
SUCCESS STORIES
Modernising Contacts and Newsletter Management
2018
July
Challenge
Medizinische Sektion am Goetheanum, a non-profit organisation, relied on a very large Excel file for managing contacts and newsletter subscribers. This approach became increasingly complex, especially when multiple users needed to access the file simultaneously, causing operational issues. The organisation required a modern web application with integration into Microsoft 365 and Outlook.
Medizinische Sektion am Goetheanum
Scientific Research Services
Dornach, Switzerland
The Medizinische Sektion am Goetheanum, based in Dornach, Switzerland, is the international coordination center for Anthroposophic Medicine. They focus on research, development, education, and promoting a holistic approach to healthcare that integrates spiritual and scientific perspectives.
Solution
We developed a modern web application with a sleek design and advanced search functionality, including wildcard search and expert search capabilities with extensive filters. This application allowed contacts to be easily added to custom lists or dynamic lists based on specific criteria for newsletter management.
Data from the original Excel file was migrated to a new SQL Server database, ensuring a seamless transition and reliable data management. The web application was built using ASP.NET MVC, with the user interface leveraging the "Fabric" UI controls library to integrate smoothly with Microsoft 365.
An Outlook add-in was developed and made available to selected employees through the Microsoft 365 Admin Center, ensuring convenient access and integration. User authorisation was managed via security groups configured in Microsoft 365, enhancing security and access control.
The entire web solution is hosted in Azure, providing a scalable and secure environment in the Microsoft cloud.
"We commissioned Peter Taras to migrate our twenty years old database from an outdated Access application to a modern, cloud-based address management system. This application had to be developed from scratch according to our specifications. Peter Taras carried out this project excellently and enabled our team to make our daily work more efficient and productive. The project was completed on time and on budget and I must say that it is a real pleasure to work with such a reliable and competent partner."
Mathias Hofmann
Project Management, Stakeholder
Outcome
The new web application significantly improved the efficiency and usability of contact and newsletter management for Medizinische Sektion am Goetheanum. Users benefited from advanced search capabilities and seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Outlook. The transition from Excel to a SQL Server database enhanced data reliability and accessibility. Hosting the solution in Azure ensured scalability and security, aligning with the organisation’s needs for a modern, integrated, and user-friendly system.