The main objective of this project is to develop two key communication functionalities for ECS Digital: a chat system for client support interactions within the app, and a separate application to facilitate communication among members of the same project or company being managed through the app.

Problem to be Solved:

Learners will address the challenge of creating effective, user-friendly communication tools tailored to the needs of construction professionals. This includes ensuring secure, reliable, and intuitive chat functionalities that can support real-time interactions, critical for facilitating immediate support and enhancing collaboration within project teams.

Expected Outcome:

• Client-Support Chat System: Develop a chat interface within ECS Digital's app that enables clients to quickly reach out to support teams for assistance. The system should be capable of handling queries efficiently, with features like automated responses for common questions and the ability to escalate complex issues to human support.
• Intra-Company Communication App: Create a standalone app designed to streamline communication among team members working on the same project. This app should support features like group chats, direct messaging, task assignments, and updates, making it easier for teams to coordinate their efforts, share important documents, and stay aligned on project progress.
• By the end of the project, learners are expected to have successfully implemented these communication solutions, significantly enhancing the functionality of ECS Digital's digital platform and improving the overall user experience for construction professionals.

To successfully develop the chat functions for client support and intra-company communication within ECS Digital, learners will need to undertake the following tasks:

1. Requirements Gathering:

• Conduct surveys and interviews with potential users to identify key features and requirements for both chat systems.
• Collaborate with the ECS Digital team to understand technical and business constraints.

1. Design Phase:

• Create wireframes and prototypes for the chat interfaces, focusing on user experience and simplicity.
• Design a user-friendly interface that facilitates easy navigation and quick access to support and team communications.

1. Technology Selection:

• Research and select appropriate technologies and frameworks for real-time messaging, data storage, and security.
• Decide on the development tools for the standalone app, considering cross-platform compatibility.

1. Development:

• Implement the front-end and back-end components of the chat systems, ensuring real-time communication capabilities.
• Develop features such as automated responses for the client-support chat and group chat, direct messaging, and task updates for the intra-company app.

1. Integration Testing:

• Test the integration of the chat systems with the existing ECS Digital platform, ensuring seamless operation.
• Validate the functionality of notifications, message delivery, and data encryption.

1. User Testing:

• Conduct usability testing with a group of end-users to gather feedback on the chat interfaces and functionalities.
• Refine the user experience based on feedback to ensure the chat systems meet user needs and expectations.

1. Deployment:

• Prepare the chat systems for deployment, including finalizing the code, setting up servers, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
• Launch the chat functionalities within the ECS Digital app and the standalone communication app.

1. Documentation and Training:

• Create comprehensive documentation for the chat systems, including user guides and technical support materials.
• Provide training sessions for the ECS Digital team and end-users to ensure they can effectively use the new chat functionalities.

1. Monitoring and Iteration:

• Set up monitoring tools to track the performance and usage of the chat systems.
• Collect user feedback post-launch and make iterative improvements to enhance functionality and user satisfaction.

Students will connect directly with us for mentorship throughout the project. We will be able to provide answers to questions such as:

• Our current products and services
• Our current platform and understanding of chat function development
• Input on choices, problems or anything else the students might encounter.