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Application Rebuild
Legacy App Update: Revitalising a Vital Government Resource
As technology rapidly evolves, public tools must stay updated, particularly those crucial for environmental and agricultural protection. A key department within the NSW Government recognised this need for an app they developed. This app serves as a critical resource in managing invasive weeds across New South Wales. The following case study explores how 4mation updated and enhanced the app, ensuring its continued availability on modern devices and improving the overall user experience.
Originally launched in 2015, the app required significant updates to remain compatible with the latest mobile operating systems and to address usability issues. Partnering with 4mation allowed the department to ensure that the app continued to be a valuable tool for professionals and the public, supporting the state’s biosecurity efforts.
At 4mation, we deeply respect our clients’ need for confidentiality. Sometimes clients wish to remain anonymous due to confidentiality or company policy. Our client was happy for us to write an anonymous case study.
The story
Our client, focused on biosecurity and food safety, plays a critical role in protecting NSW’s agricultural resources and ecosystems. The app in question, which profiles over 300 weeds, is a vital tool in this mission. It provides detailed information on biosecurity duties, control measures, and registered herbicide options.
Serving a wide audience, including professionals, landholders, and residents. The app helps users identify, manage, and report weed infestations. However, as mobile technology advanced, the app began facing compatibility issues, making it challenging for users to use it on modern devices. Recognising the importance of keeping this tool functional, the department turned to us at 4mation for assistance.
The partnership between the department and 4mation dates back to the app’s original development in 2015. Although the initial development team was no longer available, 4mation’s successful history with app deployments made us the ideal choice for this crucial update.
Working with 4mation Technologies was a seamless experience from start to finish. They quickly understood the complexities of our app and delivered updates that were not only timely but also significantly enhanced the user experience. Their expertise in mobile app development and their collaborative approach ensured that the app remains a vital tool for our biosecurity efforts across New South Wales. We’re thrilled with the results and look forward to continuing our partnership with 4mation for future projects.
Technical Lead
The challenge
The app, initially built using Xamarin, had effectively served its purpose since its release. However, as mobile operating systems evolved, the app needed updates to ensure compatibility with the latest versions of iOS and Android, allowing users to continue using it on modern devices.
In addition to compatibility issues, the app had several bugs and usability challenges that needed addressing. Users reported difficulties with the app’s search functionality, which made finding specific weed profiles and control measures more cumbersome. Given that the app is often used in the field, quick access to accurate data is essential. Making these updates crucial for maintaining the app’s effectiveness.
Moreover, the apps original development team was no longer available. 4mation’s team therefore had to dive into the existing codebase, understand its architecture, and make the necessary updates. This presented an additional challenge, requiring both technical expertise, a deep understanding of the app’s purpose and the needs of its users.
The solution
At 4mation, our approach to challenges combines technical expertise with close collaboration with our clients. For this app, our goal was not just to update it but to enhance it in ways that would provide lasting value to the client and its users.
Our first step was a comprehensive review of the app’s existing codebase. We worked closely with the department to understand their specific needs and expectations, ensuring that the app remained reliable and easy to use. The team chose to continue using Xamarin for the updates, which allowed us to maintain the app’s cross-platform functionality while leveraging the framework’s improvements.
Compatibility issues with the latest iOS and Android versions were addressed by modifying the app’s code to align with new standards set by Apple and Google. In addition, we implemented several bug fixes, improving the app’s stability and overall performance.
To further enhance the user experience, we improved the app’s search capabilities. To achieve this, we included more intuitive expressions and accommodated a broader range of keyword searches. This made it easier for users to locate specific weed profiles, control measures, and other critical information. Throughout the process, we maintained close communication with the client, providing regular progress updates and seeking feedback on key decisions.
The result
The updated app, now fully compatible with modern devices, represents a significant achievement for both 4mation and the client. By addressing the technical challenges and enhancing the user experience, we delivered a solution that exceeded the client’s expectations.
One of the most important outcomes of this project was the app’s continued availability on the Google Play and Apple App stores. This ensures that the app remains an accessible resource for the people of NSW, helping them combat the spread of invasive weeds and protect the state’s natural and agricultural resources.
The improvements to the app’s user experience have been well-received by users, who find it more intuitive and user-friendly. This is particularly important for those in the field, who rely on the app for quick and accurate information.
Overall, the client now has a revitalised tool that aligns with their mission of safeguarding biosecurity across NSW. The app’s updated functionality allows continued education to the public about the importance of weed control. It also provides professionals with the resources they need to manage infestations effectively. This project also underscores our commitment to delivering high-quality, tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of our clients.
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