While Info Grove is in the business of developing mobile apps, what we’re really passionate about is enhancing communication and engagement within communities. That’s why we were so excited when Lac Seul First Nation in northwestern Ontario, approached us about creating a mobile app for its residents.

Lac Seul had previously been working with another developer to create a mobile app but wasn’t satisfied. Like many of the clients we work with who have previously had mobile apps developed, the team at Lac Seul were frustrated by the limitations on content management of the app their previous developer had created. They wanted a mobile app that would allow them to easily share information and engage their community, including events, news, and other relevant updates. While Lac Seul was the first First Nation community our team had worked with, we were excited to get started because we knew the Info Grove platform was more what they were looking for when they set out to have a mobile app developed.

The Need for a Mobile App

The Lac Seul First Nation decided they wanted a mobile app to enhance community engagement and streamline information sharing. They wanted to give their community members easy access to news, events, health services, and other critical information. 

With their previous mobile app, they were dependent on the developer to make updates to content which caused delays and frustration – they wanted to be able to make changes and add information on their own. They wanted more control over their app’s content, which is exactly what Info Grove’s content management system (CMS) was designed for. We developed the platform so that teams like the one at Lac Seul could independently keep their mobile app fresh and relevant without needing technical expertise.

Building an App to Benefit Community Members

Building the Lac Seul First Nation app was akin to developing a municipal app. The app needed to provide services to benefit the community members, such as health clinic information, medical transportation details, and public works updates. Lac Seul ecompasses 4 communities over its region and the app allows for the relevant content to be found for each of the populations of these communities as well as the off reserve population.

Clear Communication Meant Smooth Sailing

This project did not present any significant technical challenges and the development process went smoothly. The Lac Seul First Nation’s project coordinator was the kind of client contact we always hope we’ll get to work with – prompt, efficient and clear communication throughout the project.

Meeting the Lac Seul First Nation’s specific requirement for content control was definitely the most satisfying aspect of this project. They wanted the ability to update their app content independently and on-the-fly, without having to wait for a developer. This capability is a core feature of the Info Grove platform, and I was excited to see how well it met their needs.

The Impact of the Mobile App on the Community

The Lac Seul First Nation app is designed to provide a wide array of services, including health clinic information, animal control, public works updates, and a directory of community contacts. The app even includes regional contact information, recognizing the geographically dispersed nature of the community. This comprehensive approach ensures that all members, regardless of their location, have access to vital information and services.

According to the Lac Seul First Nation’s official announcement, the app launch represents a significant step in leveraging technology to better serve their community. The app is available for download on both iOS and Android platforms, providing broad accessibility for all members.

The Potential for Future Projects

We hope that our successful collaboration with Lac Seul First Nation will pave the way for other First Nation communities to explore the benefits of having a dedicated mobile app. For any community that’s spread across a wide geographical area, a mobile app can be a vital tool for keeping members connected and informed. By offering services and information directly through their devices, an app can significantly enhance community engagement.

If you’re part of a community looking for a tailored mobile app solution, contact the team at Info Grove. We’re here to help you connect, engage, and thrive.

Karim Mansour is an Inside Sales Representative at 14 Oranges, the creators of the Info Grove platform