Introduction
Small businesses play an important role in local communities, providing jobs and supporting the local economy. However, many small businesses struggle to reach new customers and connect with the communities they serve. This case study outlines the development of a React Native app that was designed to support small businesses by connecting them with potential customers through targeted promotions.
Problem
Small businesses face a number of challenges in reaching new customers and connecting with the communities they serve. They often lack the resources to effectively market their businesses, making it difficult for them to attract new customers. Additionally, traditional marketing methods such as flyers, billboards, and newspapers are becoming less effective in today's digital world. Small businesses need a new, cost-effective way to reach new customers and connect with their local communities.
Solution
The React Native app was designed to provide a solution to these challenges by connecting small businesses with new customers through targeted promotions. The app allows small businesses to create and manage promotions that are made available to users through the app. Users can find promotions near them by opening the app, and are notified when they are close to a business that is offering a promotion. By scanning the business's QR code, users can redeem the promotion and enjoy the benefits of supporting local businesses.
Process
The development of the React Native app was a multi-step process that involved close collaboration between the development and me.
Research
Gather information, data, and understand the problem, context and user needs to inform design decisions.
Extract insights
Analyze the data and information gathered to identify patterns, opportunities, and key insights that can drive the design.
Ideate and sketch
Generate a wide range of ideas and concepts through brainstorming and sketching, which can help to explore different solutions to the problem.
Design & Prototype
Convert the chosen concept into a tangible form, such as wireframes, mockups, or prototypes, to test and validate design ideas with users.
Iterate
Refine and improve the design based on feedback, user testing, and further research. Repeat as many times as necessary until a high-quality solution is achieved.
Design evaluation
Assess the design against criteria such as usability, effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal, to ensure that it meets the project requirements.
Build
Convert the final design into a functional product or service that can be used by the target audience. This step includes development, testing, and deployment.
Features
User-friendly app for iOS and Android
Promotions for small businesses
Push notifications for promotions nearby
Redeem promotions by scanning QR code
Web console for small businesses to manage promotions and track redemption
Results
The launch of the React Native app was well-received, with many small businesses and users appreciating the convenience and user-friendly design of the app. The web console provided small businesses with valuable data and insights that helped them grow their businesses and connect with new customers. The app has become an important tool for small businesses, providing them with a new way to reach customers and grow their businesses in the digital age.
However, the app's potential for scalability was limited due to geo-fencing and differing regulations in different states. The pilot project was launched in Sacramento, California, and while it was successful in that region, further expansion was challenging due to the constraints imposed by local laws. Despite these limitations, the project was a valuable learning experience and helped to further advance the state of the art in UI/UX design and app development.
Conclusion
The development of the React Native app for small businesses was a successful project that provided value to both small businesses and consumers. The app received positive feedback from users and small businesses alike, who appreciated the convenience and user-friendly design.