Background

SMS consultants usually work at client offices, thus have little contact time with other SMS staff. In order to provide collaborative assistance to consultant working remotely SMS was looking for an online service that would allow staff to share information about projects on a technical level.

Challenges and Opportunities

Knowledge bases are one of the best methods of dissimilating and updating information. The largest challenge would be to get staff using the system on a regular basis. This meant that the user interface needed to be as easy as possible. Furthermore, an internal marketing campaign was required to raise the level of awareness.

Options

Restraints in terms of both budget and time, meant that the only option was a VBScript ASP online application that used Microsoft Access as a data source.

Solution

Microsoft Access without doubt out performs all database management system for small databases. Although using Access reduced the initial outlay cost a plan for upgrade was made for a later date.

Benefits

Sharing information with staff working remotely has greatly benefited SMS.