Case Study: Unified Access Connector
See how we developed a strategic overlay to unify access, reduce complexity, and future-proof legacy systems for a UK-based telecommunications provider.
Overview
The Unified Access Connector (UAC) is a bespoke software solution developed to streamline user access across our client's legacy systems - without requiring changes to their existing applications. By integrating modern tools with established technologies, UAC boosts operational efficiency, simplifies system management, and safeguards the integrity of legacy infrastructure.
Background
A leading UK-based telecommunications company offering integrated mobile and unified communications faced challenges managing fragmented systems and inefficient workflows. To unify access, enhance security, and reduce operational complexity, a tailored solution was essential. UAC was developed to address these challenges, offering a flexible, vendor-neutral platform that aligned with our client's digital transformation goals - reducing complexity while future-proofing their infrastructure.
Challenges
Our client's legacy systems operated in silos, resulting in:
- Complex login management: Employees navigated multiple credentials across systems, creating inefficiencies and security vulnerabilities.
- Limited data querying: The inability to analyse cross-system data hindered informed decision-making.
- Legacy vendor constraints: Dependence on outdated vendor solutions restricted innovation and increased costs.
Solution
UAC was implemented as a layered solution, comprising two core components:
UAC Internal:
- Centralised access: A unified interface for internal staff, simplifying operations and improving efficiency.
- Customisable interface: Personalisation options - such as branding, colour themes, and functionality - without altering legacy systems.
- Streamlined login: Consolidated login processes, reducing time spent switching between tools.
UAC External:
- Enhanced security: Two-factor authentication (OTP) to bolster system protection.
- Seamless integration: API-driven connectivity for smooth system integration and rapid threat mitigation, including responses to vulnerabilities like the 2021 log4j exploit.
- Flexible customisation: Support for web page branding and layout adjustments, while maintaining legacy system stability.
The solution acts as a strategic overlay, reducing vendor lock-in and enabling cost-effective modernisation.
Technology Stack
Developed using open-source technologies to ensure scalability and seamless integration with legacy systems:
- Node.js: Deployed at the application layer for dynamic, real-time content updates.
Results & Benefits
UAC delivered tangible improvements:
- Unified login: A single secure portal simplified access, improved efficiency, and reduced security risks.
- Enhanced security: Two-factor authentication and real-time threat responses strengthened protection against unauthorised access.
- Scalable performance: The system handles over 40 million daily web requests while supporting dynamic content customisation.
I just wanted to say how much easier UAC has made our daily work. No more login headaches, no more delays - just seamless access. Your team's help in making this change successful was spot on. Thank you!
Impact:
- Productivity gains: Employees spent 30% less time managing access and 20% more time on core tasks.
- Security improvements: Rapid mitigation of zero-day threats on legacy back-end systems minimised exposure.
- Cost savings: Reduced reliance on vendors and lowered operational expenses.
Conclusion
The UAC project demonstrates how a custom, vendor-agnostic solution can transform user experience in complex environments. By unifying access, strengthening security, and reducing operational overhead, UAC provided a tailored approach that enhanced usability, flexibility, and cost efficiency.
* The testimonials on this page are paraphrased and based on client feedback. Names, roles, and identifying details have been removed to protect confidentiality.