Outbreak Navigator

Hackathon pitch

Introduction

Outbreak Navigator is an interactive map application that utilizes various Google APIs to provide real-time updates and information about essential locations during crisis situations, like the COVID-19 pandemic. This project was inspired by the crowdsourcing nature of mapping apps like Waze, but with a twist on the importance of crowdsourcing during a crisis.

Features

Essential Survival Map

Initial map state:

• The initial map state is based on data filtered on the server from the Google Places API

Places modal:

• Each place contains a modal that reflects basic information about the place

Crowdsourced user data:

• A chat log appears with time stamped information from people at the location

Client side filtering:

• Users can filter the map further on the client

Danger Zone Map

GeoJSON Data Utilization

• Populates the map with GeoJSON polygons based on worldwide population density data.

General Features

• Autocomplete Feature: For searching any global address.
• Default Locations: Includes places like the OSU campus, Googleplex offices, and major stores in Japan.
• Drag and Drop: Functional map pins for easy navigation.

Technology Stack

• Frontend: React, Material UI, Bootstrap
• Backend: Node.js, Express.js
• APIs: Google Places, Google Maps, Google Geocode
• Database: MySQL
• Tools: Postman, Vite

Future Plans

1. Reducing API costs by implementing caching.
2. Enhancing data handling for better production efficiency.