MDens is a specialized dental prosthesis laboratory that required a two-fold modernization of its digital infrastructure. The objective was to elevate their brand presence through a new web platform while simultaneously solving significant operational bottlenecks caused by legacy management software.
Phase 1: Web Presence & Education Hub
The first phase focused on developing a professional WordPress website designed to serve as a central hub for the company. Key features included:
- Corporate Showcase: Highlighting MDens’ laboratory services and case studies.
- Academy Portal: A dedicated area for training courses and professional development.
- Content Management: A blog for industry news and internal updates to keep clients engaged.
Phase 2: System Modernization & Client Portal
The lab’s internal operations were previously tied to OrisLab X3, a legacy system running on a Microsoft Access 2000 database. This created two primary issues:
- Manual Overload: Employees had to manually input all patient data and work descriptions.
- Communication Gaps: Client updates were handled entirely by hand; staff had to look up statuses in the software and manually compose emails for every inquiry.
The Solution
To bridge the gap between this aging software and modern expectations, I developed a custom ecosystem consisting of three integrated parts:
1. Client Interaction Portal (PHP / CodeIgniter) I built a secure web portal that allows MDens clients to log in and manage their business independently. Clients can now:
- Submit new work orders digitally.
- Track the real-time status of their prosthesis orders without needing to call or email the lab.
2. Database Synchronization Connector (VB.NET) Since OrisLab X3 uses an outdated Access 2000 format, I developed a custom VB.NET connector. This tool acts as a bridge, automatically synchronizing data between the local Access database and the portal’s MySQL database, ensuring information is consistent across both systems.
3. Internal Management Software (VB.NET) To give MDens full control over the new features, I created a secondary administrative application. This desktop tool allows the lab to:
- Manage client credentials and portal access.
- Trigger manual data syncs when necessary.
- Download files and images submitted by clients via the portal.
- Configure automated system communications, such as the outgoing email servers for client notifications.
The Result
By automating the flow of data between a 25-year-old database and a modern web framework, MDens significantly reduced the administrative burden on their staff. The laboratory transitioned from a manual, email-heavy workflow to a streamlined, self-service model for their clients.