SAPAA App User Manual

Following Guidelines proposed by the Alberta Citizen Stewards (SAPAA) – Online Site Inspection Tool

1. Introduction

Welcome to the SAPAA project user manual. This manual serves as a guide for volunteers participating in the SAPAA project aimed at monitoring and protecting Alberta's protected areas. This is also a manual that serves users who are unfamiliar with the application, ranging from SAPAA members who might need assistance with how the application works, to future developers of the application who need an overview of the application’s functionalities to better improve this proof of concept. There are a few assumptions to be had with this project, firstly, this application is strictly a proof of concept on how SAPAA can improve on their current workflow with an emphasis on further development needed to perfect the application. Also, the OHS features implemented work solely as a early start on brainstorming what safety features might be required in an application like this, it is in no way a true reflection of what an actual OHS compliant application might look like and will need to be developed further to reflect that.

2. Getting Started

System Overview

This proof of concept utilizes a mobile application for real-time recording of information, including images, video, and GPS locations. Volunteers play a crucial role in visiting and reporting on different sites, with the collected data being accessible to SAPAA through a Google Sheet. Any complicated data that cannot be stored in a Google Sheet are instead stored in a Firebase backend to manage this data better. This application recreates the pre-existing webform created by SAPAA, with added features such as the aforementioned geolocation tracking as well as media submission. OHS guidelines are also closely followed in the creation of this application, through conducting a 30-minute check-in and providing a ‘tool-box safety’ assessment before each site visit. Features that are also included are weather updates, questions regarding lone-worker status, and a hazard assessment (questions on wildlife encounters, travelling equipment and stranded readiness).

Project Objectives

The primary objective of the SAPAA project is to create a user-friendly, efficient, and secure site inspection tool for volunteers to report on Alberta's protected areas. This tool will address challenges faced by the previous system and aim to improve safety, and data management, and streamline the data collection process. The secondary objective was creating an app that attracts the main clientele that will likely be 60+ in age. As such, this app accounts for demographics including near-sightedness with larger text and buttons and ease of use with a straightforward process similar to the previous web form.

Installation

To install this application, you must receive an apk (Android Package Kit) file to download it onto your phone. Please refer to our deployment guide for more information and for step-by-step guide. IOS is not provided at this time as an IOS developer account is required to publish. However if that is done, all the features created also work on IOS.

3. Features Included

The SAPAA app features an intuitive user interface designed to streamline the site inspection process. Key components include:

To better distinguish between SAPAA members and guest users of the application, Login functionality was implemented through firebase. We found that users are much more willing to continue using an app repeatedly if their information is saved.

Profile:

Gamification through badges and user information helps users keep track of site visits and reward them with a badge according to what milestone they have achieved.

OHS:

The ACS application incorporates an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) procedure known as 'toolbox safety' checks before each site visit. This quick process involves answering five questions, aiding volunteers in prioritizing safety considerations. These questions include verifying who is present, ensuring communication if alone, confirming location via an interactive map, recording weather conditions, and assessing readiness for potential hazards based on the site and season. Examples of hazards considered include wildlife encounters, travel equipment adequacy, and readiness for potential stranding situations. Completing these checks typically takes less than 90 seconds and promotes a safety-first approach for every site visit.

Inspection Forms:

Initiating a site inspection, collecting information and hitting submit are all features previously implemented within the webform, therefore we tried to replicate it word for word to better adjust users who already are knowledgeable with the webform. This was especially important with the target demographic of older individuals who might need assistance with technology.

Geolocation

The SAPAA app integrates geolocation features to enhance the user experience during site inspections:

View Protected Area Borders: Users can visualize the borders of the protected areas they are monitoring directly within the app.

Current Location Display: The app displays the user's current location on the map, helping to prevent users from getting lost while on site.

Trip Visit Sharing: Users have the option to share their site visit to SAPAA.Users can start, reset, snap (take a picture of the map), and fit (adjust the view to display the entire border on the screen) for added convenience and control.

Camera Functionality

The SAPAA app allows for easy submission of media files to enhance inspection reports:

Image/Video Selection: Users can select images/Videos for transmission within the Site Inspection Report, ensuring relevant media is included.

Image/Video Resizing: Images can be resized to meet SAPAA's image management standards before submission, optimizing file sizes and compatibility.

Permanent Link Generation: Upon submission, the app generates a permanent link for uploaded media files, providing easy access for review and reference linked to the specific inspection report.

30 Minute Check-in Prototype

As part of the safety protocol, the app incorporates a 30 Minute Check-in feature for lone workers:

Safety Reminder: Users who indicate they are working alone receive a 30 Minute Check-in during site inspections, promoting safety awareness.
Escalation Procedure: If a user fails to respond to check-ins, the app initiates an escalation procedure, sending a scheduled email to SAPAA for further assistance.
Limitations: While this prototype enhances safety measures, it has a very notable limitations, especially in areas with limited internet connectivity. However, it represents a significant step towards ensuring volunteer safety during sit

4. How to Use The SAPAA app

Basic Operations

To perform basic site inspections using the SAPAA app, follow these steps:

Login: Log in to the app using your credentials, or create an account if you're a new user.
Start Inspection: Begin a new site inspection by selecting the desired site from the list of available locations.
Complete OHS Checklist: Follow the provided Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines to assess potential hazards at the site.
Collect Data: Complete the inspection form by providing accurate observations
Document Hazards: Document identified hazards and propose solutions within the inspection report to ensure thorough reporting.
Submit Report: Once the inspection is complete, submit the report for review and analysis by SAPAA.

Advanced Operations

For advanced site inspection tasks, the SAPAA app offers additional features:

Camera and Video: Capture images and videos directly within the app to provide visual documentation of site conditions and observations.
Geolocation: Utilize the app's geolocation feature to track and record your current location during site inspections, ensuring accurate data collection.

5. Troubleshooting

Q: I am unable to log in to the SAPAA app. What should I do? A: If you are experiencing difficulties logging in to the SAPAA app, please ensure that you are entering the correct credentials (username and password). Double-check for any typos or errors. If the issue persists, contact SAPAA support for further assistance.

Q: The SAPAA app is not displaying the correct location on the map during my site inspection. How can I fix this? A: If the SAPAA app is not accurately displaying your location on the map, first ensure that location services are enabled on your device. If location services are enabled and the issue persists, try restarting the app or your device to refresh the GPS connection. If the problem continues, contact SAPAA support for troubleshooting assistance.

Q: I am having trouble submitting my inspection report. What could be causing this issue? A: If you encounter difficulties submitting your inspection report, first ensure that all required fields have been filled out correctly. Check for any error messages or prompts that may indicate the cause of the submission failure. If the issue persists, try restarting the app and attempting to submit the report again. If you continue to experience problems, contact SAPAA support for further assistance.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the purpose of the 'toolbox safety' check in the SAPAA app?

A:The 'toolbox safety' check in the SAPAA app is designed to ensure the safety of volunteers before each site visit. It involves answering a series of questions aimed at identifying potential hazards and promoting safety awareness. By completing this check, volunteers can prioritize safety considerations and mitigate risks during their inspections.

Q: Is the SAPAA app compatible with both Android and iOS devices?

A: At the moment, the SAPAA app is primarily developed for Android devices, with IOS also developed, but unable to deploy due to budgeting reasons. However, users can still access the app's features via Android devices, including offline functionality, data synchronization, and media submission. Support for iOS devices may be available in future updates, depending on development and deployment considerations.

Q: How does the SAPAA app handle data synchronization when transitioning from offline to online mode?

A: When transitioning from offline to online mode, the SAPAA app automatically syncs data with your local cached information to ensure that all data captured during offline inspections is securely transmitted and stored. This seamless synchronization process helps to prevent data loss and ensures that inspection reports are accurately recorded and accessible to SAPAA for review and analysis.

7. Contact Information

For more information and support, please contact the SAPAA at https://sapaastewards.com/contact-us/