Advanced structural analysis web application for a Leading Steel Distributor
A web application that performs complex structural analysis for geotechnical and structural engineers. The solution includes deep integration with the client’s Excel spreadsheet, visualization of key parameters, comprehensive calculation record management, and more.
Project details:
About the Client:
Our client, an established provider in the industrial sector, supplies critical materials and solutions essential for infrastructure, construction, and energy projects. They operate across multiple U.S. locations, serving industries that rely heavily on high-quality, durable materials for applications like foundation work, pipeline installations, and heavy-duty construction. Their offerings include specialized steel and piping products tailored to meet demanding specifications, ensuring the highest standards in quality and safety.
Location: USA
Industry: Steel distributor
Team size: 2 specialists
Project duration: 3 months
Business сhallenge
Our Client is specializing in API line pipe and steel foundation piling systems for heavy civil marine and oil & gas applications. They possess over 10 stocking locations throughout North America and handle an inventory of 150,000 tons of steel. Their goal was to enhance their services by offering an online tool for structural analysis and material estimation to attract more geotechnical or structural engineers.
Main challenge
The Client had been relying on an Excel spreadsheet for critical load analysis and material estimations. We were expected to develop a web application that reproduces the logic of this analysis.
Our solution
Our team built a web app that geotechnical and structural engineers can use to determine the safety and suitability of steel pile structures. The calculation is based on the input from the engineer that includes soil properties (such as Soil Density, Water Density, and Active/Passive Water) and key design criteria (like Reduction Factor, Safety Factor, and Max Deflection).
The system carries out a thorough analysis:
- Generates key measurements of the structure resilience such as Max Waterline, Max Shear and Max Deflection. These measurements serve as valuable indicators of how resilient the structure is against forces like torsional, compressive or tensile.
- Dispenses crucial recommendations related to the design and installation of the structure, offering guidance on factors like Minimum Embedment, Pile Length, and Actual Deflection.
- The web app also visualizes Shear, Deflection, and Moment parameters through graphs for three different structural solutions. These visuals empower engineers to evaluate and contrast the three solutions effectively, which helps them to choose more appropriate for their needs.
A web app provides a personal dashboard with a historical record of all user’s calculations. This history is not only a record but also a tool that engineers can use to review, analyze, and inform their future calculations.
SumatoSoft set up two servers for calculations:
- The first server hosted the web application, responsible for user registration, calculation records management, and serving as the user interface for engineers to input their data and view results.
- The second server was dedicated solely to the integrated Excel spreadsheet, carrying out the intricate calculations for load analysis and material estimation, and then transferring the data back to the first server.
Business value
Before:
- Outdated Digital Presence: Their website was outdated and not reflective of the high standards and quality of their product offerings.
- Limited Mobile Accessibility: A non-responsive design limited access for clients using mobile devices, hindering user experience and engagement.
- Inefficient Lead Capture and Management: Without a centralized CRM, they struggled with lead tracking, prioritization, and follow-up, leading to missed opportunities.
- Inadequate Product Display: Their extensive catalog was difficult to navigate, and clients struggled to find detailed product specifications.
- Low Brand Credibility Online: Lack of authoritative content and industry-specific resources prevented the client from fully establishing their expertise in a highly competitive market.
After:
- Modern, Mobile-Friendly Website: A refreshed website that is fully responsive and user-friendly, providing seamless access across all devices.
- Integrated CRM for Lead Management: A comprehensive CRM system that streamlined lead capture, tracking, and follow-up, leading to higher conversion rates.
- Interactive Product Catalog: An intuitive, organized catalog that lets clients filter and explore product specifications, applications, and certifications with ease.
- Authority-Enhancing Content Hub: A knowledge base with case studies, whitepapers, and industry insights, positioning the client as an expert in their field.
- Improved SEO and Organic Traffic: Higher search visibility through targeted content and SEO optimization, leading to a 30% increase in organic traffic.
- Analytics-Driven Decision-Making: Advanced data analytics for insights into customer behavior and website performance, guiding marketing and sales strategies.
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