BuildCo - Hardware & Building Materials Store

University Project - Durban University of Technology

📋 Problem Statement

Hardware stores and building material suppliers face challenges in reaching customers in today's digital world. Contractors, builders, and DIY enthusiasts often struggle to:

• Find specific building materials and tools quickly
• Compare prices and check availability before visiting stores
• Order materials in advance for projects
• Access product information and specifications on-the-go

Traditional hardware stores need a modern solution to serve their customers better and compete with larger retailers.

💡 Solution

BuildCo is a mobile app designed specifically for hardware stores and building material suppliers. It allows customers to browse, order, and manage building materials from their phone, while helping store owners manage their inventory and serve customers better.

✨ Key Features

� For Customers

• Browse Building Materials: Easy access to tools, cement, steel, paint, electrical supplies, and more
• Product Details: View specifications, prices, and customer reviews for each item
• Shopping Cart: Add materials to cart and calculate total costs including delivery
• User Accounts: Create accounts to track orders and save favorite products

🏪 For Store Owners

• Admin Dashboard: Manage products, prices, and customer orders
• Inventory Control: Add new products and update stock levels
• Customer Management: View customer information and order history

📱 Easy to Use

• Simple Navigation: Find products quickly with organized categories
• Product Images: Multiple photos of each product from different angles
• Price Display: Clear pricing with any discounts highlighted
• Reviews: Customer feedback to help others make decisions

🔧 How It Works

For Customers:

1. Sign Up - Create an account with email and password
2. Browse - Look through categories like Tools, Cement, Paint, Electrical items
3. Select Products - View details, prices, and customer reviews
4. Add to Cart - Choose quantities and add items to shopping cart
5. Checkout - Review order and calculate total with delivery fees

For Store Owners:

1. Admin Login - Access the management dashboard
2. Add Products - Upload product photos, set prices, and add descriptions
3. Manage Orders - View customer orders and update stock levels
4. Track Sales - Monitor which products are popular

🛠️ Technology Used

Built With:

• Android - Mobile app for smartphones and tablets
• Java - Programming language for app development
• Firebase - Cloud database to store products and customer information
• Material Design - Modern, clean interface design

Database Structure:

• Products (tools, materials, prices, descriptions)
• Categories (cement, tools, paint, electrical, etc.)
• Customer accounts and order history
• Product reviews and ratings

🚀 Setup Instructions

1. Download the Code

   git clone https://github.com/NiqueWrld/BuildCo.git
   

2. Open in Android Studio

   • Install Android Studio
   • Open the project folder
   • Connect your phone or use emulator

3. Setup Database

   • Create Firebase account
   • Add your app to Firebase
   • Download configuration file

4. Run the App

   • Build and install on your device
   • Start adding products and testing features

👥 Project Team

Student: NiqueWrld
Institution: Durban University of Technology
Project Type: University Assignment

🎯 Project Purpose

This app was developed as a university project to demonstrate:

• Mobile app development skills
• Database integration and management
• User interface design
• Problem-solving for real-world business needs

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BuildCo - Making hardware shopping easier for everyone 🔨