Track: Undergraduate Student Paper Competition

Abstract

This research paper aims to develop a mobile application that provides users with a structured approach to acquiring local handyman services in their specified location. The research design used was a mixed methods approach, specifically the sequential explanatory approach, which involved collecting and analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data. The researchers used an online survey method with close-ended (5-point Likert scale) and open-ended questions to collect data from 414 household respondents in different age groups from Metro Manila who were randomly sampled. Frequency distribution was used to identify the most commonly requested handyman services, methods of finding, communicating, and paying. The results showed that Plumbing, Electrical Work, and Carpentry Services are the most commonly requested tasks, Word of mouth is the most common way of finding a handyman, while Text and Call are the top methods of communication. Additionally, the majority of respondents usually pay By the day rather than By the job. The study used frequency distributions and statistical tests including Chi-square, Monte Carlo simulation, and Cramer's V analysis to explore the relationship between challenges encountered and methods of finding, communicating and paying. The inability to verify the competence and credentials of handymen was identified as a significant concern for users across different methods and highlights the need to address this issue. Furthermore, the qualitative responses highlighted location as a challenge, resulting in higher transportation fees, delays, and inefficiencies. Frequency distribution were also conducted to explore the level of importance that customers place on different features when selecting a handyman service was also analyzed. The following are top features that were prioritized as part of the design of the mobile application: Location-based Service, Convenient Scheduling, and Issue Submission via Image. The User Acceptance Testing was conducted and showed that users had a low satisfaction rating of 1.3 for their previous experiences in finding and acquiring handyman services before using the app. However, after using HandyFix, users had a overall satisfaction rating of 5 out of 5. The app was rated highly for its convenience in scheduling appointments, effectiveness in addressing issues, and handling user challenges. Overall, the results demonstrate a clear improvement in user satisfaction, indicating that the app provided a user-friendly and effective platform for addressing users' needs.