The team of students first began developing the uniGO app with the no-code tool Adalo. However, they encountered some limitations with this choice early on. In particular, it lacked the ability to create and use local variables - which was ultimately the deciding factor in switching from Adalo to Bubble. Since speed of implementation was critical to the project, the team decided to enlist the help of VisualMakers to quickly and efficiently realize their vision of a comprehensive campus app. The particular challenge for uniGO was to integrate 3D navigation into the no-code app.
First of all, we rebuilt the visual components already created in Figma and Adalo in Bubble. As a full-stack tool and with an integrated database, Bubble offers far more flexibility and functionality than Adalo. As a result, we were able to develop an app that enables room reservations, social interactions and 3D navigation within just a few days. To integrate 3D navigation into the no-code app, we used Matterport room scans that were embedded as iFrames. By using iFrames (HTML element that enables the integration of external content via a content window), it feels as if the 3D room scans are located directly in the app.
The end product is a fully functional prototype of the app called "UniGO TH Köln". Students can now find their way around campus more easily, explore and book rooms using a 3D view, and expand their social network, commenting, liking and sharing hashtags. Users can also edit their profile, add expertise, post offers of help, as well as search and filter.
With classic code development, a similar realization of the application would probably have taken 5-10 times as long - with Bubble we were able to complete the application within 5 working days.
