Awa, Ngāhere and Archeology Monitoring Mobile App
Ngāti Kuia, an Iwi in Te Tauihu (top of the South Island) with a deep connection to their land and waterways, faced a critical challenge in monitoring river quality and water sampling across key locations of significance. Ngāti Kuia required a solution that would enable them to collect both online and offline data, ensuring that water quality insights could be accessed and analysed effectively. However, a consulting firm previously advised them that such a solution was not feasible due to technological limitations. Digital Diligence Limited (DDL) took on the challenge and successfully developed a robust, mobile-first application that not only met but exceeded Ngāti Kuia's expectations. Built on a hybrid Zoho Creator installation, the solution integrates advanced data collection features, interactive mapping, and real-time analytics, providing the iwi with a powerful tool for environmental monitoring.
Overview
Through the expertise of Digital Diligence Limited, Ngāti Kuia now has a future-proof, scalable solution for water quality monitoring. By combining the power of Zoho Creator, React, and advanced mapping analytics, DDL has delivered a game-changing application that enables iwi-led environmental stewardship. The success of this project demonstrates DDL’s ability to challenge conventional limitations and build innovative solutions that drive real-world impact. This case study stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to empowering indigenous communities with cutting-edge technology.
The Challenge
Before engaging DDL, Ngāti Kuia faced several key challenges: Limited Digital Infrastructure: Existing solutions were paper-based or required duplication of data entry by re-transcribing data into digital records, or archiving paper records in folders Offline Data Collection Barrier: Previous assessments suggested it would not be possible to collect water quality data offline and sync it when reconnected. Data Sovereignty: The solution also needed to ensure that data could be stored on Ngāti Kuia's own infrastructure Fragmented Reporting: Ngati Kuia needed a system that could consolidate insights across multiple key locations.
Our Solution
DDL developed a comprehensive water quality monitoring platform that combined the power of Zoho Creator with a custom UI built on React, to create a seamless and engaging user experience that, whilst providing a major step forward in their collection capabilities, still maintained the same "look and feel" of their paper-based water assessment matrix. The solution included the following features: Hybrid Zoho Creator Installation Leveraged Zoho Creator's backend capabilities to create the app rapidly to manage data collection, reporting, and automation. Built a custom UI using React to enhance usability, ensuring the platform was intuitive and engaging for field users. Provisioning the application and portal on-premises to ensure all data remained within Ngāti Kuia's network boundaries. Mobile Applications on Play Store & App Store Fully functional applications published on both Android and iOS platforms. Offline data collection capabilities, allowing field teams to record water samples and environmental data in remote locations without internet access. Automatic data syncing once the device re-establishes a connection. Advanced Mapping & Analytics Integrated interactive maps for real-time visualisation of water quality metrics across key monitoring sites. Geotagged data points, ensuring accuracy in sampling locations. Customisable map layers for comparative analysis of water quality trends over time. Water Quality Insights & Reporting AI-powered data processing to identify trends and anomalies in water quality metrics. Real-time dashboards for Iwi leaders to make informed environmental decisions. Automated report generation for compliance and stakeholder engagement.
The Outcome
The implementation of this solution has revolutionised how Ngāti Kuia monitors its waterways. Key outcomes include: 100% Digital Transformation: Eliminated the need for paper-based data collection. Accurate & Reliable Data: Increased the integrity of water quality monitoring, ensuring timely interventions. Increased Field Adoption: The intuitive React UI and offline functionality made the platform user-friendly and efficient. Actionable Environmental Insights: Advanced analytics empowered Ngāti Kuia to make data-driven decisions for sustainability and resource management. Proven the 'Impossible' Was Possible: DDL successfully built a solution that was previously deemed unachievable, showcasing the power of innovation and problem-solving.