Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Organizations that depend on ride-hailing applications are under increasing pressure to modernize, and Computer Vision has emerged as one of the more promising avenues for doing so, given its demonstrated impact in related domains.

Despite this potential, many existing ride-hailing applications were not originally designed with computer vision in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in system scalability that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how Computer Vision can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Current ride-hailing applications in many organizations struggle with inadequate system scalability, often relying on manual processes or outdated architectures that were not designed for today's operating environment. Without a structured approach to integrating computer vision, these limitations are likely to persist, exposing organizations to inefficiency, risk, and a poor user experience. This study is motivated by the need to design and evaluate a computer vision-based approach to addressing this problem.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a computer vision-based approach to improving system scalability in ride-hailing applications.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of Computer Vision in enhancing system scalability within ride-hailing applications.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying computer vision in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can computer vision be applied to improve system scalability in ride-hailing applications?
2. How effective is Computer Vision at enhancing system scalability within ride-hailing applications?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying computer vision in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

Beyond its immediate technical contribution, this study offers value to organizations evaluating whether to invest in computer vision for their own ride-hailing applications, and contributes to the broader literature on applied software technology / IT by documenting a concrete implementation and evaluation case.

1.6 Scope of the Study

As a BSc-level study, its scope is confined to designing and evaluating a computer vision-based solution for ride-hailing applications, focused specifically on system scalability; broader deployment considerations fall outside this scope.