DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, SCHOOL OF

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY, PLATEAU

STATE POLYTECHNIC BARKIN LADI.

TITLE

PROJECT ON DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ONLINE

MEDICINE ORDERING SYSTEM

A CASE STUDY OF PLATEAU STATE POLYTECHNIC MEDICAL

BY

BALOGUN OLAMIDOTUN

PSP/ICT/CSC/ND/21/1230

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE

AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

(ND II COMPUTER SCIENCE)

SUPERVISOR

MRS. MARIYLN MODUPE

Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction...............................................................................................................................3
1.1 Background of the Study......................................................................................................3
1.2 Statement of the Problem.......................................................................................................4
1.3 Aim and Objectives...............................................................................................................5
1.4 Scope and Limitation of the Study.........................................................................................5
1.5 Justification of the Study.....................................................................................................6
CHAPTER TWO...................................................................................................................................7
2.0 Literature Review......................................................................................................................7
2.1 Introduction...........................................................................................................................7
2.2 Overview of Existing Systems...............................................................................................8
2.3 Challenges in Adapting Existing Systems to Nigeria...........................................................10
2.4 Online Medicine Ordering Systems in Nigeria....................................................................11
2.5 Trust and Counterfeit Issues................................................................................................12
2.6 Advantages and Disadvantages of Existing Systems..........................................................12
2.6 Disadvantages:.....................................................................................................................13
2.7 Key Factors Influencing System Design.............................................................................14
2.7 Legal and Regulatory Framework........................................................................................15
CHAPTER THREE.............................................................................................................................17
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.........................................................................................................17
3.5 System Architecture................................................................................................................34
3.6 Use Case Diagram....................................................................................................................34
1.0 Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

An online medicine ordering system is an online based web application that

operates over the Internet and sends orders to customers through credit cards,

shipping companies, or pay on delivery system. People can buy and sell their

products sitting at home. It is getting popular day by day all over the world even

in domestic market space. The aim is to make the ordering process and

delivery systems of medicines much easier and customer-friendly. It’s very

important to make a user friendly environment

The current era can be identified as the age of internet, where manual,

conventional and time-consuming business tasks are performed over internet-

based applications. The age of internet caused the paradigm shift of many

conventional industries from brick and mortar to click and mortar. Similarly, the

concept of E Pharmacy started to emerge the internet-based version of retail

pharmacy which was later identified to be a good solution for the inefficiencies

of the conventional retail pharmacy

This project seeks to reduce the barrier in accessing drugs in rural area, where

there are no pharmacies or scarcity of pharmacies and transportation networks

are underdeveloped. it also seek to create a medium where users can have

access to limited varieties of medicine via the web through their mobile devices.
The design of this system aims to reduce the traditional approach to obtaining

medicines in Nigeria, where individual have to visit physical pharmacies, many

of which are concentrated in urban centers. For people living in rural regions,

this often means traveling long distances, sometimes crossing multiple towns, to

purchase necessary medications. This delay can have serious health

implications, especially for patients with chronic illnesses such as hypertension,

diabetes, or asthma who need regular access to prescription drugs. Furthermore,

the presence of counterfeit drugs in Nigeria's pharmaceutical market compounds

the issue, as patients in remote areas may encounter unlicensed sellers or

substandard medications.

Online medicine shopping is a form of electronic shopping store where the

buyer is directly online to the seller’s computer usually via the internet. There is

no intermediary service. The sales and purchases transaction is completed

electronically and interactively in real-time. The development of this new

system contains the activities which try to develop on-line application by

keeping the entire process in the view of database integration approach.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

In many regions, particularly rural areas, access to medications is limited by

logistical challenges, including long distances to pharmacies, lack of

transportation, and the unavailability of medicines. This project seeks to address

these issues by designing an online system that connects users to local

pharmacies, allowing them to order medicines and have them delivered to their

location efficiently.

1.3 Aim and Objectives

Aim

To design and implement an online medicine ordering system.

Objectives:

1. To design an efficient online platform for ordering medicines.

2. To implement a secure and user-friendly system for patients, pharmacies,

and healthcare providers.

3. To evaluate the effectiveness of the system in improving accessibility,

convenience, and medication adherence.

1.4 Scope and Limitation of the Study

Scope of the Study

The scope focuses on the design and implementation of an online medicine

ordering system for the rural area in Plateau State Polytechnic.

1. Online platform development (web)

2. Pharmacy and healthcare provider integration.

3. Order management and logistics.

Limitation of the study

1. This study is limited to medicine available in licensed pharmaceutical

store in Plateau State Polytechnic Barkin Ladi Medicals

2. Due to time constraints, the software that is developed cover only few

features.

1.5 Justification of the Study

This project is significant because it addresses the critical issue of medicine

accessibility in Nigeria, particularly for rural and underserved populations. By

implementing an online medicine delivery system, the project seeks to:

 Reduce the barriers to obtaining essential medicines, especially for

patients in remote areas who cannot easily access pharmacies.

 The study will improved accessibility to medicines, enhanced patient

convenience, Increased medication adherence and reduced healthcare

costs

 Provide a convenient and efficient platform for ordering and delivering

medications, thus saving patients time and travel costs.

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Literature Review

2.1 Introduction
pharmaceutical sales have reached more than nearly $50 billion. This is a

dramatic increase when compared to the $1.9 billion in 1999. At the click of the

mouse, medications can be ordered and delivered conveniently to your door.

Internet has evolved into a self-organizing media, capable of multiple

interactions within Anand, A., Sethi, et al proposed a large number of

consumer products including drugs are being advertised and sold over the

Internet.

The most important objective of online remedy ordering gadget is to automate

the existing manual system with the assist of increase automated software so,

that treasured statistics can be stored for longer period with clean having access

to and manipulation of the identical. The registered user can get admission to

the account with valid credentials. User can surf the drugs gadgets consistent

with classes, Cart and online charge options are available to user. User

can tune their orders with the medicine info. In Online medicine

Ordering System Admin can deal with the functionalities like add new

medicinal drug objects, edit/delete medication items, Enable/Disable the

medicine objects in line with availability and their expiry dates. Admin have
authority to view order details and update the transport popularity of medicines.

The fee transaction and consumer information are also viewable to admin

This system propose an authentication scheme in which users can be

authenticated anonymously so long as times that they are authenticated is within

an allowable number. The proposed scheme has two features that allow

No one, not even an authority, identify users who have been authenticated

within the allowable number, and that allow anyone to trace, without help from

the authority, dishonest users who have been authenticated beyond the

allowable number by using the records of these authentications.

2.2 Overview of Existing Systems

Online medicine ordering systems have gained popularity in many parts of the

world due to their convenience and ability to streamline access to medications.

Globally, systems like NetMeds and PharmEasy (India), CVS Pharmacy

(USA), and LloydsPharmacy (UK) are well-known for their user-friendly

interfaces and comprehensive services. These platforms allow customers to

order both prescription and over-the-counter medications, upload prescriptions

for verification, and track deliveries. Their development has significantly

improved the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly in urban and

semi-urban settings.
NetMeds and PharmEasy, for example, have a large customer base in India

due to the convenience they offer in handling prescriptions online, managing

refills, and ensuring that customers have access to critical medications. These

platforms offer discounts, ensure timely deliveries, and integrate various

pharmaceutical products, including diagnostic services.

The implementation of an online can be identified as a solution for the

inconveniences, mismanagements and flaws involved in the ‘brick and mortar’

retail pharmacy process. (Keralli, 2018). A study identifies that a transparent E

Pharmacy process model allows both customers and pharmacist to perform

operation in an effective and uninterrupted manner. (Ashita S. Patil, 2019)

According to the study by Abhishek S Keralli, three major components are

found to be in a E Pharmacy application. A web based or mobile based

application which submits orders and prescriptions, a process which involves a

registered pharmacist to verify the prescription and a mechanism to forward

prescription to pharmacy store from where the items will be dispensed (Keralli,

2018).

Alamelu R, et al proposed that Online pharma retail is promising/ unpromising

avenue: In this era of science and technology, computer plays an important role

in community. Today, computer is so ubiquitous in pharmaceutical research and

development. The advent of the internet has had a significant impact on the
formation of an information-driven, rapid-paced society. The number of internet

users reached 150 million in only five years compared to 13 years for television

and 38 years for radio. Consumer expectation for access ,convenience, and

speed has made the cyberspace superhighway a medium for knowledge

exchange and for e-commerce. The internet offers a wide variety of health

services and products to healthcare professionals as well as to the public. Online

However, existing systems in developed countries operate under strict

regulatory frameworks, ensuring that customers receive genuine medicines,

proper prescriptions are verified, and data privacy is maintained. In contrast,

similar services in developing countries, particularly Nigeria, are still nascent,

and their adoption is limited by factors such as infrastructure, regulatory

enforcement, and economic disparities.

2.3 Challenges in Adapting Existing Systems to Nigeria

One of the biggest challenges facing the adoption of online medicine ordering

systems in Nigeria is the lack of infrastructure. A study by Eze (2020)

highlights that only about 30% of Nigerian pharmacies offer any form of online

services, and most are located in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port

Harcourt. As a result, rural areas, where the majority of the population resides,

are underserved. The lack of internet penetration, unreliable electricity, and

inadequate delivery logistics also make it difficult to implement an efficient

system nationwide.

2.4 Online Medicine Ordering Systems in Nigeria

In Nigeria, there are a few platforms attempting to provide online medicine

ordering services. Platforms like HealthPlus and DrugStoc have begun

offering limited forms of online medicine purchasing, mainly for customers in

urban areas. However, these platforms struggle with issues such as logistics for

last-mile delivery in rural areas, low user trust, and the high incidence of

counterfeit drugs in the Nigerian market.

Research by Oyebanji (2018) indicates, consumers are reluctant to use online

services due to fears of receiving substandard or counterfeit drugs. Additionally,

many rural users lack the digital literacy necessary to navigate these platforms

effectively. Hence, while these systems exist, they cater primarily to affluent

urban customers, leaving a significant portion of the Nigerian population

underserved.

Furthermore, platforms in Nigeria have not yet fully integrated with healthcare

professionals such as pharmacists and doctors. Ojo (2019) suggests that the lack

of a seamless connection between doctors, pharmacies, and patients in Nigeria

means that the prescription process is still largely manual, which complicates

the adoption of e-pharmacy solutions.

2.5 Trust and Counterfeit Issues

The Nigerian pharmaceutical sector is plagued with the problem of counterfeit

drugs, which accounts for a significant portion of medicines in circulation.

According to NAFDAC (2020), up to 17% of drugs in Nigeria are counterfeit.

This is a critical factor affecting user adoption of online systems. Users are

often hesitant to order medicines online due to the fear that they may receive

fake drugs.

To mitigate this issue, the proposed system will integrate a strong verification

process, ensuring that only certified pharmacies are listed on the platform.

Additionally, the platform will collaborate closely with regulatory bodies like

NAFDAC to ensure that only verified products are sold through the system.

2.6 Advantages and Disadvantages of Existing Systems

Advantages:

1. Convenience: Online ordering allows customers to place orders from

anywhere, eliminating the need to physically visit a pharmacy. This is

particularly helpful for patients with chronic illnesses who need regular

refills or individuals who have mobility constraints.

 2. 24/7 Availability: Unlike physical pharmacies that operate during

specific hours, online platforms are available round the clock, providing

access to essential medications at any time.

3. Access to a Wide Range of Medicines: Many pharmacies, especially

those in rural areas, may not stock a wide variety of medicines. Online

systems offer a broader catalog, allowing customers to find specific or

rare drugs.

4. Cost Savings: Online pharmacies often offer discounts and deals that

may not be available in physical pharmacies, giving consumers a

financial incentive to use these platforms.

2.6 Disadvantages:

1. Delivery Delays: In regions with poor road infrastructure, delivery times

can be unpredictable, causing delays in receiving essential medications.

2. Prescription Verification: Many online systems require users to upload

prescriptions, but the verification process is not always well-regulated.

This can result in the misuse of prescription drugs or errors in dispensing

medication.

3. Counterfeit Medications: The lack of stringent regulatory oversight in

some regions increases the risk of counterfeit drugs being sold through

online platforms, eroding user trust.

 4. Digital Divide: A significant portion of the population in Nigeria lacks

access to reliable internet services or smartphones, making it difficult for

them to use online systems.

2.7 Key Factors Influencing System Design

Cultural Factors:

Cultural beliefs in Nigeria deeply influence healthcare choices. In many rural

areas, traditional medicine remains the preferred choice of treatment, which

creates resistance to modern pharmaceutical methods, including online ordering

systems. Adesina (2019) found that a large portion of rural dwellers trust herbal

remedies more than pharmaceutical products, especially for non-life-threatening

ailments. As a result, the adoption of online platforms for medicine ordering

faces significant cultural resistance.

To overcome this, the system design needs to emphasize trust-building features

such as detailed information about the medicines, clear explanations of their

uses, and certifications from trusted bodies like NAFDAC.

Economic Factors

The economic status of consumers also affects their access to medicine.

Alemika (2020) reports that poverty limits the ability of many Nigerians to

afford essential medicines, let alone cover delivery costs. The proposed system

must therefore explore options like tiered pricing, partnerships with government
health initiatives, and perhaps installment payment plans for more expensive

medications.

Technological Factors:

Low internet penetration in rural areas remains a significant barrier. Eze (2020)

highlights that only 42% of Nigerians have access to reliable internet, with

much of that being concentrated in urban areas. This poses a challenge for

developing an online platform that will be widely accessible.

The proposed system will need to be optimized for low bandwidth

environments, with features that allow for offline ordering that syncs once an

internet connection is established. Moreover, a mobile-first approach is

essential, as most users in Nigeria access the internet via their smartphones.

2.7 Legal and Regulatory Framework

The sale of pharmaceuticals in Nigeria is regulated by NAFDAC (National

Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control), which is responsible

for ensuring that only safe, high-quality medicines are sold to the public.

However, Nigeria currently lacks specific regulations governing online

pharmacies, leaving the industry in a legal grey area.

Okoro (2020) argues that the absence of clear guidelines on the verification of

online prescriptions and sales of medicines hampers the growth of e-pharmacy

platforms. Without legal protection, both consumers and pharmacies remain

vulnerable to malpractice, such as the unauthorized sale of prescription

medicines. This legal gap will need to be addressed for online medicine

ordering systems to thrive. Therefore, any successful platform must strictly

adhere to existing pharmaceutical laws while advocating for the introduction of

comprehensive e-pharmacy regulations.

CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction

3.2 System Analysis

System analysis is a key part of the software development process, where

existing systems are studied to identify limitations, inefficiencies, and areas for
improvement. It also involves gathering the requirements for the proposed
system and designing a system that meets these needs effectively. System
analysis can also be seen to be the process of analyzing existing system with the
goal of improving or modifying it.
3.2.1 Analysis of Existing System and Design

Existing System Overview

An online medicine ordering system is an online based web application that

operates over the Internet and sends orders to customers through credit cards,
shipping companies, or pay on delivery system. People can buy and sell their
products sitting at home. It is getting popular day by day all over the world even
in domestic market space. The aim is to make the ordering process and delivery
systems of medicines much easier and customer-friendly. It’s very important to
make a user friendly environment. This section describes the basic structure of
the proposed system.

In Nigeria, most medicine purchases are still done through traditional physical
pharmacies. Although a few online platforms exist (such as HealthPlus), these
systems are generally limited to urban areas and suffer from operational
inefficiencies like:

1. Lack of real-time inventory tracking.

2. Delayed delivery times, especially in rural areas.
3. Weak prescription verification mechanisms.
4. Low user adoption due to a lack of trust in online pharmacies.

Limitations of Existing System:

1. User Accessibility: Most online platforms are not optimized for rural
users due to poor internet penetration and delivery logistics.
2. Trust Issues: Due to the prevalence of counterfeit drugs, users are
reluctant to trust online platforms for ordering medicines.
 3. Regulatory Challenges: Inadequate verification of prescriptions and
drugs leads to legal and safety concerns.

3.2.2 Proposed System

User can tune their orders with the medicine info. In Online medicine Ordering
System Admin can deal with the functionalities like add new medicinal drug
objects, edit/delete medication items, Enable/Disable the medicine objects in
line with availability and their expiry dates. Admin have authority to view order
details and update the transport popularity of medicines. The fee transaction and
consumer information are also viewable to admin.

The proposed system aims to address the limitations of existing systems by

creating a more reliable, accessible, and user-friendly online medicine ordering
platform, specifically designed for the Nigerian context. Key features include:

1. User Authentication and Prescription Verification: The system will

implement strict authentication protocols to ensure that users upload valid
prescriptions. The platform will integrate with government regulatory
bodies (such as NAFDAC) for drug verification.
2. Real-time Inventory Management: The system will allow pharmacies
to update their stock levels in real time, preventing users from ordering
out-of-stock items.
3. Mobile-Optimized Interface: To accommodate users in areas with low
internet penetration, the platform will be mobile-friendly and optimized
for low-bandwidth environments.

3.3 System Design

System design involves structuring the system's architecture, inputs, outputs,
database, and algorithms to ensure that the system is functional, efficient, and
meets user needs.

3.3.1 Input Design

Input design involves defining the methods and mechanism through which users
interact with the system to input data or command. The input design focuses on
how users will interact with the system, providing necessary information to
process their orders. In the context of this proposed online medicine ordering
system, the following key inputs include:
 1. User Registration Information: Users will be required to input personal
details such as name, contact information, and delivery address during
registration.
2. Prescription Upload: For prescription-required medicines, users must
upload a valid prescription in formats such as PDF or image.
3. Search Queries: Users will search for medicines through a search bar,
which will accept text inputs for medicine names or categories.
4. Order Details: Users must input order details, including quantity,
preferred delivery time, and payment method (cash on delivery, bank
transfer, etc.).

To ensure smooth input, the system will provide error messages and validation
prompts to guide users in filling in the correct information.

3.3.1 Output Design

Output design determines how data will be presented to the user. The key
outputs of the proposed system include:

1. Order Confirmation: After placing an order, users will receive

confirmation details, including the order summary, expected delivery
time, and tracking number.
2. Prescription Verification Status: Users will be notified whether their
uploaded prescription has been verified or if additional steps are required.
3. Delivery Tracking: Users can track the real-time status of their orders
through the system, ensuring transparency.

The output design focuses on clarity, ensuring that all notifications, summaries,
and tracking details are presented in an easy-to-understand format, especially
for users with low digital literacy.

3.3.2 System Architecture

 Figure No: 3.1 System Architecture

3.3.3 Use Case Diagram

DATA FLOW DIAGRAMS

CONTEXT LEVEL Request

Request
PLATEAU STATE
POLYTECHNIC
CUSTOMER
Response MEDICAL

Request
PLATEAU
STATE
Response
POLYTECHNIC
ADMINISTRATION
MEDICAL
 LEVEL –1 DATA FLOW DIAGRAM

Signup

PLATEAU STATE
POLYTECHNIC
Vendor User Id MEDICAL

Information Password

User Id

Password
Products

Information User Id
User Id
Password
Password
Order

Details Direct
Ordering
 LEVEL 2 DATA FLOW DIAGRAM

YES

Validation Display
Error Process Total

Customer ID
User
Information
Message
Customer Table
User
Information

Message
Registratio USER
n

FLOW CHART FOR LOGIN DETAILS

START

ACCEPT USER_ID AND

PASSWORD

Is the input
information
NO
valid?
DATABASE
YES

Display next choice

based on users choice

START
FLOW CHART FOR ADDING NEW PRODUCT

START

Generate The
Product Code

Accept The Prod_Code, Cat_Code,

And Vendor_Code

Valid
NO
information?

YES

Submit The
Information

STOP
FLOW CHART FOR PRODUCT SELECTION

START

Accept Product Code, Name Etc

VALID
INFORMATION?

Accept Product Code, Name Etc

Caalculate The Net Cost

Database

Place The Order

STOP
3.3.4 Database Design

The database design focuses on organizing and structuring the system's data to
ensure fast retrieval, secure storage, and ease of management. Key components
of the database include:

1. User Table: Stores user information such as user ID, name, contact
details, and delivery preferences.
2. Pharmacy Table: Stores information about partner pharmacies,
including pharmacy ID, name, location, and stock information.
3. Medicine Table: Contains records of available medicines, including
medicine name, category, price, prescription requirements, and expiration
dates.
4. Order Table: Logs order information, including order ID, user ID,
medicine ID, quantity, price, order status, and delivery tracking number.
5. Prescription Table: Stores uploaded prescriptions, linked to specific user
IDs and order IDs.

The database will be designed using a relational model to ensure efficient data
organization and retrieval, particularly for order management and prescription
verification.

Customer Table:
In this table all distributor (customer) related information are maintained.
Vendor Table:
In this table all the Categories under a vendor are maintained.
Category Table:
In this table all the Categories under a vendor are maintained.
Products Table:
In this table all the products information under different categories of a
particular vendor are maintained.
Discount Table:
In this table all product codes are their discount structures are stored.
Order Table:
In this table all the orders information put by the customers are
maintained.
Amount Table:
In this table the Customer id and the amount he billed are stored after
ordering.
Admin Login Table:
In this table the administration login and password information are stored.

TABLE: REGISTRATION/USER TABLE

FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS
CUSTOMER_ID VARCHAR2 PRIMARY KEY
USER_NAME VARCHAR2 UNIQUE
PASSWORD VARCHAR2
DISTR_NAME VARCHAR2
ADDRESS VARCHAR2
CITY VARCHAR2
STATE VARCHAR2
COUNTRY VARCHAR2
REGION VARCHAR2
EMAIL VARCHAR2
PHONE NUMBER
FAX NUMBER

TABLE: CATEGORY
FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS
VENDOR_CODE VARCHAR2
CATEGORY_CODE VARCHAR2 PRIMARY KEY
CATEGORY_NAME VARCHAR2
TABLE: PRODUCT

FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS

VENDOR_CODE VARCHAR2
CATEGORY_CODE VARCHAR2
PRODUCT_CODE VARCHAR2 PRIMARY KEY
PRODUCT_NAME VARCHAR2
UNIT_COST NUMBER
TAX NUMBER
DESCRIPTION VARCHAR2
DISCOUNT NUMBER
MIN_QUANTITY NUMBER
TABLE: LOGIN

FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS

USER_NAME VARCHAR2 PRIMARY KEY
PASSWORD VARCHAR2

TABLE: ORDER
FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS
CUSTOMER_ID VARCHAR2 PRIMARY KEY
PRODUCT_CODE VARCHAR2
QUANTITY_ORDERED NUMBER
UNIT_COST NUMBER
NET_COST NUMBER
ORDER_DATE DATE
PAYMENT_MODE VARCHAR2
TABLE: VENDOR
FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS
VENDOR_CODE VARCHAR2 PRIMARY KEY
VENDOR_NAME VARCHAR2
ADDRESS VARCHAR2

TABLE: AMOUNT
FIELD NAME DATA TYPE CONSTRAINTS
CUSTOMER_ID VARCHAR2
AMOUNT NUMBER
DATE DATE

3.4 Algorithm

The system will use several algorithms to perform key functions:

1. Medicine Search Algorithm: An optimized search algorithm will enable

users to quickly find the medicines they need. This algorithm will rank
search results based on relevance, availability, and pharmacy proximity.
2. Prescription Verification Algorithm: Once a prescription is uploaded,
the system will automatically verify it by checking against a predefined
list of required drugs and accepted medical practices. The algorithm will
flag any inconsistencies for manual review by a pharmacist.
3. Delivery Optimization Algorithm: The system will assign delivery
routes based on user location, pharmacy proximity, and real-time traffic
data, ensuring that users receive their medicines in the shortest time
possible.

3.5 Adopted Programming Language

The development of the system will involve using modern web and mobile
application technologies. The following programming languages and
frameworks will be used:
3.5.1 PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor)

PHP is a powerful server-side scripting language widely used for developing

dynamic web applications. In this system, PHP is adopted for backend
functionality, processing data from user inputs, handling form submissions, and
connecting to the database to retrieve or store information. PHP's integration
with databases like MySQL makes it ideal for applications requiring data
persistence, such as an online reporting system. The language also offers several
built-in functions that simplify complex operations, such as data validation,
session handling, and encryption. PHP's flexibility and compatibility with
various servers make it an excellent choice for managing the system's logic and
server-side operations.

3.5.2. HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)

HTML is the foundational markup language for creating the structure and
layout of web pages. In the crime reporting system, HTML is used to define the
structure of each page, including forms for users to submit reports, pages to
view report details, and interfaces for police officers to review assigned cases.
HTML elements like <form>, <input>, <button>, and <table> make it
possible to create interactive and structured pages. HTML ensures that all
content on the website is organized and accessible, providing a solid framework
that is styled with CSS and made interactive with JavaScript.

3.5.3 CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)

CSS is used to control the presentation and visual styling of HTML elements,
allowing for a polished, user-friendly interface. In this system, CSS is employed
to style form fields, buttons, navigation bars, and layout grids, giving the
application a cohesive look and feel. CSS enables the design to be responsive,
ensuring that users on various devices (desktops, tablets, and smartphones) have
an optimized experience. It also allows customization of elements based on user
interaction, such as highlighting active buttons, providing visual feedback, and
enhancing readability, all of which are essential in a professional reporting
system.
3.5.4. SQL (Structured Query Language)

SQL is the standard language for managing and interacting with relational
databases. In this crime reporting system, SQL is used to handle all data-related
operations, including data storage, retrieval, updates, and deletions within the
database. SQL queries facilitate the fetching of crime report records, assigning
officers, and tracking report statuses. The language enables complex data
operations, such as joining multiple tables (e.g., linking crime reports with
officer information) and filtering reports based on specific criteria (e.g., status
or date). SQL's robustness ensures the database is well-managed, efficient, and
secure, making it essential for storing sensitive user and report data securely.

3.5.5. JavaScript

JavaScript is a versatile, client-side scripting language that enables interactivity

and real-time functionality on web pages. In the crime reporting system,
JavaScript enhances user experience by validating input fields before form
submission, providing instant feedback (e.g., confirming successful
submission), and allowing dynamic content updates without reloading the page.
JavaScript frameworks, such as jQuery, can also be used to simplify code and
add effects or animations, enhancing user engagement. Moreover, JavaScript is
vital in implementing AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) for smooth
data communication between the client and server, allowing users to receive
real-time updates on their reports without needing a page refresh.

3.6 System Requirements

The proposed system will require certain hardware and software specifications
to function optimally.

3.6.1 Hardware Requirements

The Hardware of the computer consists of physical component such as Input

Devices, Storage Devices, Processing & Control units and Output Devices.
Computer includes external storage unit to store data in programs.

The Hardware Configuration involved in this project

 System : core i5
  Hard Disk : 500 GB.
 Monitor : 15 inch VGA Color.
 Mouse : Logitech Mouse.
 Ram : 6 GB
 Keyboard : Standard Keyboard

3.6.3 Software Requirements

1. Operating System: The server should run on a Linux-based operating

system (e.g., Ubuntu) for better performance and security.
2. Database Software: MySQL or PostgreSQL for managing system data.
3. Development Environment: Integrated Development Environments
(IDEs) such as Visual Studio Code for coding.
4. Web Browsers: The platform should be compatible with all major web
browsers (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge).

The system will be designed to be lightweight, minimizing resource

consumption on client devices, while the server-side infrastructure will ensure
reliability and scalability.