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The following is the development project in question:

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A Supermarket Navigation Aid for the Disabled and/ or Elderly

2	Introduction
2.1	Background/Context
Considering the present demographic constitution, out of the [approximately] 68 million inhabitants that reside within the United Kingdom (Worldometer, 2024)-  the UK accommodates 16 million individuals that are considered as impaired/ disabled (DWP, 2022) [≈24%], alongside 11 million persons aged 65 and/ or above (ONS, 2021) [≈16%]. Given the context of both the aforementioned groups, irrespective of any resultant impediments they may encounter that pose as a detriment to their daily occurrences, each persistently strive to navigate the complexities of daily life whilst demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. In spite of ableness or age, the wake of the harrowing COVID-19 pandemic which perniciously permeated every penetrable facet of our lives, in conjunction with its ubiquitous ramifications underscored subsequent drastic tectonic shifts in the lives of everyone. Amongst the most inflicted were undeniably those with access needs, and the elderly, both parties of which were subjected to the further intensified hardships of limited mobility; this tumultuous period unequivocally served as a testament to their unwavering fortitude and adaptability. 
As the pandemic resided and a return to a state of normalcy ensued, many were left grappling with the lingering effects precipitated by the pandemic- with the reintegration of those with impairments, and the elderly back into the realm of shopping responsibilities in conjunction with a diminution in lung efficiency, the dire necessity for a mechanised resolution purported to minimise the distance traversed in supermarkets has come to the fore. Confronted by these difficulties, exponentially prevalent technological advancements in our contemporary society have emerged as formidable mediums to comprehensively contribute to the enhancement of both accessibility and navigation. With the advent of GPS-enabled technologies possessing the ability to adeptly deliver instantaneous geographical data, alongside mobile applications that delineate meticulous navigational guidance, the technological landscape has shifted the paradigm of our approaches in journeying across the globe. Nevertheless, such technological innovations are prone to fail to accommodate the particular necessities and challenges endured by those with disabilities and/ or of old age (Prandi, et al., 2023). To illustrate, conventional orientation systems may be negligible to take physical hindrances such as stairs or irregular terrain into account, this oversight may potentially give rise to significant hardships for those with mobility limitations. Likewise, the elderly, particularly those with cognitive and/or visual decline,  might be confronted with difficulties in interfacing with small screens and complex user interfaces [UI’s] (Wiener & Pazzaglia, 2021).
This development project is devoutly devoted to bridging the present disparities in modern navigational technologies by means of the construction of a user-friendly, and holistically accessible solution, explicitly fashioned for the requisites of the disabled and elderly. This innovative aid, conceptualised to operate on an array of technological devices, for instance a tablet, smartphone, or robot, will take into consideration the distinctive requirements and obstacles of these demographics, thereby substantially bettering their independence and convenience of navigation in their day-to-day routines. This application allows users to upload/ input their shopping list which is cleansed and prepared for processing employing the analysis software- thereafter the algorithm will proceed to map out the store’s department configuration [such as Fresh Food, Bakery, Frozen Food, Drinks, Baby & Toddler, Health & Beauty, Pets etc.] to a network diagram wielding Dijkstra’s Shortest Path Algorithm (Dijkstra, 1959) to determine the most optimal route for item retrieval. The functionality offered, not only diminishes the shopping duration and distance, but also plays a pivotal role in the preservation of the user’s physical well-being.  
Through harnessing the prowess of technological advancements, we are poised to cultivate an environment that embraces inclusivity and accessibility for all. This endeavour embodies a progression towards such an objective- a venture of which I am beyond profoundly enthusiastic to furnish any contributions to.

3.0	Literature Review
3.1	Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) Methodologies
Within the realm of software development, the implementation of SDLC [Software Development Lifecycles]/ project management methodologies is indisputably imperative, acting as the cornerstone for the efficacious execution of any given software initiative.  These methodologies lay the foundations for a regimented framework for the seamless envisagement, conception, assembly, exhaustive scrutiny, and provisioning of software products. The intricacy enveloped nature of the venture to strategically devise a supermarket navigation aid for the disabled and/ or elderly mandates the implementation of refined SDLC methodologies. This segment sees to critically examine and compare esteemed SDLC methodologies to determinatively ascertain which is best fitting for this development project- namely the Scrum model categorised under the Agile framework, relative to the Waterfall model. 
	3.1.1	Agile (Scrum) vs Waterfall
In the field of software engineering, two predominant methodologies persist, these being: Agile [particularly Scrum], and Waterfall. Each methodology exhibits distinctly unique merits and limitations, with their efficacy and applicability being contingent on the inherent attributes of the project (Hoory & Bottorff, 2022). 
Scrum, an Agile project management framework, that by virtue of its fundamentally iterative and incremental configuration, systematically fosters a milieu ripe for flexibility, collaborative synergy, and comprehensive customer gratification (GeeksforGeeks, 2023; Olawale, 2023). This structure is engineered to accommodate dynamic alterations at any point during the development process, thereby assuring consistent adaptation to the fluctuating prerequisites of the development project (GeeksforGeeks, 2024). As a facet of Agile, Scrum advocates team autonomy, regular engagement with stakeholders, and abbreviated deadlines. This framework proves especially advantageous at overseeing projects where requirements are prone to variation (Hoory & Bottorff, 2022).
Unlike its counterparts, the Waterfall methodology is distinguished by its linear and sequential procedure; necessitating the absolute completion of each successive phase prior to commencement of subsequent stages- corresponding fittingly with projects that are characterised by definite and unchanging requirements (ProductPlan, 2024; Andersen, 2023). Nevertheless, the structural rigidity of the Waterfall methodology may be deemed as disadvantageous with development projects where flexibility in project scope is a fundamental characteristic (Lehman, 2023).
Upon the rigorous scrutinization of the aforementioned methodologies for their respective applicability in the development of a navigation aid for supermarkets, specifically tailored toward disabled persons and/ or the elderly, the Scrum approach undeniably boasts greater compatibility circumstantially. 
The rationale is as follows:
	User-Centric Methodology & Adaptability in Project Execution: Taking into consideration the iterative nature that the Scrum subset embodies, Scrum intrinsically facilitates ongoing user feedback/ input. This is an element that proves to be indispensable in the endeavour of developing applications for demographics such as those that are with impairments and/ or the elderly- a task of which may show itself to be susceptible to frequent change pertaining to specifications given the project’s orientation toward innovation (Drumond, 2024). The noteworthy agility of the Scrum framework stands to facilitate and integrate such evolving needs effectively (GeeksforGeeks, 2024).

	Incremental Delivery: Scrum champions the delivery of functional software in gradual increments, thus facilitating prompt and sustained provisions of value to its users (GeeksforGeeks, 2024). This strategy holds exceedingly fruitful outcomes, especially in projects like the supermarket navigation aid, wherein user feedback cannot be overstated; the segmentation of the software delivery enables early user usage, together with feedback acquisition that is critically paramount that may shape later iterations (Iqbal, 2022). This practice affirms the software’s congruence with the needs/ demands of the users, whilst simultaneously aiding in the early identification of prospective complications and areas for enhancement, resultantly mitigating the risk of project failure (Iqbal, 2022). Moreover, this approach promotes heightened project governance as it considerably augments the clarity and predictability of the development cycle (Breyter, 2022).

	The Imperative of Consumer Input: In spite of the copious operational merits to be reaped from the utilisation of Scrum pertaining to this development project, one crucial consideration remains, that if omitted may inadvertently culminate in a shortcoming in the course of the development process. The Scrum framework necessitates a high degree of customer participation alongside the existence of an autonomously coordinating team (Vanhala & Kasurinen, 2019). Should these stipulations remain unfulfilled, it may engender considerable hindrances with penetrative ramifications. 

	The Flexibility Deficit of Waterfall: On the other hand, although the Waterfall methodology affords both a well-defined and systematic structure accompanied by deterministic timelines, its intrinsic inflexibility poses as a potential detriment given this current context (Kukhnavets, 2016). Revisions of specifications are often to be anticipated in pioneering initiatives, this would subsequently be arduous to facilitate within the constraints of the Waterfall strategy (Biely, 2024; Kuhrmann, et al., 2017).
To conclude, whilst both discussed methodologies respectively possess commendable operational qualities, the unparalleled versatility, allegiance to user-centric development, not to mention the capacity to supplement an incremental delivery strategy all of which are inherent in Scrum, render it the superior choice for the development of a supermarket navigation aid for the disabled and/ or elderly. 
3.1.2	The Stages of Scrum
The illustration below, aptly titled “The Stages of Scrum,” succinctly furnishes a comprehensive illustration to the incremental and iterative process that embodies the Scrum methodology. This depiction not only serves as a blueprint, but also as a confirmation of the cooperative ethos and perpetual betterment that fundamentally epitomise Scrum. 
  
I.	Product Backlog Creation: The product backlog in the Scrum model represents a dynamic entity, cataloguing an exhaustive repository of every conceivable task the team may undertake, organised in a hierarchy of priority. It is incumbent upon the development project orchestrator to assiduously curate the product backlog, safeguarding the exactitude of its content, its uninterrupted accessibility, as well as its strategic coherence through precise sequencing (Mohino, et al., 2019; Sharma & Kumar, 2023). 

II.	Sprint Planning: A meeting is conducted where participants of the Scrum team define which product backlog items are to be addressed in the forthcoming sprint and a preliminary blueprint, geared towards delivering product increments and accomplishing the spring goal, is formulated. This phase is integral in the Scrum SDLC, considering it encompasses setting a comprehensive agenda for product advancement and ascertaining the tasks fundamental for attaining such milestones (Mishra & Alzoubi, 2023; Soares, 2022).

III.	Sprint Execution: As the sprint unfolds, the development team autonomously arranges its efforts to execute the assignments detailed in the sprint backlog. Consequential daily assemblances are convened by the team for progress appraisal and for the realignment of daily operations towards the fulfilment of the sprint goal (Mohino, et al., 2019; Rojas, et al., 2020). 

IV.	Sprint Review & Retrospective: At the sprint’s conclusion, a sprint review is held, serving to scrutinise the produced increment and modify the product backlog where appropriate. Following this review, a sprint retrospective is carried out, affording the opportunity for the team to partake in performance self-assessment and devise a schema for procedural advancements for implementation in the following sprint (Ekechi, et al., 2024; Leong, et al., 2023).  
Following the Sprint Retrospective, the Scrum cycle begins anew with the ensuing Sprint Planning assembly, catalysing the succeeding sequential phases until absolute project refinement and consummation is achieved (Schwaber & Sutherland, 2020). As articulated by (ScrumAlliance, 2024), the reiterative nature of Scrum fosters relentless improvement and malleability- thus circumstantially positioning Scrum as the optimal SDLC for this development project.
3.2	Devices
	3.1.1	Laptops
Laptops provide a user-friendly interface, courtesy of their expansive displays and standardised key arrangements, to accommodate individuals contending with impairments, namely visual impairments, or motor coordination issues. In such configurations, the enlarged size of screens renders both images and texts appreciably more discernible, whilst the comprehensive keyboard layout augments usability for individuals with motor function impairments (Prandi, et al., 2023). Nevertheless, the noticeably larger dimensions, including the increased weight of laptops may detract from their convenience and portability within the context of a supermarket. In spite of these limitations, contemporary advancements in software now allow for the customisation of laptop interfaces to better address the necessities of individuals with disabilities and/ or the elderly (Karimi, 2016; Isazade, 2023).
3.2.2	Smartphones
The ubiquity of smartphones, laden with a multifaceted array of functionalities can be masterfully harnessed, yielding ample potential to bolster navigation for the impaired and elderly populations. Given their ease of transport, combined with sophisticated technological capabilities smartphones integrate such as GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, this positions them as an exemplary apparatus for such purposes (Jabnoun, et al., 2020). Furthermore, these devices incorporate an array of accessibility tools, encompassing screen readers for the visually impaired, and voice recognition software for those with motor inhibitions, thereby enhancing practicality (Kuriakose, et al., 2020). The proliferation of accessibility-oriented applications reinforces the functional effectivity of employing smartphones as adjunct mechanisms of navigation (Wilson, et al., 2022; Bardaro, et al., 2022). 
	3.2.3	Tablets
Tablets provide an intermediary solution, amalgamating the computational capabilities of laptops with the conveniences and mobility of smartphones. They represent a median choice, owing to their portability that overshadows that of a laptop, and featuring larger and more accessible screen than smartphones; features of which are advantageous to users who are visually impaired and senior citizens equally (Jara & Corrales, 2022). The handheld nature of tablets permits proximity viewing, easing the procedure for the visually impaired to engage with imagery and text (Krishnan & Pugazhenthi, 2013). Nonetheless, with their size being of relative comparability to that of a laptop [yet not nearly as cumbersome], this aspect might prove to be restrictive in supermarket settings (Wilson, et al., 2022). Despite this, features such as the interactive touch interface, and capability to zoom in and out with ease, upholds the tablet’s practicability as a feasible device choice (Isazade, 2023; Bardaro, et al., 2022).   
	3.2.4	Robots
Robots, particularly the autonomous variety, have shown remarkable  promise in aiding disabled and elderly individuals in an expansive assortment of dissimilar tasks, navigation included. Take Japan for instance, a country which has systematically displayed laudable foresight in the proactive convergence of autonomous humanoid robotic technology into the operational fabric of its society; it’s government as of 2018 having spent well in excess of $300 million to fund research and development for such devices for the enhancement of quality of life, and traversal ease of the disabled and elderly (Wright, 2023). Demonstrative of this is Cyberdyne’s HAL5 [Hybrid Assistive Limb] robot- a quintessential exemplar of successfully applied robotics. This robot profoundly enhances and advances the rehabilitative and ambulatory competencies for those that exhibit varying degrees of motor control diminution and limb functionality restrictions (Urrea & Agramonte, 2023). 
Robots are capable of being programmed to manoeuvre through supermarket aisles and assist clients in locating their desired products (Bardaro, et al., 2022; Lewandowski, et al., 2020). Nonetheless, this technology remains in its nascent phases and might not be widely accessible or economically viable for all consumers (Prandi, et al., 2023). As technological innovations continue to exponentially progress within our society, robotic solutions are poised to emerge as more feasible alternatives, characterised by autonomous operations and user-friendly interfaces (Schlegel, et al., 2020; Galdelli, et al., 2020).
Conclusively, through the intensive scrutiny of the comparative merits and detriments of each device, smartphones, and tablets emerge pre-eminently as the most suitable modes for aiding disabled and elderly persons in supermarkets, primarily attributed to their noteworthy portability, user-friendly accessibility features, and sophisticated technological prowess. Yet, as the continuous evolution of technology marches onwards, alternative apparatuses- robots in particular- may soon be recognised as more practical options (Isazade, 2023).
3.3	Software Development Languages
	3.3.1	Java
	 
Java, universally acclaimed for its intuitive simplicity, steadfast robustness, all-encompassing compatibility, and stringent security measures, stands as a prominent high-level, object-oriented programming language; these innate characteristics of Java seek to minimise the probability of the occurrence of programming errors, whilst streamlining efficiency in utilisation (Patnaik, 2024; Paul, 2021). Despite these advantages, it should be noted that Java applications are inclined to both slower operational execution, alongside greater memory consumption as opposed to languages like C++ that are natively compiled (Sanders, 2024; Bhardwaj, 2024). Given that Java is a platform-independent language, this guarantees that any application, once composed and compiled, is operable on any device provided that it supports Java negating any recompilation (Lincopinis, et al., 2023). This principle, referred to as WORA [“Write Once, Run Anywhere”], proves unquestionably indispensable for navigational aids requiring extensive accessibility across various diverse devices and operating systems (Mellowacademy, 2024). Regardless of this, Java’s syntactical conventions are derived from C++, which can conceivably entail a steep learning curve for programming novices (GeeksforGeeks, 2022).  Other merits ascribed to the implementation of Java are its provisions of automatic garbage collection and effective memory management, together with exceptional runtime performance and multithreading support; functionalities of which facilitate optimised performance of CPU-intensive applications, alongside efficacious and expeditious resource management in large-scale applications akin to a supermarket navigation aid (Vogel, 2024; Evans, et al., 2023; GeeksforGeeks, 2022).
	3.3.2	Python
	 	
Exemplified by its interpretative [as opposed to compiled] execution, Python represents a versatile, high-level, and an open-source programming language that is lauded for its easily comprehensible syntax [closely resembling the English language] and  ease of use. These qualities allow for swift development and efficient prototyping [synchronising seamlessly with the chosen SDLC for this development project: the Scrum methodology (Patel, 2022)], resultantly constituting Python an exceptionally ideal programming language entry point for those new to programming (W3Schools, 2024; Vartanian, 2024). Pythons’ minimal user input whilst endorsing a variety of programming paradigms, inclusive of functional, procedural, and object-oriented programming practices (Wouters, 2024). This programming language moreover allows for both single and multiple inheritance, promoting flexibility in code composition (Pal, 2023). With regards to this development project, Python’s dynamic typing capabilities are instrumental in empowering developers to generate clean, efficient, and maintainable code for complex software development undertakings (Chen, et al., 2020). Additionally, its extensive standard library comprises heterogeneous functionalities ranging over web service tools, internet protocols, string operations, and operating system interfaces (Bhagat, 2024; GeeksforGeeks, 2023). Python’s broad-ranging libraries would serve as a key resource for the implementation of varying features in this navigation aid. Notwithstanding the myriad benefits associated with the use of Python, it often exhibits slower execution speeds when measured against Java and C++, potentially posing as a drawback that hinders its susceptibility for real-time navigation aid applications (Bhardwaj, 2024). Furthermore, considering that Python is deemed an interpreted programming language, its performance is heavily dependent on the interpreter used (Bhagat, 2024; Llego, 2023). 
	3.3.3	C++
	 
Merging properties of both low-level and high-level languages, C++ is a middle-level, object-oriented programming language (Julliet, 2023);  a programming language of which integrates both procedural and object-oriented paradigms, including permitting operator and function overloading, accordingly augmenting code readability (EdTech, 2024; Saqib, 2024). In a manner akin to Python, C++ also permits both single and multiple inheritance- this dual-supported inheritance structure can supplement code reusability, design flexibility, legacy code integration, modularity, and aggregated optimised efficacy (Jain, 2021; Josuttis, 2019; Dodson, 2021). Engineered as an enhancement of the C language, C++ is widely esteemed for its versatility [via proficiently uniting high-level abstraction with low-level control (GeeksforGeeks, 2023)], efficient performance and capabilities, superior responsiveness, and meticulous governance of system resources and memory (Saqib, 2024; Verma, 2017). Regardless of this high degree of control, C++ demands that programmers administer system resources and memory scrupulously with due diligence, thereby imposing a significant responsibility upon the shoulders of programmers to ensure optimal stewardship (Alves, 2024; Hubert, 2018). Delving into the potential demerits of utilising C++, to begin with, due to C++’s innate platform-dependency, recompilation for any deviating platform is mandated, thus establishing complications given that the supermarket navigation aid necessitates platform-independence (Tang, et al., 2022). In addition, C++ is devoid of native thread support, relying instead on external libraries, an attribute of which contains the potentiality to hinder performance in CPU-intensive applications (Williams, 2019). Contradictory to Java, C++ is not inclusive of a built-in garbage collection mechanism, typically leading to codebases that are on average 5-10 times longer than their Python equivalents, which may lead to more intricate and tediously time consuming maintenance and development processes (Deronjic, 2024; Alves, 2024). This may be unfavourable for a navigation aid for those that are impaired and of old age, where ease of maintenance, expedited development, and simplicity, is of paramount significance.

3.3.4	Comparison & Conclusion
Upon evaluation of these three software development languages, it is of utmost importance to not only take into consideration the distinct specifications of the supermarket navigation aid project, but to also exhaustively examine the ramifications each merit and drawback that the employment of each corresponding software development languages in question could impose on the success and viability of this development project. 
In light of the project’s anticipated perquisition of platform-independence, Java stands out as potentially a leading contender as a result of its high portability and robustness (Javatpoint, N.D.). Whilst Java features numerous favourable qualities in this context, Java applications often manifest appreciably slower execution, whilst demanding vaster memory usage than those natively compiled, as C++ is (Sanders, 2024; Bhardwaj, 2024). Despite Java’s irrefutably sophisticated syntax for novices, its competencies position it as a prime candidate for a universally accessible navigation aid application exclusively crafted for the requirements of the disabled and elderly demographics (GeeksforGeeks, 2022). 
Contrarily, Python’s straightforwardness and rapid prototyping capacities [the latter of which, that as delineated earlier, conform to the chosen SDLC [Scrum] to be leveraged for this development project (Patel, 2022)] can markedly hasten the development process, thereby establishing it unparallelled as a software development language choice for projects warranting and valuing these characteristics (W3Schools, 2024; Vartanian, 2024). Nonetheless, its slower execution speed relative to Java and C++ is deficient,  which may innately beget hindrances that impede systematic performance in [if supported] real-time navigation aid applications (Bhardwaj, 2024). 
C++ consistently excels in instances that call for a high level of  operational effectiveness and streamlined memory management, cementing its status as an arguably appropriate choice of software development language (GeeksforGeeks, 2023). C++’s celebrated efficiency and speed endow it with appreciable command over system resources, rendering it proficient for developing and maintaining high-performance navigation aid applications (CodeLikeAGirl, 2024). However, C++’s grave platform-dependency and deficiency of inherent threat support, coupled with its propensity for verbose code composition could present obstacles, inclusive of prolonged development time, elevated maintenance costs, and latent security vulnerabilities that may pose as a hindrance to the efficacy and adaptability of the supermarket navigation aid for the disabled and elderly (Bhagat, 2024; Linford, et al., 2017; Zhang, et al., 2022).
On account of the prerequisites of a supermarket navigation aid for those with impairments and of older ages, I have ascertained that Python emerges as the best fitting software development language to capitalise on. Python’s syntax legibility and simplicity assists in upkeeping software maintenance, whereas its thorough libraries serve beneficial for prompt prototyping and feature implementation (Vartanian, 2024; Joy, 2024; GeeksforGeeks, 2023). 
3.4	Dijkstra’s Shortest Path Algorithm 
Within graph theory, Dijkstra’s Shortest Path Algorithm conceived in 1956 by Dutch computer scientist Edsger W. Dijkstra, proclaims itself a pivotal concept, instrumental in discerning the shortest path from a given source node to every other node in a graph; underscores its indispensable value for customer route optimisation for underserved populations, specifically the disabled and elderly in supermarket environments (Richards, 2019; GeeksforGeeks, 2022; Gass & Fu, 2016; Navone, 2020). At its core, the algorithm, allocates tentative distance values to each node, commencing with a distance of zero for the source node, whilst other nodes receive a default value of infinity (Singal & Chhillar, 2014). By means of an iterative process, the algorithm subsequently proceeds in updating the distances of adjacent nodes, ultimately establishing the shortest path to each node (Singal & Chhillar, 2014).
1.	During the initialisation phase, as alluded to in the preceding paragraph, all nodes are allotted distance values; setting the source node, the distance of zero, whereas all other nodes are designated a distance value of infinity (GeeksforGeeks, 2024).

2.	Thereafter, the distance refinement stage ensues. For each neighbouring node of the current one in consideration, the algorithm measures tentative distances, following this any necessary revisions are conducted should the recently determined distance be lower than the current appointed value (W3Schools, 2024). 

3.	Next in sequence is the review of unvisited nodes. After a thorough inspection of each of the neighbouring nodes is fulfilled, the initial node is then registered as visited, assuring its exclusion from further reassessment (Tyagi, 2020).

4.	Following the assessment, the juncture in which the succeeding node is selected transpires. The algorithm then determines and opts for the next unvisited node marked with the smallest tentative distance/ [in closest proximity to the most recently visited node], which it labels as the new “current node.” The algorithm then accordingly cycles through this iterative operation from step 2. until the shortest path to all available nodes is calculated/ each unvisited node has been examined, at which this algorithm would have triumphantly prevailed in deciphering the shortest path conundrum for the given graph (LumenLearning, N.D. ; Pizzagalli & Krause, 2022). 
For the purpose of a supermarket navigation aid for the disabled and elderly, reflecting conventions of Dijkstra’s Algorithm, the nodes/ vertices can be symbolic of distinct points of interest within the supermarket exemplified by aisles or departments, while the edges would denote the paths interconnecting these junctures. The weights of these edges may be quantified based not only through physical distance traversed, but also by other contributing factors such as those concerning the mobility capabilities of individual customers/ users, additionally considering in-store crowd density (Pizzagalli & Krause, 2022; GeeksforGeeks, 2022). The implementation of Dijkstra’s Algorithm in this given scenario enables the formulation of pathway through and around the supermarket that diminishes the aggregated distance covered, consequently streamlining shopping endeavours, and most importantly catering to the commonly neglected requirements of individuals with disabilities and elderly shoppers (GeeksforGeeks, 2022; Johnson, et al., 2020).
Although invaluable in its utility, it is essential to acknowledge that Dijkstra’s Algorithm is encumbered by certain limitations, notably its incapacity in the accommodation of negative edge weights as well as the computational complexities engendered by extensive graph structures (Sryheni, 2024). Despite these constraints, a plethora of refinements have been posited to ameliorate its efficacy. The incorporation of machine learning techniques, for instance, have been leveraged to facilitate in the prediction of the shortest path distance after minimal iterations, as a result curtailing the search space probed by the algorithm (Feijen & Schäfer, 2021; Kadry, et al., 2012). Minimising the search space explored by the algorithm empowers Dijkstra’s Algorithm to operate with bolstered efficiency and conserves computational resources and time [these merits are particularly effective in large-scale implementations where graph arrangements may be expansive], not to mention obtaining predictions with sharper accuracy which culminates in the precision being mirrored in route optimisation, enriching the supermarket experience for individuals with disabilities and elderly customers alike (Gass & Fu, 2016; Feijen & Schäfer, 2021).
3.5	Store Layout
The architectural layout of a supermarket, although its significance often remains underappreciated , fulfils a fundamentally essential role in influencing the supermarket experience for customers; with particular pertinence for those afflicted by disabilities and/ or old age. It pertains to the systematic and unchanging arrangement of  above all, the two core structural elements being aisle dimensions and navigability, and the logistics of store departments placement (Damen, 2024; Vogelmann & Bird, 2021). 
As briefly alluded to in the introduction, both the disabled and elderly populations were the most disproportionately and adversely impacted by the repercussions begotten by the COVID-19 pandemic (ACL, 2022). With both previously noted populations already constrained by finite economic means, their narrowed options became substantially more pronounced, in relation to the locations, schedules, and approaches in which shopping would be performed (Ahmadi, et al., 2023). The overwhelming majority of those with disabilities and/ or the elderly refrained from in-store shopping, instead transitioning to digital commerce; an adjustment which was fraught with stress and was financially burdensome for both parties as a result of sparce delivery slots, extortionate delivery fees, mandatory minimum order values, and inadequate delivery service quality (Vogelmann & Bird, 2021). For those however that did venture forth to visiting supermarkets, apart from the looming omnipresent apprehension of contracting the coronavirus and propagating it loved ones, other additional barriers precipitated by the pandemic for the disabled and elderly included high customer density, reconfigured store designs and an unfamiliarity with product placement (Vogelmann & Bird, 2021; Derrer-Merk, et al., 2023; ACL, 2022).  
If ergonomic these design principles are implemented impeccably, such a configuration underscores the propensity to markedly influence customer behaviourisms, advance both product visibility and accessibility, and elevate the experience perceived holistically; for not only those who the supermarket navigation aid is aimed at supporting, but for all (Singh, 2022).
	3.5.1	Free-Flow Layout
There exist various diverse store layout models, for example the Forced- Path, Diagonal, Loop/ Racetrack, Free-Flow, and Grid layouts; each characterised by their distinctive properties and specific implications made on customer navigation. After a rigorous evaluation of each of these models, my assessment concludes that the most efficacious store layout for those with impairments and/ or the elderly would be the Free-Flow layout (Damen, 2024). Below are the deductions from which my findings have resulted, leading to this determination, accompanied by the store layout I have conscientiously devised which serves to accommodate the specialised needs of those with impairments and/ or the aging populations.
PTO 














 
 
As illustrated in Figure 5 which closely adheres to the conventions of the Free-Flow model, this formatting, despite its unconventionality in its implementation in grocery stores/ pharmacies/ and convenience stores does not confine aisles or displays to a fixed structure [as opposed to the Grid layout], allowing for any necessary modifications and accommodations to be enacted based on individualistic specifications (Vogelmann & Bird, 2021; Damen, 2024). Such intrinsic malleability of this chosen layout exhibits itself as especially advantageous for individuals with mobility limitations or any other physical disabilities [irrespective of whether that’s attributable seniority or resultant of disabilities] (SpireDigital, 2019). As Figure 5 depicts, the unrestrictive and open nature of the Free-Flow model enables a heightened manoeuvrability environment for individuals that may be reliant on mobility aids to navigate around the store like wheelchairs, mobility scooters and walkers, among others (SpireDigital, 2019; Lincoln, 2022). A consideration of crucial importance for both individuals with disabilities and/ or disabled persons who often necessitate greater special allowances in order to ensure safe and comfortable locomotion (NeuroNav, 2023). The aforementioned benefits attributed to the utilisation of the Free-Flow model, unequivocally negates contemplation of both the Loop/ Racetrack, and Forced-Path layouts that are characterised by their defining features of compositional rigidity that propels operational initiatives such as maximising both product exposure to customers and economic gain to the forefront of their agendas in contrast to incrementally amplifying customer satisfaction, fulfilling customer expectations/ needs, and bolstering accessibility and returnability, the way in which the Free-Flow layout proficiently does (Kelly, 2023; Aislelabs, 2018). 
Referencing the malleability associated with the chosen configuration previously, the flexibility of this layout provides unobstructed pathways and spacious aisles as evidenced by my diagram in Figure 5, thereby mitigating the hazard of accidents or injuries occurring. This is fundamentally vital for elderly persons, given their increased susceptibility to falls, and equally for both those with impairments and of old age where physical overexertion may result in grievous harm or exacerbation of existing conditions (ARCHSD, 2019). Juxtaposing the practicality of Free-Flow with the Diagonal layout to signify the formers contextually compatibility [for both respective populations], whilst the latter boasts greater visibility for employees, unlike Free-Flow, Diagonal may impede customers’ ability to make use of shortcuts; furthermore, the Diagonal layout’s characteristically narrower aisles can present formidable challenges for individuals that depend on mobility aids for manoeuvring (Damen, 2024).
Everything encapsulated by the 3.5 Store Layout section delves into the critical importance of meticulously considering the supermarket layout specifications for disabled and elderly customers. The dimensions and spatial configuration of aisles, along with the systematic departmental arrangement, are pivotal determinants to nurturing the supermarket milieu. The Free-Flow layout, renowned for its structural malleability, is emphasised as the most beneficial option [out of its counterparts] for those with mobility constraints or other physical impairments boundless of age. This design permits requisite adjustments and accommodations in accordance with individual customer needs, thus comprehensively improving both accessibility and navigational ease. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the pressing need for such tailored layouts has further been accentuated, with many individuals belonging to the impaired and more senior demographics being forced to turn toward relying on digital commerce, underscoring the imperative for physical stores to embark on unwaveringly continuing to further inclusivity and accessibility for everyone (Damen, 2024; Vogelmann & Bird, 2021). 

4.0	Project Management
How the project was planned, controlled, and executed.
This is an important section since it is here that you can display your mastery of “Managing a development project”
4.1	Planning
How have you broken the work in to controllable units, allocated tasks, tracked progress, etc.
Include GANTT chart, Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), etc.
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