Problem
Skilled tradespeople need a modern way to present verified work history, portfolio artifacts, and marketplace-ready identity in one place.
Approach
- Built as a monorepo with mobile and backend workspaces.
- Mobile client uses React Native + Expo with TypeScript.
- Backend uses NestJS + GraphQL (code-first), PostgreSQL 16, TypeORM, and JWT authentication.
Architecture snapshot
Mobile: React Native + Expo
API: NestJS + GraphQL
Data: PostgreSQL + TypeORM
Auth: JWT + guard-based route protection
Outcome
- Working architecture for a production-oriented identity and portfolio platform.
- Clear stack boundaries and technical documentation for growth.
- Foundation aligned with Base Layer Labs product direction.
Artifacts and proof
- Repository: davidlwilson2021/tradefolio-beta-app
- Product surface: baselayerlabs.dev/product
- Architecture documentation:
docs/technical/architecture-overview.md - GraphQL documentation:
docs/technical/graphql-api.md
// Example contract shape documented in the project
export type PortfolioEntry = {
title: string;
trade: string;
mediaUrls: string[];
verified: boolean;
};What I learned
- Product framing is stronger when data model, API contracts, and mobile UX are designed together.
- Type-safe boundaries reduce integration debt as features scale.
- Documentation quality directly impacts implementation speed in solo operating mode.