6. Development of a REST API backend for a Business Analytics Platform in Python#
6.1. Keywords#
Python, Django, REST API, Backend Development, Software Development, Leadership, Project Management, Agile
6.2. Overview#
I spearheaded the development of a REST API backend for a Tender Evaluator Platform, a web-based application aimed at streamlining the evaluation process for construction project tenders. This platform enables users to create, manage, and evaluate tenders collaboratively and efficiently. Built using Django, a high-level Python web framework, the backend offers a robust and scalable architecture capable of handling the platform’s complex business logic. For the database, we utilized PostgreSQL, a powerful open-source relational database management system.
6.3. Responsibilities#
Project Management and Leadership: I was responsible for managing the development process, including planning, scheduling, and tracking progress. I worked closely with the team to ensure that the project was delivered on time and within budget.
Backend Development: I led the development of the REST API backend, including designing the architecture, implementing the business logic, and optimizing performance. I also worked on integrating third-party services and tools to enhance the functionality of the platform.
Contacting with Customers: I was responsible for communicating with the customers to gather requirements, provide updates, and address any issues or concerns. I also conducted user testing and feedback sessions to ensure that the platform met the needs of the users.
Documentation: I created detailed the user guide for the platform. This document guided the users through the process of creating and managing projects, evaluating applications, and generating reports. I also provided technical documentation for the REST API endpoints to help developers integrate the platform with other systems.
6.4. Features#
Defining and Managing Projects: On the platform, users can log in and manage projects according to their roles and responsibilities. They can create new projects, assign team members, set deadlines, and track progress.
Evaluating Applications: The platform includes a business analytics dashboard to support the decision making process. The users can compare applications and detact anomalies in the data, including signs of cartelling.
Email Notification System: The platform includes an email notification system to keep users informed about project updates, deadlines, and other important events.
6.5. Technologies Used#
Python: Core programming language for developing the backend.
Django REST Framework: Used to build the REST API endpoints and handle requests and responses.
PostgreSQL: Database management system for storing and retrieving data.
Docker: Used for containerization and deployment of the application.
Git: Version control system for managing the codebase and collaborating with the team.
Agile Methodology: Used for project management and development process.
Plotly Dash: Used for creating interactive data visualizations in the business analytics dashboard.
6.6. Challenges and Solutions#
Huge Amounts of Data: I wouldn’t saz big data, but the number of items in a typical tender is well in the thousands. The data was provided in Excel files, which had to be imported into the database. I developed a custom data import mechanism to categorize items and map them to the database schema. This involved data cleaning, validation, and transformation to ensure the integrity and consistency of the data.
Anomaly Detection: For the analytics dashboard, I had to come up with.
User Guide: Creating the detailed user guide was a challenge on its own. I had to ensure that the instructions were clear, concise, and easy to follow. I also included screenshots and examples to help users understand the functionality of the platform.
6.7. Conclusion#
The development of the REST API backend for the Tender Evaluator Platform was a challenging and rewarding experience. I gained valuable insights into project management, backend development, and customer communication. The platform has been well-received by the users and has helped streamline the tender evaluation process. I am proud of the work that I have done and look forward to taking on new similar challenges in the future.