A freelance collaboration platform built with Spring Boot, connecting clients and developers through smart matching, secure payments, and gamified growth.
DevMatch is a freelance marketplace web application where clients can post project requirements and freelancers can apply to work on them.
It aims to provide a fair, motivating, and transparent environment for both sides — from project posting to payment completion.
Key goals:
- Empower freelancers to build their reputation and portfolio.
- Help clients find the best developers faster through smart recommendations.
- Ensure safe collaboration with built-in messaging and secure payment flow.
- Clients – Post project requirements, review applicants, and manage project milestones.
- Freelancers – Apply to projects, communicate with clients, and deliver quality work.
- Admin – Oversee platform activities, handle reports, and manage payments.
- 🧾 Project Posting: Clients can create detailed project listings with budget and skill requirements.
- 🧑💻 Application System: Freelancers can send proposals and track application statuses.
- 🧠 Smart Matching: Recommends top freelancers based on skills, experience, and project fit.
- 💬 Real-time Messaging: Built-in chat for transparent communication.
- 💰 Payment Handling: Supports escrow-style transactions for project security.
- 🏅 Gamified Profile System: Earn badges and reputation points to boost visibility.
- 🔍 Search & Filters: Find projects or freelancers using keywords, skills, or budget range.
| Layer | Technology |
|---|---|
| Backend | Java Spring Boot/ Auth0 |
| Database | PostgreSQL |
| Frontend | Next.js |
| ORM | Hibernate / JPA |
| Build Tool | Maven |
| Authentication | Spring Security + JWT |
| API Style | RESTful APIs |
| Deployment (future) | Docker + AWS / Render |
Planned extensions:
- WebSocket for real-time chat
- Integration with third-party payment APIs
- Recommendation algorithm using skill matching & reputation scoring
- Java 17+
- Maven
- PostgreSQL
# 1️⃣ Clone the repository
git clone https://github.com/<your-username>/devmatch.git
cd devmatch
# 2️⃣ Configure the database in application.properties
spring.datasource.url=jdbc:postgresql://localhost:5432/devmatch
spring.datasource.username=postgres
spring.datasource.password=yourpassword
# 3️⃣ Build and run the application
mvn spring-boot:run
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### ✅ Tips for You
- Replace `<your-username>` with your actual GitHub username.
- Add your **LinkedIn** or **portfolio link** in the author section.
- Once you start building, you can update the `Features`, `Setup`, and `Structure` sections with real screenshots or API routes.
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Would you like me to also make a **`CONTRIBUTING.md`** file and a **`project board layout` (Kanban or milestones)** to organize your development next (e.g., MVP Phase 1 → core features, Phase 2 → chat + payments)?