Apologies to anyone who expressed interest in this proposal - I simply ran out of time due to other work commitments. I am keen to make progress with this. If you wish to contact me again I would be very pleased to consider your offer.
Section 1 –Introduction and Overview
Decameron Software are seeking to update their current software from SQL Server back end and a VB6 front end to a C-sharp mob hosted environment.
The current software has been in use, and continues to be used effectively, by solicitors for the preparation of documents to be submitted to the Court known as Bundles.
The software has been in place for clients for up to 17 years, but is legacy software and needs to be updated to work in the modern digital flexible environment.
Section 2 – Purpose, Scope and Objectives
For the structure of the product, known as a Bundler, to be upgraded into C-sharp. The current code contains many tables and forms that are now redundant due to changes in usage and technological development. These are to be reviewed and removed. The architecture of the system is currently fit for purpose. A new user interface will need to be designed however the basic structure is fit for purpose, easy to use and this must be retained. The objective is to provide a very secure environment, that can be hosted using Azure, to enable relevant professionals to have access to documents. It may be also be necessary to share these documents securely with approved third parties.
Creating Court Bundles is defined by Practice Directions and legislation. The Bundler needs to be sufficiently flexible to enable different types of proceedings to be used in separate, distinct databases even within one solicitors’ practice. A summary of how the Bundler works, and key features is attached.
Section 3 – System overview, including system and software architecture
Please see attached flow chart and list of tables, including those which are to be retained and those which are now redundant.
The VB6 source code will of course be available on receipt of a Non-Disclosure Agreement following initial assessment of viability and cost.
In essence, this is a document management system that requires the ability to continually update and re-order documents. This includes the ability to index them, with a user ordered index, and to retain the integrity of documents at all times.
Documents for inclusion in the Bundle may originate in a variety of formats, Word, pdf, .png tif, etc. These all have to be converted into a pdf format.
OCR needs to be considered. This may be part of the programme, depending on costs and resource overheads, or it may be something that will require users to do prior to or post-construction of a Bundle.
This project should be completed within three months of the initial agreement. Advice in respect of deployment, hosting and future assistance to manage and update needs to be part of the final response to this proposal.
Please address any particular issues with regard to security and risk management.
Previous experience of working in a highly secure environment, document management system and legal fields is desirable. Confirmation of insurance and agreement to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement are required.
