Similar to many organizations, the client knew that their current workflows and processes were just not cutting it in today's world of technology. They were still relying too much on hand-written reports for collection of project data, especially in the field. The client needed to streamline their process, improve the accuracy of the data collected, and do so in a way that would not require a complete system overhaul. The approach taken was the development of a web application using a cloud-based business platform. This approach allowed the client to utilize systems that were already using within the organization, customized to suit their specific needs.  This custom web application was successfully implemented into their business operations in early 2019 and performs the following functions:

​

• Collects project data from the user via a web form that is securely hosted on Google's cloud platform and permits use only by authorized personnel within the organization.

• Auto-loads project information, where possible, from a back-end database maintained by office staff. Manual entry/overrides are still allowed where appropriate.

• Allows for customizing input by the user to include as few or as many personnel, equipment, and materials as needed as well as the ability to toggle rates for each on an off.

• Automatically generates editable and read-only reports containing the project data input by the end user and saves the reports to the project folder.

• Searches for the existing project folder and creates a new project folder based on a templated structure if none exists.

• Automatically creates and sends an email to the appropriate project personnel that includes a summary of activities, embedded links to the project folder and documents, and a .pdf attachment of the report.

• Creates or appends the pertinent data to a spreadsheet database that is generated for each project and saved in the project folder hosted in the cloud.

• Designed as a responsive web application that can be used on devices of all size, from smartphone to desktop.

​

If desired by the client, the next step is to transform the application to a progressive web app (PWA) that combines the power of the web with the functional and performance advantages of a native app!