The Challenge

Converting .ics calendar files to .csv using online tools may not be ideal for handling sensitive data, and manually editing files in Excel can be a tedious process. So I created a local tool that streamlined the process of converting .ics calendar files to .csv files without sacrificing privacy or usability.

The Approach

To address this challenge, I developed a lightweight Python-based application that makes the conversion process easy and reliable. The app includes key features such as:

• Data Mapping: Automatically organizes all fields, including custom ones, for seamless CSV import/export.
• Time Zone Adjustments: Converts timestamps to the user’s local time zone automatically.
• Offline Functionality: Ensures user privacy by running entirely on the local machine—no internet connection required.

The Process

• Gathering user requirements to understand pain points and must-have features.
• Writing clean, efficient Python code using libraries like ics and pandas to handle file parsing and data formatting.
• Testing thoroughly to ensure the app handled edge cases like unusual data, large files, and custom fields.

The Results

The finished tool met all objectives, offering:

• Ease of Use: A simple double-click launches the app and converts the file in seconds.
• Privacy Assurance: By running locally, users can process sensitive data without concern.
• Improved Workflow: Eliminated the need for complex tools like Excel or reliance on online converters.