Background
The client operated a website selling industrial products, specifically steel pipes, to corporate clients. One major issue they faced was the cumbersome process after an order was placed. Construction managers typically ordered through the website, but each order had to be forwarded to procurement for approval within the company. Only then could the product be requisitioned, resulting in a slow and convoluted process.
Objective
The aim was to create a unique e-commerce platform where quote requests, orders, and cart contents could be sent via encrypted links to other employees within the company, who could then immediately view and approve the orders.
Solution Development and Rollout IT’s Involvement
The solution’s development journey began in January 2022, spearheaded by a designer and a technical lead. Rollout IT took charge of development in January 2023, assembling a 5-member Scrum team consisting of two frontend developers, one backend developer, one tester, and one DevOps engineer. The team successfully navigated through development tasks, ultimately meeting the initial release deadline initially set for August 2023, achieving it by November 2023.
Progress
While the original release date was set for August 2023, the team accomplished their goals by November 2023. One significant technological challenge was during the development of the administrative interface, which was ultimately resolved by implementing the React administration panel.
Outcome
The implementation resulted in the automation of generating and sending quote requests, orders, sharing, and cart contents to procurement via encrypted links. Essentially, we developed a seamless corporate integration solution. The platform enables users to request a quote for a pre-assembled order and share it as a link for approval or payment by responsible colleagues. The system alleviates the company’s pricing burdens by allowing the implementation of unique pricing strategies, configurable through the administrative interface. It provides detailed communication on the pricing logic behind the scenes. Additionally, the platform offers online configuration during the ordering process, allowing customers to specify details such as paint, cutting, and galvanization for the requested products.Furthermore, a customer authentication system was implemented, incorporating features such as online electronic signatures, uploading of accounting reports and personalized documentation.Moreover, the system includes provisions for offering unique discounts based on quotes received from competitors, enhancing competitiveness and customer satisfaction.
Thechnology Stack
The technology stack included Azure Cloud, React (Next.js), TypeScript, Node.js, and MongoDB. Next.js was chosen for server-side rendering and its SEO-friendly features, while Node.js facilitated the transition between frontend and backend. TypeScript improved documentation and maintainability.
Client Interaction and Feedback
Regular meetings were held with the client throughout the project, incorporating feedback into relevant demos for ongoing improvements. The system was iteratively refined based on client feedback.
Future Developments
Currently, a developer is working on additional features such as quotes, statistics, reports, discounts, and integration of marketing tools.
Recommended Target Audience
The custom e-commerce solution is recommended for medium and large enterprises seeking similar specialized sales interfaces.
Conclusion
The Custom E-commerce Development project undertaken by Rollout IT represents a significant advancement in streamlining corporate procurement processes and enhancing e-commerce functionalities. By addressing the challenges faced by the client in facilitating seamless order approval and procurement, the developed platform has revolutionized the way industrial products are bought and sold within the organization. In conclusion, the Custom E-commerce Development project exemplifies Rollout IT’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of its clients. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaborative partnerships, Rollout IT continues to drive digital transformation and enhance business efficiency in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.