Inspiration
ToriTomo was inspired by the unique position of university students and young individuals who, despite often facing financial constraints, possess a wealth of skills, hobbies, and experiences.
Recognizing the potential for these resources to meet the diverse needs and wants within this community, ToriTomo is a platform where mutual exchanges can occur, turning what would otherwise be untapped potential into beneficial interactions for all participants. For example, a student could offer Python coding lessons in exchange for guitar lessons or car repairs, creating a happy coincidence of wants and needs.
What it does
ToriTomo connects users with complementary needs and skills. Upon registration, users create a profile listing services or favors they can offer, generated from a simple self-description via a prompt-engineered LLM (e.g., "I am a computer science student" might suggest favors like computer science tuition). Users then describe what they're seeking, and the LLM generates a list of desired favors (e.g., "looking to learn an instrument" might suggest needing guitar lessons). Profiles are then matched within the network based on these preferences, allowing users to swipe on potential matches and chat to arrange exchanges.
How we built it
The platform was developed using a React frontend and Firebase backend, with an OpenAI wrapper to process user descriptions into service offerings and needs.
Challenges we ran into
Technical: As beginners in frontend development, integrating Firebase and making the web app interactive posed significant challenges.
Non-Technical: The team initially had differing visions for the project, particularly regarding the feasibility of generating meaningful matches. Through discussion and compromise, a unified vision was achieved.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
The team is proud of adhering to the original goal of creating an app for mutual benefit among users. Successfully completed the frontend and planned the project in manageable segments, allowing for smooth integration of complex features like database interactions and the swiping mechanism.
What we learned
Gained expertise in Firebase integration. Developed effective communication strategies and conflict resolution within the team.
What's next for ToriTomo
Implementing a rating system to foster community trust: matched users are able to rate their matches based on the favor exchange.
Developing a more robust sorting system for profile preferences to enhance user matches.
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