Challenge
Allow users to search for specific documents or pages residing on a 40 GB database via the web with an average response time of under 10 seconds. Support up to 500 simultaneous users while concurrently loading several hundred MBs of new documents on a daily basis. Provide customer access on a 24×7 basis over the Internet using either Netscape or Internet Explorer. The system functions allowed:
Storage of documents and pictures as images and text | |
Categorizing of the stored documents | |
Grouping of documents with unique group IDs and names | |
Entering of suitable titles and other short descriptions | |
Editing of titles | |
Moving of documents from one group to another | |
Searching of documents by categories, group ids, key words, author, publisher, etc | |
JavaScript Provisioning of different levels of access | |
Printing and e-mailing of selected documents | |
Statistical information on most searched pages, documents, etc | |
Displaying of the actual document image |
Solution
We used a 3-tier web/server approach to provide highly reliable and scalable architecture. The front part used HTML with Java script for editing. The middleware included Active Server Pages (ASP) working in conjunction with IIS web server, and the backend included an MTS application server with COM component interfacing with SQL Server database.
The team implemented the applications on SUN E450 server with RAID-5 storage. Load balancing and performance was achieved through a custom designed clustering scheme and system tuning.
Our project manager worked on the customer’s behalf to negotiate contracts with a hosting company with a guaranteed uptime. We managed an extensive quality assurance program using automated test tools. We also provided technical training for the client’s help desk staff.
The cyberThink Advantage
Our industry experts (project manager, system architect, web/server developers, database designer and data communications specialist) delivered this best in class system in 3 months. We provided a complete solution encompassing requirements, design/development, quality assurance, vendor management and hardware deployment. Our customer was able to keep its focus on the business.