Phoenix Files

Inspiration

We were inspired to build this project because we believe that there should be better access to high quality educational resources that aren't necessarily created by large publications. Originally this started as an app for users to read copyright-free books that are published by others but we opened our scope after realizing that the total content stored could vastly increase.

What it does

This app lets users upload files and discover other computer science content from other users

How we built it

We decided to use React on the frontend because we are most comfortable with it. The backend uses Node js and Cockroach DB. We were originally considering using Golang and AWS S3 buckets to store the user files but decided to use Cockroach DB for persistence. We also considered adding NGINX but decided that the level of optimization provided was not necessary.

Challenges we ran into

One of the largest challenges we faced was integrating the new technology of cockroach DB which neither of us had worked with. We also faced the challenge of designing a frontend that was attractive.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We are proud that we were able to finish the project and create a working prototype that is usable by anyone. We deployed to Heroku so the site is scalable as well. Another accomplishment was when we finished the backend API and it worked.

What we learned

We learned technical skills like how to integrate new technologies using design principles as well as soft skills like persistence when your code doesn't work.

What's next for Phoenix Files

The next step would be to improve the UI for the site and make it more responsive. There are a few features missing like file upload instead of file write as well.

Built With

• cockroachdb
• express.js
• heroku
• node.js
• react