We knew LiveDataset would evolve, with some changes being unpredictable until we see it used in action by different types of customers in different ways.
Goals
Historically, most of our clients commissioned bespoke systems for use by their own employees.
When we designed LiveDataset to replace eXtraSheet, our goals were to build:
- A flexible platform for us to efficiently build bespoke systems for clients.
- An easy-to-use, rich interface for users to work with data without needing custom screens / reports.
- Powerful dataset configuration capabilities so IT professionals and power users could build their own applications without any training.
- A modular architecture with APIs for integration and security.
Progress
We have been making strong progress against all four goals.
- Clients are seeing us deliver custom projects more quickly.
- All new projects use the LiveDataset UI, with very few custom reports.
- Customers are building successful systems with only a little guidance from us to get them started.
- We are working with partners to build Apps that plug into the LiveDataset platform.
Multiple Parties
Some of the most interesting changes stem from adding additional parties. No longer are we just delivering to one client with many employees… There are now multiple parties involved. For example:
- The client has many customers using LiveDataset, each with several users.
- There are partners using LiveDataset with their own customers.
- The partner can be working with several competitors.
Construction is one industry where co-opertition between companies is the norm. Fierce rivals regularly collaborate together to deliver large construction projects; sometimes as subcontractors, sometimes as equal partners.
LiveDataset is proving to be ideal for situations like this where companies cannot give competitors access to their own systems. They use LiveDataset to quickly allow them to work together as partners for a shared project. And to work with other partners on another project.
Seeing how LiveDataset is being used by multiple parties is pushing us to make some architectural changes over the coming months. We will streamline and strengthen how we compartmentalize functionality. This will make it easier to integrate a range of Apps whether developed by Krescendo or a third party.
PS We are also setting up a new partnership program for LiveDataset livedataset.com/partner but more about that another time.