Applications come in all shapes and sizes ranging from a simple utility to backup files, through multi user applications reconciling a trading desk's transactions.
Client/Server
Client/Server applications are typically seen in businesses. These applications have a component that will run on the end user's desktop space and another that will run on a centralized server. The Client/Server applications created by Zahler IT are typically based upon a Windows architecture with the client application written in either VB.NET or preferably C#.NET with a server back end based upon Microsoft SQL Server. In the past, the cost of entry for SQL Server was high, but many implementations may be done now using their free SQL Server Express, thereby bypassing high licensing fees as well as the increased server requirements.
In the event that the requirements exceed that of SQL Server Express and the budget does not allow for the expense of a commercial database server software, Zahler IT deploys the back end on a MySQL on a server running on a variant of Linux. For additional information, refer to this website's discussion of databases.
Web Based
In the event business needs dictate an application to be distributed over several different target computers and operating systems, a web based application can be a more appropriate approach. The biggest benefit of moving the traditional Client/Server application to a Web Based one is that the management is centralized, therefore much easier and less costly. Regardless of whether a client's computers run Windows, Mac OSX or Linux, in the next room or across continents, the web application works. Zahler IT's process identifies the target computers in your business that require the application, and then ensure that specification is met.
Desktop
Zahler IT's solutions are right sized. We see no need to develop a complex and expensive multi user client/server application when a simple desktop app suffices. The companie's methodologies do ensure that if, as some point, business outgrows the desktop, it can be scaled to the client/server model. When developing for the desktop, Zahler IT utilizes VB.NET, C#.NET, Visual Basic and Access with data-stores of flat files, CSV, Access and XML. Through our discovery process the best system is sourced, based upon current and future needs as well as interoperability.
Our Process
When Zahler IT initially engages new clients, the first order task is to understand the business, processes and needs. Without this knowledge, there is no way to know the most appropriate approach to solve the task at hand. Clients are more satisfied by the solutions and recommendations with this process. Additionally, the discovery phase, allows Zahler IT to assess infrastructure as well to determine what is already in place that can be leveraged rather than incurring unnecessary expense.
Based upon findings, Zahler IT recommends as to platforms, architecture and possible additional infrastructure requirements. Recommendations include all aspects of the new application and an overall estimate for the project.
Once the proposal is delivered, a meeting is scheduled to discuss the project in an in-depth fashion so that we may develop a formal specification including deliverables, as well as binding estimates and delivery timelines. Upon acceptance, a kick-off meeting introduces all team members from both the client and Zahler IT. Depending upon the complexity of the project, the deliverables may be a single item, or may include multiple phases as well as a documentation element for the overall project.
Delivery is not the end of the engagement: it starts with acceptance testing. This is the most important phase in the project's lifecycle. The client utilizes the developed system to ensure that it meets their expectations and is defect-free. The project will not be closed by us until the system has undergone this process and the client is satisfied by its usability and functionality.