The "Round Might Builder" web application is an integral part of the "Round Might" software package, a comprehensive solution designed to streamline the daily operations of postal workers. Developed using Microsoft .NET, the package simplifies tasks such as sorting and delivering mail by integrating multiple specialised applications.
The "Round Might" software package consists of the following components:
- Secured Data Server: A robust server with a relational database that stores all postal data securely. All apps of the package communicate with the server through Web API endpoints.
- "Builder" App: A web application for adding, editing, and organising postal data in the database.
- "Manager" App: A mobile application designed to sort and prepare daily mail for specific delivery routes efficiently (a desription is here).
- "Navigator" App: A mobile navigation app that provides visual guidance, route optimisation, and delivery tracking for postal workers(a desription is here)..
This article delves into the secured data server, the database structure, and the "Round Might Builder" web app—key components of the "Round Might" software package. Together, these elements enable efficient management, editing, and organisation of postal route data.
Database Structure
The project uses SQLite as its data storage solution. SQLite is well-suited for handling the scale of a single postal region, such as a shire. However, as the data volume grows, transitioning to a more powerful database system may be necessary.
The database employs a relational structure, with tables designed to mirror the hierarchy of postal routes:
1. Rounds: Represents postal rounds in a region.
2. Areas: Each round is divided into areas.
3. Groups: Areas are subdivided into groups containing specific delivery points.
4. Delivery Points: Includes detailed address information, such as street names, house numbers/names, and postcodes.
5. Streets and Postcodes: Supports address structure and organization.
6. Route Directions: Stores encoded polylines for delivery route visualisation.
Additionally, the database contains:
- • Postal Task Tables: Defines delivery and collection tasks, as well as their types.
- • User Authentication and Authorisation Tables: Supports secure access to the server using Microsoft .NET Authorisation, ensuring endpoints are protected.
Secured Data Server
The server provides endpoints for the "Builder", "Manager", and "Navi" applications to interact with the database.
The API controllers are designed to handle requests for managing postal routes, including authentication and authorisation to secure sensitive data. This ensures that only authorised users can access and modify postal data.
"Round Might Builder" Web App
The "Round Might Builder" app is a Blazor WebAssembly (WASM) web application designed for authorised users with the roles of "Editor" and "Administrator." Its purpose is to enable efficient management and organisation of postal round data.
Key features of the app include:
1. Authentication and Authorisation:
Ensures secure access to the server API, verifying user roles before permitting actions.
2. Rounds Editor:
Allows users to add and edit information about postal rounds in the region.
3. Streets & Postcodes Editors:
Enables the addition and modification of street and postcode details for the region.
- Image: rounds list
- Image: adding new address
4. Round Builder:
• Facilitates the creation of rounds by adding areas, groups, and delivery points (addresses linked to streets and postcodes).
• Allows users to set the sequence of delivery points for optimised postal routes.
- Image
- Image
5. Direction Builder:
• Integrates with the Google Directions API to create route visualisations.
• Users can generate polylines based on selected delivery points and test them on a map.
• Stores encoded polylines in the database, which are later decoded and rendered in the "Round Might NAVI" app for delivery route visualisation.
- Image: direction line builder
- Image: checking direction endpoints
Deployment
The .NET Web API server, powered by SQLite, is deployed as an Azure App Service.
The "Round Might Builder" web app is deployed as an Azure Static Web App
It ensures their reliable performance and accessibility.
The Round Builder tool is particularly valuable for experienced postal workers, enabling them to quickly organise delivery addresses into an optimised sequence. This structured round data can then be utilised in the "Manager" and "Navi" apps, empowering less experienced colleagues to perform their tasks efficiently.
For details about the "Manager" and "Navigator" applications, refer to the links below: