Applying lean startup methodology for mobile application development:an Ethiopian context

• Main Author: Asfaw, H. (Hana)
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: University of Oulu 2016
• Subjects: Information Processing Science
• Online Access: http://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:oulu-201606032194; http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:fi:oulu-201606032194

The original purpose of a mobile phone was designed for basic communication. Today, phones are used to perform different advanced activities, for example, to access location via GPS, to take photos, as media players, and to access the internet. The growing usage of smartphones highly contributed to the emergence of advanced mobile applications. In developing countries mobile phones are the most common device used to access the Internet. This study aims to provide train timetable mobile application for the new developed Addis Ababa light rail transportation system. The purpose of developing a train scheduling app is to help users find train timetables easily and to improve time efficiency. Technology and mobile usage in Ethiopia are assessed to understand the current Information and Communication Technology (ICT) situation in Ethiopia. The study utilized the lean startup method for designing and developing the mobile application. In addition, the PSD model and a system’s self-referential persuasion concept provided the theoretical framework. Persuasive system design’s primary task support principles are utilized strongly in the design and development of the app by reducing complexity and providing a meaningful content. Design science research integrated with lean software development principles was used to carry out this research. A literature review was conducted to support the thesis with background knowledge. Interviews were also conducted to gather user feedback with regards to the process of designing and developing the app. The study found that waiting for public transportation is time-consuming. The mobile application improves time efficiency and enhances punctuality. Evaluating the mobile application on the actual market is one of the limitations of this study as the developed app was only evaluated between test groups. The newness of the train system in Addis Ababa and bureaucratic management has limited the present study’s ability to gain accurate information about the train schedule and related information.