Internet of things based package and parcel tracking and monitoring system for public buses in Tanzania

Abstract

This project developed and implemented Internet of Things (IoT)-based system for tracking and monitoring packages and parcels. In today’s era where technology is continuously evolving and improving. The concept of the Internet of Things is ubiquitous in nature and numerous gadgets are capable of being connected together over the internet. Previously communications in Tanzania were un-reliable and limited to urban regions. Because of the current efforts made by the Tanzanian government a nation-wide coverage possible. In Tanzania the most cost effective means of transporting packages and parcels is through public buses. However, a significant number of people experience afflictions with the service delivery thus, agree that a technology solution be utilized to improve service delivery. Purpose of this study is to come up with a digitized system for tracking, monitoring and managing packages and parcels until collection using the concept of the IoT. The proposed project uses both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection so as to have a better understanding of the present logistics. Also, find inspirations from the Scrum Agile methodology. Key findings majorly from the respondents leaned towards the need of technology solutions in transportation of packages and parcels to reduce the afflictions they go through. This system communicates via Wi-Fi and it’s based on the IoT to track and monitor packages and parcels. The monitoring tool is a web-based application and mobile application as an alternative. The system has been thoroughly tested against all of the key aspects of embedded and IoT systems. It is capable of sending package and parcel coordinates to the web-based application when there’s and internet connection. Additionally, send data to the administrator’s phone when there is an internet unavailability. This system will ease the burdens and be taken into further research to develop better systems for the transportation and logistics industry.