Smart accommodation solution: innovative boarding house locator in Bayombong municipality

Abstract

The search for affordable and conveniently located student accommodation is a common challenge, especially for students unfamiliar with their surroundings. This study presented the development and evaluation of a geographical information system (GIS)-enabled boarding house locator developed for Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) students. The platform simplified the accommodation search process by providing a digital solution that integrates spatial data, real-time updates, and filtering options. The platform significantly reduced the time and cost of traditional housing searches. It helped students save 181.25 minutes per search and an average of 35 PHP in transportation costs compared to conventional methods like physical visits and word-of-mouth. Usability testing with 175 participants revealed high satisfaction, with the platform receiving an average rating of 4.83 for usability and 4.75 for performance. Key features such as interactive maps, location-based searches, and real-time updates enhanced the user experience by providing accurate, and up-to-date listings. The GIS-based platform outperformed traditional search methods in terms of efficiency and user satisfaction and offered a digital solution to common housing challenges faced by students. The results suggested the platform had strong potential for wider application at other universities. Overall, this system provides a scalable, cost-effective solution to improve student accommodation search and management.