1.
When the company first approached us, what were their exact
requirements?
When CactusCreatives initially approached us, they wanted to replace their manual,
unstructured workflow with a digital solution that could streamline operations. Specifically,
they were looking for an Order Management System to help them manage customer orders,
track product inventory, and maintain customer records efficiently. They requested
a centralized platform that could eliminate their dependence on tools like Excel and
WhatsApp, which they previously used for order tracking and communication. Key features
they needed included order listing, product management, inventory updates, and the
ability to assign roles and permissions for different types of users, such as administrators
and employees.
2. What solutions did we propose to them?
Based on their requirements, we proposed building a web-based Order Management
System using the [Link] Core MVC framework. This approach allowed us to separate
business logic, data handling, and user interface through the Model-View-Controller
architecture, which improves maintainability and scalability.
We proposed using Entity Framework Core for data access, which helped in managing the
database with minimal boilerplate code. The database selected was SQL Server, as it’s
robust and integrates well with the .NET ecosystem. The solution also included user role
management, where administrators could create and manage products, assign employee
roles, and handle order statuses. We also suggested implementing status tracking for
orders, search and filter options, and a responsive UI for ease of use.
3. How did we and the company come to an agreement on the final solution?
To arrive at the final solution, we worked closely with the company through an iterative
feedback process. We first presented the proposed technology stack, architecture, and a list
of core modules based on their business needs. As development progressed, we
demonstrated functional components like the order listing page, product entry forms, and
the customer details panel.
The company gave feedback on how they preferred the data to be displayed, the type of status
filters they wanted, and adjustments in the layout for better usability. We incorporated these
suggestions into the design and development process. Once all key features aligned with their
expectations, and they were satisfied with the performance, usability, and clarity of the
dashboard, we finalized the scope. The agreement was based on practical deliverables,
timeline milestones, and mutual understanding of the workflow.
4. How was the company managing before this app/website was developed?
Before this system was introduced, CactusCreatives was handling its operations manually
using Excel sheets and WhatsApp. They tracked orders, recorded inventory updates, and
communicated with team members via WhatsApp messages and Excel entries. This approach
created several challenges: there was no central system, data redundancy, and difficulty in
retrieving information. As their order volume increased, managing everything manually
became time-consuming and prone to human error. There was also no structured way to track
the status of ongoing orders or assign tasks to specific team members efficiently.
5. What specific problems led the company to feel the need for this system?
The key problems stemmed from the lack of structure, centralization, and automation in
their old system. Since all information was scattered across Excel files and WhatsApp chats,
it was difficult to keep track of customer orders, product availability, and inventory levels.
This often led to delays, missed updates, and a lack of visibility into business operations.
Employees had to manually calculate stock or update statuses, which wasted time and
increased the risk of miscommunication. These inefficiencies made it clear that a custom-
built digital system was needed to support their growth and provide a smoother workflow.
6. After the app and website were implemented, how has the company
benefited?
Post-implementation, the company experienced a significant boost in efficiency and clarity.
The new system allowed them to manage orders, products, inventory, and customers from
a single unified dashboard. Instead of relying on multiple tools, all tasks could now be
performed within the web application.
Admins could assign employee roles, monitor order statuses, and update product data in real-
time. Employees could log in, view assigned tasks, and manage operations without confusion.
The system also reduced redundancy and human error by automating data entry and updates.
Overall, it saved time, improved organization, and offered real-time visibility into the
company's operations, allowing them to scale more confidently.
7. How are React, [Link], and Flutter connected in this project?
These technologies are not part of this project, as per the documentation. Instead, the
system is developed entirely using [Link] Core MVC for both frontend and backend.
The application uses Razor Pages for rendering the frontend views and Entity Framework
Core to communicate with a SQL Server database. If you're looking to
connect React, [Link], and Flutter in another project, I can share a resource that explains
how React can be used for the admin dashboard, [Link] with Express for APIs, MongoDB
for storage, and Flutter for the mobile frontend.
