Technology Stack
React Native
Google Firebase
Apple Pay
Stripe
The Client
The client owns a photo printing and delivery app business. He owns iOS and Android apps that help users print photos and get them couriered. iPhone and Android users can download this app, sign up, upload files for printing, search for the nearest print agents, select the best-rated agent, and submit order requests. The app users can pay digitally or use cash on delivery to get printed photographs delivered to their doorsteps.
The Challenge
Despite making the mobile apps live for some time, the client couldn’t reach a broad customer base because of the absence of various features. For example, the iOS app lacked Apple Pay integration.
The client wanted a tech partner who could successfully embed Apple Pay SDK, following all integration guidelines. Apple Pay is one of the fastest payment methods that iOS users rely on. Once users add their card details to Apple Pay, they can use the Touch ID or the Face ID to authenticate future payments. The client specifically wanted this integration to ease digital transactions for Apple users. The client also wanted to add Stripe in both apps to simplify checkouts.
Besides, the apps lacked Geofences. So, the client wanted to add Geofences to help customers see local print businesses within a specific circle radius.
In addition, the mobile apps lacked a user age restriction checker. The client wanted the checker to restrict anyone below 17 years of age from using the apps.
The existing apps didn’t have the option to upload anything other than Word docs. The client wanted to allow users to upload different file formats, like PDFs and JPGs.
These enhancements had to be made, tested, and pushed continuously in the go-live. After evaluating several partners, the client chose Capital Numbers, seeing our successful mobile app development work. He hired us on a dedicated development model and wanted to collaborate directly with our developers.
The Solution
We agreed to deliver the work using Agile practices and aligned one skilled React Native developer and an expert Project Manager for the job.
Our developer and Manager started by conducting a quick discovery session to examine the problem areas. Based on our study, we considered the following technologies best suited for the project.
Firstly, we selected React Native v0.63.2 to upgrade the iOS and Android app UIs. Around 95% of React Native’s code is cross-platform. So, we used React Native’s shared code and native elements to improve the UIs. It saved us a lot of time as we didn't have to code from scratch.
Next, we installed Google Firebase v7.24.0 to upgrade the backend setup. Firebase comes with a standard set of APIs perfect for cross-platform app development. However, we also wrote several custom APIs, as Firebase’s APIs are not customizable. So, we created new APIs to connect the backend and frontend interfaces well. It required a lot of brainstorming to define the logic correctly and create new APIs one by one.
We next worked on the Apple Pay integration. Before integrating, we studied the ins and outs of Apple Pay SDK and learned the bugs that can crop up after integration. Keeping everything in mind, we embedded Apple Pay in the iOS app. We also embedded Stripe in both apps to secure the checkouts.
Our next focus was Geofences which we embedded to notify customers about print agents nearby. We also integrated the Checkr plugin to verify and authenticate all users.
The entire work collaboration between our team and the client would happen over regular Skype calls. After every implementation, our team would run every iOS build in TestFlight, and every Android build in the Beta environment for the client to push them to the live server.
Results
Within six months, we could successfully release all new features. From the technology standpoint, we could remove all inconsistent APIs and make the apps fast-loading and bug-free. From the operational aspect, too, we could achieve successes, such as the following:
Faster Checkouts with Stripe
As a result of our Stripe integration, payment checkouts are faster in both apps.
More Manageable Payments with Apple Pay
As a result of our Apple Pay integration, Apple Pay users store their payment details safely now.
Quicker Shipment through Express Deliveries
Users choose Express Delivery services at an extra fee because of our new payment solutions.
New Review and Rating Systems
Because we integrated a third-party review system, customers rate print agents within 1-5 stars.
Easy Findability with Geofences
As a result of our Geofence integration, customers find local print agents within a 5-10 miles radius.
Custom Alerts for Print Agents
Because we added custom alerts, print agents get notified as soon as customers place orders.
Improved User Verifications
Moreover, due to our Checkr integration, the apps verify user details during the signup.
Restricted Access for Under-aged Users
Because we added an age restriction filter, the apps don’t allow users below 17 years of age to sign up.
More Options for Document Uploads
The upgraded apps provide customers with options to print not only Word files but also PDFs, PNGs, and JPGs.
90% More App Stability
In short, Capital Numbers’ continuous enhancements have made the iOS and Android apps 90% more stable, with better API responses within three seconds.
Client’s Trust and Confidence
It wasn’t only our enhancement work that our client loved. Our ability to learn Apple Pay SDK on the go impressed our client, too, leading him to leave us with outstanding feedback on G2 and Clutch.
Great Reviews
97 Out Of 100 Clients Have Given Us A Five Star Rating On Google & Clutch
James Burke
Managing Partner, Consensus Interactive
"They're very willing to assemble the team that we ask for if we have certain preferences."
Ze Wei Wong
CEO, Inpel Corporation
"Their project management style and tools are both flexible."
Judy Shapiro
CEO, engageSimply
"They invest in the success of their clients which makes them flexible in accomodating the needs of growing companies."
Will Hershfeld
Director of Web Services, AdsIntelligence
"They are a well-structured team and that impressed us the most."
Katherine Mao
Co-Founder, Yeeo Inc.
"Capital Numbers provides a high level of customer service and support."
Ryan Gallace
Managing Director, Green Property Group
