Client requirements

IXC required a system that supported their Intermediary Service.

This involves the storing and exchange of knowledge between IXC intermediaries in a repository called the Vault.

IXC Intermediaries are embedded in multiple organisations and operate as part of each organisation’s team, sharing information confidentially with other IXC Intermediaries to find connections for licensing, M&A, joint venture and other opportunities, where the different Member organisations could collaborate to mutual advantage.

The process of information exchange between intermediaries has to be carried out in a secure and controlled manner as the information is highly confidential.

The main components of the Vault is a secure, fully searchable database for the submission of opportunities and tightly controlled workflow for approval of opportunities.

Solution

The solution developed by PretaWeb used the Plone content management system and its in-built object oriented database.  Customised content types were devised to allow company information to be logged. Each object type was allowed to be linked to any other object. This provides immediate connections when searching on particular keywords.

Complicated workflow was built into the system that automated exactly how and when who needed to do what with each opportunity. The system holds data on all objects  in their various states and their relation to the affected customers. Ajax based search facilities allowed IXC intermediaries to search and list opportunities and their current status. Various reporting facilities allow creating reports of opportunites and other data in the repository.

Customer benefits

By using a Zope/Plone based system with its object oritnented databse the Vault is accessible and editable by browser on one hand, while on the other hand complex queries and connections can be efficiently and rapidly obtained.