Workflow Management Modernization

A UK-based facilities services firm that specializes in tasks requiring precise operational tracking

The client’s legacy platform created several operational and technical roadblocks:

• Performance Bottlenecks: The system struggled to handle increasing data load and user interactions seamlessly, leading to slow processing times.
• Codebase Obsolescence: Outdated framework and package versions in the codebase created instability, security risks, and high maintenance costs.
• Scalability Issues: The existing architecture lacked the capacity to support data-intensive tasks and the required real-time notifications.
• Operational Inefficiencies: Lack of automation for essential tasks like file syncing and form creation required manual effort and custom reporting.
   

QBurst executed a comprehensive modernization strategy focused on bringing the application codebase to modern standards and building a highly scalable and reliable backend infrastructure on AWS.

• Code Modernization: The administrative portal's codebase was updated to the latest stable framework and package versions (PHP), and the mobile application was rebuilt using Flutter (Dart), allowing for a single codebase for multiple platforms.
• Scalable AWS Infrastructure: A dedicated and highly scalable infrastructure was established on AWS EC2, using separate dedicated servers for:
  • API requests and the user-facing web server
  • Data syncing with MS Dynamics 365
  • Real-time notifications via an MQ server
• Efficiency with AWS SQS: AWS SQS (Simple Queue Service) was integrated to manage queues for data-intensive operations and data syncing, ensuring streamlined operations and minimized latency.
• Enhanced Mobile Features: Key efficiency features were deployed on the mobile app:
  • Automated SharePoint file syncing with the mobile app
  • Real-time map view with geofencing and background location tracking for monitoring operator movement and job status (Firebase for push notifications)
  • Offline support with data syncing upon reconnection (using SQLite)
     

• Full-Stack Modernization: PHP (portal) and Flutter/Dart (mobile app) provided a stable and feature-rich development environment.
• AWS Integration for Scalability: Utilized AWS EC2 for dedicated servers and AWS SQS for efficient queue management of data syncing tasks.
• Real-Time Communication: Employed Firebase for reliable push notifications and messaging, alongside a dedicated MQ server.
• Data Persistence & Logic: Used MySQL and DynamoDB for various data storage needs, and integrated AWS Lambda for event-driven processing and logic.
• Enhanced Data Reliability: Geofencing and background location tracking provided accurate, automated monitoring of operator activities.

The modernization project resulted in immediate operational improvements and a more secure platform:

• Improved User Experience & Speed: The optimized administrative portal delivered a 50% increase in data processing speed and ensured smoother user interactions.
• Streamlined Operations: The use of AWS SQS and dedicated server architecture minimized latency and ensured seamless, reliable data processing.
• Boosted Productivity: Automated SharePoint syncing and the ability for administrative users to create custom forms and reports drastically streamlined workflows, saving time.
• Enhanced Data Reliability: Real-time map view and geofencing features provided accurate and verifiable tracking of operator activities, bolstering data authenticity.
• Future-Ready Platform: Updating the entire codebase ensured a more stable, secure system with reduced downtime and maintenance costs.