This is an ongoing project to build mail infrastructure for Hack Club.
A few major goals:
- Modular design for future expansion
- Easy access to up-to-date addresses
- Incorporates latest postal technologies, where possible
- Enhance mail experience to Hack Clubbers
- Streamline mail operations by Hack Club
This is a multi-component project. Here's the three key parts:
RESTful API to power both below. This will be used for all address interfacing. Additionally, this can be easily integrated into sign-up forms for HQ events, like Assemble.
Hack Clubbers will be able to log-in and authenticate themselves by an email identifier. Once logged in, HC'ers can view and update their address. These changes will go directly to the SQL database.
- Offer USPS CASS standardization on domestic addresses
- Allow country-specific metadata, such as entry of CPF tax IDs in Brazil, or Zip+4 and Delivery Point Codes in the US.
- Simple and fast- no more DMing staff!
For mailing operations, we'll have our own mailing frontend. Offers comparable and enhanced functionality compared to software like PirateShip and Shippo- due to integration with our database.
- Generate PDF labels for envelopes
- Intelligent Mail support for domestic mailpieces
- At a later date, purchase parcel shipping labels from a variety of carriers with neogotiated, below-retail rates
- Auto-fill based off information in database
- Query tool, to locate addresses via an assortment of information available(name, email, partial address, etc)
- Easily query and/or ship in bulk - download a spreadsheet of addresses, or perhaps purchase a large number of labels.
- Scan a QR code and upload a picture directly to #packages to confirm receipt of mailpiece!
This is designed with flexibility and enhancements in mind. The software will be modular- allowing migrations without code rewrites, and easy expansion of features. There is also an oppurtunity to build custom hardware- such as a dedicated mailstation, intelligent scale, and more.