Initial research on existing apps and their flaws

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                                          Initial Research


To start off I went and looked at the apps that were already available and picked the various types of apps that seemed most popular to find what was missing in them
  • HSE COVID-19 - monitors and keeps track of symptoms and health information and is shared with trained professionals at dedicated monitoring centres. Helps assess if recovering while in isolation or if additional help is needed. - doesn’t provide for emergencies  and can only be used for Covid-19(Free)

  • Weather underground- a weather alert app. Real time weather information. Uses data from 250,000+ Personal weather stations. App is free but has in app purchases that will remove ads and give up to 15 day weather forecast instead of the free 10 day weather. New update has caused the app to crash and app isn’t as reliable anymore. (Free)

  • First aid- IFRC - gives the user information on how to handle first aid emergencies. It helps to give accurate information by requiring the user to add where the user is located. The app gives first aid directions for a variety of circumstances. The app is said to have videos as well but those don’t seem to work for some users. This app is also just for first aid emergencies (Free)

  • Disaster alert- PDC global- claims to offer near real time updates about 18 different types of active hazards. Customisable early warning alerts, situational analysis reports and access to modelled hazard impacts. App uses a map interface. Recently fixed inaccurate notification counts but it’s possible these still may occur. This app provides alerts only. (Free)
  • ICE medical standard- puts emergency medical ID information on your lock screen for first responders to know the patients medical information. This app helps in emergencies but other than that it doesn’t give any alerts, updates etc. This could be improved by allowing the user to contact first responders without unlocking their screen. The app also has only one language which can be a disadvantage to tourists(Free)
Other similar emergency apps:
  • Pet First Aid
  • Emergency alert
  • Find my family, friends and phone
  • HEALTHLYNKED COVID-19 tracker
  • HSE video consultation service
  • Sanvello for stress and anxiety
  • Contour diabetes app
  • Earthquake watch
  • Hurricane Tracker
From this data I wanted to find out what type resources are available to use for these kinds of apps.

  • Health trackers such as fit bits
  • Weather stations
  • Input information by users
  • News from reliable sources
  • Connected glucose meters (contour diabetes)
  • Satellites 



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