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💬 Chat Functionality

This document provides a detailed, step-by-step guide for using the Chat feature available for users and professionals within the Middleman App. The chat functionality allows seamless communication between users and professionals for appointment-related queries. All chats are secure and comply with GDPR regulations.

📌 Key Features​

  • Available for Upcoming Appointments: The chat feature is only available for active or upcoming appointments. It will not be accessible for completed or past appointments.
  • Secure Communication: All messages are encrypted to ensure privacy and security.
  • GDPR Compliance: The chat feature complies with GDPR rules and regulations, ensuring the protection of user and professional data.
  • No Attachments: Currently, attachments such as images, documents, or other files are not supported in the chat functionality.
  • No Calls: This is a text-only chat feature. Voice or video calling is not supported.
  • Notifications: Users and professionals will receive notifications for new messages related to the appointment.

🚀 Step-by-Step Chat Process​

Step 1: Access Upcoming Appointments​

  1. For Users:

    • Launch the Middleman App.
    • Navigate to the My Appointments section.
    • Select the upcoming appointment with the professional you wish to communicate with.

  2. For Professionals:

    • Launch the Middleman App.
    • Navigate to the Upcoming Appointments section.
    • Select the appointment with the user you wish to communicate with.

Step 2: Open Chat Window​

  1. Once you have selected the appointment, you will see a Chat button on the appointment details page.
  2. Tap on the Chat button to open the chat window.

Step 3: Send and Receive Messages​

  1. Text Messages: Once the chat window is open, you can start typing your message in the chat input field and press Send.
  2. Real-Time Communication: Messages will be delivered instantly to both the user and the professional.
  3. No Attachments: As of now, the chat feature supports text-only communication. Sending images, documents, or other files is not supported.
  4. No Calling: This feature is limited to text-based communication only. There are no voice or video calls.

Step 4: Privacy and Security​

  1. Encrypted Messages: All messages sent through the chat feature are encrypted to ensure privacy and security.
  2. GDPR Compliance: The chat feature complies with GDPR regulations to protect the data of users and professionals.
  3. Data Retention: Chats are stored only for the duration of the appointment and are automatically deleted after a set period (e.g., 30 days) to ensure privacy.

Step 5: End the Conversation​

  1. Once your conversation is complete, you can exit the chat window by tapping the Close button.
  2. You can return to the chat window at any time before or after the appointment to review the conversation.

❌ Common Errors & Fixes​

Error MessageCauseFix
Message not sentPoor internet connection or app issue.Ensure you have a stable connection and try again.
Chat unavailableThe appointment is completed or not active.Chat functionality is only available for upcoming appointments.
App crashes when opening chatPossible bug or app issue.Try restarting the app or contact support for assistance.

📞 Need Help?​

For any issues with the chat functionality, contact our support team:

Happy Chatting! 🎉