Database Design, integrated Microsoft applications, SQL Server reduce costs

Customer Case Studies

For over 10 years Open File (UK) has successfully provided database design and build services to more than 30 companies and charities both large and small. All our customers have achieved huge saving in time and the cost of administration.

NPI - Pensions

Product profit testing and market analysis information database: Data from spreadsheet applications and main-frame sales data was combined into an MS Access database format. With the result data processing time dramatically improved by a factor of 20. Automating procedures and processes has significantly reduced calculation errors, combined with auditing facilities maximising staff confidence when reporting results. A user-friendly interface makes it both simple and reliable to add new products to the system; the degree of in-built flexibility ensures a wide range of product types can be added without further development to the system. Data reporting facilities are extensive and easy to use, allowing a wide range of information to be sent to senior management electronically with precise and clear presentation.

'The solution surpassed NPI's expectation for speed in data processing and the high degree of flexibility and reliability' - Finance Manager

Culver Farms - Food Production

A paper-oriented fresh food produce, distribution and invoicing system needed rationalising to cope with the additional paper work as the business expanded. An automated relational database system was implemented bringing many benefits to the business. For example it reduced administration costs, deliveries are reconciled with sales invoices, transport charges are reconciled with deliveries, and Chep pallet hire account can be audited. The development of a production line monitoring system increased daily output dramatically. Collection and analysis of the additional information enabled the introduction of an easily administered piecework payment system for the seasonal workers. This significantly reduced the unit labour costs increasing efficiency ensuring the continuation of business in a very competitive marketplace.

'We are assured of fewer accounting errors, we sell a better quality product and client confidence in us has improved' - Proprietor.

Migrant Helpline

The 1999 government's legislation for asylum seekers entering this country requires concise and accurate casework records to be kept; so it was essential that an automated relational database solution should be implemented. With advice from the agency staff a Microsoft Access database system was developed to manage all the information required by the agency and the Home Office. With a short development period before 'going live', we needed to implement a scalable database that could be further developed to suit this ever-changing legislation. This has been achieved and we are now able to add significantly to the existing solution without disruption to the current live system and migrated the database into SQL server. Statistical reporting and flexible management of casework are essential functions of the system; we have been able to provide the solution fulfilling these needs and all that is required by the Home Office.

'A completely new team of workers had to be appointed and trained to use the database in a short space of time. The simple to use database interface minimised cost and training time, at the same time allowing us to implement new features and enhancements requested by the users' - Chief Executive.

South of England Advocacy Projects

ICAS (Independent Complaints Advocacy Service) database The DOH introduced this service in 2003 to be administered at local level by independent agencies. In collaboration with SEAP staff Open File (UK) designed, built and deployed a Microsoft Access database system mid 2004. Connection to the database system by workers from remote offices along the south coast (Cornwall to Kent) was essential. We achieved this by deploying the system using Terminal Services and remote desktop enabling all the users have secure connection to the database and access to centralised records. As the service grew the database was moved to SQL Server The system collated casework information and contact episodes providing users with full casework history and automated statistical reports, saving on management time and providing clients with a first class service.

'Open File (UK) made the whole process from creating an MS Access Database, to training staff and maintaining it so easy for us. No job was too small or great and they always considered our needs and gave us helpful suggestions to improve what we had. I recommend them to any business wanting to organise their data effectively' - ICT Manager

Springboard Marketing

As an ISO9001/2000 quality accredited consultancy, Springboard Marketing always strives to continuously improve its service. Springboard's project management system has been developed with the assistance of Open File Limited which enables all client projects to be professionally managed throughout the lifetime of the project.

The system has been built as a Microsoft Access database, as part of the Microsoft Office package known to and used by all Springboard employees, negating the need for further investment in software and Access training.

From a client perspective, projects are managed professionally with all tasks being completed on time and invoices raised accurately. From an employee point of view, the project management system replaced a variety of paper-based procedures removing the need for time-consuming and repetitive tasks. From a management perspective, Springboard's effectiveness and efficiency has been dramatically improved and the business now has an invaluable management tool.

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