Background

The autism spectrum disorder (ASD) community faces a significant social challenge: the difficulty of accessing unified information, early detection tools, and a network of trusted specialists. This fragmentation creates uncertainty and delays interventions that are crucial for well-being. 

The project originated from a legacy system (Blue Piece 2019-2023) with technological limitations—such as obsolescence, security issues, and the lack of a mobile interface—revealing a clear opportunity for innovation. A complete re-engineering process was proposed to create a comprehensive platform that would leverage technology to generate a positive social impact, facilitate access to resources, and foster connections within the ASD community.

An interdisciplinary approach was adopted, combining software engineering with user-centered design principles and domain-specific knowledge regarding ASD. The methodology began with an in-depth contextual analysis, including an investigation of the previous system, a review of scientific literature, and surveys of the community (families and professionals) to ensure the design addressed real needs. This was followed by technological design and innovation, involving the justified selection of a modern, scalable technology stack to ensure the project's viability and sustainability. Subsequently, requirements engineering was conducted through collaborative definition and formal documentation, ensuring clarity and coherence throughout the development process. Finally, technological development was carried out through the iterative and parallel implementation of key modules across both platforms. The mobile application focused on end-users—caregivers, adults with ASD, and specialists—implementing modules for user registration, administering validated questionnaires, connecting with specialists, and accessing information on institutions. The web platform integrates functionalities for administrative and professional roles (institutional representatives and specialists), including user management, certification validation, and the management of offered services.

"La Brújula del Autismo" (The Autism Compass) represents a technological innovation with a clear social impact, transforming a limited prototype into a comprehensive, functional, and scalable platform designed to contribute to the well-being of the ASD community. The solution facilitates access to crucial resources, such as early detection tools and directories of validated specialists. Methodological rigor in requirements engineering and the adoption of modern technologies were fundamental to creating a solid and sustainable foundation. 

Now, we are planning to deploy La Brújula del Autismo in specialized ASD centers and clinics. If you are interested in being part of this project, please visit our join us page.