Inspiration
The need for a platform tailored specifically for UMD students, where they can connect, share, and find resources in times of crisis, was what inspired us to create TerrapinCare. We recognized the importance of having a dedicated space that is both informative and engaging for the student community.
What it does
TerrapinCare is an accessible website designed exclusively for UMD students. The platform offers multiple web pages providing resources and interactive features to aid students during challenging times. It ensures a seamless user experience, with emphasis on web accessibility standards, guaranteeing every user can effortlessly navigate and engage with the content.
How we built it
Using a combination of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, we designed and developed the website from scratch. We placed web accessibility at the forefront of our development process, ensuring that every feature and design element is usable by all, irrespective of their abilities.
Challenges we ran into
Ensuring the site met all accessibility standards was a significant challenge, as it required thorough testing and iterations. We also had to find the right balance between design aesthetics and functionality, ensuring the platform remained user-friendly while still being visually appealing. We encountered challenges when integrating APIs with our frontend and backend architecture. Due to complexities with PHP and the specific APIs we were working with, we sought assistance from our mentors.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
Successfully creating a platform that is not only functional but also accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. Furthermore, the positive feedback and engagement from the UMD student community have been extremely rewarding, validating our efforts.
What we learned
The importance of designing with inclusivity and accessibility in mind from the very beginning. The process taught us the value of iterative testing and gathering feedback to ensure we meet the needs of our intended audience.
What's next for TerrapinCare
We plan to expand the platform's features, possibly integrating more real-time communication tools like chat rooms or forums. Additionally, we're looking into partnering with other organizations within UMD to offer more resources and support for students.
Built With
- javascript
- node.js
- php
- replit
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