rails-eats Backend v1
A Ruby on Rails backend for the rails-eats food discovery application, developed as a phase 5 project for Flatiron School. This version provides API endpoints for efficient food location services.
About This Project
A Ruby on Rails backend for the rails-eats food discovery application, developed as a phase 5 project for Flatiron School. This version provides API endpoints for efficient food location services.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Modern web application built with Next.js
- Full-stack development with API integration
- User-centric design and experience
- Scalable architecture and performance
CORE FEATURES
- Personalized recommendations
- Secure authentication system
- Real-time data integration
- Responsive design
PROJECT STATS
TECH STACK
System Architecture
Scalable & Performance-Focused
Frontend Architecture
Built with modern React patterns using Next.js 14+ for optimal performance and SEO. Implemented component-based architecture with reusable UI patterns.
Backend Infrastructure
Leveraged serverless architecture with API routes and database integration. Implemented efficient data caching and real-time capabilities.
Key Technical Decisions
Engineering Choices & Rationale
Database Strategy
Chose PostgreSQL with Supabase for real-time capabilities, ACID compliance, and built-in authentication. Optimized queries with proper indexing.
Performance Optimization
Implemented ISR, image optimization, and efficient caching strategies. Achieved 95+ Lighthouse scores across all metrics.
Code Quality
TypeScript for type safety, ESLint/Prettier for consistency, and comprehensive error handling with user-friendly fallbacks.
Agile Development Methodology
User-Centered & Iterative Approach
User Research
Conducted user interviews and competitive analysis to identify pain points and opportunities.
Iterative Development
Built MVP first, then enhanced features based on user feedback and performance metrics.
Data-Driven Decisions
Used analytics and user behavior data to guide feature prioritization and improvements.
Discovery & Planning
Defined project scope, technical requirements, and user stories. Created wireframes and established development timeline with clear milestones.
Core Development
Built the foundational features with focus on clean code architecture, performance optimization, and scalable patterns.
Testing & Optimization
Comprehensive testing across devices and browsers, performance optimization, and accessibility improvements for production readiness.
Deployment & Monitoring
Production deployment with CI/CD pipeline, monitoring setup, and post-launch performance tracking and user feedback collection.
DETAILS
LINKS
TECH STACK
TAGS
rails-eats Backend v1
Project Overview
rails-eats Backend v1 was developed as part of the phase 5 project for Flatiron School in Houston, Texas. This Ruby on Rails application serves as the backend for the rails-eats food discovery platform, aiming to streamline the process of finding dining options quickly and efficiently.
Note: This project is no longer in active development. For the latest version, please see EATS 2024.
Key Features
- Efficient Food Discovery API: Provides endpoints for quick and relevant food option retrieval.
- Location Services: Enables easy access to restaurant locations.
- Data Management: Handles persistence of restaurant and user preference data.
- Scalable Architecture: Designed to support the frontend's user-friendly interface.
Technologies Used
- Framework: Ruby on Rails
- Database: PostgreSQL (or specify if different)
- API Design: RESTful principles
- Ruby Version: 2.6.1
Development Goals
- Rapid Food Search: Implemented algorithms to return relevant dining options quickly.
- Location Integration: Developed endpoints to provide accurate and easily accessible location data.
- Performance Optimization: Focused on response time optimization for a seamless user experience.
- Scalability: Designed the backend to handle potential growth in user base and data volume.
Setup and Installation
To set up the rails-eats Backend v1 locally:
- Clone the repository:
git clone https://github.com/your-username/rails-eats-backend-v1.git - Navigate to the project directory:
cd rails-eats-backend-v1 - Ensure Ruby 2.6.1 is installed
- Install dependencies:
bundle install - Configure database settings and environment variables
- Set up the database:
rails db:create db:migrate - Start the server:
rails server
The API will be accessible at http://localhost:3000.
API Endpoints
(List and briefly describe the main API endpoints, e.g.:)
GET /api/restaurants: Retrieves a list of nearby restaurants.GET /api/restaurants/:id: Fetches detailed information about a specific restaurant.POST /api/user_preferences: Saves user dining preferences.
Challenges and Solutions
- Data Efficiency: Optimized database queries to ensure quick retrieval of relevant restaurant data.
- Location Accuracy: Implemented precise geolocation services for accurate restaurant recommendations.
- User Experience: Designed API responses to support a smooth and intuitive frontend interface.
Conclusion
rails-eats Backend v1 demonstrates my ability to create a robust backend system that addresses a real-world problem. This project showcases my skills in Ruby on Rails, API development, and backend architecture focused on user-centric design. While no longer in active development, it served as a crucial foundation for understanding the complexities of food discovery applications and laid the groundwork for more advanced iterations.