing panel to be used by patients and a management panel to be used by the medical institution. 

12. Remote Medical Training 

It is one of the medical software applications that largely benefit the medical fraternity in training and education. Advanced technologies such as Augmented Reality are being integrated into such apps to boost the learning process. Surgery is one of the most beneficial areas. Such healthcare IT solutions are helping healthcare professionals to keep up with continuous medical education and the latest developments in healthcare. These apps are known to be cost-effective tools that cut down the cost of traveling and hiring resources for medical training. Remote medical training software is being used to train medical professionals at a large scale and at a fast pace. 

Conclusion

Intelligent healthcare software solutions are simplifying and streamlining the healthcare system with advanced technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine Learning (ML). These healthcare apps are positively influencing every aspect from appointment scheduling to patient recovery. Special attention has been given to improving communication between different stakeholders, healthcare providers, and patients. These healthcare IT solutions are reducing the workload of hospitals and other healthcare institutions. They have proven to be cost-effective, time-efficient, intelligent, resource-optimized, and sustainable, ready to cater to a large population. 

Healthcare industry software applications have been trending and opening doors to new opportunities for revenue for healthcare institutions. Stepping into healthcare app development can prove to be a great move, given every component from market research to user testing is taken care of. For developing a profitable and HIPAA-compliant medical solution, it’s advisable to partner with a proficient software development company with domain-specific experience. An experienced firm can help you develop scalable and sustainable medical software that takes you closer to your business goals with every step. 

 

Top PHP Development Tools to watch out for!

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/

Pharmacy App Development: All you need to know!

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.

Significant Healthcare Tech Trends to watch out for!

 

Healthcare is an ever-evolving sector that continues to expand its reach and influence with the help of avant-garde technologies. Increased awareness of health and disease, along with advances in technology that support it, make healthcare a booming industry. Advancements in the healthcare industry will continue to grow in leaps and bounds as medical technology continues to advance at a rapid rate. The emergence of cutting-edge technologies comes with game-changing healthcare solutions that open up new avenues of treatment and transforms healthcare diagnosis altogether.

 

Here are the most significant healthcare technology trends! Take a look at these amazing trends and learn what they bring to the table. Every healthcare provider should be aware of the ongoing healthcare technology trends to stay relevant in the ever-evolving healthcare sector.

 

Biggest Healthcare Technology Trends

 

 

Drones for Healthcare Delivery

 

Drones for delivery are one of the most recent and promising healthcare technology trends. Already, companies like Amazon are testing the waters with their drones. Drones are UAVs (Unmanned Ariel Vehicles) that people use for transporting healthcare-related items like medical supplies, vaccines, etc. to remote areas that are difficult to reach otherwise. Take a close look at some of the use cases.

 

Authorities can use drones to transport emergency medical supplies and other equipment to remote disaster-stricken locations. This way, healthcare providers and first responders can provide medical care & assistance quickly to the ones in need. And, the best part is that authorities can easily offer such aid regardless of the physical transportation barriers that the disaster has caused. Drones also make it easy to deliver vaccines to locations that are hard to reach using traditional means of transportation.

 

Besides, the use of drones makes it easier and quicker to transport stuff like medicines, blood, and diagnostic test samples. Such a service proves immensely beneficial when you need to ensure the timely delivery of critical medical supplies. If Drones are equipped with telemedicine technology, you can also use them to offer doctor consultations and medical exams to patients residing in underserved and remote areas.

 

Drones for healthcare delivery have the potential to improve access to healthcare, boost the efficiency of healthcare services, and reduce costs at the same time. However, drones may involve regulatory and logistic challenges. And, you need to address such challenges for obtaining the best results from Drone usage.

 

Precision Medicine

 

A new term will dominate the healthcare industry in future years. It’s called precision medicine. Here, medical professionals collect information about an individual’s body proteins and genes. They use this data for diagnosing, treating, or preventing certain diseases. In other words, medical professionals leverage information about a person’s unique genetic built to tailor personalized treatment methodologies.

 

Precision medicine works wonders in cancer treatment. Physicians can gather crucial data about a tumor inside the human body and create a treatment plan accordingly. Doctors can also track the progress of the treatment and medication and create a prognosis.

 

Precision medicine is one of the most transformative emerging healthcare technology trends and this approach is gaining momentum due to the advances made in the fields of genomics and personalized medicine.

 

AI in Healthcare Diagnostics

 

Computer algorithms will play a greater role in the diagnosis of medical conditions due to the increased use of AI in healthcare.

 

As the human mind is a complex creation of memories, places, and systems; technology can now understand how things work and how they relate. For example, an algorithm can determine if two people are connected while sitting next to each other in a room or how it relates to money when one finds it difficult to make decisions.

 

This is possible due to the mind’s ability to communicate with each other and with technology.

 

The healthcare industry is leveraging this capability of Artificial Intelligence to gain unimaginable treatment outcomes. For example, an AI algorithm could determine if someone has a chronic disease and whether or not they are suffering from symptoms that are related to that disease. AI-powered healthcare solutions and tools are helping medical professionals analyze huge chunks of patient data for identifying patterns and trends. AI combined with Machine Learning, a subset of AI, can analyze data to identify patterns and offer personalized recommendations for medication or treatment based on the distinct health history and objectives of an individual. This is helping healthcare providers improve the correctness of healthcare metrics and also optimize the effectiveness of personalized treatment plans.

 

AI is one of the game-changing healthcare mobile app trends that’s proving its potential in the medical sector by improving diagnostic outcomes, reducing clinical errors, and personalizing treatment plans.
 

3D Printing

 

3D Printing is one of the most innovative healthcare technology trends and can completely transform the way healthcare devices are manufactured and distributed. The healthcare sector is using this technology to build customized medical devices and treatment options tailored to individual patient requirements. Software development services are using cutting-edge technologies like AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) to achieve the best outcomes from 3D printing. Check out some of the use case examples! 

 

Prosthetics

 

With 3D printing, you can create customized prosthetics tailored based on a patient’s unique anatomy and requirements. This makes way for improved comfort and better treatment outcomes.

 

Implants

 

You can utilize 3D printing for customizing implants as well. Such implants perfectly match a person’s particular anatomy and integrate better with that person’s body, leading to the best outcomes.

 

Medical Models

 

You can create physical models of the human anatomy to provide much-needed pre-surgery understanding & planning and results in better decision-making.

 

Surgical Guides & Tools

 

3D printing enables healthcare industry experts to create surgical tools and guides that are tailored to a particular human anatomy. This minimizes the risks of surgical errors and improves treatment outcomes considerably.

 

Organ Printing

 

Organ printing is one of the most revolutionary healthcare technology trends that is expected in the future years. Researchers are exploring this approach. They are using 3D printing for creating functional organs used during transplants. This concept is in its formative stages but holds immense potential to disrupt the future of the healthcare industry.

 

 

Digital health coaches

 

A growing healthcare technology trend, digital coaches will take the world by storm in 2023. And, it has nothing to do with eating healthier foods. Coaches will train their clients in how to use modern technology to improve their wellness and health. Many people are already using this type of coaching today, but through the use of social media, smartphones, and other devices.

 

A health coach can also provide resources that match their level, such as certification programs or advanced training courses. Clients can either purchase one or hire a coach to help them navigate the technology on their own. With the system of digital healthcare coaching, it becomes easy for individuals to set wellness goals for themselves and achieve those goals under the guidance of professionals.

 

Health coaches connect with their clients on a personal level and guide them through the process of finding a wellness coach, signing up for training sessions, and actively practicing what they are learning in those sessions. Experts will guide individuals seeking medical advice, support, and guidance at any time and from anywhere. Coaches collect an individual’s health data using technologies like wearable apps and other smart devices or healthcare software solutions. Experts then analyze this data and track their client’s progress. Based on these results, coaches provide personalized advice on wellness parameters.

 

In Conclusion

 

Emerging technologies have already proved their potential in transforming the Healthcare Industry. More advanced technologies are expected to create a buzz in the coming years. New technologies promise to brighten the future of medical diagnoses and treatment. Hence, healthcare providers must necessarily explore these technology trends to stay ahead of the competition.

 

However, implementing new technological trends in your healthcare service offerings require professional expertise and sound technical knowledge. So, several providers are partnering with an experienced healthcare app development company, to smarten their service offerings using innovative technologies.

 

Web Development Checklists that provide Useful Guidance to Teams!

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.

 

 

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.

Testing Animated Views in iOS Apps: Expert Guidance!

 
Animations offer fluid visual transactions between the various states of an app UI. In iOS application development, animations are used for repositioning views or modifying their sizes and also for hiding views or removing views from hierarchies. Animations play a vital role in implementing amazing visual effects in the application and also convey visual feedback for users’ actions. And, the outcome is an engaging & dynamic UI and an elevated UX for iOS app users.

An animated view is a custom view that changes its look or appearance in response to some context. For example, a carousel layout has several slides that change in size and appearance in response to the user’s interaction. However, animated views will function as expected and provide an amazing UX only if they are tested correctly. And, it’s challenging to test animated views in iOS apps as animations involve time-based modifications in the UI.

This post enlists the right strategies and guides you through the correct process of testing animated views in iOS applications.
 

Key Steps to test animated views in iOS

 

Identify the Animated View and its Components

 

An animated view refers to a view with an animated behaviour or presentation. Here, there’ll be different components like images, buttons, labels, and other elements of the UI. So, the very first step before you start to test animated views in iOS is to identify the animated view along with its components. You need to consider the following factors:

 

  • 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.

 

Proper identification of the animated view and its components holds significance while you conduct testing in Software Development projects. It will help you break down the test process into smaller and more manageable parts.
 
Set up the Test Environment

 

Now, you need to set up a test environment that will enable you to inspect the views and manipulate them during various phases of the animation. Check out the key steps for this.

Create a separate test target and also separate files for every component. This way, you can verify every component’s expected behavior separately. For creating a separate target for your test environment, go to ‘File’, then ‘New,’ and then ‘Target.’ Select the “iOS Unit Testing Bundle” present under the “Test” section. A new target gets created. You can use this target for writing tests for animated views. Also, create a test class for the animated views. This class should contain test cases that will simulate various stages of the animation process and assert that the views are going to function as desired.

Now, configure a test fixture that contains the view you’ll test. Here, there can be any essential dependencies like data sources or view models. You also need to set up mock objects for dependencies like data sources or any other views and create the necessary test data.

The aforementioned steps will help you to set up a test environment for animations during iOS application development. This will enable you to conduct the testing process in a controlled and repeatable manner.
 
Write Unit Tests for the underlying logic of the iOS App
 
Break down the animations into small-sized components and then test each component individually. This practice is better than testing the whole animation in a single go. Here’s an example. There’s a custom view that gets animated when tapped. Here, you need to check whether the view changes when you tap on it and whether the view’s color changes when you tap it. You should also ensure that the view animates smoothly without any jerks.

Now, identify the components present in the animation. Write test cases for every component to verify whether the components are working as desired. It’s recommended to use the Apple-provided XCTest framework for writing the tests. For instance, XCTestExpectation allows you to wait for the animation to get completed before you make any assertions. With this tool, you can test the behavior of the view at various phases of the animation.

Animations are likely to have dependencies like other views or data sources on other portions of the application. So, you need to isolate your tests and improve their reliability. For this, you need to use mock objects for the dependencies. This way, you will be able to test the app’s animation logic without having to worry about the other parts of the iOS application.
 
Debug using the in-built Debug Tools for Animations in Xcode
 
Xcode comes with a wide range of in-built debug tools that facilitate debugging animations. Such tools help you understand how the animations are functioning and identify bugs. Thanks to these tools, you can perform actions like setting breakpoints in your code for pausing the animation at particular points so that you can investigate the view’s state. As such, you can identify those logical errors present in the code that is affecting the animation’s functioning.

The tool Debug View Hierarchy helps you to inspect the view during the animation. You’ll be able to see the properties of the view at different phases of the animation including the constraints, frame, etc. Xcode offers another great tool, the Debug Memory graph. This tool examines the memory usage of the view during the animation and helps you identify performance issues like memory leaks. Some other examples of Xcode tools are the animation view hierarchy inspector, the time profiler, and the slow animations simulator.
 

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

 

 
Check out the various testing methodologies. Each of these testing techniques plays a crucial role in ensuring that the animated views are tested rigorously.
 
Asynchronous Testing
 
Animations involve delays or callbacks which occur asynchronously. So, you need to conduct asynchronous testing while testing animated views. Take a look at the steps for asynchronous testing:
 
Step#1
 
Use XCTestExpectation, an in-built tool available in the XCTest framework in iOS. With this tool, you need to create an expectation for an asynchronous event. Also, set a timeout interval for this. Once you create the expectation for the animation’s completion and establish a timeout interval, the test will fail if the expectation doesn’t get fulfilled. Here’s an example!
 

let animationExpectation = XCTestExpectation(description: "Animation completed")

// Start animation code here

// After the animation is completed, fulfill the expectation

animationCompletionHandler = {

animationExpectation.fulfill()

}

// Wait till the expectation gets fulfilled

wait(for: [animationExpectation], timeout: 5)

 
Step#2

Several iOS animation APIs contain completion handlers that get called after the animation gets completed. Testers use these completion handlers to conduct tests after the completion of the animation. Look at this example!
 

// Start animation code here

// At the end of the animation, perform the test

animationCompletionHandler = {

// Perform test here

}

 
Step#3

Certain animations might involve modification of the UI’s state; this needs to be carried out on the main thread. Here, you have to use dispatch queues. This way, you can execute the test code on the main thread after the animation completes. Take a look at how it happens!
 

// Start animation code here

// At the end of the animation, perform the test on the main queue

animationCompletionHandler = {

DispatchQueue.main.async {

// Perform test here

}

}

 

Manual Testing
 
Make sure that you conduct the testing on simulated as well as real devices. You need this process to check whether the animations will function as desired on every kind of device and OS version.

Manual testing involves interacting manually with the view and observing how the animation is behaving. This is how manual testing is carried out. Testers run the iOS application on either a device or in the iOS simulator. Then, they manually trigger the animation by interacting with the application. This way, you can find out animation issues like unexpected behavior or any glitches in its functioning. Remember, that the behavior of animations may be different on various devices and simulators. So, test animated views across different environments to get the best results.

I would also recommend you test animated views with real users and observe how they are interacting with the animations. You can do this by running a usability testing session or a user study. This way, you’ll receive much-needed user feedback regarding the animation of your iOS app, identify issues, and address them timely.
 
Automated Testing
 
Create automated tests for the animated views using testing frameworks like EarlGrey, XCUITest, or KIF for simulating user interactions and checking whether the animations behave as desired. Automated testing helps you to detect issues in the early phases of the developmental cycle. This testing approach also allows you to keep your animation functional while you modify the code.

Take a peek through the steps on how to test animated views using the tool XCUITest!

Step#1

Identify the view which contains the animation that needs to be tested. Also, identify the user interaction that triggers the animation.

Step#2

Write a test case that simulates the user interaction for triggering the animation. For instance, if an animation gets triggered with the pressing of a button, you need to create a test case to tap on that button.

Step#3

Once the animation gets triggered, verify the animation’s behavior using assertions. For instance, check the size, position, capacity, etc. of the view while the animation is taking place.

Step#4

Now, repeat the aforesaid steps using various scenarios like different animations or different user inputs.

Check out this example. Here, XCUITest is used to create a test case for a “button” animation.
 

func testButtonAnimation() {

let app = XCUIApplication()

app.launch()

let button = app.buttons["myButton"]

button.tap()

// Verify the animation

let animationExpectation = expectation(description: "Button animation completed")

DispatchQueue.main.asyncAfter(deadline: .now() + 1.0) {

XCTAssertTrue(button.frame.origin.x > 0, "Button should move to the right during animation")

animationExpectation.fulfill()

}

waitForExpectations(timeout: 2.0, handler: nil)

}

 

Concluding Views:

 
Testing animated views can become tricky at times as it involves dynamic & visual changes. So, you need to test animated views of your iOS app following the best practices and strategies. You can seek technical assistance from a professional mobile app development service that specializes in iOS app development; for getting the app development and testing process right.
 

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/

How can Offshore Software Development Services contribute to bridging the Gaps in Your Business Operations?

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.

Deep Linking in React Native Apps: All you need to Know!

deep linking in React Native

 
Deep linking has become an essential component in today’s interconnected world. The term “deep linking” may sound new to many; but, most of you must have used the concept of deep linking in some form or the other.
 
Do you remember an instance wherein you’ve clicked on a link and it directly opened up a specific screen in an app installed on your device; without you having to navigate manually through the app? Or, for instance, you wanted your friend to read an article and shared the URL of that article. Your friend clicked on the link and got directed to the desired content in one go instead of having to launch the home page first and then search for the article.
 
Have you ever wondered how this happens?
 
Well, this is what deep linking does. Users click on a link and get redirected to a particular location in a mobile app or a website without having to waste time navigating via the main screen. Other examples include sharing the link for a YouTube video or Amazon product with a friend, opening a promotional link from a brand to go to a specific product page, and so on. In such scenarios, deep linking is essential as regular web links do not work effectively with native mobile applications.
 
This post is all about understanding how the concept of deep linking works and learning about its benefits. We will also discuss the key steps on how to implement deep linking in React Native mobile apps for the Android & iOS operating systems. We’ve picked the React Native framework as it is one of the most popular preferences for mobile app development these days.

What Is Deep Linking?

 
Deep linking is a technique that enables one to link a particular content or screen inside a mobile application from an external source like another application or a website. Deep links are clickable links that send users straightaway to a particular location within a mobile app rather than an online store or a web link. This in-app location can be anything like a piece of secure content behind a paywall, an article, a product, or a login screen. Users can reach the desired in-app location by just clicking on an URL or resource without the need of searching for the page themselves.

How Does The Concept Of Deep Linking Work?

 
Deep linking specifies a customized URL scheme like universal links (for iOS devices) and an intent URL (for Android devices). When a user clicks on a deep link, the OS intercepts the link and opens up the relevant application if it’s installed on the user’s device. The information present in the deep link is then used by the application for navigating to the desired content or screen.

Deferred Deep Links?

 
What if users get deep-linked into an application, but the application is not installed on their device? Here, deferred deep links come into the picture. If a user clicks on a link and the app to which the link belongs is not downloaded; the user gets directed to the App Store instead. Here, the users are directed to the exact location of the App Store where they can install the intended app with just a single click. And, once the app gets installed the specific screen opens up at once.

What Are The Benefits Of Deep Linking?

 
Deep linking saves the users’ time and enhances the user experience significantly.
 
Deep links are great tools for business brands to boost user retention as well as conversion rate. Brands can tie promotional campaigns and incentives to deep links; redirecting users to their product page with just a single click. This way, brands can easily convince users to try out new products or services. For instance, a music app owner would like to promote a new music album. So, the owner invests in advertising and ties up with a famous website. The music album cover with a deep link gets displayed on that website as an ad campaign. When the website users click on the deep link, they are redirected to the specific page in the music app and can listen to the album.
 
Furthermore, you can track deep linking campaigns and check how your campaigns perform. Deep linking also improves your SEO rankings and minimizes the churn of your application.

How Can You Implement Deep Linking In React Native Apps?

 

 
The react-navigation library provides the Linking module for deep-linking React Native apps. This proves handy for React Native developers.
 
You need to define a deep link schema in the application that will map specific URLs to the relevant app screens. react-navigation provides components like the Linking module and the NavigationContainer to define the schema. After defining the schema, it can be used for handling the incoming deep links. You need to register a callback function with the help of the addEventListner method provided by the Linking module for handling the incoming deep links. When the app gets launched via a deep link, the callback function is called. This callback function can be used for navigating the desired screen in the application.

Configuring Deep Linking In IOS And Android

 
You need to configure a mobile app with an URL scheme (a unique URL). This URL scheme is responsible for locating and launching the app installed on the user’s smartphone device. To make the app navigate to a screen, you have to set up prefixes that match the URL scheme on which the app got configured. Then the screens need to be mapped within the app with their respective paths. When the path gets attached to the URL, the app is able to directly navigate to specific screens.
 
Configuring deep links is a bit different for the iOS and Android operating systems. Let’s take a look at how professional React Native developers implement deep linking for Android and iOS!

Configuring Deep Links In React Native Android Apps

 

Step#1 Defining Deep Links

 
Open the Manifest file and define the deep links that you plan to use in your app so that users can directly navigate to a specific page within the app. Here, you need to define a deep link for that specific page. Here’s how you can define a deep link in your AndroidManifest.xml file:
 

<activity

android:name=”.ProductActivity”

android:label=”Product”>

<intent-filter>

<action android:name=”android.intent.action.VIEW” />

<category android:name=”android.intent.category.DEFAULT” />

<category android:name=”android.intent.category.BROWSABLE” />

<data

android:host=”example.com”

android:pathPrefix=”/products”

android:scheme=”http” />

<data

android:host=”example.com”

android:pathPrefix=”/products”

android:scheme=”https” />

</intent-filter>

</activity>

 

Step#2 Configuring The Intent Filter

 
Go to android/app/src/main and from there open the file named AndroidManifest.xml. Now, you need to configure the intent filter for every deep link. The intent filter specifies the amount of data and the actions that your application is capable of handling.

 

Step#3 Intent Handling

 
You need to handle the intent in your application’s activity. This intent will launch your application from a deep link. For intent handling, you need to extract data from the intent and determine that particular location or specific screen inside your app that you want the users to be directed to. Thereafter, your project needs to be rebuilt in the Android emulator.

Configuring Deep Links In React Native IOS Apps

 
Set up your URL scheme under URL types in Xcode. Modify the ‘AppDelegate’ file and rebuild the project in the iOS emulator. Now the iOS project is opened in Xcode.

 

Step#1 Defining The URL Scheme

 
Define a customized URL scheme for your application. This URL scheme is a unique way for your app to get identified. Other websites or apps will use this unique identifier to launch your application.
 
Open the file info.plist. Add a new URL type on the top of this file. The URL scheme can be input in the identifier and URL schemes field. Then expand item 0 (zero), select the URL Schemes, and name item 0. This name is the one that your application will be linkable as. For instance, the name of your app is “OurApp.” The URL scheme will look like this “ourapp://” or “ourapp://detail?id=123”.

 

Step#2 Handling Code Implementation

 
Now, you need to implement the code that will handle the deep link. Go to the ‘AppDelegate’ file and add a method for handling the scheme. When your app will get launched through the URL scheme; this method will get called. The URL will be received by this method. The necessary information will be extracted from the URL and the right screen will get displayed in your app.

 

Step#3 Testing

 
Now, the deep link needs to be tested. For this, you can use the tool Safari or any other third-party applications that support the deep linking concept. For example, you are using Safari. Open the URL that had the defined URL scheme in Safari. Thereafter, your app launches with the correct screen.

 

Step#4 Universal Link Handling

 
Besides adding custom URL schemes, your app can also be configured to support universal links – standard HTTPS links used by other apps or websites – to launch your app. This is how you need to handle universal links. Configure the entitlements of your application. Then, create the relevant code for universal link handling and implement the code in the delegate of your app.
 
Now, you can rebuild your project in the iOS simulator.
 

Final Thoughts:

 
I hope you are now well-versed in the concept of delinking as well as its execution process. Deep linking has become a necessity for today’s applications. However, it’s important to carry out the deep linking implementation process with the utmost professional expertise. If you lack the technical expertise or the necessary resources, an experienced React Native App Development Company can help you sail through the deep linking creation and execution process effortlessly.

New-age event management apps have drastically changed the event management industry.

 

All sorts of events like birthdays, marriage, festivals, etc. as well as corporate meetings, conferences, sports events, exhibitions, etc. can be now managed smartly and efficiently using such apps.

 

Biz4Solutions specializes in architecting top-grade events planning applications tailored to the specific needs of clients across the globe.

 

We focus on creating apps that ease-out the job of event planners while delivering a delightful experience to the attendees.

 

If you are willing to create such an app, we will help you in designing a feature-rich and profitable event app for your business!

 

Visit our webpage at- https://www.biz4solutions.com/event-app-development/ and have a glimpse at our success stories of event apps.

Reasons to adopt a future-friendly Healthcare Management System for your Hospital!

Technological innovations have smartened the processes involved in diverse industry verticals and the healthcare sector is no exception. Today, most modern-day medical facilities leverage the offerings of a new-age health management system. Such a system helps healthcare providers to streamline workflow. Medical software for doctors ensures error-free diagnoses & treatment. Patient management system software provides prompt services & delivers a rich patient experience. The key requirements of a smart medical facility are as follows:

 

  • A self-automated patient scheduling procedure.
  • Online assistance and e-prescriptions for patients.
  • Storing and maintaining health data and medical reports of patients digitally.
  • Incorporating HIPAA compliance in your healthcare management system, mHealth app, and other healthcare solutions to secure sensitive medical data from potential threats.

 

Smart healthcare solutions are the need of the hour as they not only add to the convenience quotient of practitioners and patients but also prove advantageous for the medical facility. Today, healthcare app developers are creating modernized healthcare management systems customized based on the specific requirements of a healthcare facility. Such smart healthcare apps help medical organizations to deliver the highest standards of patient care and effectively manage patients and staff. This blog pens down the reasons why healthcare providers should consider adopting a smart healthcare management system.

 

Before we dive deeper, let’s take a look at what a smart healthcare system is.

 

Smart Health Management System

Healthcare management software refers to an all-inclusive solution that caters to diverse management requirements of patients, physicians, and providers unanimously. The commonest applications include Electronic Medical Record software (EMR), Electronic Health Record software (EHR), and Practice Management Software (PMS). These software solutions enable effective communication between doctors and patients, generation of e-prescriptions, maintenance of billing records, maintaining patient data digitally, online appointment scheduling, the management of doctor schedules, and many more.

 

Key Advantages of Health Management System

 

 

EHRs And EMRs: Digitalization of Healthcare Records

Traditional record-keeping that involves a huge amount of paperwork is being replaced by digital healthcare records. Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) and Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are employed for this purpose. These software systems ensure the proactive collection and maintenance of medical data. Patient data such as prescriptions, health reports, medical history, etc. are stored in a centralized system and can be accessed whenever needed. The usage of digital record maintenance systems assures data accuracy. Additionally, these systems are made HIPAA compliant to ensure the safety of sensitive data and to avoid the data violation protocol.

 

Online Appointment Scheduling

The HMS is multitasking. It functions as a patient scheduling system by enabling patients to book online appointments based on the slots provided by practitioners. Besides booking appointments, the patients can also reschedule or cancel appointments. Doctor appointment app solutions help doctors to view weekly calendars displaying the doctors’ appointment schedule and hence can book appointments themselves in case of referrals.

 

Strengthening The Doctor-Patient Bond

Effective doctor-patient communication is crucial for collecting more specific details from patients, establishing trust amongst the patients, and providing them with the much-needed psychological support to make them feel cared for. Hospital Management Systems open up multiple options for online doctor-patient interaction like calling, messaging, personal chatting, etc. These communication channels help in strengthening the doctor-patient bond and lead to more productive outcomes.

 

Enhanced Communication between Healthcare Staff

A healthcare management system breaks the limitations of communication and collaboration with patients, other healthcare professionals, and stakeholders of the healthcare industry like insurance companies, pharmacy firms, etc. An HMS simplifies the communication between healthcare staff like practitioners, nurses, and other hospital staff. Communication with other healthcare providers also becomes easy. An HMS also enables the real-time sharing of health-related information securely. This results in a smooth and effective collaboration between all the professionals and providers of the healthcare industry.

 

Digital Calendar for Doctors

Appointment scheduling, rescheduling, and cancellation is an integral aspect of every healthcare facility. However, managing doctor appointment schedules is a challenging task and chances of errors are likely. But the advent of management system software has eased things considerably. This system has physician schedule management that displays the appointments in the form of a digital calendar. As such, doctors can effortlessly view their own schedules as well as those of other doctors. This simplifies the tasks of adding, rescheduling and canceling appointments. Moreover, this software sends them reminders about appointments well in advance. Therefore, digital calendars are productive tools that save time and effort.

 

Better Operational Efficiency

Using legacy hospital systems for maintaining operational data and revenue management does not fetch the desired outcomes. Such systems are time-consuming and prone to human errors. Also, data tracking becomes difficult with traditional systems. So, it is important to automate operational tasks by using a healthcare management system. Well-designed healthcare management solutions customized as per the needs of a medical facility bring a lot to the table. Such software solutions enable providers to manage and track operational data speedily while maintaining a high accuracy rate. Some examples of tasks that an HMS can automate are invoice generation and calculating outstanding dues, interest amounts, etc. With an automated system, it becomes easy to generate as well as track transactional and management reports and eliminate human errors. Besides, automation means faster task execution with lesser resources resulting in better ROI.

 

Enhanced Inventory Management

Hospitals these days, have to deal with a huge inventory comprising essential stuff including medical instruments, medicines, bedding items, and biodegradable products (syringes, surgical gloves, masks, etc.). As such, inventory management becomes quite challenging. And, at the same time, a hospital cannot afford to make any mistakes regarding inventory management. The hospital management has to ensure the smooth functioning of the inventory by monitoring it from time to time and refilling the inventory with new stocks on time. Also, the expiry date of certain products needs to be checked.

A healthcare management system works wonders to carry out inventory management tasks without errors. The system keeps you regularly updated on the inventory stock levels, the expiry dates of medicines & syringes, and so on. This way, you can manage your inventory smoothly without many hassles.

 

Improved Decision-Making

The use of Practice Management Software (PMS) boosts the accuracy and effectiveness of operational decision-making in a medical facility. The reasons are:

  • Tracking of important medical data
  • Reduced documentation errors
  • Improved data security
  • Employment of automated functions such as scheduling appointments in available slots, remote patient monitoring, sending reminders, etc.
  • Data analytics to identify patient health trends

 

Higher Ratings as a Healthcare Service Provider

Today, insurance firms rate healthcare providers based on how effectively, accurately, and quickly, an organization can send medical data and patient information to the insurance company. So, generating and exchanging this data electronically using a healthcare management system, higher your chances of being a top-rated healthcare service provider.

 

Final Verdict

Thus, the employment of a smart Healthcare Management System assists the medical facility to handle mundane operational processes effortlessly. Reaping the benefits of digital systems for hospital management and automation tools for executing healthcare operations; enables service providers to grow exponentially and reach new heights of success. So, every health facility, whether big or small must adopt hospital and patient management systems to expand their patient base and hence gain a competitive edge over peers.

 

However, designing a hospital management system involves complex requirements and adherence to mandated protocols and compliances. Hence, make sure that the healthcare app development service you choose for executing your project has ample domain-specific experience.

Noteworthy Programming languages to Consider for Blockchain App Development!

Blockchain App development services

 

Blockchain app development is gaining momentum at a fast pace and this trend is here to stay. Blockchain solutions have proven their worth as game-changers in almost every industry vertical. Here are some interesting stats on Blockchain adoption as researched by the online portal DEMANDSAGE:

 

  • As of January 2023, more than 85 million global users had Bitcoin block explorer Blockchain wallets.
  • As recorded in January 2023, the average Bitcoin transactions executed in one single day were between 291015 and 205314.
  • By the year 2024, the global expenditure on Blockchain apps and solutions will reach $19 billion

 

Developing a disruptive Blockchain application or solution is a lucrative option for entrepreneurs and investors. However, businesses planning to build a Blockchain solution should understand the basics of Blockchain programming before jump-starting their project or proceeding to hire Blockchain app development services. This post discusses the offerings of the top Blockchain programming languages. After reading this post you will be able to figure out which language would be the best fit for your Blockchain use case.

 

Top Programming languages for Blockchain Development

 

Blockchain App development services

 

Solidity

 

Solidity is an object-oriented Blockchain programming language specifically designed to create smart contracts and decentralized applications that run on the EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine). Ethereum is a massive computing platform based on Blockchain; its ecosystem is one of the most crucial components of Blockchain app development. The creators of Ethereum have developed Solidity and provide active support to this high-level programming language for fulfilling their in-platform requirements. Influenced by other programming languages like Java, JavaScript, Python, and C++; Solidity has proved its worth as one of the best languages for writing smart contracts.

 

Features

 

Solidity is flexible, stable, and promises a good accuracy rate. It comes with numerous disruptive features like variadic return and static typing. It supports concepts such as user-defined functions, inheritance properties, and libraries. Solidity comes with an easy learning curve and enables access to tools like debuggers, JS infrastructures, etc. Solidity has several type-safe functions due to the presence of ABI (Application Binary Interface).

 

Use Cases

 

Solidity is used for developing Ethereum smart contracts and Chainlink smart contracts. Chainlink is a decentralized Oracle network used for on-chain as well as off-chain Blockchain computations. Another use case of Solidity is the compound protocol on Ethereum Blockchain. This is an autonomous interest rate protocol involving algorithms. Solidity is also used for developing Uniswap. Uniswap is a decentralized crypto trading platform involving a network of decentralized finance apps governed by a community.

 

Python

 

Python is one of the most popular Blockchain programming languages. Its robust nature and versatility speed up the development time. Python has a simple English-like syntax that reduces the lines of coding and so, is a perfect pick for newbie coders. Python programming suits both approaches – scripting, and base. It is a high-level language that can be effortlessly integrated with other programming languages like Java, C++, etc. It functions on various platforms including Mac, Linux, Windows, and Raspberry.

 

Features

 

Python is object-oriented, easy to code, and extensively portable. It offers strong open-source language support, OOP support, rapid prototyping, access to a dynamic architecture, and dynamic memory allocation. The availability of multiple online resources like libraries, plugins, and development manuals facilitates Blockchain app development; developers get the solution to almost every issue faced during Blockchain projects. Libraries like Numba speeds up coding without compromising on crucial factors like security and performance. Python fares better in performing complicated mathematical operations and handling Big data as compared to most other programming languages.

 

Use Cases

 

It is used to write smart context for Hyperledger Fabric, NEO contracts, Steemit, and develop cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Bitcoin.

 

Java

 

This is a popular platform-independent Blockchain programming language that is widely used for developing decentralized applications and smart contracts. The language is derived from C-Syntax and functions on the WORA (Write Once Run Anywhere) concept. Its ubiquitous nature allows one to use Java for almost every web system. As such, the code written by programmers is highly portable and can be run on every device that has JVM (Java Virtual Machine).

 

Features

 

Java’s offerings are manifold. Its Portability makes it an apt choice for Blockchain development projects. Java comes with an extensive API (Application Programming Interface), that includes multiple Java classes, packages, and interfaces. Owing to its multi-threaded nature, you utilize the CPU to the fullest. It’s a developer-friendly language and can support heavy APIs like object-oriented programming based on its class. Java offers adequate libraries and simplifies the process of memory cleaning. Using Java’s security manager, you can define access rules for a specific class; this minimizes the chances of security vulnerabilities. Java’s programming is based on Java Virtual Machine and is not dependent on any specific system-based infrastructure. Hence, its capabilities are not limited by a device’s architecture and it can handle a huge number of users on a Blockchain network simultaneously.

 

Use Cases

 

The use case examples include creating Blockchains on platforms like Hyperledger Fabric, Ethereum, NEO, IOTA, etc.

 

JavaScript

 

JavaScript is a popular web language and is pre-installed in most PCs and so, it becomes easy to build Blockchain solutions with JS.

 

Features

 

JavaScript is a lightweight, object-oriented, and prototype-based scripting language that provides support for functional programming. JS can easily handle asynchronous actions and the communications taking place between nodes. It comes with a wide range of tools and libraries that facilitate Blockchain app development.

 

Use Cases

 

Using JavaScript, Blockchain app developers can connect an app’s front end to Ethereum’s network and smart contracts. JS is has also been used in Hyperledger Fabric.

 

PHP

 

PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is an open-source and object-oriented programming language that can be used to develop Blockchain solutions of various complexity levels. The language is straightforward and simple and offers an easy learning curve.

 

Features

 

PHP is platform-independent and powered by the Zend Engine; so, it can be written on a wide variety of OSs. It offers a highly configurable library that comes in handy for developers. Its interactive pages enable one to sail through complex requirements. PHP has a built-in database connection module; this reduces the hassles and speeds up the development time during web development projects.

 

Use Cases

 

PHP is used for smart contract development.

 

Go

 

This Google-developed language has gained traction as one of the top Blockchain programming languages. Go is an open-source and statically typed language. It offers benefits like speed, user-friendliness, flexibility, and scalability that make it suitable for Blockchain development.

 

Features

 

Go comes with a powerful library containing functions & packages. It provides organized syntaxes. It enables you to run multiple processes simultaneously without compromising on memory resources. Despite being a static language, Go gives developers a feel of being dynamic.

 

Use Cases

 

Examples of its use cases are Go-Ethereum (Ethereum-based project written in Go) and GO-Hyperledger Fabric.

 

Ruby

 

Ruby is a high-level and general-purpose programming language that comes with cross-platform compatibility. This open-source language is developer-friendly and focuses on simplicity and high productivity. It can be installed in Windows & POSIX and can be connected to Oracle, MySQL, Sybase, and DB2.

 

Features

 

Ruby is a multi-paradigm language that has exceptional memory allocation abilities. It is an interpreted and scripting language. The feature of multiple-language adaptability makes Ruby a good choice for Blockchain app development.

 

Use Cases

 

Ruby allows developers to program Blockchain solutions using third-party plugins and APIs.

 

Rholang

 

Rholang is newer as compared to other Blockchain programming languages. It comes with an easy-to-understand syntax. It is reliable, speedy, and user-friendly and provides high accuracy levels. Rholang employs a functional programming approach instead of an object-oriented programming approach.

 

Use Cases

 

Rholang is used for developing smart contracts and other high-end Blockchain-based projects.

 

Simplicity

 

This language was designed to minimize the low-level understanding of cryptocurrencies. Simplicity is reliable and offers the security of funds, an offering that provides it an edge over many other Blockchain programming languages. Simplicity is in harmony with the “Elements platform” of Blockstream. Simplicity is a viable option for creating sophisticated and secured smart contracts in Blockchain environments.

 

Use Cases

 

Simplicity is compatible with the Blockchain-based platform Ethereum. It reduces the complex functionality of the Bitcoin Script by enabling a low-level understanding of the Bitcoin Script. It’s a good option for coding smart contracts.

 

SQL

 

SQL (Structured Query Language) is one of the most recent Blockchain programming languages that can be used for creating secure and effective solutions. This is an IBM-created language meant for facilitating communication with databases like SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL. With SQL, users can store data queries and also manipulate and raise those queries.

 

Use Cases

 

Aergo is an important use case of Blockchain development in SQL. It is a Blockchain project that offers ready-to-use solutions to companies that work with technologies like Coinstack or Blocko. SQL can also be used for developing robust business-centric smart contracts.

 

CX

 

CX is one of the most sought-after Blockchain programming languages that can function as a contractual digital intermediary.

 

Features

 

Its features include a simplified error control process and access to pointers, arrays, and propelled cuts. CX enables developers to effortlessly manipulate programs and apply vectors, pointers, forced reductions, etc.

 

Use Cases

 

CX when integrated with the programming language Go, gives businesses an escape from critical issues like discretionary code execution steps. CX integrates well with Open Graphics Library (OpenGL). This integration is leveraged by Blockchain developers to gain advantages regarding GPU capacity.

 

C++

 

C++ is a general-purpose programming language that can be used for creating a wide variety of applications like finance solutions, AR/VR apps, 3D gaming apps, etc. It is a robust, flexible, & object-oriented programming language that is capable of managing resource-intensive apps smoothly. It’s a multi-paradigm language and follows the OOPs technique. This language is developer-friendly and offers ease of usage. C++ is one of those Blockchain programming languages that promises a faster execution time.

 

Features

 

Its offerings include efficient memory control, function overloading, and effective CPU management. C++ can effortlessly run parallel and non-parallel threads. It can isolate the code for different data structures as well. The capability of run-time polymorphism results in improved app performance. Its data-hiding capability strengthens the security quotient. There’s also the option for moving semantics to copy data productively.

 

Use Cases

 

C++ is used for developing smart contracts on the EOS Blockchain and developing cryptocurrencies such as Stellar, Litecoin, Bitcoin, EOS, and Ripple.

 

C#

 

C# is an open-source and object-oriented programming language created by Microsoft. It happens to be one of the most popular Blockchain programming languages. It can be used to build scalable applications with .NET compatibility. C# is a great pick for crafting powerful codes with cross-platform compatibility.

 

Features

 

C# is an Extensible Markup language and can function as a support for distributed systems. With this language, programmers can create highly portable codes that run on a wide variety of hardware and OSs including Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, etc. The assembly control feature makes it easier for developers to handle issues like version control. The OOPs feature in C# helps in optimizing the performance of Blockchain solutions and apps.

 

Use Cases

 

C# has been used in NEO in combination with other programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, & Go. C# has been used Stratis. This is a Blockchain-as-a-service providing platform powered by Microsoft. IOTA, an open-source distributed ledger and cryptocurrency, is another use case example.

 

Vyper

 

Vyper is one of the newest Blockchain programming languages. It is compatible with EVM and its syntax is similar to that of Python 3’s. Vyper can be used as an alternative to the popular Blockchain programming language Solidity.

 

Features

 

Vyper comes with an exceptional control structure that enables handling security challenges more effectively. Its other offerings include modifiers, recursive calling, etc.

 

Use Cases

 

Vyper is used for the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) and for developing smart contracts.

 

Concluding Views:

 

All the aforementioned Blockchain programming languages come with distinct offerings and are suitable for specific use cases. You need to pick the language based on your use case requirements. A thorough knowledge of the offerings of these languages will help you to make the right decision while choosing the tech stacks for your Blockchain project. A good understanding of these programming languages will also prove beneficial when you’re discussing tech stack selection, with the Blockchain App Development Company to whom you’ve outsourced your project.

The transformative apps and solutions adopted by the pharmacy sector for carrying out their operations have proved to be highly beneficial for consumers. Modern-day pharmacy solutions offer customers the convenience of online medicine ordering and doorstep delivery. This trend has been particularly helpful for senior citizens, patients, and busy individuals who find it challenging to pay a visit to the store to purchase medicines.

Biz4Solutions has developed a unique pharmacy app that simplifies things for medicine buyers. One can order medicines with just a few taps on their smartphones from any place and the order is delivered to the consumer’s desired location.

Coming to features, our pharma app enables users to login normally or via social media. Using the smart search functionality, users can find the relevant product cateories. They can effortlessly upload their prescription. Once the desired product is selected, users can view detailed information about its composition, size, quantity, etc.

Once users add items to the cart, the costs of the selected products are displayed including the original price and the discounted price. The users then confirm the order and make the payment. Users can also view their past order history including the order ID, and the name, cost, & quantity of medicines purchased.

Coming to payment, users get a plethora of secure and convenient options including COD. Once the payment is processed, the app records the payment history. Customers can track their orders in transit as well.

Significant Tools and Platforms to consider for IoT App Development!

IoT application development is growing in leaps and bounds. Diverse industries like manufacturing, healthcare, transportation & logistics, oil & gas, and the water industry, are heavily investing in IoT for architecting data-intensive applications with advanced analytics. Some examples of modern-day IoT solutions include smart homes, fleet management solutions, traffic monitoring systems, remote healthcare solutions, speed monitoring solutions, etc.

 

Developing an amazing IoT solution is a great idea to consider for investors and entrepreneurs. However, before starting your IoT development project, you need to be well-versed in the technical requirements. One of the crucial prerequisites of an IoT project includes using the best-suited IoT tools and platforms. These tools and platforms play an important role in bridging the gap between IoT devices and data networks. They also help in displaying real-time data, storing huge data sets, managing devices’ boards, integrating back-office systems, and much more.

 

So, in this blog, we will provide detailed insights into some of the popular tools and platforms used for IoT app solutions. A quick read will give you a clear idea of which tools and platforms to consider for your specific IoT use case.

 

Noteworthy Tools and Platforms for IoT App Development!

 

Microsoft Azure IoT

Microsoft’s Azure IoT Suite is a collection of several cloud services:

  • IoT Hub
  • Machine Learning
  • Power BI
  • Stream Analytics
  • Notification Hubs

 

This is a comprehensive platform meant for connecting and managing various IoT assets using various cloud services. It also helps in securing IoT applications. Its features include data tracking, system shadowing, identity registration, and a set of rules engines. Besides, Azure IoT Suite is a great option for serving all types of business domains.

 

IBM Watson

This is one of the leading cloud-based platforms that excel in IoT app development. It is a well-designed platform used for secure data transmission, remote device control, cloud capacity for storage of high amounts of data, real-time data analysis, high-security features, risk management, etc. Along with IoT, IBM Watson also supports Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain services.

 

Cisco IoT Cloud Connect

Cisco focuses on providing a safe IoT platform to its clients for connecting various devices present at diverse geographical locations. Its IoT application development platform-Cisco IoT Cloud Connect supports functions like the below:

  • data analysis
  • app enablement
  • network connectivity
  • tasks management and automation
  • broad customization of IoT apps
  • several adaptability openings
  • voice and information correspondence

This platform assists power management, smart cities, industrial automation, transportation systems, and more.

 

Google Cloud

Google Cloud is an appropriately handled and combined provider of IoT services. It supports the handling of several IoT devices connected anywhere around the world and also helps in end-to-end IoT development. It comes with a highly advanced tool for getting real-time data and analytics. Furthermore, Google Cloud comes with functionalities like high security, business process optimization, cloud services, completely managed infrastructure, etc.

 

Zetta

Zetta is an API-based platform that makes use of Node.js. It is a complete toolkit employed for the creation of HTTP APIs for devices. This platform integrates REST APIs, WebSockets for developing data-intensive applications. The prominent features that Zetta offers are mentioned below:

  • Runs on the cloud, on a PC, and also on some limited development boards.
  • Runs on the cloud, on a PC, and also on some limited development boards.
  • Converts any device to an API
  • Allows IoT developers to assemble device apps, cloud apps, as well as smartphone apps in one place.
  • Helps control sensors, controllers, actuators, etc. by featuring an easy interface and the necessary programming language.

 

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Amazon Web Services or AWS is another renowned IoT app development platform available in the market. It is an exclusive framework platform that requires fewer efforts in the cloud. IoT app developers find this platform highly versatile and adaptable. Also, it is a cost-efficient platform, due to which it is one of the favorite choices of a host of global-level business enterprises.

 

Besides, the IoT Device Management of AWS supports easy connection and expansion of the devices. Also, the administration ensures safe and flexible execution of the results. These include monitoring, refreshing, and investigating the usability of the device.

 

SAP

This IoT app development platform helps in the remote monitoring and management of all the devices related to your IoT project. These remote devices like sensors, actuators, etc. can be connected either directly or with the use of a cloud application. It comes with a robust analytical ability that helps to sort out, make ready, and pay attention to the data collected from IoT devices such as sensors, meters, controllers, etc. With its latest updates, SAP enables using the IoT data for creating and combining AI applications.

 

Salesforce IoT

Salesforce IoT is a US-based platform. It is also a highly adaptable IoT application development platform and aims at opening IoT data for all users. This platform helps one to develop customizable IoT App Development Solutions connected to any gadget and represent its data for additional usage. Also, the “client first” approach of Salesforce is the reason that this platform is popular and stands out from its competitors.

 

Additional IoT Development Platforms

  • Arduino: It is an open-source prototyping platform and is a great option for both- IoT software and hardware development
  • HP Enterprise Universal: This is a highly scalable, versatile, and modular IoT application development platform that offers secure monetization, precise data assessment, cross-vertical operations, etc.
  • Oracle IoT: This platform is known in different areas like enterprise software, cloud computing, database management, etc. for IoT solutions
  • Kaa: It is a highly expandable and flexible IoT app development platform with features like data visualization, configuration management, data processing, etc.
  • Particle.io: This is a comprehensive platform that offers IoT Rules Engineer, Device Cloud, Device OS, etc.
  • ThingsBoard: It helps in device management, data processing, project visualization, etc., and ensures minimum time-to-market for the projects. Innumerable devices can be connected and measured with IoT protocols like MQTT, HTTP, etc.

 

Key Takeaways:

Needless to say, IoT technology is here to stay. Connected devices and smart data analytics are already transforming the world in ways never thought of before. You can even integrate IoT with other emerging technologies like Blockchain to obtain unimaginable outcomes. However, without the right set of tools and platforms, it isn’t really possible to design outstanding modern-age IoT solutions. The aforesaid IoT development tools and platforms will prove enormously beneficial for IoT projects. If you lack sound technical expertise, it’s advisable to partner with an experienced company offering productive IoT App Development Services.

Google Cloud IoT core Services to be Discontinued from August 2023: Consequences & Advice to Users!

IoT App Development Company

 

The tech giant Google has officially declared: “Google Cloud IoT Core services” will be discontinued from 16th August 2023! Users will be able to access the IoT core Device Manager’s APIs only till 15th August 2023. From 16th August 2023, no device can be connected to Google Cloud IoT Core MQQT as well as the HTTP bridges. All the existing connections are going to shut down beyond that date.”

 

Ever since this announcement made the headlines, there are several questions that crop up in our minds. Two of the most crucial questions are: How is it going to affect the Google Cloud Core IoT users? What is the best piece of advice for the existing users?

 

Well, users have no other option than to migrate to other alternative IoT Core services. In this regard, Google has advised that users can seek assistance from the Google Cloud account manager if they have any queries regarding migration. But, the decision-making and execution are quite challenging for Google Core IoT users. This post discusses the Google IoT core verdict in detail and provides advice to users regarding migration to alternative IoT Core services.

 

Google IoT Core Services: An Overview

 

IoT Core service was started by Google Cloud in the year 2017. It is a fully managed service that promises high-grade security. Users can effortlessly connect, ingest, and manage data from innumerable devices that are dispersed globally. Thereafter, users can use the Google Cloud Platform for ingesting data and get this data processed further.

This service aimed to simplify the task of data exchange between a firm’s cloud-based environment and connected devices. With IoT Core, companies could define the configuration settings of their connected devices that were newly deployed. IoT Core, when integrated with other Google Cloud services, forms a complete solution that helped companies to boost their operational efficiency. This solution enables users to collect data, process it, and then, analyse the data. Thereafter, the IoT data gets visualized in real-time.

 

Reasons why Google decided to deprecate IoT Core Services

 

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As a reason for this big decision, the Google team stated that its network partners could serve IoT consumers better as these IoT Core service providers specialize in delivering advanced IoT apps and services.


But, there are rumours that Google was finding it challenging to compete with its two big competitors offering similar services. Google Cloud’s key competitors in this arena are Microsoft and AWS (Amazon Web Services). Microsoft’s Azure comes with IoT Hub while AWS provides IoT Core service.


Unlike its competitors, Google Cloud IoT Core has failed to comply with the standard security protocols of the modern day. Google was also unable to effectively update its Cloud IoT Core services with the latest features. It has been noticed that only a few updates were rolled out since the launch of this service in 2017. As such, Google Cloud IoT Core came across problems like the lack of innovation in the IoT Cloud domain and lower consumer adoption of their services as compared to its hyper-scale Cloud IoT Core service-providing competitors.

 

Alternative to Google IoT Core Services

 

Check out the alternative services that Google IoT Core users may opt for.

 

Microsoft Azure IoT Hub

 

This Cloud-based service is an excellent option for secure and scalable IoT device and data management. Bidirectional messaging communication takes place between IoT devices. The data contained in cloud IoT devices get processed in real-time via ‘Azure Functions’ and ‘Azure Stream Analytics.’ Users enjoy secure and rapid access to IoT devices across the globe due to the global availability of Azure IoT Hub. The platform ensures top-grade security as the communication between the Cloud and IoT devices takes place via a ‘per-device authentication’ protocol and highly encrypted communication channels are used. Azure Functions and Azure Stream Analytics process IoT devices’ data in real time. The platform can be integrated with other Microsoft Azure services including Azure Time Series Insights, Azure Machine Learning, and Azure Maps.

 

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

 

AWS IoT Core is a managed Cloud service. It allows effortless interaction between users’ connected devices and Cloud apps or other devices. Take a look at the key offerings. APIs and SDKs are available for several programming languages. Users can manage connected devices while ensuring security and scalability. A secure messaging service (message broker) is there; it’s for communication between Cloud and IoT devices.

“Device shadows,” represent a device’s state virtually, allowing interaction between devices in the offline mode. “Rules engine” defines rules for routing messages between the Cloud and other devices and automatically executes those rules. AWS IoT Core can be integrated with other AWS services like Amazon Kinesis, Amazon S3, and AWS Lambda to facilitate the development of end-to-end IoT products. This service also offers secure authorization and authentication of services, devices, and users.

 

AWS Greengrass

 

This is an edge computing platform using which a device can run AWS Lambda functions locally. It also enables one to sync the device data with the Cloud. AWS Greengrass offers APIs that help IoT App Developers to design apps that will function locally on Greengrass-enabled devices. Greengrass-enabled devices can be run on local applications and communicate with other IoT devices. The platform provides security features to secure the communication happening between the cloud and IoT devices. It organizes resources and devices for tasks like management and deployment. Users can discover resources and devices on the local Cloud network and manage their Cloud connection.

 

IBM Watson IoT Platform

 

This is a cloud-based platform for registering IoT devices. It also manages and updates IoT devices and data. IBM Watson IoT Platform combines IoT with other technologies like AI, industrial robotics, or digital twins for asset optimization and modernizing industry operations. It integrates IoT data with Machine Learning algorithms for gaining real-time insights. Some of the key offerings are predictive maintenance and telematics abilities, vehicle speed management capabilities, and equipment failure prediction. This platform can also be integrated with other IBM services and also third-party services.

 

ThingsBoard

 

This is an open-source IoT platform that facilitates managing devices, collecting IoT data, processing the data, and visualizing it. It supports on-premise as well as Cloud deployments. Rich server-side APIs are used to offer a secure way of monitoring, provisioning, and controlling IoT entities. ThingsBoard allows defining relations between various entities like devices, assets, customers, etc. effortlessly.

 

ThingsBoard establishes IoT device connectivity through industry-grade protocols for IoT applications and services like HTTP, CoAP, and MQTT. This platform comes with offerings like quality performance, and scalability. It also ensures fault tolerance and users are least likely to lose their data.

 

Ubidots

 

This is a Cloud-based IoT platform that is ideal for small-scale and medium-sized businesses as it promises Cloud software at affordable rates. The platform merges the data of physical sensors with digital data analytics for IoT development projects. Ubidots comes with loads of offerings that simplify the business tasks of optimization and environment management. Some examples include user management tools, a synthetic variable machine to compute & retrieve data, global events & variables, a complex & conditional ‘Events Engine,’ Organizational Tokens, UbiParsers, and many more.

 

Migrating from Google IoT Core Services to a New Service: Advice

 

Analysis & Considerations

 

Thoroughly evaluate the aspects of your Google Cloud IoT Core usage to figure out which are the specific services that are essential for your use case requirement. Then, you’ll understand what functionalities to look for in the new service. The new service you pick should also be scalable and compatible with your existing IoT devices and ecosystem. Do not forget to check the security offerings of the new IoT Core service and the expenses you need to incur.

 

Migration Process

 

Now it’s time to prepare your IoT devices for migration. Update the firmware of the devices for supporting the new service, if required. Then, set up the new IoT Core service. Create new devices, configure any integration that is necessary, and set up the access control mechanism.

 

Export all your data from Google IoT core to the new service. Thereafter, thoroughly test the newly-created setup to check that the service is functioning as expected and your IoT devices are able to accurately communicate with the new IoT Core service. Now, migrate your devices to the new service by decommissioning the setup of Google IoT core.

 

Closing Thoughts:

 

Google Cloud IoT core users have multiple alternative IoT Core service options to choose from. However, one needs to pick the new service provider wisely after weighing all the offerings and checking whether those offerings are best suited for their specific IoT use case. Also, the migration process should be carried out properly following all standard protocols for smooth and successful execution. You must strictly adhere to the practices mentioned in the documentation offered by Google as well as the new service provider to avoid any errors.

 

If you lack technical expertise, you might end up messing up the migration process, leading to costly rework. So, I would recommend you seek assistance from a professional IoT App Development Company that would advise you on selecting the most suitable alternative to IoT Core service based on the unique requirements of your IoT solution. Professional services will also provide you with a dedicated team of technical resources who will help you execute the migration process correctly and as per standard practices.