Offline Business Impact Modeling Tool with Secure Data Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Business Impact Modeling (BIM) system does not allow salespeople to work with BIM assessments unless they are connected to the BIM server, limiting its benefits for those who frequently work offline.
Innovation Solution
A desktop-based BIM system that enables salespeople to download BIM assessments, collect customer information, calculate results, and generate reports while offline, with secure access restrictions to protect sensitive information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the BIM system is implemented as a server-based web application with centralized control, then security and control over intellectual property are improved, but accessibility for offline salespeople deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the BIM functionality into two segments: a server-based component that maintains security and control, and a standalone executable component that can run offline on salespeople's computers. The executable contains a local copy of the BIM model and can perform calculations without server connection, while the server retains control over model distribution and collects results when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
A local copy mechanism acts as an intermediary between the centralized server and offline users. The executable downloads and stores a copy of the BIM model locally, enabling offline operation while maintaining the ability to synchronize with the server when connected. This intermediary layer resolves the conflict between centralized security and distributed accessibility.
2Reliability
If the BIM system requires constant server connection for operation, then control over intellectual property is improved, but productivity of salespeople deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by distributing standalone executables containing copies of the BIM model to salespeople before they need to work offline. This allows them to conduct assessments and generate reports without server connection, maintaining productivity while the server maintains control over model distribution and collects results when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates and distributes copies of the BIM model embedded in standalone executables to salespeople's computers. These copies enable offline operation and improve productivity, while the server maintains control by managing distribution, tracking usage, and collecting results when connections are established.
3Ease of operation
If the BIM system allows offline operation with local copies, then accessibility for salespeople is improved, but security and control over customer information deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the standalone executable automatically connects to the server when possible to upload results and download updates. This feedback loop ensures that customer information is eventually secured on the server, while allowing offline operation when needed. The server can also monitor and control what information is collected and how it is used.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the BIM tool by switching between offline and online modes. When offline, the executable operates with local data; when online, it synchronizes with the server, uploads results, and receives updates. This dynamic parameter change allows the system to balance accessibility needs with security requirements based on connection availability.
Data Source
AI summary
A modeling tool for determining the impact that a data warehouse solution will have upon a business organization considering implementing a data warehouse solution. The modeling tool is implemented on a server computer with restricted access through a client computer. A server computer includes: a business impact model comprising a mathematical representation of a data warehouse solution, and an assessment questionnaire; and a modeling application for calculating a value of a data warehouse solution to a business organization from the business impact model and assessment questionnaire answers. A client computer is connectable to the server computer for receiving a copy of the business impact model, and providing offline collection of answers to the assessment questions, and offline calculation of a value of the data warehouse solution to the business organization. An application residing on the server computer keeps a record of the business impact model received by the client computer.