SHUBHAM KUMAR Software Engineering

2224576
Railway Time Tracking & Prediction System
1. Project Overview

The Railway Time Tracking & Prediction System is a web-based application aimed at providing users
with real-time train tracking and predictions for arrival and departure times. The system will have two
modules: an Admin module and a User module.

 Admin Module: Admins can manage train schedules, input real-time train location data, and oversee
system performance.

 User Module: Users can track trains, get real-time location updates, and see predicted arrival and departure
times.

2. Objectives

The main objectives of the system are:

 Provide real-time location tracking of trains.

 Predict train arrival and departure times using machine learning or algorithmic approaches based on current
data and past trends.

 Allow users to search for specific trains and view their schedules.

 Enable the admin to update train schedules and view system performance.

3. Project Scope

 Tracking System: Real-time data from GPS, APIs, or other data sources will be integrated to track train
locations.

 Prediction System: A predictive model (ML-based or statistical) will forecast arrival and departure times
based on current and historical data.

 Admin and User Interfaces: Separate interfaces for users and admins to interact with the system, with
different levels of access and functionality.

 Alerts and Notifications: Users can subscribe to alerts for specific trains and receive notifications for
delays or changes in schedule.

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 Data Management: Handle large amounts of real-time data efficiently, ensuring system performance and
reliability.

4. Key Requirements

The requirements of the system can be divided into functional and non-functional:

 Functional Requirements:

1. Real-time tracking of trains.

2. Prediction of arrival and departure times.

3. Admin management of schedules and data.

4. User-friendly interface for users to track trains.

5. Alerts and notifications for users about train delays or changes.

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6. Reporting tools for admins to monitor the system.

 Non-Functional Requirements:

1. Scalability: Ability to handle data for multiple trains across different locations.

2. Performance: Real-time updates with minimal latency.

3. Security: Secure access for admin roles and user data protection.

4. Reliability: High uptime and data accuracy.

5. Usability: Easy-to-use interface for users and admins.

SDLC Model: Agile

The Agile model is the best fit for the Railway Time Tracking & Prediction System project for the following
reasons:

1. Flexibility to Handle Changing Requirements

 In a project that involves real-time tracking and predictive algorithms, new requirements may emerge as
the system interacts with live data and user feedback.

 The prediction model may evolve based on the performance of early versions, and flexibility is key to
adapting the system.

2. Iterative Development with Continuous Feedback

 Agile allows for rapid iterations, where feedback can be gathered from real users (both admins and
passengers) after every sprint.

 Continuous testing of the real-time data handling and prediction accuracy can be integrated into each
sprint.

3. Risk Reduction

 In Agile, smaller, manageable chunks of the project are developed and tested at each sprint. This approach
reduces the risk of large-scale failures, particularly in data integration or predictive modeling.

4. Early Delivery of Key Features

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 Essential functionalities, such as real-time tracking, can be released early, providing immediate value to
users while predictive models and other advanced features can be refined in subsequent sprints.

5. Collaborative Development

 Agile emphasizes collaboration between developers, users, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the
project stays aligned with real-world needs.

Structure of Agile Implementation

1. Sprint Planning:

 Divide the project into sprints (2–4 weeks) based on key milestones such as real-time tracking,
prediction model implementation, user/admin interfaces, etc.

2. Backlog Creation:

 Product Backlog: List all the features (real-time tracking, prediction model, alerts system, etc.) and
prioritize them.

 Sprint Backlog: Select the highest priority features to work on in the upcoming sprint.

3. Design & Development:

 Start with core features like real-time tracking of trains.

 Implement and refine features incrementally in each sprint.

4. Testing:

 Continuous testing throughout the project, including integration of real-time data and ensuring
the prediction model’s accuracy.

5. Feedback & Review:

 After each sprint, review the working product with stakeholders, gather feedback, and adjust the
backlog as necessary.

6. Deployment:

 Deploy a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) early with core functionalities.

 Improve and expand the system based on user feedback in each sprint cycle.
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7. Monitoring & Maintenance:

 After deployment, monitor system performance (especially real-time updates and prediction
accuracy) and optimize as required.

Justification for Choosing Agile SDLC Model

The Agile Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) model has been selected for the Railway Time Tracking
& Prediction System project due to its alignment with the project’s unique needs and constraints. Below are the
primary reasons why Agile is the most suitable SDLC model for this project:

1. Dynamic and Evolving Requirements

 Real-Time Data Integration: The system relies on real-time data for train tracking and predictions. As the
project progresses, new data sources (e.g., APIs, GPS) might be added, and the prediction algorithms may
need refining or improvement. Agile allows for flexible handling of these changes without disrupting the
overall project timeline.

 Predictive Algorithm Iteration: The prediction model for arrival and departure times may require frequent
tuning based on the initial performance. Agile’s iterative approach ensures that such updates can be
incorporated in small, manageable chunks rather than requiring a complete overhaul.

 User Feedback: Features such as notifications, real-time alerts, and the user interface will benefit from
continuous feedback from real users. Agile’s sprint-based delivery ensures that feedback is quickly
incorporated into the next iteration.

2. Incremental and Early Delivery of Core Features

 Early Launch of Core Features: The project can deliver core functionalities such as real-time train
tracking and schedule viewing early in the development cycle. This enables users to start benefiting from
the system while more advanced features like predictive analytics are gradually developed and integrated.

 Prioritization of Features: Agile allows the development team to focus on delivering high-priority features
first (e.g., tracking and prediction), and then iterating over less critical features like reporting and alerts
later.

3. Handling Complexity and Risk

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 Reduced Risk through Frequent Releases: Developing real-time tracking systems and integrating
predictive algorithms carries significant risks, especially if all functionalities are built in one go (as in

Waterfall). Agile mitigates this risk by delivering the system in incremental sprints, allowing for early
detection and resolution of issues such as data latency or prediction inaccuracies.

 Flexibility in Managing Uncertainty: Since the project involves uncertain elements like predictive
modeling and real-time data handling, Agile’s incremental development and constant reassessment help
reduce complexity and keep the project adaptable to new information.

4. Continuous Improvement through Iteration

 Adapting Prediction Models: Machine learning models or algorithmic prediction systems typically require
continuous retraining and optimization as new data becomes available. Agile’s iterative approach allows the
team to update and enhance these models continuously based on their performance.

 Feedback-Driven Development: In Agile, each sprint provides an opportunity to review the functionality
developed so far, enabling continuous improvement based on both user feedback and real-time system
performance. This ensures that the system evolves according to actual user needs and real-world challenges.

5. Collaboration and Stakeholder Involvement

 Frequent Stakeholder Communication: Agile emphasizes regular communication between the

development team and stakeholders (e.g., admin users, railway authorities). This ensures that the project
stays aligned with the actual needs of the railway system and end users. Continuous feedback loops help in
making informed decisions and prioritizing features effectively.

 User-Centric Development: The system needs to serve both end users (passengers) and admins (railway
personnel). Agile’s focus on collaboration means that both types of users can be involved throughout the
development, ensuring the system meets their respective needs efficiently.

6. Time and Resource Efficiency

 Adaptation to Real-Time Constraints: Developing a railway tracking system within strict time constraints
requires the ability to respond quickly to emerging issues. Agile’s flexibility in planning and sprint structure
ensures that if an unexpected problem arises, it can be addressed in the next sprint without derailing the
entire project.

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 Efficient Use of Resources: Agile promotes efficient allocation of development resources by focusing only
on the highest priority tasks at any given time. This helps to avoid wasteful rework and ensures that the
team delivers tangible value at the end of each sprint.

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