Challenge

The client used a legacy application to plan installations of assistive technologies for the deaf and hearing impaired. The solution helped design hearing loops and select amplifiers based on power, voltage, and current estimations. Although it handled calculations accurately, the app had poor UI/UX, frequent system errors, and slow performance.

With competitors releasing digital solutions left and right, the client strived to enhance its software portfolio too. Yet, there was a significant bump in the road. The company couldn't access the codebase and had no idea how it was built. They contacted Exoft to help connect all the dots and build a new web portal for assistive listening systems.

Our cooperation

The cooperation set off in April 2023 and is ongoing. As the primary technology experts on the project, our role extends beyond web development services.

Initially, we had to provide the client with clarity about their legacy app, its limitations, and redevelopment opportunities. Exoft selected tech stack, assembled a team, and facilitated project management. Now, we make all tech decisions and manage all SDLC stages, from requirements gathering and project planning to QA services and maintenance.

Thanks to the bi-weekly Scrum process, we provide frequent updates and demo sessions to the client. In return, we receive regular feedback and business logic details. Our communication schedule adapts to the development intensity. For instance, maintenance phases require fewer meetings.

On a global scale, there were four major stages: code audit, UI/UX design, web development, and maintenance.

Stage 1: Discovery & Code Audit

Exoft analyzed the client's legacy app without having access to the source code, documentation, or any other knowledge base. Our only resource was an old archive. Once we unzipped it, we discovered that the app relied on outdated versions of Joomla (written in PHP).

Stage 2: UI/UX Design

We performed a complete UI/UX redesign. With a minimalistic and intuitive interface, the app keeps users focused on what matters most – planning assistive listening solutions for the deaf and hearing impaired. We also added color-coded room mapping to illustrate different hearing loop setups and amplifier recommendations.

Stage 3: Custom Web Development

Exoft retrieved all critical hearing loop calculations from the legacy app and migrated it from PHP to .NET. Then, we had to build a new solution from scratch, migrating some existing features (like parameter estimation) and adding new ones (like tender management). We performed thorough manual testing of each new component.

When introducing the estimator feature, we incorporated additional magnetic field variables for more accurate hearing loop designs. Since there were few available subject matter experts within the company, we had to acquire knowledge about these complex equations ourselves.

Stage 4: Ongoing Maintenance

With the core scope completed, we're now in the maintenance phase. Our team adds some new features, enhancements, and fixes upon request while simultaneously preparing for the final release.

Solution

We developed a web portal for assistive listening systems, facilitating the design and management of hearing loop installations. Equipment dealers can use it to recommend amplifier models and quantities for their customers. Installers can plan hearing loop setups based on venue and wiring characteristics. Additionally, the application helps users generate all the necessary project documents and reports for tenders.

The solution has the following features:

• Authorization and account management
• Project creation & management
• Admin panel and CRM
• Parameter estimator
• Recommendation system
• Trainings portal
• Documentation repository
• Report & statistics generator
• Tender processing

The parameter estimator is the key selling point. It can simulate hearing loop designs and recommend amplifiers based on room configuration, listening height, loop length, wall distance, metal loss, and other variables. This way, professionals can create installations powerful enough to deliver audible information to hearing aid users, no matter where they are seated.

Results

In over a year, Exoft developed a fully functional and user-friendly web portal for assistive listening systems, placing the client at the top of the competition. The solution allows the company to make accurate amplifier recommendations, streamline tenders, and implement better assistive technologies for the deaf and hearing impaired.

Exoft is now a key partner for the client. We have fully embraced the client's industry and developed our own subject matter expertise. The client trusts us to