The Need

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZ) sought to transform their Sustainable Palm Oil Shopping app from a regional tool into a global conservation authority. The original platform was limited to U.S. markets and lacked the scalability required to support an international user base across different regulatory environments. CMZ required a multi-tenant mobile architecture that could seamlessly integrate a massive, global barcode dataset while maintaining a high-performance user experience. To drive global impact, the new solution needed to support localized administrative control for international partners while offering a modern, intuitive interface that encourages daily consumer advocacy.

The Solution

Epic Apps conducted a complete digital transformation of the CMZ mobile ecosystem, rebuilding the platform from the ground up using a high-performance React Native framework. This move to a unified codebase allowed for rapid deployment and synchronized updates across both iOS and Android platforms globally. We engineered a sophisticated backend capable of facilitating real-time API calls to the world's most comprehensive product barcode databases, ensuring users receive instant feedback regardless of their location.

By architecting a custom multi-region Content Management System, we empowered international conservation bodies like the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) to manage localized ratings independently. This robust infrastructure has enabled the app's successful expansion into the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, turning a local utility into a global sustainability benchmark.

Key Features

  • High-Velocity Barcode Scanning: A precision-engineered scanner optimized for diverse lighting conditions and varied retail packaging.
  • Global Barcode Interoperability: Integration with an international database providing instant access to millions of records, including brands, manufacturers, and detailed ingredient transparency.
  • Multi-Region Admin Portal: A unique, role-based Ruby on Rails CMS that allows country-specific administrators to curate and manage localized sustainability ratings.
  • Algorithmic Scoring Engine: A proprietary logic system that cross-references product data against specific RSPO-certified criteria and company sourcing histories.
  • In-App Advocacy Tools: Integrated features that allow users to directly contact manufacturers to thank them for sustainable practices or encourage supply chain improvements.
  • Offline Data Caching: Advanced PostgreSQL optimization and local caching to ensure the app remains functional in retail environments with poor cellular connectivity.
  • Localized Regulatory Mapping: The ability to adjust rating algorithms based on the specific environmental standards and certifications relevant to each participating country.