mit-topper-pov

I created mit-pov, a browser-based desktop OS software, but with the perspective taken from an MIT topper’s point of view rather than the default OS design. The first screen that appeared after launch was the welcome page, which then transitioned to the actual desktop. The desktop comprises a wallpaper, a top bar, a clock, and icons on the bottom bar, which open windows with drag-and-drop. The applications were Transcript.exe (GPA and coursework in the form of a real-life transcript), Trophy Case.exe (showcasing achievements), and Projects.exe (portfolio cards in the form of a portfolio). The new application the user has not seen in the tutorial is the Terminal.exe, which is a fake interactive terminal where the user can type in commands, such as whoami, and receive an appropriate response in the terminal emulator.

What were the biggest challenges?

The biggest challenge was implementing the window mechanic. It had to have drag-and-drop, focus listening, and opening/closing functions, and all of them had to share the same set of rules or have some of them overridden due to specific cases, such as having multiple windows open at the same time and having their z-index sorted out.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the fact that the application was not just a modified version of the given tutorial. It involved using React and TypeScript framework rather than the default JavaScript code and, thus, constituted a different project at its core.

What should users know before testing?

The users do not have to log in or type in any credentials before launching. The first step would be to open applications by clicking on the icons on the bottom bar and playing around with them, including dragging windows. Then, the user should try to open the Terminal.exe and type some commands to see the easter eggs.