Micro Analysis Consultants Ltd (MAC) specialises in the production of standards for electron microscopy and microanalysis systems, including AUGER, SEM, TEM, and XRF. Founded in 1981, MAC provides calibration standards, customised mounts, and blocks crafted from brass, aluminium, and stainless steel.
The company ensures the highest quality by utilising reference samples traceable to national institutions and conducting rigorous testing before shipment. An ISO 9001-accredited organisation, MAC offers over 500 distinct standard materials and is committed to sourcing specific materials upon request.
Challenge
Micro Analysis Consultants Ltd (MAC) required a seasoned software development partner to maintain and enhance their bespoke software platform, which is critical to producing standards for various microanalysis systems.
When the original developers were no longer available, MAC sought CCQ Tech’s expertise to take over the codebase, ensure continued functionality, and develop new modules. The key challenges included:
Codebase Maintenance: Understanding and maintaining a bespoke software platform critical to business operations.
New Functionalities: Developing new features and enhancements to meet evolving requirements.
Seamless Integration: Ensuring smooth integration and deployment of updates without disrupting ongoing operations.
Solution
CCQ began by conducting a comprehensive discovery phase to understand the existing software’s architecture and intricacies. This phase was essential to ensure a seamless transition and to identify areas for improvement.
After this successful discovery phase, CCQ provided ongoing support, including regular maintenance, software updates, and the development of new modules. CCQ’s expertise in navigating and improving the legacy codebase significantly enhanced MAC’s operational efficiency.
Collaboration and communication were at the heart of this partnership. Regular in-person and virtual meetings, supplemented by efficient email and messaging systems, ensured that MAC remained informed about progress and updates. This transparent approach fostered trust and ensured smooth project management.
Technologies
Visual Basic
ASP.NET
SQL Server
The Work
Frontend and Backend Software Application Development
Legacy Application Entrustment
PDF Exporting
Testing
Results
The bespoke electron microscopy and microanalysis software automates many of the client’s previously manual processes. CCQ has significantly reduced the errors that once impacted client relations. This automation has minimised the margin for human error, ensuring data handling and processing are far more efficient and reliable.
Since CCQ began fixing bugs and supporting MAC, the company has experienced a substantial increase in operational capacity. The enhanced ability to handle more cases than ever before has enabled MAC to take on additional work without compromising quality. This improvement has been pivotal in scaling the business and meeting the growing demands of the electron microscopy standards market. MAC now enjoys peace of mind, knowing its software is fully supported by a reliable development partner.
“CCQ Tech delivers on time and is very communicative. They understand technology and business processes, building something incredibly productive and fit for purpose. Their support has significantly improved our efficiency and reduced errors, positively impacting our client relations.”
Robert Croucher, Business Manager
