roda
Being part of the John Keells X initiative (an incubator based in Colombo, Sri Lanka), allowed me to work on RODA. RODA, which originally in Greek means the wheel and is colloquially known as the wheel in Sinhala. This product taps into the OBD-II port of any vehicle feeds it into our algorithm and showcases users' analytics into their assets. The OBD-II, a standard in all vehicles since 1996, allows users to pull data such as speed, RPM, gear position, and many other important variables that are recorded in the Engine Control Unit. We used this to showcase this data in a well-represented manner to logistic providers such that at a click of a button, they could track their assets throughout the island. The assets, in this case, are the trucks themselves. We further crunched that data to arrive at a driver score based on various studies so that by maintaining good drivers, one could extend the lives of these assets and build a robust well-responding fleet.
role
In this project, I was responsible for the design, conceptualization, and execution of the working prototype. I collaborated with my co-founder to build the user interface of the software side and the design of the algorithms that were instrumental in providing us with the results.
story
Initially, our main idea was to build a B2C product that could help automobile users track how well they drove their vehicles and, alongside with insurance companies, to develop a comprehensive insurance premium plan benefitting both parties. With the help of our advisors, we pivoted to the B2B side to engage in making fleets more efficient, as this was a pressing problem within Sri Lanka. We took our initial iterations and worked with leading logistic providers to design and build a system that could be tamper-proof and a user interface that was understood by one and all at a glance. We then took our models and circuit diagrams. We built a few prototypes that were tested in the real world and arrived at results to prove to investors that we were worthy of being funded, with a healthy business plan and return of investment forecast. Unfortunately, we did not receive funding in the second stage as we were not the best fit for our investors.
On your left is the dashboard built for logistic providers, allowing users to quickly see a dictionary of data and understand the holistic view of how their vehicles, drivers, and the fleet are performing. The driver score is based on four main criteria in conjunction with the driver profile to deliver a dynamic scoring system. The error codes pop up and urge the user to attend to them and assist with what action is necessary. The dashboard was built using react-native to be competent in displaying real-time data.
learning
During the few months, I worked with RODA, I learned the importance of investor and market fit that is instrumental in securing the next steps in growing a company. I also realized that sometimes it is essential to invest time in other areas when you know the benefits do not outweigh the efforts.