Our project is relatively niche as we already know who our target demographic is. We are targeting librarians and any kind of library administrator that has the power to apply for the E-Rate program. The three stakeholders we identified in this project are librarians/library administrators, library users, and the federal government. 

As a group, we were tasked with creating a helpful tool to ease the E-Rate program application process for libraries and identifying the main issues they faced. Working with our sponsor, we developed a survey for both participants and non-participants, which asked about their experiences with the application process, understanding of the E-Rate program, roadblocks, advice for non-participants, application tools used, and time spent on applications. Using Qualtrics, we received 65 responses, and our analysis revealed that users required three main features to simplify the application process: a guided walkthrough, a tool to calculate their discount rate, and a feature to identify the three most popular E-Rate items in their area. By developing this tool, we were able to support libraries in their understanding of the E-Rate program, which can provide them with funding and educational support. The next steps are to continue building on the tool with the next team and launch it for libraries to use, monitoring participation in the E-Rate program as we go. 

Utilize Qualtrics to survey rural and urban libraries about their experience with the E-Rate Program. The goal of the survey receive a minimum of 30 survey responses, however, the target was surpassed with an impressive total of 65 responses from both participating and non-participating libraries. 

Analyze the survey results to extract meaningful insights.These insights were used to develop features that cater to the needs and preferences of library professionals.

Utilize Figma to develop a user-friendly prototype based on the survey results. This project could have included user personas to deepen the understanding of the target demographic, however, this project is niche enough to where user personas are not needed. 

The biggest obstacle libraries identified in our survey was the intricate application process. The E-Rate Helper is equipped with an array of features that will assist libraries with this roadblock. Notably, the E-Rate Helper includes an application walkthrough feature that serves as a vital resource for libraries struggling with this obstacle. By leveraging this specific functionality, libraries can effectively overcome the aforementioned roadblock, leading to a tangible increase in participation rates. As more libraries actively engage in the program, a more significant number of them gain access to vital resources for technological advancement and overall improvement. This, in turn, leads to a significant enhancement in the quality of services offered by libraries to their valued consumers. By leveraging the E-Rate Helper, libraries can take a proactive step towards elevating their capabilities and meeting the evolving needs of their consumers.