Sydig project in short
- Project scope: Front End, Back End, Mobile, DevOps, UX/UI Designer
- Start of project: 21 September 2021
- Team: Frontend React Engineer, Backend .NET Engineer, UI/UX Designer, Project Manager
- Industry: TSL
- Application type: SaaS
- Our client website: https://sydig.com
Who is our client?
Our client is the company Sydig Sp. z o.o. The company produces software that it sells in the SaaS model. Our client specializes in the TSL sector (Transport, Shipping, Logistics), creating comprehensive tools to support shipping and transport companies.
Customer challenge
The client came to us with the idea of creating an innovative solution for the forwarding and transport industry (Transport Management System). The major challenge was to create a system that fully meets the expectations of users. The challenge was also to design the system in such a way that it could be used by hundreds of companies at the same time without having to worry about interruptions during working hours. The TSL sector is characterised by complex operational processes, the digitization of which is still a major challenge.
The progress of the work
Step 1
The key to the successful implementation of a complex IT project is a good understanding of the requirements, needs of the users and the problems and needs to which the implemented system responds. In order to understand the customer’s problems and requirements, we started with the Product Discovery workshop. It was a multi-hour cyclical workshop with the client in which we designed and described business processes and functional requirements. We have also set a timetable for the introduction of the product and discussed the risks that may arise in developing this type of technology product in order to develop solutions to those risks.
Step 2
In the next step, we created interactive models using the Figma tool, which enabled us to present the final interface of the app to our customers. During the development phase, we were able to figure out quite quickly how best to design the entire application interface.
Creating a model at the outset for such solutions is important. Interactive models are much cheaper to make than a working product, and they allow us to test the feeling of users. In the beginning, the focus is on designing solutions and obtaining user feedback – resulting in an application with an intuitive user interface that meets the needs of the end user.
Thanks to the prepared models, we were able to easily collect information, which we also need to implement in the final product, so that the created system fully responds to the needs of the users.
Step 3
The third step was the creation of the MVP, i.e. the first working version of the application, with which we were able to test the assumptions already in a real working environment in transport and forwarding companies.
Thanks to the creation of the MVP, the client was able to implement the application to their first customers and collect feedback from the users already on the real system. Based on customer feedback, we were able to perfect the product according to the customer development method. Through the development of MVP, the customer achieved initial revenues in a relatively short time, which he was able to use for the further development of his business and product.
After that, we implemented new features every two weeks and tested them together with the users. Thanks to our work according to the principles of the Lean Startup methodology, we were able to collect feedback from users very quickly and efficiently and add new features step by step – according to your real needs.
When developing applications and other technological products, validation and continuous review of assumptions with users is of paramount importance.
Building an MVP is not a very high cost factor, but as the Sydig project shows, initial revenue can be generated to allow the product to be further developed. In addition, we receive market feedback through the development of the MVP, which is crucial to the development of a product that meets the needs of users.
Results
Sydig.com is a system for transport and forwarding companies that optimizes operational processes. Any company can register an account in the system and, after verification, start using the features of the system. Sydig is offered in the Software as a Service (SaaS) business model.
Mobile app for drivers
The mobile app enables and above all makes it easier for drivers to communicate with the freight forwarder via chat and enables them to manage their own orders from the phone. In addition, the mobile application enables the reporting of the order status, the scanning of documents (bills of lading, CMR documents) and the creation of the photographic documentation of the loads.
Web application for freight forwarders
The web-based application makes it easier for freight forwarders to manage their shipments – it allows adding and assigning orders as well as managing documents and all freight forwarding processes.
Back Office application for administrators
The back office panel of sysdig.com allows the employees of Sydig Sp. z o.o. to manage the entire system, add users, bill subscription times, solve user problems, etc.
Module for generating invoices
Sydig.com also allows you to create an invoice for each order. When generating an invoice, you can enter all the necessary data, including the invoice number, the form and the due date or, for example, the currency. The generated document can be found both in the individual order view and in the invoice tab. The invoice is also automatically sent to the business partner. This module significantly improves accounting by reducing the traditional (paper) billing flow.
Provision of an order to a counterparty
Paper jobs can also be entered in Sydig. After entering an order with one click, you can forward it to the appropriate counterparty. The contractual partner will then receive an e-mail to the e-mail address specified in the system. The e-mail contains a unique link and password that allows the recipient to access all the data, the status of the order and documents provided in connection with the order. If the counterparty in question has a verified account in the system, the order is automatically displayed in their panel.
Module for online orders
With the Sydig system, orders are added via a special form that standardizes all route and freight data. The system allows the processing of several orders at the same time. Freight forwarders shall have access to all orders and drivers shall have access to the orders allocated to them. Within the order, a forwarding folder is created that contains all the necessary information about the order and the history of user activities.
Chat module
The Chat works both in a mobile application – aimed at drivers – and in a web application aimed at freight forwarders.
Thanks to this solution, the driver can confirm the order from the app and communicate easily and quickly with the freight forwarder via the chat. The Chat also allows the uploading of files (scans of documents, photos of the load) that are automatically assigned to the documentation of the respective order.
The module makes it much easier to work and communicate with supervisors on the go, all through a dedicated app for Android and iOS.
Vehicle module
The system also enables fleet management. With the form we add all important and necessary information about the vehicle.
Support for multiple languages
Sydig.com is designed to support multiple languages. Currently, the system is translated into the following languages: Polish, English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Hungarian, Lithuanian, Ukrainian.
Support for dark mode
The system of Sydig.com has a “Dark Mode” which allows to use the system in different light conditions and user habits.
Managing fuel cards
The Sydig system also allows the management of fuel cards. You can add a card number to the system and assign it to a specific vehicle and driver.
Management of leasing contracts
Sydig has also implemented a module for managing leases. To the system we can add the period of car rental, the return, the number of days and the price of the service. An exhibitor must also be added to each contract.
Management of company data
In the system, each company adds its data and is verified on the basis of it. In the order conditions you can specify the order conditions for different variants, e.g. for verified counterparties or those you are not aware of.
Documents and licences
In the Sydig system, you can enter all necessary documents into your company data, e.g. licenses, by entering the number and type of the document and the validity date.
Summary
Finally, we have created a system that makes it possible to manage the transport and forwarding company in an innovative way. The system connects freight forwarders, drivers and contractors in one place. In the Sydig system you will find all the necessary information, including the order, the driver, the vehicle and the complete documentation. The system enables fast communication with the freight forwarder and automates the processes of placing orders and creating the required documentation. Leasing contracts and fuel cards can also be managed in the system.
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