Business Requirement
The client wanted to implement a user-friendly buyer portal that seamlessly integrates with their existing ecosystem. They engaged QBurst to develop and enhance the technical build of new releases, in addition to developing and maintaining core functionalities. Required services include UI/UX design, UI development, backend API development, unit testing, DevOps support for packaging and deployment, and quality assurance.
QBurst Solution
We utilized an iterative design process to replace their existing AS400 system. The enhanced buyer portal provides an improved user experience, streamlined business activities, and better visibility.
Data Processing and APIs
- Talend Jobs: These jobs extract data from the SAP HANA Sidecar and load it into a local MongoDB instance for application display. The job execution frequency varies based on business requirements, ranging from every five minutes to once a day.
- APIs: Read Operations fetch data from SAP HANA and deliver it to the requesting application and Write Operations push data back into SAP S/4HANA.
This architecture ensures efficient data flow while balancing real-time and batch processing needs across applications.
Integration with Internal Systems
- Robust API Integration: Developed a standardized API architecture to ensure seamless integration between the portal, SAP, MSTR, and other systems, supporting real-time data flow and large transaction volumes.
- Testing and Validation: Regular testing and validation of integration points were performed to identify and resolve issues before they impacted business operations.
Managing Purchase Orders and Items
- Developed User Interface: Created an intuitive interface for buyers to easily create and edit purchase orders.
Buyer Experience and Engagement
- User-Centric Design: Focused on ease of use, simplifying workflows, streamlining processes, and ensuring that users can easily create new items, place orders, and track past purchase orders.
- Optimization: Optimized the portal for mobile, enabling buyers to make quick decisions on the go.
- Training and Support: Provided ongoing training, tutorials, and real-time support to help buyers navigate the portal effectively.
This approach enabled seamless integration of modern systems, enhanced functionality, and improved user satisfaction, ultimately driving business efficiency and customer engagement.
Business Challenge
Setting up a buyer portal involves several complex challenges that include integration and real-time data access. The portal must seamlessly integrate with client systems like SAP and MSTR, as delays or errors can disrupt operations. Synchronizing these systems is crucial for managing purchase orders and adjustments as discrepancies and incorrect pricing can arise if data isn't aligned. Additionally, a poor user experience can lead to frustrated buyers, missed orders, and lost sales.