Project Details
Zest was created as part of the first Dallas Software Developers Group Cohort of 2024. This mobile app serves as a grocery management tool featuring a built-in ingredient tracker, recipe integration, and macro calculator.
We were given several project prompts to choose from, and my group selected the grocery planning option. We had full freedom to determine the technologies we would use. We decided to build a mobile app using React Native for the frontend and Python, Django, and PostgreSQL for the backend. We also integrated a recipe API to populate ingredient and recipe data.
Before beginning development, we held several planning meetings to map out the app’s structure, branding, and design, as well as the tools we would use to manage and track progress. Using Miro, we plotted user flows and routing, which allowed us to clearly define tasks and create tickets in Jira.
None of us had prior experience with React Native, which presented an initial challenge. However, because of its similarities to React, we were able to work through those hurdles, collaborate effectively, and deliver a nearly complete product that met most of our original goals—all within just six weeks.
For the backend, we used Python with Django and PostgreSQL. Its primary function was to handle data from the recipe APIs, but it also played a key role in user management, which was essential since the app’s core purpose was to help users make grocery shopping decisions based on the ingredients they already had on hand.
My primary responsibilities included creating the user profile screens and implementing dietary filtering options. Once those features were complete, I shifted to assist with other tasks, helping cover areas where team members had limited availability.
This project was an excellent opportunity to strengthen my collaboration, problem-solving, and full-stack development skills. Learning React Native under tight deadlines, while coordinating backend integration and feature development, reinforced my adaptability and ability to deliver results in a team setting. Zest not only demonstrated what we could accomplish in a short timeframe but also expanded my expertise in mobile app development and cross-functional teamwork.
