Flack

flack is a web-based instant-messaging application that improves workplace communication and collaboration. A live demo is available at http://flackflack.herokuapp.com/

Tech/Framework Used

flack was built with

Ruby on Rails
React/Redux
JavaScript
Action Cable for WebSockets.

Features

Live messaging
Message editing
Create, browse, and join channels for topic-based discussion
Privacy feature on channels for protection of sensitive discussions
Direct messaging between individuals and groups
Online presence status

Feature Highlights

Live messaging

Live message editing

./app/controllers/api/messages_controller.rb

def update
    @message = Message.find(params[:id])
    if @message.update_attributes(message_params)
        broadcastEdit(formatEdit(@message))
        render :show
    else
        render json: ['Sorry, your update did not work.'], status: 400
    end
end

def broadcastEdit(message)
    ChatChannel.update(message)
end

./app/channels/chat_channel.rb

def self.update(message)
    socket={message: format(message.to_json), type: 'edit'}
    channel = Channel.find(message[:messageable_id]).id
    ChatChannel.broadcast_to(channel, socket)
end

Future Features

Notifications
Internet connection loss handling
Emoji reactions 🎉

How To Use