CSWDC IMS SharePoint

The first part of this project was to meet CSWDC stakeholders and document their current processes and requirements from the Access Database.  One-day drop-in sessions were setup by PSP for Users to explain and demonstrate their current process, which was documented into a report. This report was transferred into a detailed functional specification which outlined all of the requirements and expectations for the project. The specification is referred to constantly throughout the development and testing and details all the required fields, wire-frames and reporting requirements.

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PSP created a ‘metro tiled’ web part control for SharePoint 2010 to use on the landing page which has each area of the system on a tile, these can be controlled (name and position) by administrators of the system.  Users of the system find it is a quick and easy way to get to the required area.

Filtering Data
One of the main aims of this project was to ensure information could be found quickly.  Microsoft SharePoint 2010 standard list filtering made this very easy.  A large amount of the data stored in the IMS suited the SharePoint lists functionality. It allows Users to filter data down quickly using columns already in place, instead of extracting data to Microsoft Excel and manually manipulating it.

Data Migration
A large volume of data needed to be migrated from the old Access Database into the new Microsoft SharePoint 2010. PSP managed the migration by creating a series of import migration scripts for the required areas. PSP carried out multiple tests to ensure any gaps were identified and scripts were amended where required. All data migration went through a series of validation checks and counts. On go live, data migration went smoothly and it was timed to fit in with the CSWDC shift pattern in order to avoid as much disruption as possible.

Reporting & Printing
Certain areas of the system required reporting and printing. PSP developed and styled a specific list so when reports were printed it would fit on one A4 page and was readable.

PDF reporting controls were used to produce styled reports based on the information in the SharePoint lists.  Users set the report using a series of filter options which are based on the area they wish to report on for example, Key Management. Once the filtering of the report is complete the report previews on screen styled and is ready to be exported. The control allows it to be exported to numerous formats including .xls, .xlsx, and .pdf.

Permissions
For this project the IMS system is accessed by multiple members of staff across different departments which meant the permissions needed to be setup to meet these requirements.  The flexibility of Microsoft SharePoint 2010 within permissions allowed this requirement to be met with ease.  PSP created each permission group required and then tailored each area (SharePoint list) to the required permission group.  Using permission groups allows administrators to manage starters and leavers very easily.

Post testing and go live PSP provide a warranty contract, and in addition where required, a maintenance contract which covers queries, support and minor enhancements to the system.