Author: Layana Chandran

Pet Service App: Optimising Delivery for PawPal Bookings

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Executive Summary

Streamline pet service app delivery with Agile, automation & better team collaboration. Cut release time by 30%, boost quality & enhance stakeholder trust.

In a fast-paced startup environment, delivering high-quality mobile applications on time is both challenging and crucial. As the product team behind a pet service booking app, we played an integral role in managing the product delivery lifecycle, aligning cross-functional teams, and ensuring timely releases. This case study explores the challenges we faced, the solutions we implemented, and the significant improvements in delivery management that followed.

Problem: Delays in Pet Service App Delivery and the Impact on Stakeholder Confidence

The pet service booking app was in its early stages, and we encountered significant delays in our release cycles. Several factors contributed to this issue. Misalignment across teams regarding sprint priorities led to confusion about deliverables. Communication gaps between product, engineering, and QA teams created bottlenecks that slowed progress. Striking a balance between rapid delivery and maintaining high-quality standards proved difficult. Manual testing processes resulted in slower feedback and longer release cycles. These challenges resulted in missed deadlines, frustrated stakeholders, and diminished trust in the product delivery process.

Solution: Streamlining Pet Service App Delivery with Agile Methodologies and Automation Tools

To address these issues, we implemented a structured approach to delivery management, focusing on clarity, automation, and cross-functional collaboration.

We began by analysing team structure and communication. Evaluating the roles and skill sets of our team members helped identify resource gaps and allowed for better allocation. Transparent communication of sprint goals and daily standups helped in identifying blockers and addressing them promptly.

Adopting Agile methodologies allowed us to break down the roadmap into manageable sprints while maintaining flexibility. We initially focused on delivering a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that prioritized core functionality, enabling continuous improvement based on feedback in subsequent sprints.

To improve efficiency, we introduced parallel workstreams. Early QA involvement meant test cases were written alongside development, reducing testing time and ensuring faster feedback. A two-team structure was established, where the product team prepared tickets and requirements in advance, while the engineering team focused on development based on pre-prepared tickets. This approach allowed for smoother transitions and minimized delays.

Automation played a key role in enhancing our process. By implementing automated testing for repetitive tasks, we reduced regression testing time, improved accuracy, and freed up manual resources for exploratory testing. Additionally, tracking key performance metrics such as sprint velocity, defect rates, and release timelines enabled us to assess progress and fine-tune our processes.

Results: Significant Improvement in Pet Service App Delivery Speed and Quality Control

The results of our efforts were substantial. Streamlined communication, automation, and an MVP approach led to a 30% reduction in release cycle time. Early QA involvement and automated testing resulted in a 40% reduction in post-release defects. The two-team structure fostered better communication and eliminated finger-pointing, leading to improved collaboration. Stakeholders experienced higher satisfaction levels due to timely releases, clear progress tracking, and fewer defects.

Lessons Learned: Optimising Pet Service App Delivery with Agile, Automation, and Metrics Tracking

Regular alignment on sprint goals and priorities is crucial to maintaining efficient delivery timelines. Starting with a core set of features and scaling incrementally reduces complexity and accelerates overall delivery. Automation significantly enhances efficiency and product quality by reducing manual efforts and increasing reliability. Continuously tracking key metrics allows for the identification of inefficiencies and ongoing process improvements.

Category Details 
Product Name PawPal 
Product Type Pet Care & Management App 
Target Audience Pet Care Service providers 
Key Features Service Appointment Booking, Workflow automation, Pet Health Tracking, Food & Medication Reminders 
Platform Mobile App (iOS & Android) 
Business Model Subscription-based / One-time Purchase 
Competitors Rover, Wag, 11 Pets 
Future Enhancements AI-driven pet care service booking and automation of the complete workflow process 

Product Overview: PawPal – Revolutionising Pet Care with Pet Service App Automation

PawPal is a pet care and management mobile application designed for pet care service providers. The app offers key features such as service appointment booking, workflow automation, pet health tracking, and food and medication reminders. Available on both iOS and Android, the business model is based on subscription plans or one-time purchases. Competing with platforms like Rover, Wag, and 11 Pets, future enhancements for PawPal include AI-driven pet care service booking and automation of the complete workflow process.

Conclusion

By refining team structure, improving communication, adopting Agile principles, and investing in automation, we successfully transformed the delivery process for our pet service booking app. These efforts not only improved release times and product quality but also fostered a collaborative environment that ensured a smoother, faster, and more transparent process. Ultimately, our ability to adapt and streamline delivery management laid the foundation for sustainable growth in a fast-paced startup environment.

Are you looking to optimize your product delivery process and streamline your mobile application development? Our team has the expertise to help you achieve faster releases, improved quality, and seamless collaboration. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can enhance your workflow and drive success for your business!

TED Talk Engagement Tracking | Secure Research Platform

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Executive Summary

TED Talk engagement tracking with the TED-it Experiment Website—secure, scalable, real-time analytics, AI insights, and data privacy for academic research.

The TED-it Experiment Website facilitated an academic study on user engagement with TED Talks. This project provided a secure, scalable, and research-focused platform where participants watched videos while the system logged their interactions for analysis. The platform ensured controlled access, detailed data tracking, and real-time monitoring to support structured experimentation.

A single website with 12 dynamically controlled URLs accommodated different experimental conditions. The platform featured secure authentication via Qualtrics survey integration, real-time interaction logging using Kafka and Flink, and an advanced admin dashboard leveraging Elasticsearch for data analysis. The system securely handled user data while offering researchers actionable insights into engagement trends.

The Client and Their Challenges

Researchers initiated this project to support an academic study on TED Talk engagement. They needed a web-based platform that tracked user interactions with video content while maintaining a controlled research environment. Several challenges required solutions to meet the study’s objectives. The platform had to ensure that only authorised participants accessed it through a Qualtrics survey link while preventing unauthorised usage. It needed to capture and store detailed user interactions, including play/pause actions, scrolling behaviour, and engagement duration, without compromising performance. The system had to dynamically assign participants to 12 different experimental conditions based on URL parameters. Efficient data storage and processing played a critical role in managing large volumes of user interaction data while ensuring fast query performance for research analysis. Researchers also needed an intuitive dashboard to track user activity, generate reports, and analyse engagement trends in real time. Compliance with data privacy regulations remained essential, requiring the secure storage and anonymisation of user data.

Project Details

The team developed a web-based application using Angular for the frontend and Python Django for the backend. The development period spanned from February 2021 to April 2021, and the budget accommodated SME-friendly pricing with scalability for future growth. The research team selected our services due to our expertise in developing controlled-access research platforms tailored for academic studies. Our strong background in data management, analytics, and secure web applications allowed for efficient tracking and storage of user interactions. Additionally, our ability to build an intuitive and real-time monitoring dashboard enabled researchers to analyse engagement trends seamlessly. Our commitment to data privacy and security compliance reinforced their trust in our solution.

Aspect Details 
Service Web-Based Application 
Technology Frontend: Angular, Backend: Python Django 
Period February 2021 to April 2021 
Budget Designed to be SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth 

The Solutions

The team built a single, parameterised website with 12 dynamically controlled URLs. JWT authentication restricted access to verified participants from Qualtrics. A modular, responsive frontend created a seamless user experience using Angular. For clickstream data logging, the system integrated Apache Kafka for real-time event streaming of user interactions. Apache Flink processed clickstream data before storing it in PostgreSQL, capturing detailed engagement metrics such as play rate, pause frequency, and watch duration.

The team extracted TED Talk metadata from Kaggle datasets and optimised a PostgreSQL schema for efficient video detail queries. REST API endpoints supported future data expansions and integrations. The Angular-based admin dashboard provided real-time data visualisation, with Elasticsearch enabling instant data querying and analysis. Export features allowed researchers to download engagement data in CSV and JSON formats for further analysis.

Technology & Stack Benefits

The platform’s frontend used Angular, ensuring a modular and high-performance user interface. Python Django powered the backend, delivering secure, scalable, and rapid API development. PostgreSQL optimised data handling with indexing and partitioning. AWS hosting with auto-scaling EC2 instances ensured high availability and scalability.

Key Features Implemented

The platform included a single, dynamic website supporting 12 experimental conditions. JWT authentication, integrated with Qualtrics, ensured secure participant access. Kafka and Flink enabled real-time clickstream data logging, while PostgreSQL optimised high-performance querying. The Elasticsearch-backed admin dashboard provided real-time research insights. Engagement data was exportable in CSV and JSON formats for detailed analysis.

The Result

The single-website, multi-URL approach streamlined deployment while maintaining research integrity. High-resolution interaction tracking provided researchers with valuable behavioural insights. The admin dashboard allowed researchers to monitor user activity and dynamically adjust experiment parameters. Security measures, including JWT authentication and anonymised data storage, ensured compliance with privacy regulations.

Lessons Learned

Using real-time data streaming with Kafka significantly improved the accuracy and granularity of user engagement insights. Implementing Elasticsearch enabled near-instant querying of large datasets, enhancing research efficiency. Ensuring smooth Qualtrics integration with JWT authentication proved essential for maintaining controlled access. A single parameterised site for multi-condition experimentation reduced complexity and deployment overhead.

Next Steps

Future plans include expanding the TED Talk dataset by integrating additional metadata sources. AI-driven insights will enhance the understanding of user engagement patterns. WebSockets will improve real-time tracking for more precise event monitoring. Automated reporting features will help researchers generate structured insights.

Conclusion

The TED-it Experiment Website successfully met the research requirements, enabling a controlled study on user engagement with TED Talks. Through real-time data tracking, parameterised URL-based experimentation, and an advanced admin dashboard, the platform provided researchers with valuable insights while ensuring security and compliance. This case study demonstrates how modern web technologies enhance academic research through structured data collection, scalable experimentation, and efficient data analysis.

Are you looking for a secure, scalable, and data-driven research platform? Our expertise in web-based academic research solutions ensures high-performance data tracking, real-time analytics, and secure access control. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can support your research needs and take your study to the next level.

Sea Freight Logistics Digital Transformation: A Case Study

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Executive Summary

Automate sea freight logistics with digital solutions. Faster quotes, real-time tracking & warehouse optimisation boost efficiency & customer satisfaction.

A global sea freight provider struggled with inefficiencies caused by outdated manual processes. Manual quotation and booking procedures frustrated customers and led to lost business, while paper-based warehouse inspections caused errors, misplaced records, and shipment delays. To resolve these issues, we developed a web dashboard for automated quotations and bookings and a warehouse tablet & Mobile application that digitised inspections and synchronised data in real time. These solutions improved efficiency, streamlined operations, and enhanced customer satisfaction. 

Client Challenges

The client faced multiple operational hurdles. Customers endured long response times due to manual data entry, often waiting up to three days for pricing confirmation. The system required staff to manually verify shipment weight, distance, and surcharges, slowing down processing. Inefficient warehouse synchronisation caused delays, as data updates took over 90 seconds due to an outdated batch processing API. Paper-based warehouse inspections led to frequent errors, misplaced shipments, and discrepancies in cargo records. In one case, incorrect documentation caused a shipment of electronics to be misrouted. 

Another major issue stemmed from the lack of real-time shipment tracking. Customers received weekly email reports instead of instant updates, leading to frustration and a 40% increase in support inquiries. Warehouse staff also struggled with unstable network conditions, which caused inspection data to be logged incorrectly or lost. Additionally, inconsistent data between the warehouse management system and the freight database required manual reconciliation, creating further inefficiencies. 

Project Details

Between November 2020 and April 2021, we partnered with the client to develop a web-based application and an iOS app. The backend leveraged PHP Yii2 Framework and MySQL, while the frontend used jQuery and JavaScript. We also built the mobile application using Flutter for iPads. The solution provided an SME-friendly platform with scalable options for future growth.

Aspect Details 
Service Web-Based Application and iOS App 
Technology Backend: PHP Yii2 Framework, MySQL, Flutter (for iPad application) Frontend: jQuery, JavaScript 
Period November 2020 to April 2021 
Budget Designed to be SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth 

Why the Client Chose Us

The client sought a partner with expertise in real-time digital logistics solutions and integrated data management. Our success in freight automation and warehouse optimisation convinced them that we could deliver a robust and scalable solution. See our services.

Solution Implementation

To modernise logistics operations, we created a web-based automated quotation system and a warehouse tablet application. We optimised the backend with RESTful APIs for faster communication, while the mobile app provided warehouse staff with a seamless user experience.

The automated quotation system allowed customers to generate instant quotes with just a few clicks, significantly reducing wait times. The digital warehouse inspections replaced manual record-keeping with RFID and barcode scanning, cutting misplacements by 80% and increasing warehouse efficiency by 25%. We optimised data synchronisation by transitioning from batch processing to an event-driven microservices architecture, reducing sync time from 90 seconds to under three seconds. 

For real-time cargo tracking, we integrated GPS-enabled fleet monitoring, ensuring customers received live updates and reducing customer support queries. To address network instability, we implemented local storage caching, allowing warehouse staff to capture data even in low-connectivity environments, with automated synchronisation upon reconnection. Edge computing further reduced server load by 40% and cut API response times by 60%. 

Business Impact & Results

The transformation delivered measurable improvements across all key areas. The quotation process, which previously took three days, now completes in under 10 seconds, boosting order conversions by 70%. Real-time warehouse synchronisation eliminated manual data entry and reduced discrepancies by 90%. Digitising warehouse tracking minimised cargo misplacement by 85%. Server and caching enhancements improved website load times from over five seconds to under one second. Automated reconciliation reduced manual data corrections by 75%. Faster bookings and real-time tracking increased customer retention by 35%, driving repeat business. 

Lessons Learned

This project reinforced the importance of automation in logistics operations. Instant quotations enhanced competitiveness by reducing customer delays and increasing conversions. Warehouse digitisation significantly minimised errors, with barcode scanning dramatically improving tracking accuracy. Transitioning to event-driven APIs resolved inconsistencies between warehouse operations and shipment tracking, enabling real-time data flow. Additionally, the need for offline capabilities became clear, as many warehouse locations operate in low-connectivity environments, making robust offline storage crucial for operational continuity. 

Future Enhancements

To further optimise logistics efficiency, the next development phase will introduce automated route optimisation, allowing real-time adjustments to reduce fuel consumption and delivery delays. Predictive freight demand analysis will use historical shipment data to forecast trends and optimise capacity planning. We also plan to expand mobile capabilities, enabling port managers to track inbound shipments and automate customs clearance. IoT sensor integration will further enhance shipment monitoring by tracking temperature and humidity conditions inside shipping containers. 

Conclusion: The Future of Digital Sea Freight

By automating quotations, bookings, and warehouse tracking, we helped the client achieve seamless logistics management, reduce overhead costs, and improve the customer experience. To remain competitive in the sea freight industry, investing in automation, real-time data processing, and advanced logistics intelligence is essential.

If outdated processes are slowing down your logistics, it’s time for a digital transformation. Agile Cyber Solutions specialises in automation, real-time tracking, and seamless warehouse management to enhance efficiency and reduce delays. Let us help you optimise your operations—contact us today to get started.

Project Efficiency: Scalable Project Management Solution

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Client Overview

Boost project efficiency with a scalable management solution. Discover how ACS improved workflows, real-time collaboration & security for 5,000+ users.

A mid-sized Australian professional services firm faced persistent project management inefficiencies due to fragmented tools and a lack of structured processes. Their existing system resulted in delays, miscommunication, and challenges in tracking project progress. Seeking a scalable and efficient solution, they partnered with Agile Cyber Solutions (ACS) to transform their project management approach.

Project Details

From December 2021 to July 2022, ACS worked closely with the client to develop a customised project management platform. The solution incorporated web app development, AI integration, and UX optimisation, all while ensuring the budget remained SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth.

Aspect Details 
Services Web app development, AI integration and UX optimisation. 
Period December 2021– July 2022. 
Budget Designed to be SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth. 

Challenges Faced

The client struggled with the absence of a centralised system for tracking projects and tasks. Communication breakdowns often led to misalignment, while the lack of real-time updates made it difficult to monitor progress. Managing interdependent project hierarchies proved complex, and limited integration with essential productivity tools further hindered efficiency.

Project Scope & Objectives

ACS aimed to develop a robust project management solution tailored to the client’s specific needs. Key objectives included implementing a centralised dashboard for comprehensive project tracking, structuring task management with clear dependencies, and enabling real-time collaboration to improve team communication. Seamless integration with third-party applications and role-based access controls for enhanced data security were also prioritised.

Solution Delivered

ACS built a scalable and intuitive project management platform, featuring a React-based user interface for seamless navigation. The system supported hierarchical task structuring, ensuring clear dependencies and ownership. Visual tracking was enhanced through Kanban and Gantt chart views, while customisable workflows allowed flexibility in aligning operations with business needs.

To foster real-time collaboration, the platform included instant notifications, reminders, and secure file-sharing capabilities. The backend, powered by Node.js and a MongoDB database, was optimised for performance and scalability, enabling efficient data retrieval and minimal server load. Agile workflow tools such as sprint planning, backlog management, and drag-and-drop task prioritisation streamlined operations. Automated reports provided critical insights into project health and team performance.

Security and compliance remained a top priority. The platform featured OAuth-based authentication, data encryption, and API integrations with tools like Slack, Jira, and Google Drive, ensuring adherence to Australian data security regulations.

Implementation & Adoption

ACS adopted a phased deployment approach to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption. Comprehensive training sessions facilitated team onboarding, driving adoption and familiarity with the new system.

Results & Business Impact

The implementation led to a 35% increase in efficiency by streamlining workflows and reducing project delays. Real-time collaboration tools improved coordination, while built-in task discussions and updates enhanced communication. The scalable system successfully supported over 5,000 active users, achieving full company-wide adoption across all operational departments within six months.

Conclusion

By addressing the client’s project management challenges, ACS delivered a powerful, scalable solution that significantly improved operational efficiency. The integration of structured workflows, enhanced communication, and essential productivity tools transformed the client’s approach to project management. ACS remains committed to ongoing support and continuous platform enhancements, ensuring it evolves in alignment with the client’s growth and future business needs.

Facing project management challenges? Agile Cyber Solutions builds scalable, efficient solutions to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and integrate essential tools. Contact us today to transform your operations and drive success.

Event Streaming with Kafka and FastAPI

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Introduction to Event Streaming and Real-Time Data

Learn to integrate Apache Kafka with FastAPI for scalable, real-time data streaming using Confluent Kafka in modern event-driven Python applications.

Event streaming has become a core approach in building modern, data-driven systems. Apache Kafka is a powerful, open-source platform designed for handling real-time data. It allows organisations to manage high-volume data feeds, process events efficiently, and facilitate seamless data sharing.

Originally developed by LinkedIn and later donated to the Apache Software Foundation, Kafka software now powers many leading platforms. In this guide, you will learn how to integrate Kafka Confluent with FastAPI, a high-performance Python framework, to create scalable pipelines for data streaming.

Why Use Kafka and FastAPI for Event Streaming?

Using Kafka with FastAPI provides a fast and reliable environment for event streaming. Kafka can handle millions of messages per second. It also supports horizontal scaling through Kafka clusters, making it ideal for microservice-based systems.

FastAPI, on the other hand, offers asynchronous features and built-in data validation. Therefore, it becomes a suitable match for systems requiring speed and precision. When combined, Kafka and FastAPI form a powerful duo for developing systems based on real-time AI, web data, and continuous data sharing.

Understanding the Architecture of Kafka for Data Streaming

Kafka’s architecture consists of several key components:

  • Producer: Publishes messages to Kafka topics.
  • Broker: Kafka servers that store and deliver messages.
  • Topic: A logical channel where producers send messages and consumers retrieve them.
  • Partition: Subdivisions of a topic that enable parallel message processing and improve throughput.
  • Consumer: Reads messages from topics, either individually or as part of a consumer group.
  • Zookeeper: Manages metadata and coordinates leader elections within Kafka clusters.

Setting Up a Kafka Producer for Event Streaming in FastAPI

Installing Dependencies

To integrate Kafka with FastAPI, install the required packages:

pip install fastapi uvicorn confluent-kafka

Setting Up Kafka with FastAPI

Kafka Producer in FastAPI

The Kafka producer sends messages to a specified topic. In a FastAPI application, you can implement a producer as follows:

from fastapi import FastAPI
from confluent_kafka import Producer

app = FastAPI()

producer_config = {
    'bootstrap.servers': 'localhost:9092'
}
producer = Producer(producer_config)

@app.post("/produce/{message}")
async def produce_message(message: str):
    producer.produce("test-topic", message.encode("utf-8"))
    producer.flush()
    return {"status": "Message sent"}

This pattern supports continuous data streaming, enabling your application to function as a real-time pipeline for driven data and AI real time decision-making.

Kafka Consumer in FastAPI

The Kafka consumer reads messages from a topic. In FastAPI, you can run a consumer in a background thread to listen continuously for new messages:

from confluent_kafka import Consumer
import threading

consumer_config = {
    'bootstrap.servers': 'localhost:9092',
    'group.id': 'fastapi-group',
    'auto.offset.reset': 'earliest'
}
consumer = Consumer(consumer_config)
consumer.subscribe(["test-topic"])

def consume():
    while True:
        msg = consumer.poll(1.0)
        if msg is not None and msg.value() is not None:
            print(f"Consumed: {msg.value().decode('utf-8')}")

thread = threading.Thread(target=consume, daemon=True)
thread.start()

This code initializes a Kafka consumer that subscribes to the “test-topic” topic. The consume function polls Kafka for new messages and prints them when they arrive. Running the consumer in a separate thread allows it to operate concurrently with FastAPI’s main event loop.

Future Enhancements: Live Streaming with WebSockets

While the integration above supports real-time processing, further enhancements are possible. For instance, you can use FastAPI’s WebSocket support to stream Kafka data directly to clients. As a result, you can build live dashboards, notifications, or monitoring tools without the need for polling.

Moreover, this enhancement is ideal for systems focused on AI real-time interactions, enabling seamless flow of data on web for end-users.

Conclusion

In summary, integrating Kafka software with FastAPI allows developers to build fast and resilient systems. Kafka ensures durable and scalable data processing, while FastAPI brings simplicity and performance.

Together, these tools support a range of needs—from data management and data categorisation, to building real-time data and apps. Whether you’re working with Python and Kafka, deploying Apache Kafka consumers, or designing systems to automate data, this integration is future-ready.

Therefore, if you are looking to build high-throughput, low-latency applications with efficient event streaming, combining FastAPI and Kafka is a smart and scalable choice.

Our team of experts is ready to assist you in designing and implementing scalable, real-time data streaming solutions with Kafka and FastAPI. Contact us today to learn how we can help bring your vision to life.

Survey Management: Automating & Revolutionising Surveys

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Executive Summary

Revolutionising survey management with automation. Scalable, secure, and AI-ready survey app enhances efficiency, compliance, and data-driven decision-making.

The Survey App is a sophisticated, web-based platform that streamlines survey creation, distribution, and analysis. By reducing manual effort and providing real-time insights, it helps businesses make informed decisions. With role-based access control, the Super Admin oversees surveys across organisations, the Client Admin manages surveys within their team, and Responders complete surveys while tracking their scores.

We built the platform using Yii2 (PHP) and Angular, leveraging Docker and microservices for scalability. This approach ensures security, efficiency, and flexibility. Its multi-tenant architecture, dynamic survey logic, and real-time reporting empower businesses to automate surveys, improve compliance, and make data-driven decisions.

The Client and Their Challenges

The client needed an efficient survey management platform to handle compliance and data collection. Their existing tools lacked reusability, forcing them to recreate similar surveys repeatedly. They required intelligent question flows where responses determined subsequent questions, ensuring complex survey logic. Data security and multi-tenant access were also essential, allowing controlled access while keeping company data separate. Limited reporting features made decision-making difficult due to the absence of custom analytics and export options.

Project Details

We developed a web-based application using Yii2 (PHP Framework) for the backend, Angular for the frontend, Docker for infrastructure, and microservices for scalability. The project ran from September 2021 to June 2022, designed as an SME-friendly solution with scalable options for future growth.

Aspect Details 
Service Web-Based Application 
Technology Yii2 (PHP Framework), Angular (Frontend), Docker (Infrastructure), Microservices (Architecture) 
Period September 2021 to June 2022 
Budget Designed to be SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth 

Why They Chose Us

The client needed a cost-effective, user-friendly survey solution with custom reporting and automated compliance tracking. Unlike generic survey tools, our bespoke platform eliminated manual work, improved efficiency, and aligned with their specific needs. Our focus on security, user experience, and rapid deployment made us the ideal partner.

The Solution

To address the client’s challenges, we developed a tailored web-based application with custom features. Smart survey templates enabled users to create and reuse surveys with dynamic logic, significantly improving efficiency. Dynamic survey logic adjusted surveys in real time based on previous answers, enhancing data accuracy and user experience.

To ensure data security and multi-tenant access, we built the platform with a multi-tenant architecture that securely isolated company data. Role-based access control (RBAC) allowed administrators to configure permissions and manage user access, enhancing security and compliance. For reporting and data export, we integrated real-time dashboards that provided instant survey results. Businesses could export reports in PDF and Excel formats, making data sharing, analysis, and tracking more efficient.

Technology Stack & Benefits

We chose Yii2 for the backend due to its robust security features and structured architecture, which supported dynamic survey logic and complex user roles while enabling fast data handling and real-time updates. Angular powered the frontend, creating dynamic, interactive user interfaces that ensured seamless real-time updates for survey responses. A microservices architecture decoupled survey management, reporting, and analytics services, allowing each to scale independently. Docker containerisation streamlined deployment, ensuring services operated efficiently based on demand.

Key Features Implemented

We introduced role-based access control, allowing Super Admins to manage companies, users, and permissions, while Client Admins handled survey creation, management, and reporting. Responders completed surveys and tracked their progress. Smart survey logic enabled dynamic question progression based on responses, with reusable templates speeding up survey creation. A secure, scalable multi-tenant system ensured strict data isolation and granular access control for user permissions. Advanced reporting and analytics provided real-time data dashboards and exportable reports in PDF and Excel formats.

The Results

Businesses conducted over 100 surveys, transitioning from manual to automated processes and saving significant time. Automation reduced manual effort by 75%, freeing up resources for strategic tasks. Built-in compliance tracking ensured businesses adhered to regulatory requirements. More than 50 companies adopted the solution, benefiting from its multi-tenant structure, which maintained strict data separation. Enhanced reporting capabilities improved decision-making, with over 90% of users reporting better insights from automated reports.

Lessons Learned

Scalability played a crucial role, with Docker and microservices enabling smooth growth and updates. A user-friendly experience drove adoption, as an intuitive, easy-to-navigate dashboard improved engagement and productivity. Role-based access control strengthened security, reducing the risk of data mishandling and unauthorised access. Reusable survey templates accelerated survey creation, boosting operational efficiency.

Next Steps

We plan to enhance the platform by incorporating AI-powered insights for deeper data analysis. Expanding third-party integrations with business intelligence and compliance tools will provide a more connected experience. We also aim to introduce additional customisation options for survey design and report formats, ensuring flexibility for diverse client needs.

Final Thoughts

Our Survey App empowers businesses to save time, reduce manual work, and make better data-driven decisions. With scalability, automation, and security at its core, the platform evolves alongside businesses, ensuring continued value. Ongoing updates and user feedback drive our commitment to improvement.

If you’re looking for an efficient and scalable survey management solution, our platform offers a seamless, automated approach to survey creation, distribution, and analysis, helping you save time and enhance decision-making. Get in touch with us today for a demo and discover how our solution can revolutionise your survey process.

Selenium Java Automation: Getting Started with TestNG

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Introduction

Boost Selenium Java automation with TestNG! Learn annotations, parallel execution, reporting & advanced features for efficient Java test automation.

In modern web software development, automation testing has become a vital part of ensuring consistent, efficient, and reliable software delivery. As development cycles get shorter, testing needs to be faster and smarter. This is where frameworks like TestNG shine, especially when combined with Selenium Java automation for web applications.

This guide is for anyone getting started with automation testing. We’ll walk through the basics of TestNG, its benefits, and how it enhances test automation with AI, Selenium automation Java, and other automation testing tools for web applications.

What is TestNG?

TestNG, short for “Test Next Generation”, is a testing framework inspired by JUnit and NUnit. It offers more flexibility and power in testing software, particularly for Java to Java test environments. It simplifies automation testing using AI or traditional scripting and supports multiple test features.

Among its core features are:

  • Annotations – Helps define test methods clearly (e.g., @Test, @BeforeMethod, @AfterMethod).
  • Parallel Execution – Allows running multiple test cases simultaneously.
  • Data-Driven Testing – Supports parameterization with @DataProvider.
  • Flexible Execution – Enables grouping, dependency, and priority-based execution.
  • Advanced Reporting – Automatically generates detailed test execution reports.

Understanding Selenium for Web Application Testing

Selenium is a widely-used, open-source automation testing tool for web applications. It simulates user interactions such as clicks, form submissions, and navigation in browsers. Selenium supports various programming languages like Java, Python, and C#, but it’s most commonly used in automation selenium with Java projects.

When combined with TestNG, Selenium allows test cases to be structured in a logical, reusable manner that supports modern testing and automation practices—especially useful in AI automation testing tools ecosystems.

Why Use TestNG in Selenium Java Automation?

TestNG significantly enhances Selenium Java automation by improving test structure, reliability, and execution control. It supports driven testing, where tests are built around real user interactions and business logic.

Here’s why TestNG is preferred in automated testing in software testing:

  • Better Test Structure – Organizes test execution efficiently.
  • Assertions for Validation – Ensures test accuracy using Assert statements. 
  • Retry and Failure Handling – Allows rerunning failed tests. 
  • Test Execution Control – Provides options for dependencies and priorities.
  • Comprehensive Reporting – Generates detailed execution reports automatically.

TestNG Annotations in Automation Testing Frameworks

TestNG follows a defined order of annotation execution:

@BeforeSuite

@BeforeTest

@BeforeClass

@BeforeMethod

@Test

@AfterMethod

@AfterClass

@AfterTest

@AfterSuite

This order ensures clean setup and teardown, which is especially important in AI for automation testing, where data and environments must be controlled.

Step-by-Step Setup of Selenium Java Automation with TestNG

Step 1: Add TestNG to Your Project

  • For Maven Users: Add the following dependency in pom.xml
  • For Non-Maven Users: Download TestNG and add it to your project’s libraries manually.

Step 2: Create a Basic Test Class

Create a new Java class and add a basic TestNG test

Step 3: Running Your First Selenium Java Automation Test

  • Right-click on the class → Select Run As → TestNG Test.
  • You should see TestNG executing your test in the console output. 

Step 4: Using Annotations for Test Driven Automation Testing

TestNG provides various annotations to control test execution flow. Here’s an example

Explanation:

  • @BeforeClass – Runs once before all test methods in the class. 
  • @Test – Defines test cases.
  • @AfterClass – Runs once after all test methods.

Step 5: Generating Reports in Selenium Java Automation

After executing tests, automatically generates reports in the test-output folder. These reports help in analyzing test results and debugging failures.

Benefits of TestNG Over Manual Testing

Manual testing is prone to human error and consumes valuable time. In contrast, TestNG enables automation AI tools to run complex tests automatically. This increases test coverage, improves reliability, and accelerates release cycles.

Additionally, TestNG supports features like parameterisation, retry logic, and test grouping—all impossible with manual tests. For large-scale systems, automation testing with AI becomes necessary, and TestNG fits seamlessly into that process.

AI Automation Tools and Future TestNG Reporting Use

TestNG reports provide structured logs of test execution, categorizing passed, failed, and skipped test cases. These reports are valuable for debugging and tracking issues. Over time, they help in analyzing trends in test failures, optimizing test strategies, and ensuring continuous quality improvements. Integrating these reports with CI/CD tools like Jenkins enhances automated test tracking and reporting.

Advanced Selenium Java Automation with TestNG Features

As you gain experience, explore these advanced features to enhance your automation framework:

  • Data Providers (@DataProvider) – Allows running the same test with multiple data sets.
  • Listeners (@Listeners) – Helps customize test execution behavior. 
  • Grouping & Dependencies – Organizes test cases efficiently.
  • Retry Mechanism (IRetryAnalyzer) – Automatically re-executes failed tests.
  • Parallel Execution – Runs tests faster by executing them concurrently.

Final Thoughts on Test Automation Using AI and Selenium Java

Implementing TestNG in web automation structures execution and enhances efficiency. Beginners should start with simple test cases and gradually explore advanced features like parallel execution and data-driven testing. With its robust functionality, TestNG remains a preferred choice for Java-based automation, ensuring reliable and effective test execution.

If you want to enhance your automation testing strategy with TestNG and Selenium, our experts are here to provide comprehensive support, from implementation and troubleshooting to optimizing your test automation framework. Get in touch with us today to streamline your testing process and achieve efficient, reliable automation results.

Offline First Asset Management App | Organise Your Things

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Overview

Offline-first asset management app with smart sync, seamless collaboration, and real-time-like updates. Organise, track, and share items anytime, anywhere.

“Organise Your Things” is an offline-first asset management app that helps users categorise, manage, and track personal and shared items. Unlike cloud-dependent organisational apps, this solution allows users to function without internet access, requiring a connection only for sharing items with others.

The project aimed to provide a simple yet structured way for users to organise their belongings under predefined and custom categories, attach documents, set reminders, and collaborate securely. However, ensuring a smooth offline experience with seamless data synchronisation and real-time sharing when online presented a major challenge. This case study explores how we designed, tested, and refined the offline-first asset management app based on real user feedback and the impact it had on the end-users.

Project Details

The project involved web and mobile app development, AI integration, UX optimization, and content management. Development took place from January 2018 to February 2023. The budget supported SMEs with scalable options for future growth.

Aspect Details 
Services Web and mobile app development, AI integration, UX optimization, content management. 
Period January 2018 – February 2023. 
Budget Designed to be SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth. 

Key Features

The offline-first asset management app offers full offline functionality, enabling users to add, edit, and manage items without internet access. Users can categorise their belongings using predefined options like Transport, Personal, and Construction, or create custom categories. They can attach images, descriptions, sub-items, documents, tasks, reminders, and notes to each item. For Transport category users, the app fetches vehicle data via an API when a network is available. Collaboration features allow users to connect and share items with View/Edit access permissions, while the system queues and delivers notifications when recipients come online. All offline changes sync automatically once the network reconnects.

Problem Statement

Most organisational apps require constant internet access, making them impractical for users in low-connectivity areas or those who prefer local storage over cloud-based services. Users needed a system that could store and manage items offline without data loss, allow smooth collaboration without requiring simultaneous online access, retrieve transport-related details dynamically when online without unnecessary manual entry, and handle delayed notifications and conflict resolution for shared offline updates. The major challenge involved providing real-time-like collaboration while maintaining offline functionality.

The Client and the Challenges

Field professionals, small businesses, and individuals who need to organise their assets without stable internet access benefitted from this offline-first asset management app. Early adopters included construction site managers tracking equipment and assigning tasks, vehicle owners storing transport details, and personal users managing offline inventories.

Ensuring seamless offline functionality while avoiding sync conflicts required a robust solution. We developed a local-first database architecture using IndexedDB and SQLite with a sync queue system to efficiently manage synchronisation. Sharing and notifications posed another challenge since users could send sharing requests offline, but notifications had to be delivered when both users were online. To address this, we implemented a background process that queued notifications and sent updates automatically when users reconnected.

To avoid unnecessary API calls and slowdowns, the offline-first asset management app used smart caching so previously fetched vehicle data remained accessible offline. Conflict resolution for shared items was another challenge, particularly when two offline users edited the same item. We implemented a version-tracking system with a “last edit wins” model and notified users if their changes were overwritten.

Why Choose Our Solution?

This offline-first asset management app stands out due to its 100% offline functionality, eliminating the need for a login or internet access unless users share items. The smart background sync ensures automatic data updates, removing the need for manual refreshes. Granular sharing permissions give users precise control over who can view or edit items. Optimised API usage reduces bandwidth consumption by fetching data only when needed. See Our Services.

Technology Stack

We built the frontend using Flutter for both mobile and web platforms. The backend runs on Node.js, while the database relies on Neo4j. Firebase handles the sync mechanism, and local authentication includes periodic online validation. A transport API fetches vehicle data when online.

What We Learned

Developing an offline-first asset management app required rethinking traditional assumptions about constant server access. We designed an efficient local database structure that prioritised fast read/write operations. Users expected real-time-like behaviour even when offline, so we created a queue system that mimics real-time updates without requiring continuous connectivity. To ensure transparent conflict resolution, we introduced a change log that allows users to review modifications and track overwritten data.

The Results

Early testing showed significant improvements: Data entry speed increased by 40% compared to cloud-based competitors that require constant internet connectivity. Sync errors dropped by 80% after implementing queue-based syncing. Beta users provided 90% positive feedback on the app’s offline usability. Collaboration became three times faster than manual data-sharing methods.

User Testimonials

Users provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, highlighting the app’s convenience. A construction manager praised the app for eliminating concerns about losing data access when working on-site. A vehicle owner appreciated the time-saving vehicle lookup feature, and a personal user found the offline document storage invaluable for managing invoices and warranties.

Next Steps

Our future roadmap includes AI-powered merge suggestions for conflict resolution when multiple users edit the same offline item. We plan to expand API integrations beyond transport to include property, electronics, and other asset categories. We also aim to introduce offline-first messaging to enable message sharing between connected users without immediate internet access. Mobile and desktop syncing will be enhanced for seamless transitions between platforms.

Conclusion

“Organise Your Things” successfully delivers an offline-first asset management app, ensuring users can work without internet dependency. With structured categorisation, smart sync logic, and role-based sharing, the app fills a crucial gap for users requiring reliable offline organisation. Unlike traditional cloud-dependent tools, this application provides true freedom and flexibility, making it an ideal solution for professionals and individuals alike.

Looking for a reliable offline-first asset management app to keep your data accessible anytime? Whether you’re managing inventory or organizing personal assets, we provide seamless, secure solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to see how “Organise Your Things” can work for you!

Web Application Penetration Testing: CSP Fix Guide

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Introduction

Strengthen web application penetration testing with a robust Content Security Policy (CSP). Learn to detect, fix, and monitor CSP issues to prevent XSS attacks.

In modern web application penetration testing, one of the most common findings is a missing or misconfigured Content Security Policy (CSP). A CSP acts as a browser-enforced security policy that helps prevent XSS script injection, clickjacking, and data leaks. Therefore, it’s a key area of focus in any penetration testing report.

During a pen test, security teams assess whether CSP is present, correctly configured, and resilient against bypass attempts. Improper CSP configuration can lead to cyber security vulnerabilities, allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, hijack sessions, or manipulate page behaviour. For organisations offering pen testing services, evaluating CSP implementation is a critical component of web application security testing.

Common CSP Vulnerabilities Found During Web App Security Testing

  • No Content Security Policy header: The web application lacks a CSP altogether, leaving it exposed.
  • Overly permissive directives: CSP includes unsafe-inline or unsafe-eval, which defeat its purpose.
  • Third-party trust issues: External scripts from untrusted sources pose a security and penetration testing risk.

Understanding CSP Security in Web Application Penetration Testing

CSP is defined through an HTTP response header that specifies the allowed sources for various types of resources. For example, a basic CSP configuration might look like:

add_header Content-Security-Policy "default-src 'self'; script-src 'self';";

Essential CSP Directives for Strengthening Web Application Security

  • default-src 'self' which restricts all resources to the same origin unless specifically overridden.
  • script-src 'self' which allows JavaScript execution only from the same domain, blocking inline scripts.

When a web browser detects a CSP violation, it blocks the content and logs the issue. This control is especially effective against XSS script attacks, a top vulnerability in web pen testing and security audit procedures.

How to Evaluate CSP During Web Application Penetration Testing

Checking for Missing CSP Headers in Security Testing

The first step is to check if CSP is implemented. This can be done using browser developer tools by navigating to the Network tab and checking response headers or by using the command:

curl -I https://target-website.com | grep Content-Security-Policy

If the CSP header is missing, this becomes a critical issue in the penetration testing report.

Detecting Weak CSP Policies in Web Pen Testing

A common misconfiguration:

add_header Content-Security-Policy "script-src 'self' 'unsafe-inline' 'unsafe-eval';";
  • 'unsafe-inline': Allows inline JavaScript, enabling XSS script execution.
  • 'unsafe-eval': Permits execution via eval()—a security risk often highlighted in IT security penetration testing.

Testing for CSP Bypass in Web Application Vulnerability Assessments

Try injecting malicious code into input fields or URL parameters:

<script>alert('XSS Attack!')</script>

If it executes, the CSP security control is ineffective. If blocked, browser dev tools will log a violation—valuable feedback in cyber security testing.

Fixing CSP Misconfigurations in Web App Security Testing

Using Report-Only Mode in Pen Testing Before Full CSP Deployment

Before enforcing a strict CSP, test using a Content-Security-Policy-Report-Only header. This helps prevent accidental breakage of legitimate functionality during implementation.

add_header Content-Security-Policy-Report-Only "default-src 'self'; report-uri /csp-report;";

Deploying a Strong CSP in Nginx for Web Application Security

Once tested, a stricter CSP policy should be enforced:

add_header Content-Security-Policy "
  default-src 'self';
  script-src 'self' https://trusted-cdn.com;
  style-src 'self' 'nonce-randomNonce';
  object-src 'none';
  base-uri 'self';
  form-action 'self';
  frame-ancestors 'none';
";

This policy ensures that all resources are loaded from the same origin unless specified, JavaScript is only allowed from the site itself and a trusted CDN, inline styles are controlled using a nonce, Flash and other outdated technologies are blocked, and protections against clickjacking and unauthorized form submissions are in place.

Breakdown of CSP Directives for Penetration Testing Compliance

  • default-src 'self': Baseline for all content—safe by default.
  • script-src: Whitelist only known, trusted sources to avoid security threats.
  • style-src with nonce: Prevents unauthorised CSS injection.
  • object-src 'none': Blocks outdated plugin-based attacks.
  • form-action and frame-ancestors: Prevent clickjacking and data theft via form manipulation or iframe embedding.

This level of control significantly reduces the attack surface and is widely recommended by security companies performing cyber security penetration testing.

Monitoring and Validating CSP in Cyber Security Testing

How to Verify Effective CSP Implementation During Site Security Testing

After enforcement:

  • Use curl or browser dev tools to verify CSP.
  • Attempt to inject test scripts and observe browser blocks.

Monitoring logs ensures you’re not breaking legitimate features, which is essential in both IT security policy enforcement and website pen testing workflows.

Setting Up Violation Reports for Continuous Web Security Monitoring

Set up a report-uri endpoint or use services like Report URI for logging:

curl -I https://yourwebsite.com | grep Content-Security-Policy
add_header Content-Security-Policy "default-src 'self'; report-uri /csp-report;";

This allows continuous feedback—important for organisations focused on data and security, web application testing, and security AI integrations.

Conclusion: Role of CSP in Web Application Penetration Testing

In cyber security and penetration testing on websites, CSP acts as a foundational client-side defence. It helps prevent XSS, injection attacks, and data leakage—all common in web application penetration testing and mobile app pen testing.

Key Takeaways for Improving CSP Security During Pen Testing

  • Start with Report-Only: Safely identify issues without breaking functionality.
  • Never Use unsafe-inline or eval(): These directives nullify your CSP.
  • Monitor Violations: Use CSP logs for proactive security auditing.
  • Adapt with Time: As web content changes, so should your IT security policy.

By implementing a strong CSP, you significantly improve your site security test score and reduce exposure to cyber security attacks. This is not just about compliance—it’s about resilience.

For any organisation concerned with cyber threats, web penetration testing, or cyber security AI solutions, enforcing a well-structured CSP content security policy is essential.

Ensuring your web application has a robust CSP policy is crucial for protecting against modern threats. If you need help with penetration testing or strengthening your CSP implementation, our security experts are ready to assist. Contact us now to schedule a consultation and safeguard your digital assets against cyber attacks.

AI-Driven Vehicle Maintenance System : Automated Service Alerts

Posted on by Layana Chandran

Introduction

AI-driven vehicle maintenance system fetches data via API, sends automated service reminders, reduces breakdowns, and improves vehicle longevity.

Vehicle owners often forget important service dates, which, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), contributes to nearly 20% of vehicle breakdowns. As a result, maintenance costs increase, and safety risks become more significant. To address this issue, we developed an AI-driven solution that not only fetches vehicle details from the registration number via an API but also uses artificial intelligence to send timely service reminders. Consequently, this system optimises maintenance schedules and extends vehicle longevity.

Project Details

Aspect Details 
Services Web and mobile app development, AI integration, UX optimization, content management. 
Period January 2024 – October 2024. 
Budget Designed to be SME-friendly with scalable options for future growth. 

Problem Statement

Traditional vehicle maintenance tracking relies heavily on manual efforts. As a result, many owners miss service deadlines, leading to inefficient schedules and unexpected breakdowns. To solve this problem, we needed to automate vehicle detail retrieval and integrate AI-driven notifications for timely servicing. By doing so, we could ensure that vehicles remain in optimal condition while reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.

Solution Overview

Our AI-powered system offers a seamless way to track vehicle maintenance. First, it fetches vehicle details from a government or third-party API using the registration number, ensuring real-time and accurate data retrieval. For instance, the system integrates with the UK’s DVLA API and India’s Vahan API to pull necessary vehicle information. Next, it analyses the make, model, and maintenance history to determine when the next service is due. Finally, automated notifications are sent through SMS, email, or in-app alerts before the due date, helping users stay on top of their maintenance schedules.

Implementation

To begin with, the system retrieves vehicle details by calling an API with the registration number. It then fetches key data, including make, model, year, fuel type, last service date, and mileage. This information is stored in a centralised database, making tracking and analysis more efficient. As the service due date approaches, AI-powered scheduling triggers reminders. In addition, notifications are sent through multiple channels. For example, emails provide detailed service information, while in-app alerts offer personalised recommendations. As a result, vehicle owners receive timely and relevant reminders, reducing the risk of missed maintenance.

Technologies Used

For efficient data retrieval, the system integrates with RESTful APIs. Additionally, it utilises SendGrid for email notifications and Firebase for push notifications, ensuring reliable message delivery. On the frontend, Flutter is used to create a smooth experience across both mobile and web platforms. Meanwhile, the backend is powered by Node.js, which ensures scalability and fast processing. Furthermore, all vehicle data is stored in Neo4j, enabling efficient tracking and retrieval of maintenance records.

Benefits

This AI-driven solution offers several advantages. Firstly, automated tracking eliminates the need for manual service monitoring. Secondly, regular maintenance improves vehicle health and reduces repair costs. Moreover, personalised reminders enhance the user experience, keeping customers well-informed. Lastly, preventive maintenance lowers long-term expenses, making vehicle upkeep more cost-efficient for owners.

Conclusion

By combining API integration with AI-powered reminders, this system significantly improves vehicle maintenance management. In fact, early trials in fleet management have shown a 30% reduction in overdue maintenance cases. As a result, vehicles last longer, and owners save money on unexpected repairs. AI’s predictive capabilities ensure timely service, reducing breakdown risks and enhancing overall efficiency. Ultimately, this solution transforms traditional vehicle servicing into a smart, automated experience that benefits both individuals and businesses alike.

Enhance vehicle maintenance with our AI-driven system that automates service tracking, reduces breakdown risks, and optimises schedules. Whether you’re an individual, fleet manager, or service provider, our solution ensures efficiency and cost savings. Contact us today for a demo and simplify vehicle maintenance.