Allways

Inspiration

We were inspired by everyday commuting struggles faced by people with disabilities. Something as simple as a staircase can become a barrier if alternatives aren’t clearly marked. One of our teammates recalled a friend missing classes because the campus elevator was hidden and poorly signposted. We wanted to build something that empowers everyone to move with confidence, regardless of mobility needs.

What it does

Allways is a mobile app that shows real-time accessible routes in buildings and public spaces. It highlights the location of lifts, stairs, and ramps so that users can easily plan their safest path. The app also offers alerts if an elevator is out of service and suggests alternative routes.

How we built it

We started by mapping common building layouts and feeding them into a simple database. Using React Native for cross-platform development, we built a clean and intuitive interface. For accessibility data, we mocked an API that integrates building floor plans with markers for stairs and elevators. Finally, we layered in GPS and indoor navigation logic to guide users step by step.

Challenges we ran into

Our biggest challenge was indoor navigation — GPS isn’t reliable inside buildings, so we experimented with Wi-Fi triangulation and QR code scanning. Another hurdle was designing a UI that balanced simplicity with accessibility, making sure it works well with screen readers and high-contrast themes.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We’re proud that we created a working prototype in such a short time, with a smooth UI that testers with accessibility needs found intuitive. We also loved how the team collaborated across design, data, and code — everyone’s strengths came together.

What we learned

We learned that accessibility is not just a feature, but a mindset. Building for inclusivity means asking questions we might overlook, like “Can this be used one-handed?” or “Does this still work if the elevator is broken?” We also got hands-on experience with indoor mapping challenges and API integration.

What's next for Allways

we want to pilot Allways in real-world locations such as university campuses, malls, and transport hubs. We’d like to partner with councils and building managers to integrate live elevator status data. Long term, our vision is to make Allways the go-to accessibility navigation app — ensuring safe, inclusive, and stress-free journeys for everyone.