Design and Implementation of Mobile Pigeon-Hole Alert System (PHAS)

Abstract

Pigeonhole is an internal information exchange system, used for communication in an organization. It is a creative, informal and traditional way of dropping and picking messages in a set of small open-fronted compartments usually used in a workplace or other organizations where letters or messages may be left for individuals. The chain of exchange is a kind of 'give-and-return'. It is a bi-directional 'pick-and-respond' information transmission mode. Internal and informal investigations carried out in most departments in Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, Nigeria, however show that the purpose of this dual-mode communication is most times defeated as recipients of pigeonhole-kept information are remote and unaware of any 'visitor' awaiting them. The researchers therefore deem it fit to close up this gap and ensure maximal consumption of the benefits pigeonhole system offers. We are therefore poised through this study, to design and implement a mobile-based, interactive and informative pigeonhole alert system that captures information meant to be archived in a pigeonhole, disseminate the information and monitor the receipt or otherwise of same with appropriate feedbacks. The proposed system allowed for easy and enhanced communication between the administrator incharge of messages (e.g. the office clerk) and the recipients, to ensure proper dissemination of information. The design and implementation were accomplished using Java and XML components of Android Software Development Kit (SDK).