WebApp: Online Front-End for Legacy ERP Desktop Application

Overview:

I developed an online portal that unlocked the full potential of data from numerous legacy, desktop-only ERP systems. These systems were only accessible via Citrix (Remote Desktop), with data stored in a proprietary database. The only database connector available was a 32-bit ODBC driver compatible with Windows Operating Systems.

Previously, the businesses generated numerous reports using Access and Excel. However, these reports were time-consuming, as data had to be retrieved one by one from each business, leading to delays in report generation. Reports were typically sent at the end of each day, month, and bi-monthly, which caused significant delays and bottlenecks in decision-making.

To overcome these constraints, I identified and built a solution to access and use this data live, utilizing it on a front-facing web page. The result was an online portal that enabled the business to view:

  • Live Dashboards and Business Reporting tailored for CEOs, CFOs, Sales/Purchasing Managers, and Sales/Purchasing Reps.
  • Live Data Integrity Reporting and Fault Notifications to quickly address issues.
  • Data Collation from Various Legacy & Online Systems into a single, unified platform.
  • Up-to-the-Second Analysis for more informed and timely business decisions.

Problems:

  • Data Access Constraints: The legacy ERP systems could only be accessed via Citrix, with data stored in a proprietary database that required a 32-bit ODBC driver. This made data extraction slow and cumbersome.
  • Inefficient Reporting Process: Reports generated through Access and Excel were time-consuming, often leading to delays in critical business reporting and decision-making.
  • Lack of Real-Time Data: The inability to access live data limited the business’s ability to make real-time decisions and respond promptly to changing conditions.
  • Data Fragmentation: With data spread across various legacy systems and only retrievable one at a time, there was a risk of inconsistency and fragmentation, further complicating the reporting process.

Solutions:

  • Web Portal Development: I built an online portal that provided live access to data from the legacy ERP systems, bypassing the need for Citrix and enabling real-time data retrieval and reporting.
  • Data Integration and Centralization: The portal collated data from various systems into a centralized platform, allowing for more comprehensive and cohesive reporting.
  • Automated Reporting: By automating the reporting process, the portal significantly reduced the time required to generate and deliver reports, providing up-to-the-second insights for better decision-making.
  • Live Data Integrity Checks: Implemented real-time data integrity checks and fault notifications to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data being reported.

Impacts:

  • Improved Decision-Making: The ability to access live data and generate real-time reports enabled CEOs, CFOs, and other key stakeholders to make informed decisions quickly, without waiting for end-of-day or monthly reports.
  • Increased Efficiency: Automating the reporting process and centralizing data access reduced the time and effort required to generate reports, freeing up resources for more strategic tasks.
  • Enhanced Data Accuracy: Real-time data integrity checks minimized the risk of errors and inconsistencies in reporting, leading to more reliable business insights.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: The web-based solution provided a scalable platform that could be easily updated or expanded to include additional modules, reports, and users as the business grew.

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