COMSATS University Islamabad, Vehari Campus

SOFTWARE
DESIGN

DESCRIPTION
(SDD DOCUMENT)

For

<ReadWise>
(Book Recommendation System)
Version 1.2

By
Abdul Wahab CIIT/SP22-BSE-003/VHR

Abdul Hanan Abid CIIT/SP22-BSE-002/VHR

Supervisor
Komal Hassan
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (2022-
2026)
Table Of Content
Revision History
Application Evaluation History
1. Introduction
Existing book platforms, such as Goodreads and Amazon, often rely on generic
recommendations based on sales data or simplistic user ratings, which frequently overlook
emotional preferences. As a result, users struggle to discover books that truly resonate with
their unique interests due to limited search filters and static genre categorizations.
Additionally, recommendation algorithms tend to neglect the analysis of textual feedback,
such as reviews, making suggestions feel impersonal. This system seeks to bridge these gaps
by incorporating four key innovations: (advanced search, dynamic category rankings, top
trending books, admin panel).

1.1. Purpose
The ReadWise system aims to enhance book discovery for readers by offering advanced
search capabilities, dynamic genre-based rankings, and sentiment-driven
recommendations. It leverages Natural Language Processing (NLP) to generate
emotionally aligned suggestions based on user reviews. Built using Django and React
with a hybrid PostgreSQL–MongoDB database architecture, the platform delivers a
scalable, secure, and personalized experience. Designed primarily for individual readers,
it focuses on intelligent book exploration while excluding features like social
networking, mobile apps, or e-commerce integration.

1.2. Scope
The proposed Book Recommendation System focuses on enhancing book discovery
through three core functionalities: an advanced search module, dynamic genre-based
rankings, and sentiment-driven recommendations. The system will allow users to search
for books using precise criteria (title, author, ISBN, or keywords), eliminating reliance on
rudimentary filters found in existing platforms. Category-specific leaderboards (e.g.,
fiction, self-help) will display real-time, top-rated books aggregated from user ratings,
ensuring fresh and relevant content. Sentiment analysis, powered by Python-based NLP
tools (e.g., TextBlob, spaCy), will analyze user reviews and preferences to generate
emotionally aligned recommendations, moving beyond generic popularity metrics. The
frontend, built with React.js, will prioritize a clean, minimalist interface for seamless
navigation, while the backend, developed using Django and Django REST Framework,
will handle API requests, business logic, and data processing with built-in security and
scalability. The hybrid database approach combines PostgreSQL (for structured data like
user profiles and book metadata) with MongoDB (for unstructured review data and
sentiment scores), ensuring flexibility and performance. User authentication will be
implemented via JWT for secure access, with optional OAuth (Open Authorization)
integration for streamlined sign-ups. Deployment will leverage cloud platforms like
Netlify (frontend) and Heroku (backend), ensuring accessibility and reliability.

1.3. Modules
Module 1: User Authentication Module

 Purpose: Ensures secure access to the system for registered users.

  User Context: Users create accounts, log in, and manage profiles.
 Key Functionality:
o Sign-Up/Login: Users enter credentials (email, password) or use OAuth
(Open Authorization) (e.g., Google login).
o Security: JWT tokens verify user identity during sessions, preventing
unauthorized access.
o Example: Similar to Gmail login—users securely access personalized
content.
 Special Feature: Optional OAuth (Open Authorization) integration simplifies
registration.

Module 2: Search Module

 Purpose: Helps users quickly find books using specific criteria.

 User Context: Users search for books by title, author, ISBN, or keywords.
 Key Functionality:

o Advanced Filters: Combines multiple search terms (e.g., "self-help books by

author X").
o Auto-Suggestions: Predicts search queries as users type, improving
efficiency.
o Example: Works like Amazon’s search bar but tailored for books.

 Special Feature: Supports ISBN lookup for exact matches.

Module 3: Category Ranking Module

 Purpose: Highlights top-rated books in specific genres.

  User Context: Users explore popular books in categories like fiction or sci-fi.
 Key Functionality:
o Real-Time Rankings: Updates based on aggregated user ratings.
o Genre Filtering: Users select a category to view curated lists.
o Example: Similar to Netflix’s "Top 10" lists but for books.
 Special Feature: Dynamic updates reflect community preferences.

Module 4: Sentiment Analysis Module

 Purpose: Personalizes recommendations using emotional context.

 User Context: Analyzes user reviews/preferences to detect themes (e.g., "hopeful" or
"dark").
 Key Functionality:
o NLP Integration: Python libraries (e.g., spaCy) process textual data.
o Mood-Based Suggestions: Recommends books aligned with detected
sentiments.
o Example: If a user loves "inspirational" books, the system suggests similar
titles.
 Special Feature: First-of-its-kind emotional alignment in book recommendations.

Module 5: Top Trending & Rated Books Module

 Purpose: Highlights books that are currently popular and highly rated by users.
 User Context: Users discover top-performing books across genres based on
community ratings and activity.
 Key Functionality:
o Real-Time Rankings: Displays trending books based on recent user
interactions (ratings, views).
o Top Rated Lists: Showcases books with the highest average user ratings
across different genres (e.g., fiction, self-help, history).
o Category-Based Display: Allows users to explore trending books by genre or
category.
o Example: Similar to Netflix’s “Top 10 Today” or YouTube’s “Trending
Now.”
 Special Feature: Dynamically updated lists ensure users always see the most relevant
and popular books, independent of commercial promotions or sponsored listings.
Module 6: Admin Dashboard

 Purpose: Allows administrators to manage content and users.

 User Context: Admins add/remove books, monitor user activity, and customize
categories.
 Key Functionality:
o Data Management: Edit book details or user profiles.
o Analytics: View trends (e.g., popular genres or active users).
o Example: Similar to WordPress dashboard but for book data.
 Special Feature: Role-based access ensures security and control.