AirBridgeCargo - Interview with the developer of a fantastic app

Did you have any prior development or coding experience?

We certainly did! We have been working with UX/UI (development and coding of website and mobile apps) for more than 15 years.

What was the most challenging aspect of developing mobile app?

One of the most challenging aspects was to find the best solutions to synchronize all in-house AirBridgeCargo systems (including bookings, flight status, schedule, cargo movements), into the app so the user can get all the information in one place. Although the experience of having developed ABC’s website previously was very helpful, we worked diligently to find the most suitable solution to integrate all systems into one mobile app. The goal was to create an interactive cargo app that gives users simplicity, transparency, and real-time engagement.

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DT Trend - a group of brand advocates: the team of industry specialists work closely together on every project. From the very first idea to final production, they stand behind their promise of quality that delivers long-term growth and not just short-term sales. DT Trend takes pride in the balance that it provides within its wide range of services. The agency is packed with strategists, designers, storytellers, IT specialists, data crunchers and industry experts. They are native speakers of German, English and Russian which allows creating authentic solutions tailored to local markets. The company approaches every project with tried and true principles as well as novelty findings from the field of neuroscience to bring the power of the field to marketing.

Name a few of your favorite apps and reason you love them.

Amazon/Amazon Music - one of the most widely used apps, we love Amazon for its easy-to-use interface. Although the app contains many features and products, the user does not get lost and checkout/checking your order status is seamless and fast. iOS interface - nobody does usability and design like Apple which is why the iOS interface is one of our main inspirations. Uber - the Uber app is attractive when it comes to design but it also engages the user and provides easy communication between drivers and the end user (exactly what we want to provide ABC customers with). Poshmark - like eBay but it makes selling/buying used fashion items social and fun. It is one of our main objectives to make the mobile apps we create engaging and keep users coming back. Industry related apps: Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines.

How long have you been working on this app?

We presented the initial draft of the app at the end of July 2018, and then continued outlining our vision and concept. We kicked off work in September when we started programming, coding and editing content for the mobile app. We spent a lot of time finding the best solution to bring together all the in-house systems which took a little bit longer than we initially expected. We were able to come up with a new solution for a digital schedule tool and are going to incorporate it into the main website as it is easier and more user-friendly. The app was uploaded onto the App Store and Google Play in the end of March and we are excited we have received positive feedback from numerous users so far.

What need of the user did you have in mind when developing this app?

Our prime objective was to develop a seamless, user-friendly mobile extension that enhances the AirBridgeCargo experience. With so many air cargo specialists being ‘on-the-go’, we recognize the need to have real-time data at your fingertips at all times. With this in mind, we developed the app - a round-the-clock information solution that is reliable, transparent and intuitive. Additionally, the app includes all features that can be found on the desktop site - e-booking, e-schedule, contact information as well as general company information, its fleet, personnel and development throughout 15 years of operations. As this is a two-way communication tool, we wanted users to feel certain their feedback is appreciated, thus they are invited to send comments, ideas, and suggestions.

If we'd be required to list the most important needs we had in mind, they would be: - Track and trace availability. - E-booking, e-schedule tools. - Contact information (adjusted to geolocation). - Customization based on customer needs. - User-friendly interface and fast & seamless customer experience. - Intuitive navigation. - Transparent, reliable and easy-to-understand cargo data. - Feedback tool.

In what way do you think your app is better than similar apps on the market? Please describe in detail what innovation you think you bring and what you are proud of in your app.

We are proud of our unique integration of native and web content and being able to provide users with important information online/offline as well as our work on a fast and simple navigation. Furthermore, we offer users ways to personalize their app and took latest technologies into consideration such as allowing users to receive push notifications and connecting the app to their Apple Watch. Going forward, it is our goal to allow users to always connect the ABC mobile app to latest technological devices and advancements.

What are your future plans and expected features of the coming new versions of this app?

Currently, we are in the testing period of our app. The goal in this phase is to collect feedback and adjust based on positive/negative feedback we receive. We will continue to update the app, add new features and expand the tool. At the end of the day, it is our number one objective to meet and exceed customer expectations.

Additionally, we want to continue connecting relevant features of the website with the app and offer more simplicity and usability for our on-the-go users. Naturally, we will continue to evaluate all new additions and tools of the air-cargo industry with the possibility of implementing them on the mobile app. We want to further develop the app to become a useful tool for not only customers but also ABC employees and build a digital platform that enhances their daily work.

Assuming new users of your app are reading this page. What do you want to ask them to do (contact you about X, Share the app, etc.)?

We would like to encourage users to download the AirBridgeCargo app, use it and send their feedback (both positive and negative), to move forward with further enhancement and refinements. If you enjoy the app experience, please share it with your colleagues, either via live communication or through social media channels. We look forward to receiving reviews on the App Store and Google Play.