Saffral Consulting, the Rivonia based software development specialists, have developed an Internet based Project Documentation Archive (PDA), specifically tailored to suit engineering construction projects.
The PDA is expected to have applications where overseas funders finance and need to control or have input into locally run projects, but from their home base. The amount of documentation that surrounds even a modest sized construction project is formidable and may run into thousands of pages. Due to legal and contractual constraints, all documentation must be retained and archived, not only for the duration of the project, but for many years after the project's completion. Accessing individual documents either during or more so after the project is completed, can be a major task as archives are often stored off site, in cartons or boxes of dissimilar shape and size, and in non -standardised filing systems.
PDA is not seen as a replacement for the conventional method of communication on engineering projects at this stage, more as a very convenient and easy to use storage and retrieval system. The system will save time with the added value of having all project documentation contained on a series of Compact Discs when the project is completed.
The PDA performs the following functions in a superior way than that conventionally employed:
. A document archive, containing any type or format of documentation including letters, memos, instructions, spreadsheets, works programs, certificates, diagrams, photographs and drawings and even sound bites and video.
. This means that all doc, xls, mpp, ppt, jpeg, drg, dwg and dxf files can be archived and retrieved on demand. The system is platform independent allowing users with different operating systems access without protocol conflicts. The system is Internet based to allow remote geographical access, irrespective of navigator required, from anywhere in the world.
. PDA allows easy and immediate access to all forms of contract documentation.
. Defined rules allow password access to documents that are prescribed for that user or group and users cannot change or overwrite an archive document.
The central server is a Saffral developed YODATool(r) appliance running under the highly reliable SuSE Linux operating system. Saffral are the southern African business and training partners of SuSE Linux AG, widely recognised as the most technologically advanced developer and distributor of Linux operating systems. Multiple mirrored hard drives with RAID management software and tape and disc back up provide "belt & braces" security and fail-safe off-site storage of data.
The implementation of a PDA will yield the following advantages:
. Secure electronic storage
. Low levels of maintenance
. Low level of IT literacy skills for operation
. No regional or geographical limitation
. No duplication of paperwork
. Fast and easy access to users such as project funders, clients, (Public Works officials) project managers, consultants, contractors, etc.
. Reduced cost of administration due to greater efficiencies Time saving data transfer
. Project information on demand Eventual archiving on to compact discs, of all the contents of the PDA at the completion of the project.
The Saffral designed software incorporates high security firewall protection and the advanced AMaVIS anti virus mail scanner ensuring virus free transfer of files.
The PDA is implemented under a program rental contract, for the duration of project. Saffral Consulting supply and maintain the working website which includes domain registration and support, and at the end of the project period, supply the archive information in the form of a series of Compact Discs, tapes or hard disc drives to Clients specifications.
Share
