Cross-Platform Development of a University Campus Navigation System Using Kotlin Multiplatform

Abstract

Navigating vast university campuses is usually a significant problem, especially for newcomers or fresh admissions. Traditional resources, such as static maps or markers, often fail to provide an efficient method for guiding users through complex and multi-level campus areas, particularly within indoor environments. This document presents a cross-platform mobile app that has been implemented using Kotlin Multiplatform to address this urgent problem. The proposed solution is a campus navigation app that is entirely independent of internet connections and GPS, thereby being highly efficient in areas where connections or GPS signals are weak, such as building interiors. The core idea is to display users a series of preloaded checkpoint images and corresponding text prompts, rather than relying on dynamic GPS location tracking. The checkpoint-based navigation allows users to navigate around the campus manually advancing through sequential visual cues, thus providing user control and simplicity. The development is carried out using Kotlin Multiplatform to enable the sharing of logic across Android and iOS, thus providing instant development and identical functionality across both platforms. Shared modules are used for navigation logic, route control, and user input, while platform-specific code is reserved for rendering the user interface only. The application design focuses on simplicity and a visual direction system that maximises accessibility and clarity. This research work was conducted to fill the gaps in indoor navigation systems and present a comprehensive solution for educational campuses where real-time GPS technology is not economically viable. The value of this research lies in its platform independence, offline capability, and focus on practical implementation in real-world environments. By presenting a feasible solution to navigating campus spaces without GPS and internet connectivity, this research work contributes to software engineering, human-computer interaction, and location-based applications. Future development could include the integration of augmented reality and indoor positioning technologies to improve the overall user experience.