Outline

The goal of the Fit24 project was to build the full technological foundation for FIT24, a Taiwan-based fitness startup. This required our team of five people to create two AI-powered iOS/Android mobile apps and three web apps in six months. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the background, problem space, design, implementation, challenges, time/cost & future scope of the project.

In 2021, the popularity of gyms in Taiwan suddenly rose. Overwhelming variety, the need for adaptability in accessing various amenities and instructors, quality awareness in choosing gyms and trainers, and a focus on hygiene and safety were all issues that concerned customers. An ideal solution for this market would provide centralized management, and Fit24 exactly did that.

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It connected the gym goers with the trainers. The users can ook their session through the app, and the trainers can accept the sessions accordingly. The app also enabled online sessions and an online store for supplements.

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Team Ionio built the entire technical infrastructure for FIT24’s multi-gym franchise system for Taiwan.

Background

The CEO of FIT24, Brooke Daye, is a visionary leader and fitness fanatic who created the first fitness network in the world. For over two decades, Brooke has been an influential figure in the North American and Asian fitness industries.

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Brooke has shown a steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of training and self-improvement since 2001. Brooke is a new kind of CEO because he blends his love of sports and business knowledge. He founded FIT24 in 2021. 

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Brooke's substantial financing and investment design background has helped establish global businesses in developing economies. He has taken FIT24 to the forefront of the fitness business with his innovative attitude and in-depth knowledge of the field.

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But building a Fitness SaaS is no cakewalk! 

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The Industry

Over the past decade, Taiwanese have adopted healthier lifestyles and exercise activities are widely accepted as part of the culture. According to GO SURVEY data from 2021, 56.9% of Taiwanese now exercise at least twice weekly, 24.8% at least three times weekly, and 23.0% daily. There is a thriving fitness culture in Taiwan that has been gaining momentum in recent years.  

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The government of Taiwan has also launched efforts and programs to encourage people to lead healthier, more active lives. The government of Taiwan is encouraging kids to be more active by funding various sports programs. The "Taiwan Sports Lottery," a state-run lottery, supports a nationwide network of sports facilities and programs. The "Taiwan Fitness Certification System" is another program that aims to certify fitness facilities and trainers throughout Taiwan to increase the prevalence of healthy lifestyles.

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According to the Ministry of Finance, the number of gyms in Taiwan increased from 149 in 2013 to 728 in 2020. The fitness industry generated NT$15.2 billion (US$546 million) in 2020, up from NT$3 billion (US$108 million) in 2013, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.4%.

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What were the challenges?

Now that gyms are mushrooming in every corner of Taiwan for residents, finding the perfect gym has become the biggest pain in the neck.

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🤔 Competition

When there are a lot of gyms in one place, competition for customers can heat up quickly. Fitness centers may need to increase spending on advertising and special services to compete for and keep members. This can financially strain gym owners and trainers trying to set themselves apart in a saturated industry.

⌛Client Retention

In a market saturated with fitness centers, customers will likely terminate their memberships or hop between gyms frequently. This might make it difficult for trainers to establish stable relationships with their clients and generate a steady clientele.

💵 Pricing Pressures

Price competition or reduced membership prices may result from a saturation of the fitness center market. Gym owners and trainers may face challenges maintaining competitive pricing while assuring a viable business strategy.

🪒 Quality Control

When there are many options for places to work out, it can be challenging to ensure that all trainers and facilities are of a high enough standard. To succeed as trainers, professionals must invest in lifelong learning. In addition, before hiring a trainer, gym-goers should thoroughly evaluate the trainer's credentials and experience.

🌫️ Overcrowding and Resources

Too many fitness centers in a remote location might overwhelm the available machines and other equipment, especially during the morning and evening rushes. It could become difficult for trainers to provide their clients with a satisfying experience due to a lack of equipment and space.

💪Health and Hygiene 

We are talking about the 2021 scenario, following the proper hygienic atmosphere, which became crucial after the first wave of covid and amidst the second wave of covid. So gym enthusiasts also had to be careful when choosing the gym for themselves. 

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Other big names in Taiwan

Hihealth 

HiHealth Technology Co., Ltd. was founded in 2017 and focused on researching and developing two technologies. The device that allows for such a massive fitness event is called Interactive Fitness Party (IFP). Users were able to connect to virtual settings quickly. The other is the valuation of health assets, which quantifies the worth of physical activity.

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Velodash

Velodash is a hub for extraordinary bicycle tours. They connect bikers with our locally catered events. You can find well-organized bike tours scheduled by other riders and perhaps make new riding friends on Velodash. Since its inception, Velodash has been a hub for cyclists to organize and participate in over 35,000 group rides and 10,000 separate cycling events. 

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Nefitor

The Nefitor mobile app offers users a variety of fitness challenges with varying game modes that can be tailored to their individual fitness goals and schedules. Challenge objectives, task rules, and activity content were established using the expert knowledge of dietitians and fitness instructors, which was integrated into the system. Users can invite their social networks to join in on the interactive excitement provided by the log, in addition to taking part in the diet and fitness planning of the challenge to accomplish goals. 

The Problem Space

🐣Too many choices to choose from!

People may feel irritated because there are so many gyms to choose from, and no single one seems to fit all their wants and preferences perfectly. Some clients may find the increased sales methods and promotion from gyms unpleasant as the industry becomes more competitive.

🔥Flexibility

Some clients value variety because it allows them to tailor their experience to their needs. By visiting various fitness centers, they may check out different amenities, courses, and instructors before settling on the best fit.

💵Competitive Pricing

Customers could profit from the price competition when a market is saturated, as gyms reduce membership fees and give other incentives to newcomers. This means people can get into shape without breaking the bank.

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🍰Quality Consciousness

Customers in today's market may place a premium on quality and actively seek gyms and trainers that adhere to stringent criteria due to the abundance of options. Before joining a gym, people could look into the qualifications of the trainers and any feedback other members have left.

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😵‍💫Overcrowding Concerns

Customers may worry that famous gyms may be too crowded during peak hours, leaving them unable to use the facilities because of a lack of available equipment and space. This may affect their training experience and cause them to look for other ways to stay fit.

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🤐Hygiene and Safety

In light of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, clients may prefer fitness centers that adhere to stringent health and cleanliness measures. People want to work out in a clean, safe atmosphere. Thus, they may seek out gyms that require masks, disinfect equipment often, and apply other socially isolated policies.

The Solution

In the already-crowded fitness club industry, the ideal product would solve the problems experienced by gym proprietors, personal trainers, and members. The perfect product can include the following qualities:

🙌 Specialized Products and Services

The product must include features that set it apart from similar businesses. Some examples of this type of program are unique workouts, one-on-one coaching, and novel group exercise formats. Adding value beyond the expected helps attract new buyers and keep existing ones interested in the product.

🤞 Client Engagement and Retention Strategies

The product must have mechanisms in place to attract and keep customers. Creating a sense of camaraderie among gym-goers and defining and tracking individual goals could go a long way toward this end. The product can aid trainers in establishing long-lasting relationships with their clients by offering an encouraging and motivational setting.

⌛ Competitive Value

The product's price should be affordable while giving them what they're looking for in terms of quality. It needs to provide high-quality amenities and services to its members without breaking the bank. Gym owners and trainers can use this to keep their business going while appealing to clients who care about price and value.

✅ Stress on Quality Assurance

High-quality trainers and facilities can only be achieved through rigorous quality control procedures. This could involve stringent hiring standards for trainers, CPD initiatives, routine equipment servicing, and meticulous sanitation procedures. The product can win over clients' trust and stand out from other gyms by maintaining a high-quality standard.

📚 Sufficient Resources and Space

The product needs sufficient space and resources to meet the requirements of its users. This requires a spacious gym with various exercise machines, adequate open floor space, and intelligent scheduling mechanisms to handle high demand. Customers that place a premium on ease of use and comfort will be drawn to and retained by the product's ability to reduce wait times and crowding during workouts.

💙 Prioritize Health and Hygiene

The product should focus on keeping the area clean and safe, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods to achieve this goal include making sanitization facilities available, encouraging people to keep their distance from one another, installing adequate ventilation, and so on. Customers worried about exercise well-being will appreciate the product's focus on health and safety.

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But there is a catch…

There were a lot of other gyms in the neighborhood, so personal trainers had to work hard to attract and retain clients. To compete with the competition, they had to increase their advertising budget. Customers were more inclined to cancel their subscriptions or regularly move gyms as the market was oversaturated. 

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For covid, many times, gyms were also closed. It was difficult for trainers to form lasting bonds with their customers and amass a dedicated following. 

FIT24 fulfilled both of their needs.

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The Solution

FIT24 bridges the gap between gym rats and gym gurus. It listened to everyone’s problems and utilized technology to bring the solution. 

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We built an app that helped gym goers to connect and schedule gym sessions and lots. The trainers can also book the calls. They also have digital content facilities, so they do remote training. On the FIT24 website, a store is available where they can get their supplements.

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Tech Solution

Video Streaming for Accessible Digital Content:

One of the key features of the FIT24 App was video streaming, which enables users to access a vast library of digital content. The app offers a range of instructional workout videos, fitness classes, and expert-led training sessions, ensuring users have a comprehensive content selection. By incorporating video streaming, the app allows gym-goers to access these resources conveniently from their mobile devices, eliminating the need for physical DVDs or attending classes in person.

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Seamless Integration of a Digital Store:

To cater to the diverse needs of fitness enthusiasts, the gym app also features a digital store. This store offers a range of products, including supplements, fitness equipment, and merchandise. Users can browse the store's inventory, make purchases, and deliver the items directly to their doorstep. Integrating the digital store within the app allows users to conveniently explore and buy fitness-related products without the hassle of visiting physical stores or relying on third-party websites.

Technological Framework

The FIT24 App is built on a robust technological foundation. 

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The development team opted to deploy the application on Amazon Web Services (AWS) for its scalability, reliability, and extensive range of services. 

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Docker, a containerization platform, was utilized for packaging the app and its dependencies, ensuring consistent performance across various environments. 

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Docker Compose & NodeJS Express facilitated the development of the app's backend, providing a flexible and efficient framework for building APIs and handling data storage.

Secure Authentication with Auth0

Security is a paramount concern in any app that handles personal information. To ensure secure authentication and protect user data, the gym app utilizes Auth0. This authentication framework provides robust login mechanisms, safeguarding user accounts from unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

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Tech Stack

Back end 

• NodeJS Express is a popular backend framework for building scalable and efficient web applications. 
• Auth0 provides secure authentication and authorization services. Integration with third-party payment processors and QR code vendors enabled seamless transactions and interaction with digital wallets for the FIT24. 
• Cloudflare Stream allows for progressive video streaming, enhancing the user experience. Encryption ensured the security and integrity of QR codes, while the digital store facilitated online purchases and digital content management.

Front end  

• Flutter is a cross-platform framework for developing native iOS and Android mobile applications. It allows for code reusability and fast development. 
• We used React for the front end, a popular JavaScript library, and Redux for state management. JavaScript is the primary programming language for building dynamic and interactive user interfaces on the web. These frontend technologies enabled the creation of responsive and engaging applications for the FIT24.

Infrastructure 

• Docker and Docker Compose provide containerization and orchestration tools for consistent and scalable application deployment. 
• AWS (Amazon Web Services) services like RDS (Relational Database Service) and EC2 (Elastic Compute Cloud) offer reliable and flexible cloud infrastructure for hosting databases and application servers. Datadog provides monitoring and analytics to ensure the system's performance and reliability. 
• Cloudflare offers various services, such as content delivery, security, and DNS management, enhancing the application's speed, safety, and availability. These infrastructure components helped us create a robust and scalable environment for the FIT24 application.

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The Process

Conceptualization and Planning 

During the initial phase, we conducted thorough market research to identify the need for a comprehensive fitness network. We gathered insights into customer requirements and preferences to shape FIT24's features and functionalities. Based on our findings, we created a detailed project plan and roadmap to guide our development process.

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Team Formation

Our team consisted of four highly skilled developers with diverse expertise in software development and the fitness industry. Each team member was assigned specific roles and responsibilities based on their strengths and experience. We established effective communication channels and utilized collaboration tools to ensure seamless teamwork throughout the project.

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• Mobile Developer
• Backend Developer
• Frontend Developer
• Project Manager
• Tech Lead

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We will elaborate on that later.

Design and Prototyping

To bring our vision to life, we created wireframes and designed the user interface for FIT24's various modules and components. We developed interactive prototypes to validate the user experience, incorporating feedback from potential users. Based on this feedback, we iterated on the designs, refining the user interface for optimal usability.

We used Figma for the design and prototyping. It is a web application for any design-related project, from UI/UX design to Logo making. 

Development

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Following the design phase, we adopted a waterfall development methodology to manage the 

project efficiently.

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This method follows three steps

Inception 

In this phase, we found out the complex piece of the puzzle.

• In this initial phase, project requirements were collected by engaging with stakeholders, the gym goers and the gym trainers of Taiwan, and business analysts at FIT24. 
• We had to work on the payment integration, so we started working on that first. 
• The next feature we built was QR code integration - users must scan this code to enter the gym.
• Scheduling & Logistics followed suit. It was a two-way thing from the user’s point of view and the trainer’s perspectives. 

Assembly

• We planned everything from the server side to the client side to the database. We modularized the app's features in this stage and defined their interdependencies.
• We built the system by coding the back-end logic, front-end user interfaces, and integration with external APIs to schedule appointments and sell add-ons. This phase constituted programming, testing, and tweaking the app's features to meet the specified needs.
• To ensure the software worked as expected, was error-free, and delivered a pleasant user experience, we subjected it to rigorous testing. All the modules were tested independently, the modules' interactions were verified, and input from actual users was gathered through user acceptance testing (UAT).

Final Touch

• As a finishing touch, we improved the app's speed, safety, and scalability to roll out without a hitch. Security measures like encryption, access controls, and fine-tuning server configurations were also implemented.
• We released the fitness app on the platform of their choice, be it a web server or a mobile app store. In this phase, we prepared the required infrastructure and made the app available to the general public.
• After the FIT24 app was sent into production, we did one more round of testing to ensure everything worked as expected. This involves everything functioning as expected and testing for any problems the deployment might have caused.
• We built a help desk to field user complaints and fixed any problems we discovered. We tracked the app's stats and user comments for feedback on where it could be better, then made those changes. This action guaranteed that the program would be supported and maintained beyond its first release.

Deployment and Launch 

As we approached the final stages of development, we prepared the infrastructure and hosting environment for FIT24. We deployed the software to production servers, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems. We conducted final rounds of testing to verify the software's readiness for launch. We planned and executed a comprehensive marketing and promotional strategy to generate initial user adoption and create awareness.

Timeline 

The development of FIT24 took place over six months, following the outlined timeline:

• Month 1: We focused on conceptualization, market research, and project planning.
• Months 2-3: Design, prototyping, and development of the core features.
• Months 4-5: Emphasis on quality assurance, testing, and iterative improvements. We also set up the infrastructure, deployed the software, conducted final testing, and successfully launched FIT24.
• Month 5-6: It was an extension for us. We worked on the post-launch application management. 

Team

Our team consisted of the following members, each contributing their expertise to the project:

1. Mobile Developer: A skilled professional specializing in creating innovative and user-friendly mobile applications for various platforms, such as iOS and Android.
2. Backend Developer: An expert in designing and implementing the server-side logic and database functionality that powers web applications and ensures seamless data processing.
3. Frontend Developer: A creative problem-solver transforming design concepts into interactive web interfaces using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, enhancing user experience and visual appeal.
4. Project Manager: A meticulous leader who orchestrates the successful execution of projects, ensuring effective communication, resource allocation, and timely delivery while maintaining stakeholder satisfaction.
5. Tech Lead: A seasoned technologist with a strategic mindset responsible for guiding the technical direction of a project or team, driving innovation, and ensuring high-quality development standards.

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Pricing

For FIT24's software-as-a-service offering. It has these features:

• Session booking for the customers
• Session booking for trainers
• Digital content platform
• APIs for security
• Digital store

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In the future, They could have AI-integration features like-

• Recommendation Systems
• Chatbots
• Image/Video Recognition
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Personalized Content Delivery
• Fraud Detection
• Data Analytics and Insights
  
  

FIT24 is a fitness management app that serves gym trainers and gymgoers. It also has digital content platform and online store for the supplement.  A platform like this would range from 50k-150k$

The Challenges Faced

Managing the Project Scope

The project's massive scope required careful management and a comprehensive solution. We used ClickUp for our project management. Due to its adaptable setup benefits, ClickUp is an excellent solution for businesses searching for a project management platform that can be adapted to their specific processes and needs.

Solution:

• The team divided the project into smaller, manageable chunks.
• They established concrete goals at crucial points to track progress and ensure focus.

Language Barrier and International Integration

Due to the language barrier, communicating effectively with Chinese payment providers and door manufacturers in Taiwan took time.

Solution:

• The team used Google Translate and even a seasoned translator to facilitate communication with Chinese-speaking peers.
• They worked with a payment API commonly used in China to enable integration with overseas providers.

Technical Difficulties of Supporting Multiple Gyms 

Managing the schedules and availability of trainers across multiple gyms presented a technological obstacle.

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Solution:

• The team implemented sophisticated time-management logic considering the travel time and nearby gym locations to schedule trainers while avoiding double bookings efficiently.

System Complexity 

Combining various components of the gym management app, such as member management, payment processing, QR code integration, and backend management, was challenging.

Solution:

• The team took a systematic approach and split the development process into smaller, manageable chunks.
• They collaborated with key stakeholders to develop a robust backend system for platform monitoring and management backend system.

Delays by API Providers

Delays caused by API suppliers slowed down the development process.

Solution:

• The team maintained open communication with API providers, frequently checking progress and addressing concerns promptly.
• They negotiated with the providers to minimize delays and keep the project on track.
• By addressing these challenges with effective solutions, the team successfully managed the project scope, overcame language barriers, tackled technical difficulties, handled system complexity, and mitigated delays caused by API providers.

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The Result

The project delivered a robust platform allowing users to manage their subscriptions and schedule lessons to earn in-app tokens and buy fitness supplements without leaving the app. With self-service subscription management, we freed up over 25 weekly hours for front-desk staff. Adding gamification elements also rewarded members for check-ins, gym visits, referrals, and other activities, increasing engagement. By letting gym members schedule their classes, we freed up over 40 hours of administrative time per week. Now the site also offers Taiwan's first online/offline mobile exercise experience, which makes it possible for new members to sign up for a gym in just two minutes.

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Future Scope 

Integration with cutting-edge AI technology and extending existing AI features' capabilities are within the future scope of FIT24's SaaS solution. 

Integration with ChatGPT & GPT4

The FIT24 chatbot can be upgraded using sophisticated language models like ChatGPT and GPT-4, which can be integrated into the system. The chatbot's ability to understand and respond to user queries, provide specific recommendations for exercise, give instant feedback, and imitate one-on-one interactions with trainers can all benefit from this.

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Recommendation Systems

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For workouts

More specific user data, such as workout preferences, fitness levels, equipment availability, and time limits, can significantly enhance the recommendation system. This will allow the system to make specific and unique exercise suggestions for each user.

And for the workout shop

 FIT24's digital store can use the recommendation system by analyzing a user's preferences, purchase history, and supplement reviews to recommend items to help them achieve their fitness goals.

Chatbots

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The chatbot can help customers design unique exercise routines considering their fitness levels, time constraints, and available equipment. In addition, it can offer guidance and corrections for form and progress monitoring throughout workouts.

Image/Video Recognition

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Users can train AI algorithms to identify workout positions and motions in photos and videos they post. This function can give real-time responses to errors in technique and form, make specific suggestions on enhancing these areas, and monitor development over time.

Fraud Detection

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By employing cutting-edge AI methods, FIT24 can further improve fraud detection systems. One way to detect and prevent fraudulent actions is to analyze transaction patterns, user activity, and the genuineness of supplements and products.

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Data Analytics and Insights

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 Artificial Intelligence-Powered tools provide analytics to gain insight into User Behavior, Engagement Patterns, and Session Preferences at FIT24. This information can enhance the platform, track down the most popular sessions, and improve the user experience overall.

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Trainer performance data such as client happiness, session evaluations, and progress gained by clients can be analyzed by AI algorithms, with the results used to inform insights and recommendations for trainers to use in their development.

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FIT24 can use AI-powered analytics to gather insights that drive strategic decision-making and growth, such as the ability to spot market trends, optimize pricing strategies, and predict customer demand.

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CTA

If you plan to launch your app or integrate AI into your workflow, You can book a free consultation call with our CEO Rohan.

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