Introduction

purpose

The purpose of this document is to define the software requirements for the development of a Lost and
Found Management System. A lost and found system is a platform or service individuals to recover
misplaced or lost belongings by connecting those who have lost items with those who have found them.
Users can post details of their lost belongings or report found items, allowing for easy categorization and
search. The system typically includes user authentication, so posts can be made by verified individuals,
and an admin panel to approve and manage listings. It aims to replace traditional methods like posters
and newspaper ads, offering a more streamlined, digital solution. Notifications and alerts can also be
sent when an item is matched with its owner, ensuring a faster recovery process.

Scope

The system will support:

1 In this project, it will involve the design that can develop a system based on web-based
development for lost and found system that can trace owner details and notify them.

2 Enable users to report found items, including details like item description, location, and time of finding.

3 Users can initiate a claim process through the system, verifying their identity and ownership.

4 Maintain a centralized database to store and manage reported lost and found items.

5 Implement a user registration and login system to ensure secure access to the platform.

Over view

The Lost and Found Management System is designed to provide a streamlined platform for users to
report and search for lost or found items. It is an efficient, platform designed to facilitate the recovery of
misplaced or lost belongings by seamlessly connecting those who have lost items with those who have
found them. The system empowers users to post detailed information about their lost possessions or
report items they have discovered, enabling easy categorization, search ability, and real-time tracking.
This significantly enhances the chances of recovering lost belongings in a timely manner. The system
typically includes user authentication, so posts can be made by verified individuals, and an admin panel
to approve and manage listings. Administrators play a crucial role by overseeing the system, managing,
and approving listings to prevent misuse or fraudulent claims. This ensures the system remains credible
and reliable for all users.
General description

A lost and found system is a platform or service individuals to recover misplaced or lost belongings by
connecting those who have lost items with those who have found them. Users can post details of their
lost belongings or report found items, allowing for easy categorization and search. The system typically
includes user authentication, so posts can be made by verified individuals, and an admin panel to
approve and manage listings. It aims to replace traditional methods like posters and newspaper ads,
offering a more streamlined, digital solution.

By replacing traditional methods such as posters, flyers, and newspaper advertisements, this solution
provides a streamlined, digital alternative that is accessible to a wider audience. Whether users are
reporting a lost item or searching for one, the intuitive interface and advanced search filters allow for an
efficient experience, saving time and effort.

Functional requirement

The Lost and Found Management System should enable users to report lost and found items with
comprehensive details, including descriptions, dates, locations, categories, and identifying features like
color, brand, or serial numbers. Users should also have the option to upload images of the items for
better clarity. After submission, the system should generate a unique reference ID for each report to
facilitate tracking. Additionally, users should be able to browse an extensive list of lost and found items,
using advanced search and filtering options such as item type, date range, location, and relevant
keywords. Sorting features (like by relevance or proximity) should improve the search experience.

Users should have the option to register and log in using a username and password or through third-
party authentication (like Google or Facebook). On their personalized dashboards, users can manage
their reports, including the ability to edit or delete entries if the item's status changes. To claim found
items, users should provide proof of ownership by uploading documents (such as receipts or photos) or
answering security questions related to the lost item. This information will be securely stored for
administrative review to verify authenticity.

Admins are essential for maintaining the system's integrity. They should have access to a comprehensive
dashboard to authenticate item reports, verify claims by reviewing the proofs or answers submitted by
users, and update item statuses like "Claimed," "Still Lost," or "Resolved." Admins should also have the
ability to flag or remove inappropriate or fraudulent reports. Furthermore, they should be able to
generate reports on key metrics, including the number of lost and found items, user activity, and
resolved claims. These administrative tools ensure the system remains reliable, efficient, and user-
friendly for everyone involved.
Interface

Web interface:

The web interface of the Lost and Found Management System should have a clean and responsive design
that functions well on both desktop and mobile browsers. It should include intuitive navigation menus
for easy access to key features such as submitting reports, searching for items, accessing user
dashboards, and contacting support. Forms need to be user-friendly, with clear labels and field
validations to assist users in reporting lost or found items with ease. Mandatory fields should be clearly
marked, and any validation errors should provide helpful feedback to users. Additionally, the interface
should offer a personalized dashboard where users can manage their reports, view potential matches,
and track the status of their claims.

Admin interface:

A comprehensive admin dashboard that includes item verification tools, status updates, user
management, and reporting features. It should allow for intuitive filtering and sorting to manage
multiple reports at once.

Hardware Interfaces:

Input Devices: Supports keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and cameras for image uploads.

Output Devices: Compatible with monitors for viewing and printers for generating reports or summaries.

Software Interfaces:

The system should be compatible with the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge, while also
providing fallback support for older browser versions. It should utilize a scalable database for secure
storage of user and item data, with multilingual text support for global accessibility.

Communication Interfaces:

Data Exchange: Ensures secure transmission via HTTPS protocols.

APIs: Provides integration capabilities with external systems like campus portals or transport systems.

Notifications: Delivers email or SMS notifications securely with encryption to protect user data.