Case Study: Unified Access Connector

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• Legacy vendor constraints: Dependence on outdated vendor solutions restricted innovation and increased costs.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.

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.