04.10.2024
Blog
eCabs Technologies
The innovator’s dilemma: Legacy taxi operators vs Uber
The last of the taxi roof lights are flickering out, and their once-buzzing dispatchers’ radios are falling silent. Across Europe and beyond, long-standing legacy taxi operations face a formidable challenger: ride-hailing applications like Bolt and Uber are sweeping through every market, in every jurisdiction, gobbling up riders and drivers alike. Contrary to what you might read elsewhere, legacy taxi businesses do not face an uncertain future. They face a clear and inevitable reality: ride-hailing is here to stay. The critical question as the rides industry continues to grow year-on-year is not if traditional taxi businesses will survive but who will take the largest slice of the pie: disruptors or traditional operators? The dangers of complacency Fifteen years ago, eCabs was born as a traditional dial-a-cab business. Like most legacy taxi businesses, we manually registered bookings and dispatched rides from our bookings office. I remember those days—passengers queuing outside our dispatch centre after a night out, drivers waiting idly for their turn to be called on the tannoy. However, we founded eCabs with the intent to digitize our rides service. We built our own digital platform, on bare metal infrastructure, with all the complications that come with it. We’ve experienced the tricky transition from one system to another—patches upon patches, and late-night scrambling to get back online. All the while, we were competing against the largest ride-hailing platform in the region, Bolt. Over the years, I’ve learned that disruption can come in pitter-patter, showers, or torrential downpours. In Malta, it was a deluge. After Bolt, came Uber. Today, eCabs is the only locally grown ride-hailing operation in its home market, with other businesses in different jurisdictions running on our platform. This success stems from our continuous investment in our digital offering, from partnering with global leaders like the Google Maps Mobility Platform to headhunting talent from leading ride-hailing tech players. Facing the real threat What we’ve learned is that the greatest threat traditional taxi businesses face today isn’t innovation and disruption; it’s the temptation to ignore transformative change. The danger is in burying heads in the sand, hoping ride-hailing tech will simply go away. Take it from me—it won’t. These giants are coming for the traditional taxi businesses, and the answer isn’t in ignoring the change but embracing it. Legacy operators must become disruptors themselves if they want to survive. Harvard Business School professor Clayton Christensen introduced the concept of the Innovator’s Dilemma in 1997, explaining how established companies often focus on sustaining innovations—incremental improvements to existing products—at the expense of recognizing disruptive innovations on the horizon. These major changes may initially serve niche markets, but they have the power to redefine entire industries. For legacy taxi businesses, the disruption came in the form of ride-hailing apps. Ignoring these innovations is a recipe for obsolescence. As Uber’s own CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said nearly seven years ago: “If you don’t disrupt yourself, someone else will.” How to fight back Digital transformation isn’t a button you press; it’s a process. What eCabs has developed isn’t just a white-label patch for legacy businesses trying to add a digital component to their service. We’ve packed 15 years of hands-on industry expertise into a platform built from real-world experience—competing against global ride-hailing giants, managing fleets, developing data-driven rider marketing campaigns, and educating policymakers. This isn’t a first aid kit for traditional businesses; it’s a journey for operators who want to become regional leaders in mobility. Because make no mistake, global ride-hailing platforms aren’t coming for a piece of the pie—they want the entire thing. By Matthew Bezzina, eCabs Technologies CEO Matthew Bezzina will be a key speaker at the upcoming Start-Up Festival in Malta. The festival brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and enthusiasts to explore cutting-edge technologies, disruptive business models, and groundbreaking solutions. A highlight is the “Dream Big Malta” panel, celebrating the achievements of individuals from Malta excelling in international business, professions, or sports. The original article may be found here.
03.10.2024
Blog
Tech Blog
Behind the code: innovative minds, seamless rides
Explore the story, challenges, and solutions ‘behind the code’ with eCabs Technologies’ Backend Team Lead. What are the main responsibilities of a backend developer in your team? Working in backend development at eCabs, I focus on designing, developing, and maintaining our server-side logic and databases. I write clean, efficient, and reusable code to ensure seamless platform operation. My day-to-day involves collaboration, code reviews, mentoring, and optimising for performance, scalability, and security. I also troubleshoot and stay updated with industry trends to implement cutting-edge solutions. How does your team’s work contribute to fulfilling eCabs’ mission and improving transportation services? My team’s work is pivotal in fulfilling eCabs’ mission. We focus on backend infrastructure, ensuring it’s robust and aligned with company goals. By delivering high-quality, scalable solutions, we provide a seamless user experience, revolutionising transportation services. Our emphasis on code quality and performance optimisation positions us for long-term success and growth. Can you share a specific project that you are proud of, and what challenges you faced during its implementation? One project that I’m particularly proud of is our multi-tenancy transition. Initially, our operations were exclusive to Malta, but this project marked a significant leap in our expansion strategy. It allowed us to extend our technology into both Greece and Romania, opening up numerous exciting possibilities for the future. However, this transition came with its fair share of challenges. Adapting our platform for multi-tenancy required a meticulous approach. We needed to ensure that each city partner could seamlessly and securely access their data and services while maintaining optimal performance and reliability across all regions. What strategies and actions did you take to tackle these challenges? To tackle these challenges, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of our existing infrastructure. This informed our strategy for implementing multi-tenancy, which involved an almost complete redesign of our backend architecture, optimisation of database schemas, and the establishment of robust access control mechanisms. Additionally, we put in place rigorous testing protocols to validate the scalability and security of the system. The successful execution of this transition not only expanded our operational reach but also positioned us for further growth and expansion into new markets. It stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise of our team in overcoming complex challenges and achieving strategic objectives. Can you describe the technologies and tools you use in your tech stack for backend development? As a backend developer, the arsenal of technologies at my disposal is diverse and tailored to meet the specific needs of our platform. Our tech stack is finely tuned to ensure the efficiency, scalability, and robustness of our services. For legacy services, Java 8 remains an essential component of our toolset, allowing us to maintain stability and support for existing systems. For newer services, we adopted Java 17, leveraging its cutting-edge features to build innovative solutions that align with industry best practices. How do you ensure scalability in your tech mobility platform, and what role do cloud-native architecture and microservices play in this? Frameworks play a pivotal role in our development process. Spring Boot is a cornerstone, enabling rapid application development and seamless integration with various components. Additionally, we’ve embraced Quarkus, harnessing its lightweight and reactive architecture to further enhance the performance of our applications. In terms of databases, we rely on Postgres for its reliability and robust feature set. For more specialised data requirements, we have integrated MongoDB, offering flexibility and scalability for specific use cases. As for message queuing and communication, we utilise RabbitMQ to facilitate asynchronous communication between different parts of our system. We also leverage pubsub mechanisms to ensure real-time updates and notifications. Containerisation and orchestration are fundamental to our deployment strategy. Kubernetes forms the backbone of our container orchestration, providing a scalable and resilient environment for our services. This, in conjunction with our cloud infrastructure, is hosted on Google Cloud Platform (GCP), ensuring a secure and performant environment for our applications. In essence, our tech stack is a carefully curated blend of proven technologies and innovative solutions. It allows us to deliver a high-performance platform while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to evolving industry standards and user demands. How do cloud-native architecture and microservices contribute to this scalability? Scalability is central to our tech mobility platform. We adopt cloud-native architecture and microservices, allowing us to independently scale components based on demand. Auto-scaling and horizontal scaling ensure seamless handling of increased user activity. Rigorous testing and load balancing fine-tune performance. Our team continuously explores emerging tech to enhance scalability. Our development process thrives on effective collaboration. Working closely with product managers, designers, frontend developers and mobile developers, I ensure a clear understanding of project goals. Continuous communication, including stand-up meetings and design reviews, keeps us aligned. With frontend and mobile developers, we establish seamless integration and troubleshoot together. Knowledge-sharing and cross-training further enhance our collective expertise, leading to high-quality solutions. In the rapidly evolving field of software development, what steps do you take to stay updated with emerging technologies and industry trends? Continuous learning is fundamental in software development. Staying updated with emerging technologies is imperative. In the dynamic field of software development, complacency is not an option. Keeping pace with emerging technologies is crucial. Recent breakthroughs such as serverless architectures and widespread Kubernetes adoption have reshaped how we develop and deploy. This adaptability ensures our solutions remain cutting-edge. Our development process thrives on effective collaboration. Working closely with product managers, designers, frontend developers and mobile developers, I ensure a clear understanding of project goals.eCabs Technologies Backend Team Lead Burak Aykan Ürer Embracing microservices empowers rapid response to changing demands. A steadfast focus on observability and stringent security safeguards system reliability and data integrity. The commitment to continuous learning not only enhances our capabilities but also leads to innovative and effective software solutions. In the fast-paced, competitive market of ride-hailing, sustaining innovation and agility is pivotal. We actively seek customer feedback and foster a culture of experimentation. Agile methodologies empower us to swiftly adapt to changing needs. Additionally, we keep a vigilant eye on industry trends and invest in ongoing learning. This comprehensive approach ensures we stay at the forefront of development, remaining both competitive and responsive to our customer base. What advice would you offer to aspiring backend developers entering the tech mobility industry I would advise aspiring backend developers looking to enter the tech mobility industry to focus on a few key areas. Firstly, mastering core backend technologies is crucial. This forms the foundation of your technical prowess. Additionally, familiarise yourself with cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud, as they’re integral for creating scalable and reliable infrastructure. Understanding microservices architecture is equally important, as it allows for flexibility and scalability in complex systems. APIs are a cornerstone in mobility services, so becoming proficient in designing and working with them is essential. Given the sensitive nature of user data, prioritising knowledge of data security, encryption, and privacy regulations is paramount. Lastly, remember that continuous learning is non-negotiable. The tech industry is ever evolving, so staying curious and open to adopting new tools and frameworks is imperative. This combination of technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for learning will undoubtedly pave the way for success in the tech mobility industry. By Burak Aykan Ürer, eCabs Technologies Backend Team Lead
02.10.2024
Blog
Recruitment
6 top tips for a successful relocation
When it comes to successful relocation planning, you need to start early and organise yourself well. Here are some important steps that may be of help. Make a project plan As soon as you have determined the date when you will be making your move, go ahead and book a removal company if you need one. They tend to get booked up very fast, so they may not be able to help you on the day that you need them if you are not careful. It is also wise to make a relocation budget, and stick to it as much as you can. If you are moving overseas, now is the time to book the mode of transport you will be using to get to your final destination. Make a to-do list One key to a successful move is keeping organised. Write out a to-do list and tick off the tasks you complete. Not only will this make your life easier, but it will also give you a feeling of satisfaction that you are on the way to reaching your goal. Things to put on your list include: Key dates for when you need to complete your tasks. Items you need to help you pack including boxes, tape etc. What you are going to take with you / trash / recycle / donate. Important documents and paperwork you require. Services and subscriptions you need to cancel or redirect. Check in with your moving company If you have booked a moving company to help you carry or store your belongings, it is a good idea to check in with them a few days before your moving date to make sure all is well. Also make sure to check that they will be there on the reserved day and at the right time. You don’t want any nasty surprises on the day. Always have a Plan B to ensure a successful relocation In life, things rarely go exactly to plan. So, it is important to have a ‘Plan B’ just in case. In this way, when things go wrong (and they invariably will), try not to panic and do be flexible. If you have an alternative plan, you can be safe in the knowledge that you can salvage your day/time/money. Take care of children and pets Moving is always a tense experience to a certain extent. Even more so if children or animals are involved. Big events such as moving can make them stressed or worried, so do try and make their experience as easy and pleasant as possible. On moving day, try to get someone else to take care of them, so you can concentrate fully on the move. Research your new home for a successful relocation experience Finally, do some homework on the country you are moving to well before you leave. It is a great idea to learn about things like the weather, language, culture, and customs so you have an idea of what to expect when you arrive to start your exciting new life and start to meet new people. If you are working onsite, you should also research where the office building is, and how best to get there, so you are not late or flustered on your first day of work. Are you thinking of moving abroad for work and have the skills we need? Check out our current job openings here.
01.10.2024
Blog
eCabs Technologies
A journey of personal growth and success
Personal growth is very important to me. And I count myself fortunate that the field I work in is conducive to pushing boundaries and fueling creativity. My fascination with people and their dynamics drives me to work towards finding solutions that can enhance the quality of experiences for both customers and businesses. This gives me a sense of purpose in my professional endeavours. Outside of work, my most important role is being a mother to two young and lively boys. They keep me happily occupied in my free time, and I cherish every moment spent with them. I have also actively pursued further education through various courses and engaged in diverse projects. These experiences have enriched my skillset and allowed me to contribute effectively to different challenges. As far as my career trajectory goes, I had worked as a Business Analyst since 2016, three of those years in a Scrum environment at eCabs. The company then offered me the possibility to move on to a Product Owner role smoothly and naturally. Nowadays, I am responsible for defining the vision for the product with our key stakeholders. One thing that I like – and feel is essential in my role – is to understand and anticipate our users’ needs. So, I can evaluate and prioritise product features and goals. I truly believe my commitment to understanding customer needs and feedback here at eCabs has allowed me to contribute to my professional and personal growth. Learning as I go Scrum allows the team to work in small iterations. This helps the product to be built in an incremental approach, as we adapt to changes to return maximum value. This enables us to handle multiple projects concurrently. One of my main tasks is evaluating the product progress at each iteration, as well as planning for the next one, based on the priority assigned. So as a Product Owner I do not need to know all requirements in advance. Instead, I must take decisions to prioritise any backlog. My fascination with people and their dynamics drives me to work towards finding solutions that can enhance the quality of experiences for both customers and businesses.eCabs Technologies Product Owner Stephanie Portanier Mifsud Our teams are very lucky to have a leadership team that is very approachable, supportive, and willing to support us through their invaluable and rare industry experience. They provide us with the individual space for all team members to be able to learn and excel in our roles. I learn as I go along through continuous collaboration with my team. In this way, I can make the decisions and priorities to continue developing the right product for the business and stakeholders. Pride and satisfaction As a technology company that benefits from the wealth of knowledge that has been garnered over 13 years of operational experience, we are eager to bring our expertise and powerful technology platform to investors and operators alike as we venture into new territories. Our decision to explore new markets was driven by the rising demand for our services. As well as a strong belief in the huge potential of our software offering. My team and I have had the benefit of being able to rapidly push and test new product features onto the hyper-competitive local market, and then take those learnings and wins to our foreign partners. We are proud and eager to bring our expertise and innovative solutions to a wider audience and make a positive impact on their lives and businesses. I feel my journey and commitment to understanding customer needs and feedback has allowed me to contribute substantially to eCabs’ products. I cannot wait to see operations in the new markets scale! Do you have the skills required to join Stephanie in eCabs Technologies’ super Product team? Check out our openings here. By eCabs Technologies Product Owner Stephanie Portanier Mifsud
30.09.2024
Blog
Internationalisation
To sell or not to sell – that is the question
eCabs Technologies’ commitment to a solution-oriented sales approach has been one of the driving forces behind its success. eCabs Technologies: A product-oriented approach to success The ride-hailing industry is a crowded space, filled with giants vying for your attention. At eCabs Technologies , we understand that simply offering another product isn’t enough. We are not just here to sell you software. We’re here to work with you, and provide you with our market-leading solution born from our cutting-edge ‘mobility laboratory‘. But what truly sets us apart? We don’t just sell, we partner. Instead of bombarding you with generic sales pitches, we take a solution-oriented approach. This means we dive deep into your specific needs and challenges. We become an extension of your team, understanding your business from the inside out. Embracing a solution-oriented mindset Our cutting-edge mobility laboratory isn’t just a fancy term. It’s a hub of innovation where we continuously refine and perfect our platform to stay ahead of the curve. This ensures that when you partner with eCabs Technologies, you’re not just getting a solution. You’re getting a platform built for the future, playbooks on how to operate your business, alongside our 14 years of operational experience. We’re perfectly attuned to the dynamic needs of the ride-hailing market. But here’s the best part: we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We have designed our platform to be customisable, allowing us to seamlessly adapt it to your unique business goals and challenges. Your success is our success. And we’re committed to providing you with the tools and support you need to thrive in the ever-evolving ride-hailing landscape. Beyond structured meetings: building genuine connections We understand that building genuine relationships goes beyond formal sales meetings. We actively seek out opportunities to engage with potential clients in informal settings, fostering a sense of connection and trust. While we are based in Malta, which has become a proven testbed for mobility products, our city partners are based in mainland Europe. For us this means that we’re constantly educating, advocating and championing mobility through digital channels. Nurturing genuine relationships, through channels such as LinkedIn, is critical in ensuring that we can continuously share our findings and learnings in the mobility industry and guide potential city partners to the right solution. Delving into the client’s world eCabs Technologies goes beyond superficial understanding; we strive to gain a deep appreciation of our partners’ businesses. Proper exploration, and applying the appropriate framework is imperative, to ensure that we can accurately map out your requirements and align them to our solutions. Additionally, studying our partners’ operations, understanding their unique context, and being able empathise with the challenges they face. By becoming intimately acquainted with our City Partners’ business through on-site visits, we can tailor solutions that are truly aligned with their goals and objectives. The power of knowledge transfer We recognise the value of education and knowledge sharing in building trust and establishing credibility. We actively educate potential clients about the ride-hailing industry, highlighting industry trends, best practices, and the latest technology advancements. When we launch in a city, we share a refined launch ‘Playbook’ with our City Partners, to ensure a successful launch from the get-go. Our knowledge transfer goes beyond the ride-hailing platform and the operations. The eCabs Technologies Expansion Team will guide you weekly on the industry fundamentals, and emerging trends, and take on product feedback. In the background, we continue iterating on our products to ensure that our partners can stay ahead of the curve in any city that they choose to operate in. This comes from our over 14 years of experience, from operations through to software development. By equipping you with the knowledge and insights to make industry-informed business decisions, we go beyond offering software. eCabs Technologies, as your partner in innovation, leverages our cutting-edge ‘mobility laboratory’ to tailor solutions that empower your success. We believe in your journey to success, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. The proof of our expertise eCabs Technologies’ success is not just talk. It is backed by our partners and case studies. These demonstrate the tangible impact of our software platform on client businesses. From enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction to driving profitability and expanding market reach, the features within eCabs’ ride-hailing solution have proven their value across a diverse range of industries and clients – enabling a ride-hailing operator to take on more than just dial-a-cab bookings. In addition to our commitment to your success with eCabs, our ride-hailing solution is a scalable and adaptable platform without upfront software costs. Case study: eCabs Technologies and Malta’s taxi industry In Malta, eCabs has played a pivotal role in transforming the taxi industry since 2010. By understanding the specific needs of local taxi drivers and operators, and taking on national stakeholder feedback, it developed a software platform that streamlined operations, enhanced customer satisfaction, and boosted profitability across the board. This success has earned eCabs Technologies a reputation as a trusted partner in Malta’s ride-hailing landscape. Our solution-oriented approach has proven to be a winning formula. Enabling our City Partners to build strong partnerships within their local communities and the European Union. By prioritising understanding, knowledge transfer, and genuine connection, eCabs Technologies has established itself as a trusted advisor and a true solutions provider for the ride-hailing industry. Together, let’s not only shape the future of ride-hailing but also a sustainable future. eCabs Technologies is here to walk the talk and partner with you on your journey forward.
27.09.2024
Blog
Mobility
The future of transportation? Understanding Mobility as a Service
In this blog post, we discuss what Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is. We also touch upon its key features, and why it is essential for the future of transportation. Table of contents What exactly is Mobility as a Service? Democratising access to mobility Key features and benefits Who is driving MaaS adoption? ‘Fast-paced’ has become an understated adjective in today’s world. People are not only constantly on the move, but the speed of getting from A to B has become an invaluable currency. Transportation is an integral and essential part of our daily lives. New technologies and service providers have created the concept of Mobility as a Service (MaaS). MaaS has the potential to transform the way we move, making it easier, cheaper, and more convenient for everyone. The state of transportation today The transportation sector is currently a major source of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. These emissions have negative consequences for public health and the environment. Moreover, traffic congestion is a major problem in many cities. This results in lost productivity, increased travel time, and increased fuel consumption. The future of transportation needs to be more efficient, sustainable, and accessible to all. What exactly is Mobility as a Service? Mobility as a Service is a concept that integrates various modes of transportation. It allows its users to make their journey planning easier. It does this by allowing them to plan, book, and pay for multiple types of modes of transportation through a digital single payment channel. MaaS offers travellers mobility solutions based on their needs, combining transportation services from both public and private transportation providers. The service is backed by a unified gateway that creates and handles the trip end to end. Users can then pay for the service via a single account. The MaaS ecosystem is made up of several stakeholders, including transportation providers, technology providers, and service integrators. The service integrator is responsible for aggregating transportation services and making them available to users through a single platform. Democratising access to mobility eCabs International Business Development Manager Ruslan Golomovzy explains that Mobility as a Service is the first step towards democratising access to mobility for all, across all modes of transport – through technology. “The integration of various transport modes – public transport, ride-sharing, bike-sharing, car-sharing and private cabs – into a technology offering that is intuitive has been a revolutionary approach to tackling the dominance of the private car and freeing up cities to be used by people, not vehicles.” We can consider that there are four key aspects to MaaS: Convenience Sustainability Costs Access “Access to mobility is about generating smiles, not miles. It has to be convenient for the end user and create options in how they choose to travel. MaaS must be sustainable through alternative transportation and compete with the use cases of private vehicles. Cost savings should come from optimisation of the various types of transport and providing flexibility for the end-user in planning their routes based on the associated costs. Finally, the accessibility of MaaS through technology allows underserved areas to have equal exposure to the MaaS revolution.” The democratisation of mobility, alongside the environmental impacts, leads to healthier societies. It also gives rise to better use of the existing infrastructure and the development of more efficient mobility, namely in the micro mobility sphere. Key features and benefits One of the key benefits of MaaS is convenience. With a single digital channel, users can plan, book, and pay for multiple types of transportation in a single process. MaaS also offers travellers the ability to compare transportation options and make informed decisions about their journeys. A MaaS journey planner can provide different options for getting from one destination to another. For instance, one could combine using public transport and a train. MaaS provides access to real-time data about transportation options, allowing travellers to make informed decisions about their journeys. MaaS also offers travellers cost savings, as they can pay for transportation services through a single account. Access to mobility is about generating smiles, not miles. It has to be convenient for the end user and create options in how they choose to travel. eCabs International Business Development Manager Ruslan Golomovzy Another key benefit of MaaS is that it can help to reduce the number of private cars on the road. This is because the economic benefit of owning a personal car may be questioned in favour of more reasonably priced on-demand car services. “Say you buy a private car for extreme case use (the three yearly trips you do to London). This means that it spends more time parked than being used. Then take into consideration the resources required to build the very same vehicle and how those resources could be reallocated to the development and integration of more effective modes of mobility, not to mention natural resources,” Ruslan says. MaaS can also improve mobility for those who do not have access to a car or who are unable to drive. It provides a more accessible and affordable alternative to traditional transportation options, significantly reducing the cost of transportation for individuals and families. This can benefit low-income households and those with disabilities. The challenges of implementing MaaS Although MaaS has the potential to transform the way we move around our cities, it also presents a number of challenges. There are many different modes of transportation, each with their own set of providers, regulations, and payment systems. Integrating all of these modes into a single platform is a difficult task that requires collaboration and coordination between various stakeholders. Another challenge is the need for interoperability between different transportation services. Ensuring a seamless transition between two or more services can be challenging, as each service may have its own payment system and user interface. Moreover, since MaaS involves the collection and processing of large amounts of personal data, there is the need for strong data privacy and security measures. Who is driving MaaS adoption? For mass MaaS adoption to work, Ruslan stresses, stakeholders must realise that while the private car has been around for the last 120 years, with our cities redesigned and built for the private car, this is no longer feasible. Shoehorning a massive societal change in a shorter timeframe is not possible without government involvement, from a regulatory and infrastructural point of view. “Cities need to plan and develop mobility frameworks that enable MaaS providers to frictionlessly deploy and provide their services to share/gather user data and create a feedback loop with the government to consult and guide on future infrastructural developments. From a B2C standpoint, it is predominantly the under-35s who are driving MaaS adoption. We’re not seeing adoption by the older generation. Furthermore, corporate entities need to be thinking about implementing mobility policies internally to take advantage of the benefits of MaaS and can start doing so by going through a checklist on how to implement a mobility budget.”
26.09.2024
Blog
Tech Blog
Sticking to what works in ride-hailing apps
What places eCabs Technologies’ App amongst the best ride-hailing apps in the world today? Modern-day applications are user-centric. We are no exception to the rule. Instead of reinventing the wheel, we’ve applied our extensive learnings and experience to ensure a standardised seamless in-app experience. The landscape of digital interfaces is constantly evolving. Yet there is something to be said for adhering to what users are familiar with. Especially in the fast-paced world of ride-hailing apps. In our pursuit to design the optimal user experience, we’ve settled on a few key principles that drive our decision-making. Seamless and intuitive experience We prioritise a seamless UX/UI that reduces friction for users. Instead of trying to be overly innovative, we believe in building upon what users are already accustomed to in ride-hailing application layouts. This approach ensures an intuitive and natural experience for our end user. This ensures that customers can easily adopt the eCabs app wherever our technology is deployed without encountering any steep learning curves. Consistent movement and action Just as you would expect a book to open from the side rather than the top, or a door to swing, app functionalities should follow familiar patterns. At eCabs Technologies, we respect the ‘mental muscle memory’ users develop over time. Replicating existing movements means users won’t be caught off guard or feel the need to learn a new way to navigate an app. This also contributes to reducing drop-offs and increasing conversions. Reduced cognitive load Every second counts when you are trying to book a ride. By reducing the thinking time and effort required to use our app, we’re ensuring that you can book a cab swiftly and without hassle. Additionally, this ensures that your end customers reduce ‘toggling’, between other ride-hailing platforms. When users intuitively know what to do next, they stage engaged. In essence, our design philosophy is to make the eCabs Technologies experience so smooth and effortless that it becomes the go-to choice when you need to book a cab, every single time. Are we right? By eCabs Technologies UX/UI Designer Kristen Jim Albuquerque
25.09.2024
Blog
eCabs Technologies
It takes experience to fix the user experience
When it comes to learning the ropes, nothing really beats hands-on experience. But what if you grab that experience and couple it with innovative tech, and a team of gifted engineers? That’s where the magic happens. To me, that’s what sets eCabs Technologies apart from other ride-hailing and taxi platforms. It’s a technology company that also has years of real-world, hands-on industry expertise. eCabs Technologies embraced the power of emerging technology and built on more than a decade of real-life experience. “You just can’t fake that kind of experience” Thirteen years ago, when I was in my early 20s, one of my first part-time jobs was driving cabs – with eCabs. And I cut my teeth working at our first operations centre smack in the middle of St Julian’s, Malta’s busiest urban centre. Picking up customers, dropping them off, taking booking reservations, and working around traffic flows and people’s lifestyles. It taught me a lot about the realities of this industry. I learnt what it means to get stuck in traffic because you aren’t sure about the best route. Or how peak passenger numbers change depending on a whole range of factors – like is it the middle of summer? Are you on the West or East coast? Is the area you’re driving through urban or suburban? This was at a time when mobile data was prohibitively expensive and mapping apps were practically inexistent. And I’m not alone. Key members of the eCabs Technologies leadership teams were also there at the beginning of this journey. You just can’t fake that kind of experience. Because when it comes down to it, you need to know how something works if you’re going to have any chance of fixing it. Our job is to continuously refine our tech offering, making our product smarter, faster, and more user-friendly for all our users – whether that’s riders, drivers, and now also our city partners.eCabs Technologies Head of Product Marvin Briffa As an aside, eCabs Technologies is also the kind of company that believes in personal growth. Over the years I furthered my education, studying business administration at prestigious European universities – this was possible in no small part to the support and encouragement I received from eCabs. Going global Today, as Head of Product, I work with a team of business analysts, product owners, product managers, UI UX designers, talented engineers and gifted data crunchers. Our job is to continuously refine our tech offering, making our product smarter, faster, and more user-friendly for all our users – whether that’s riders, drivers, and now also our city partners. And when we’re not fine-tuning our existing offering, we’re creating new products to enrich our suite too. Taking our tech solutions and industry know-how to new jurisdictions is the next step in this journey. At eCabs Technologies , we know how to help traditional taxi operations transition and embrace the solutions that tech offers the mobility sector. We know this because we’ve already done it. We know the teething problems and growing pains – like the resistance to embrace new technology or the fear that that tech is out to get them. We’ve been there. We’ve also learnt what it’s like to re-educate a market. One that’s used to thinking of mobility and transport in set ways. But those ways are increasingly less compatible with contemporary lifestyles. And another thing: This isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each city has its own requirements – its own particular reality. That’s why our team includes product owners and development teams from diverse backgrounds and cultures that are dedicated to creating new city-specific features. We’re taking our tech global, and we’re pumped! By Marvin Briffa, Head of Product and Operations, eCabs Technologies
24.09.2024
Blog
Recruitment
Want to relocate to Malta? eCabs Technologies can help!
This blog will set out why it makes sense to relocate to Malta with eCabs Technologies to further your tech career. It will also give you some useful information and links. Helping new team members from all over the world to settle down is important to us. The eCabs Technologies Recruitment team provides all our new team members coming from overseas with the assistance necessary to make a smooth transition. This helps them settle down as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Relocation made easy Starting a new job is always an adventure. And when you do it in a new country, it is even more exciting. And sometimes more than a little daunting. Moving to Malta means new opportunities, but also some challenges. At eCabs Technologies , we have years of experience in assisting people from the four corners of the world looking to take their tech career to another level to work in Malta. We also have plenty of know-how, as well as a comprehensive on-boarding programme. Employees, and their families, are guided step by step on how to relocate and settle down. This includes important steps such as finding somewhere to live and how to open a bank account. We also offer health insurance and on-site training (via a workplace buddy system). Except for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, all foreign nationals require a single permit to work in Malta. Our Human Resources relocation team will offer advice and guidance to ensure the process is conducted as seamlessly as possible. And within the shortest feasible time. Why relocate to Malta? Choosing where to live is perhaps one of the most important decisions you make when you take the plunge and relocate overseas. One of the warmest countries in Europe, moving to Malta means having access to a diverse range of activities. It also features a remarkable history, easy access by air travel, and a distinctive culture. You may prefer living in the hustle and bustle of St Julian’s (close to the eCabs Technologies Head Office). Or perhaps you’d rather go for the more tranquil north-western areas of the island. In any case, the Recruitment team at eCabs Technologies will guide you on the basics. These range from rent, schooling and healthcare services to accessibility and quality of life. Why eCabs? eCabs Technologies's vision is to create technology that enables people to live better. We look for talented and passionate people looking to grow their tech career who want to make a positive impact on the world. If all this appeals to you, please check out our current career opportunities. Useful links if you want to relocate to Malta Practical help and information About Malta – The official site for Malta and Gozo (and its smallest island Comino) helps you to explore the islands and learn about moving to Malta without leaving your house or desk. Find out more about this country that you soon could be calling ‘home’. Learn more about its people, its cuisine, it heritage and its identity and much more. The website also contains a section where it lists events happening each month. A guide for foreigners – How do I go about obtaining a residency card? Which forms do I need to fill in? What is the best way to rent a place? This website will give you an insight into all these questions and much more. Of course, once you come to work with eCabs, our Recruitment team will be on hand to answer your queries. But it is always good to do some ‘homework’ before. What to do if you want to work in Malta? Jobsplus – EU – If you are from an EU Member state (as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein), you are eligible to live and work in Malta. This website gives you the contact details of the Jobsplus EURES team which you can speak to find out more about obtaining information about any preparatory work that should be carried out before moving to Malta. They also organise activities such as information sessions. Jobsplus – TCNs – This website has useful information for any Third Country Nationals (TCNs) who would like to apply for a Maltese work / residency permit. Jobsplus also offer guidance services. Residency requirements – Here, you can find out about the paperwork you will need if you intend to move permanently to Malta. There are two types of residency that you can apply for (depending on your country of origin): Ordinary Residence or Permanent Residence. You may find more information about these types of residency, as well as the Malta Global Residency Programme, on this website. You will also find information on where to go to apply for your permit. Important services to help you relocate to Malta Identity Malta – The Identity Malta Agency offers its services in the matters relating to acts of civil status, eID cards, e-passports, visas, expatriates’ affairs and more. Its Expatriates Unit takes care of the processing and issuing of residence documentation for EU and third-country nationals. Foreign Affairs – This website is a veritable treasure trove of information. This includes visa and travel advice for foreign nationals, information about business in Malta, and FAQs. There is also a Press Release section where you can keep up to date with what is happening in the Maltese Islands. Other useful websites Malta Salary Calculator Cost of Living estimates in Malta Check out our current job openings here.
23.09.2024
Blog
Tech Blog
The thrill of ‘breaking stuff’ in software testing
As a manual tester, Maria Mifsud’s role is directly related to the quality assurance stage of the software development of the eCabs Technologies’ product. This involves the execution of manual tests with the objective of ensuring that the software which is ought to be delivered to customers meets the respective requirements. Maria’s primary responsibility constitutes the analysis of software so that any foreseeable issues are identified and prevented. “A good software quality assurance analyst must be capable of putting themselves in the shoes of the person who will be making use of the software in question,” Maria explains. “Even though this might sound pretty straightforward due to the fact that I am one of these users, one must keep in mind that the consumer aspect of this ride-hailing technology is just one piece of the puzzle.” For instance, there is the driver’s aspect which works hand-in-hand with the consumer’s, the business-to-business aspect and so on. “The mixture of these kinds of personas and scenarios is what makes the nature of this industry challenging enough to keep the testing strategies required interesting. The complexity of the processes involved from the minute the booking is created to when the booking is completed, not to mention the payment infrastructure that proceeds this, creates ample room for creative test cases designs. The trick is to learn how each piece links to and affects the others.” Challenges and strategies in software testing During her first few days at eCabs Technologies, Maria was involved with the general testing of the main mobile apps (the consumer app and the driver app). However, her main focus during the past few months has been the B2B portal which was recently launched for both Malta and Blue in Romania. This portal gives businesses the opportunity to register, and make use, of the eCabs Business to Business feature. A good software quality assurance analyst must be capable of putting themselves in the shoes of the person who will be making use of the software in question. eCabs Technologies Manual Tester Maria Mifsud Given that Maria has a lot of experience in web testing, she says that this project was as fun to test as much as it was interesting; it is just a shame that, since she did not start working on this project since day one, she was not involved in the requirements gathering process. “This posed the challenge of having to go through a lot of documentation. And having to ask a lot of questions on the business logic and the user flow. Having said that, my Quality Assurance team colleagues and the product owners of this project were always extremely helpful. I have always felt welcomed to voice my concerns and advice on user experience improvement and product stability.” Enhancing software quality through clear communication Maria is an avid advocate for good communication. She says that a tester must always have a clear vision of what the requirements and business logic are. “For this to be possible, there must be clear communication between the QA team and the product owners. In this regard, communication must be a two-way street, as it is our duty to voice our opinion when we think that a better approach can be taken. Given that bug reporting is part and parcel of our daily life, we need to have clear and constant communication with the development team to indicate any issues observed during testing.” Seeing is believing Maria says that the most rewarding feeling about working at eCabs Technologies is the fact that the work that she and her team does is tangible and can be observed in action on a day-to-day basis. Either by seeing an eCabs driver driving past or when using the customer app itself. She believes that she still have a lot to learn on the possibilities that the mobility sector has to offer. And she hopes that she can implement such knowledge in a way that compliments the major advancements of the technology in this sector. “From my experience, I can say that there are two types of people in the tech industry – those who like to build things and those who like to break things. Software quality assurance requires a reverse engineering mindset with the objective to break the software being tested so as to enhance its quality. Breaking stuff is cool and fun. Come join the party!” Would you like to join Maria in the eCabs Technologies family? Check out our openings here.
20.09.2024
Blog
Recruitment
How to apply for a job at eCabs Technologies
The journey to landing your ideal job at eCabs Technologies can be exhilarating yet challenging. In a world where competition is fierce, it’s essential to stand out and navigate the recruitment process with confidence. In this blog post, we share valuable insights and tips to help you ace every step of the recruitment process. Understand your preferences and priorities Before you hit that ‘Apply’ button, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you in your next role. We suggest considering various aspects, such as company culture, daily responsibilities, project interests, management style, office environment, and work arrangement (remote, hybrid, or on-site). Remember, the interview process is not just about you impressing the company – you are interviewing the company just as much as they are interviewing you. Prepare a winning CV Crafting an impactful CV is a crucial step when you are applying for a job at eCabs Technologies. We would advise using a clean, polished format that spans no more than two pages. If you decided to include a cover letter, keep in mind that most recruiters just skim them for writing style, level of English, and an explanation for a career change. Make sure that your contact information is professional and complete (full name – first and last, no middle, location – city/state/country, telephone number – with country code and mobile number, and email address) listing essential details without any unnecessary embellishment. Use a ‘professional’ email address, not one associated with hobbies or other interests. For example – JohnPaulX@gmail.com rather than DJJazzyJohnX@gmail.com. If you decide to include a photo of yourself, make sure that it is also professional – no ‘duck lips,’ no alcoholic beverages in hand, a neutral background, no graduation or wedding photos. List your employment experience in chronological order with your most recent experience first. Include company name, job title, and dates of employment. You should also include your professional achievements using bullet points under each employer. Wherever possible provide specific measurements, such as ‘increased productivity by 10 percent’. Include any skills relevant to the role that you are applying for – the languages you speak, technology skills and so on. If you are applying for a tech role, list the software and hardware that you have experience with. Finally, be sure to include your educational background, and any relevant certifications. You should not include scans of actual certificates, or grades for specific courses or O’ / A’ level exams. Make sure you are ready for the interview As you prepare to interview for a job at eCabs Technologies, we recommend reviewing the job description and identifying your transferable skills. Dive into the company’s history and understand what drew you to the role. Prepare responses to common interview questions such as areas for improvement and reasons for leaving your current job. Have a salary range in mind for the role in the location for which you are applying. Know your notice period or availability to start a new role. Be yourself During the interview itself, focus on maintaining a composed demeanor and making eye contact, even in virtual interviews (looking into the camera helps when addressing the interviewer). Be authentic in your responses and engage the interviewer by asking thoughtful questions that go beyond salary and job logistics. For example, ask about the role, team, and company culture. Don’t forget to discuss the next steps in the recruitment process and the expected timeline for feedback. Nailing recruitment tasks For some roles, we incorporate recruitment tasks to evaluate candidates’ skills. This is a great opportunity for you to show off your expertise! Ask questions if you need clarification and ensure you submit your task on time. If you are unable to complete the task, communicate with the recruiter early on. Perhaps, there is a more junior role that the company can offer you. Seal the deal If you receive an offer for a job at eCabs Technologies, and you are excited about the opportunity, go ahead and share your excitement with the recruiter! Make sure you listen attentively to the details of the offer in their entirety. Your salary expectations should align with the previously discussed range. If you need more time to consider the offer, request a reasonable extension, keeping it within not more than three days at the very maximum. Once you are ready to accept the job offer, communicate your decision, and agree on a start date. Examine the employment contract Thoroughly review your employment contract. Highlight any clauses that you may have questions or concerns about to discuss later with the recruiter. Do be open to understanding the rationale behind certain clauses. Once you are satisfied, it’s time to sign the contract and celebrate your official joining of the eCabs team! Provide any requested information to get you into the appropriate systems and onto the payroll (such as bank account information, and previous pay slips). If you need a work permit for EU employment, complete the appropriate application form and provide the necessary paperwork promptly (passport, CV, lease agreement, medical exams, and so on). Seamless onboarding Make your first days at work less stressful with these tips. Make sure you are aware of and understand the arrival time, as well as any dress code. Make contact with the IT department for technology setup and access. Connect with HR/Office Management to get acquainted with your colleagues and office environment. Schedule an onboarding session with your hiring manager or a senior team member to help you ease into your new role with confidence. Finally, settle in and enjoy your new environment and teammates. Welcome to your future with eCabs Technologies – a journey filled with growth, opportunities, and success! Check out our current job openings here.
19.09.2024
Blog
eCabs Technologies