GUJARAT TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

AHMEDABAD
Affiliated to

SAL Engineering & Technical Institute

A Report on

Electricity Billing System

Under the Subject of

Design Engineering, I A (3130008)

B. E. II, Semester-III

Computer Science & Engineering

Submitted By:

Sr. No Enrollment No Student Name

1 231263131007 LIMBASIYA KRISHNA MAYURBHAI
2 231263131024 RISHI DOSHI
3 231263131005 DOBARIYA AKHIL DILIPBHAI
4 231263131027 DHRUVI SOLANKI BHAVASHBHAI
5 231263131014 DHVANIT PATEL

Prof. KRUPA PATEL

Internal Guide

Prof. Madhuri Parekh

Head of the Department

Academic Year
(2023-24)
 GUJARAT TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY
AHMEDABAD
Affiliated to

SAL Engineering & Technical Institute

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project report on Electricity Billing System

Submitted by:

Sr. No Enrollment No Name

1 231263131007 LIMBASIYA KRISHNA MAYURBHAI
2 231263131024 RISHI DOSHI
3 231263131005 DOBARIYA AKHIL DILIPBHAI
4 231263131027 DHRUVI SOLANKI BHAVASHBHAI
5 231263131014 DHVANIT PATEL

As fulfillment of the requirement for the award B.E. in Computer Science &
Engineering Department Semester 3rd at SAL Engineering & Technical Institute
is the record of work that has been successfully and satisfactorily completed
under supervision and guidance during the academic year 2023-24.

Prof. KRUPA PATEL Prof. Madhuri Parekh

Internal Guide Head of the Department
CE/IT Department CSE Department
ATTACH CERTIFICATE GENERATED FROM DESIGN
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 ABSTRACT

Electricity Billing System

The efficient management of resources, particularly electricity, is crucial for academic

institutions to ensure sustainability and cost-effectiveness. This project focuses on the
development of an Electricity Billing System using Java Servlet technology, tailored
specifically for academic institutions. The system aims to streamline the billing process,
enhance transparency, and facilitate better resource management.

The proposed system utilizes Java Servlets for server-side processing, enabling seamless
communication between the user interface and the database. It incorporates features such as
automated meter reading, billing calculation based on consumption, and generation of
detailed invoices. The system also includes a user-friendly interface accessible to
administrators, staff, and consumers within the institution, promoting ease of use and
accessibility.

Additionally, the Electricity Billing System integrates a dashboard for real-time monitoring
of electricity usage trends. Administrators can utilize this feature to make informed decisions
regarding energy conservation strategies and optimize resource allocation. Moreover, the
system ensures data security and privacy through user authentication mechanisms and
modern encryption techniques, adhering to relevant data protection regulations.

Furthermore, the system is designed to be scalable, capable of accommodating the varying

needs of academic institutions of different sizes. Its modular architecture allows for easy
integration with existing infrastructure and future expansion to meet evolving requirements.

In conclusion, the development of this Electricity Billing System using Java Servlet
technology offers a robust solution for efficient resource management in academic
institutions. By automating billing processes, enhancing transparency, and enabling data-
driven decision-making, the system contributes to the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of
electricity management in educational settings.
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No Figure Description Page No

2.1 AEIOU CANVAS 5
2.2 EMPATHY CNAVAS 6
3.1 IDEATION CANVAS 9
4.1 PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT CANVAS 13
5.1 ROUGH PROTOTYPE 14
 TABLE OF CONTENT
Chapter No Chapter Title Page No
Chapter 1 Introduction 1
1.1 Design Thinking 1
1.2 Importance of design thinking 1
1.3 Learning tools and assignments 1
1.4 The idea to make a project 1

Chapter 2 Empathy Mapping 2-4

2.1 Why this domain 2
2.2 Observation 2
2.3 AEIOU Canvas 3
2.4 Empathy Canvas 3
2.5 Mind mapping 3-4
2.6 Conclusion of empathy mapping 4

Chapter 3 Ideation Canvas 7-8

3.1 Ideation Canvas (people) 7
3.2 Ideation Canvas (Activity) 7
3.3 Ideation Canvas (Situation & location) 7
3.4 Ideation Canvas (Props) 8
3.5 Ideation Canvas (Image) 8

Chapter 4 Product Development Canvas 10-13

4.1 Final Problem statement 10
4.2 PDC (purpose) 10
4.3 PDC (people) 10
4.4 PDC (Product Experience) 10
4.5 PDC (Product Functions) 11
4.6 PDC (Product Features) 11
4.7 PDC (Components) 11
4.8 PDC (Customer Revalidation) 11
4.9 PDC (Reject, Redesign, Retain) 12
4.10 PDC (Explanation) 12
4.11 PDC (Feedback) 12
4.12 PDC (Revalidation) 12

Chapter 5 Prototype 14-15

5.1 Rough prototype model 14
5.2 Conceptual Plan-Layout 15

Chapter 6 Enhancements 16
 6.1 Future action plan 16

Chapter 7 Conclusion 17
7.1 Conclusion 17

Appendix - I Prior Art Search 18

Appendix - II Rough Proofs 19
Appendix - III Monthly Assessment Report 20
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 Design Thinking
Design Thinking is pivotal in conceptualizing our Electricity Billing System project.
Embracing a user-centric approach, we seek to redefine the billing experience,
prioritizing not just data accuracy but also user convenience. Our goal is to create a
system seamlessly integrated into the workflow of administrators, staff, and
consumers, fostering transparency and ease of use.

1.2Importance of design thinking

In the context of our project, Design Thinking holds immense importance. It enables
us to understand the diverse needs and pain points of stakeholders in billing system.
By empathizing with end-users, we can create a system that enhances accuracy,
reduces administrative burden, and fosters a more engaging learning environment.

1.3Learning tools and assignments

Learning tools for the Electricity Billing System encompass tutorials, user manuals,
interactive simulations, and practice scenarios.
Assignments involve analyzing billing data, troubleshooting system issues, and
proposing efficiency improvements, fostering practical understanding and skill
development in managing and optimizing electricity billing processes.

1.4 The idea to make a project

The idea to make a project begins with recognizing a problem or opportunity within a
specific domain.
This initial spark prompts brainstorming sessions, research endeavors, and
collaborative discussions to refine the concept.
Through these processes, objectives are defined, implementation strategies are
outlined, and the project idea gradually takes shape.
Iterative feedback loops and validation procedures ensure the idea's viability, allowing
for adjustments and enhancements to align with overarching goals and objectives.

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Chapter 2
Empathy Mapping
2.1 Why this Domain
Introduction to Empathy Mapping:
In our project to develop an Electricity Billing System, Empathy Mapping serves as a
foundational tool. It enables us to understand the emotions, behaviors, and needs of
our users—administrators, staff, and consumers—when interacting with the billing
system.

User-Centered Design Approach:

Adopting a user-centered design approach ensures that the billing system addresses
the specific needs and challenges faced by our users. This approach fosters a system
that resonates well with their experiences and enhances their interaction.

Improving User Experience:

Empathy Mapping directly influences user experience by uncovering pain points and
emotional states. It helps us design a system that reduces stress for consumers during
billing inquiries and simplifies administrative tasks for staff.

2.2 Observation
Understanding User Behaviors:
Observations revealed consumers' frustration with complex billing structures and
staff's challenges in managing billing discrepancies.
Administrators expressed concerns about manual data entry errors and the time-
consuming nature of billing processes.

Identifying Pain Points:

These observations allowed us to identify pain points, such as consumers' confusion
over billing details, staff's frustration with manual data entry, and administrators'
challenges in reconciling billing discrepancies.

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Data Collection Methods:

We used methods like interviews with consumers, shadowing staff during billing
processes, and analyzing past billing records to gather comprehensive data.

2.3 AEIOU Canvas

Analyzing User Context:
The AEIOU Canvas helped categorize and analyze our observations. It highlighted
diverse user activities, environments (billing counters, online portals), interactions
(querying bills), objects used (billing statements), and the different user roles
involved.

Understanding User Activities:

This canvas allowed us to break down the user activities involved in billing processes,
providing insights into how users interacted with the system and their surroundings.

2.4 Empathy Canvas

Mapping User Empathy:
Using the Empathy Canvas, we mapped consumers' feelings of frustration and
confusion with billing details, staff's concerns about manual data entry errors, and
administrators' challenges in reconciling discrepancies.

User Perspectives:
This mapping exercise enriched our understanding of the emotions and experiences of
each user group involved in the billing process.

2.5 Mind Mapping

Visualization of Insights:
Mind mapping helped visualize and connect our observations, AEIOU analysis, and
Empathy Canvas insights. It provided a clear visual representation of the connections
between different user experiences.

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Connecting Insights:
By connecting different observations and user emotions through mind mapping, we
identified patterns and relationships. For instance, we could see how consumers'
frustration with billing details aligned with staff's concerns about manual data entry
errors.

2.6 Conclusion of empathy mapping

Informing Design Decisions:
The insights gained through Empathy Mapping will inform the design and
development of our Electricity Billing System. We aim to create a system that
simplifies billing inquiries for consumers, streamlines data entry for staff, and
enhances accuracy for administrators, ensuring a more user-centric solution.

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2.1 AEIOU CANVAS

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2.2 EMPATHY CANVAS

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Chapter 3
Ideation Canvas

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3.1 Ideation Canvas (People)

Consumers: Develop a user-friendly interface for bill inquiries, payment processing,
and consumption tracking.

Staff: Create a dashboard for managing billing discrepancies, data entry, and
customer support.

Administrators: Design an admin portal for overseeing billing data, generating

reports, and system maintenance.

3.2 Ideation Canvas (Activity)

Billing Process: Implement a simplified bill viewing and payment system with
multiple payment options.

Real-Time Monitoring: Develop a system for instant updates on consumption and

billing status.

Integration with Utility Systems: Ensure seamless integration with utility meters
and billing infrastructure.

3.3 Ideation Canvas (Situation & Location)

Residential Settings: Design a responsive web portal suitable for desktop and mobile
usage.

Commercial Establishments: Develop a feature-rich interface for complex billing

structures and multiple locations.

Remote Access: Create a mobile app for bill inquiries and payment processing on the
go.

3.4 Ideation Canvas (Props)

Mobile Devices: Ensure compatibility with smartphones and tablets for easy access.

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Customer Support Tools: Implement live chat and helpdesk features for assistance
with billing queries.

Integration with Utility Networks: Ensure compatibility with existing metering and
billing infrastructure.

3.5 Ideation Canvas (Image)

Visual Interfaces: Design a visually appealing website with clear billing details and
payment options.

Automated Processes: Explore automated billing reminders and payment scheduling

features.

User Experience Design: Focus on intuitive navigation and accessibility for users of
all technical levels.

3.1 IDEATION CANVAS

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Chapter 4

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Product Development Canvas

4.1 Final Problem Statement:
Objective:
Address challenges associated with traditional billing methods—reduce errors, enhance
transparency, and streamline the billing process for improved efficiency and customer
satisfaction.

4.2 PDC (Purpose):

Objective:
Develop a cutting-edge digital solution to revolutionize electricity billing, prioritizing
accuracy, transparency, and user-friendly experience for consumers and administrators.

4.3 PDC (People):

Stakeholders:
Consumers, billing staff, administrators, IT support, utility providers.

Roles:
Consumers for bill inquiries and payments, billing staff for data management,
administrators for oversight, IT support for system maintenance, and utility providers
for integration.

4.4 PDC (Product Experience):

User Interface Design:
Focus on a user-friendly interface accessible across devices, ensuring ease of bill
viewing and payment processing.

Accessibility:
Prioritize accessibility features to accommodate users with diverse needs, ensuring
inclusivity and usability.

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4.5 PDC (Product Functions):

Billing Automation:
Implement automated billing processes to reduce manual efforts and ensure accurate
billing calculations.

Data Analysis:
Integrate analytics tools to provide insights into consumption patterns and billing
trends, aiding consumers and administrators in decision-making.

4.6 PDC (Product Features):

Multiple Payment Options:
Offer various payment methods such as online payments, mobile wallets, and bank
transfers for consumer convenience.

Alerts & Notifications:

Enable notifications for bill reminders, consumption alerts, and payment confirmations
to keep consumers informed.

4.7 PDC (Components):

Scalable Infrastructure:
Design a scalable backend system capable of handling increasing consumer volume and
data complexity.

Security Measures:
Implement robust security protocols to safeguard consumer data and ensure compliance
with data protection regulations.

4.8 PDC (Customer Revalidation):

User Acceptance Testing:
Conduct comprehensive testing with representative consumers to validate system
functionality and gather feedback for improvements.
4.9 PDC (Reject, Redesign, Retain):

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Iterative Development:
Iterate on features based on user feedback while retaining core functionalities that meet
consumer needs effectively.

4.10 PDC (Explanation):

Transparent Communication:
Maintain transparent communication with stakeholders regarding system capabilities,
updates, and potential impacts on billing processes.
4.11 PDC (Feedback):
Continuous Improvement:
Establish feedback channels to solicit input from consumers and stakeholders, fostering
ongoing improvement and innovation.

4.12 PDC (Revalidation):

Regular Assessments:
Conduct regular assessments to evaluate system performance, user satisfaction, and
alignment with evolving industry standards and consumer expectations.

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4.1 Product Development Canvas

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Chapter 5
Learning Needs Matrix

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5.1 Learning Needs Matrix

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Chapter 6
Prototype
6.1 Rough Prototype Model

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6.2 Conceptual Plane-Layout

Wireframes:
Wireframes provide a skeletal framework illustrating the layout and structure of key screens
in the electricity billing system.

These include the consumer dashboard, billing history page, staff interface, and
administrator's analytics dashboard.

They prioritize functionality, outlining the placement of essential elements such as bill
details, payment options, and consumption insights.

Navigation Flow:
Navigation flows depict the user journey through the electricity billing system, mapping out
the sequence of interactions from login to various functionalities.

They illustrate how consumers navigate through bill inquiries, payment processing, and
consumption analysis.

Navigation flows also outline the pathways for staff to manage billing data and for
administrators to oversee system analytics and user management.

Visual Concept:
Visual concepts establish the visual identity of the electricity billing system, showcasing
potential design elements such as color palettes, typography styles, and basic interface
components.

Mood boards or initial design concepts convey the desired aesthetic, guiding the development
of a cohesive and visually appealing interface that enhances user experience and engagement.

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Chapter 7
Enhancements
7.1 Future Action Plan:
Consumer Feedback Integration:
Implement a robust feedback mechanism to gather insights on system usability,
billing clarity, and feature suggestions from consumers.

Iterative Development:
Plan regular iterations based on collected feedback to enhance existing features,
introduce new functionalities, and address identified consumer pain points effectively.

Advanced Billing Analytics:

Expand analytics capabilities to provide detailed insights into consumption patterns,
billing trends, and energy-saving opportunities for consumers and administrators.

Integration with Utility Providers:

Develop integration capabilities with utility providers' systems for seamless data
exchange, meter readings, and billing coordination.

Biometric Authentication:
Explore and plan for the integration of biometric authentication methods (e.g.,
fingerprint or facial recognition) to enhance security and streamline consumer
authentication processes.

Mobile Application Development:

Consider developing a mobile app version of the Electricity Billing System to provide
convenient access for consumers to view bills, track consumption, and make
payments on their smartphones.

Accessibility Enhancements:

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Ensure compliance with accessibility standards to make the billing system accessible
to users with disabilities, including screen readers and keyboard navigation.

Scalability Measures:
Evaluate and enhance the system's infrastructure to ensure scalability, accommodating
growing consumer demands and potential future expansions in user base and
functionality.

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Chapter 8
Conclusion
8.1 Conclusion:
The development journey of the Electricity Billing System reflects our dedication to
revolutionize traditional billing methods, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and user
convenience in managing electricity consumption and billing processes.

Throughout the development process, we prioritized understanding the diverse needs

of stakeholders—consumers, billing staff, administrators, and IT support—to create a
system tailored to their roles and requirements. The focus remained on delivering a
seamless user experience, emphasizing accessibility, clarity, and efficiency in billing
operations.

Key features such as automated billing processes, real-time monitoring, and enhanced
reporting capabilities were integrated to meet the evolving demands of users. The
conceptual layout and wireframes provided a visual representation of the system's
functionality and interface design, guiding the development process.

Looking ahead, our future action plan outlines strategies for continuous improvement,
including user feedback integration, iterative development, scalability measures, and
exploration of advanced features like biometric authentication and mobile application
development. These enhancements aim to elevate the system's performance, security,
and usability, ensuring it remains a valuable asset for consumers and administrators
alike.

In conclusion, the Electricity Billing System is not merely a tool for managing bills
but a transformative solution that enhances transparency, efficiency, and user
satisfaction in electricity management within educational institutions.

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Appendix - I Prior Art Search

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Appendix - II Rough Proofs

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Appendix - III Monthly Assessment Report

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