The Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) is taking technology to new heights and levels with its purchase of a next-generation content management system to serve as an application (App) interface to foster development of Miami Beach-based mobile apps. The Application Programming Interface, or API, allows app developers to take advantage of existing Miami Beach data to create applications that focus on shopping, dining, arts and entertainment, nightlife, sports, music, transportation and other areas.
The platform will support third-party mobile application development for iOS (Apple), Android and Blackberry devices by giving programmers access to data directly from Miami Beach through an interactive API. The resulting Apps will increase tourism by making it easier to find real time information and plan trips to Miami Beach. Residents will benefit by learning about new and exciting locations and special offers. Complete development and installation of the API platform is expected later this fall.
The MBVCA API was developed by Orlando-based Just Program LLC d/b/a Solodev, a leading provider of content management software that enables enterprises to easily build native mobile applications and interactive websites and manage content across a growing list of online channels, including mobile, social, e-commerce and B2B.
Additionally, the City of Miami Beach is using technology to connect with, and serve its residents. The City’s smart phone app, Report It, allows the public to report realtime neighborhood concerns such as graffiti, trash and potholes to the appropriate government department in a snap; ask a question, make a request/complaint or find answers with just a click. The reports can include a photo and GPS location that will automatically integrate with the City’s systematized and prioritized customer support center.
The online citizen request and support system provides great, quick customer service to residents, visitors and businesses making them feel a part of the solution and relevant and important to city leaders. The app is available for free on iPhone, Blackberry, Windows and Android smart phones.
Wireless Miami Beach provides free public access to all residents, visitors, and businesses across the City. While one key element of the WiFi Miami Beach system is to support public safety and other government uses, such as laptops in police cars, it also makes the entire city a hot zone for public internet access.
