AgSights is a not-for-profit member co-operative that enabling data capture and integrating data across the supply chain are critical to increasing the efficiency and sustainability of Canadian Agriculture. We provide tools and services that make it easier for members to capture and use data in their operations.

The software solutions we offer include: bioTrackPlus, a herd/flock management application for livestock (beef cattle, sheep, goat and bison) producers; bioLinks, an inventory-sales tracking solution designed for agricultural businesses; and ProcessorLinks a collaboration to increase the efficiency of booking harvest space for livestock.

bioLinks is out inventory-sales tracking software. It will be launched in Fall 2023 and our goal in this project is for learners to help improve the user experience of this platform to ensure a successful launch. bioLinks is a python-based web application with a Microsoft SQL database, that also includes API integrations to a mobile application and WooCommerce multi-site store.

In the beta testing phase we have received feedback from existing clients that we would like to incorporate into the launch to better suit their needs such as:

• Modifications to user interfaces, which are displayed using the datatables libraries, so users can efficiently view the data that is important to them. Including, improving the column selector, allowing users to customize the data the layouts of screens to suit their needs.
• Minor updates to increase consistency and usability of user interfaces (i.e., consistent column names, adjustments to css, order that data is displayed).
• Improvements to page loading and general performance to improve the user experience.
• Improvements to the user interface of the WooCommerce online store (e.g., improving sorting and filtering of products, payment gateway integrations, flexibility of the store for different clients).

In this project, learners will work together to review and prioritize client beta testing feedback, and then develop and implement a plan to address the small wins that can improve overall user experience in the short term.

The learners in this project will contribute to a successful and smooth launch of the new platform. This will help AgSights to better meet the needs of existing clients and provide more value to new clients. The enhancements will help increase the ease of use of bioLinks for clients, supporting small to medium sized businesses in increasing their production efficiency, reducing staff work load and improving overall profitability.

To achieve this goal, tasks for learners will include:

1. On-boarding to the bioLinks platform technology stack and familiarization with the code base.
2. Reviewing on-going client beta testing feedback and doing their own research and testing of the program to identify key areas where user experience could be improved.
3. Prioritize feedback and produce a short technical report to address the client feedback within the project.
4. Work towards implementing some of the small wins that can improve user experience while planing for how larger tasks could be completed in future phases of the project.
5. Track progress towards the project goals with a project management software.
6. Work with quality assurance testing staff to thoroughly test the functionality of any improvements.
7. Develop a final report of the tasks completed during the internship and a recommended road map and prioritization of future tasks.

Learners will connect directly with AgSights technical staff and subject-matter experts for mentorship throughout the project. The lead full-stack developer will provide on-going training and support to help learners meet the project goals. Subject matter experts will provide insight into typical user workflows, testing feedback received and suggestions to resolve the challenges.

Learners will be invited to join a daily stand up call to discuss current tasks and challenges, but we will also be flexible in accommodating other meeting schedules if this doesn't work for the learners' schedules. We have constant communication throughout the day in our hybrid environment through JIRA, WhatsApp and Microsoft Teams and will always make time to address learner challenges.

Learners will be provided help in setting up a local environment to run bioLinks and on-boarding to the technology stack.