Cloud-Native IT Ecosystem for SenseTronics

Background

Beginning in 2021, the Hong Kong-based conglomerate SenseTronics appointed HighFlyer to design, develop, and deploy their IT ecosystem. With the organisation’s chairman having an engineering background, HighFlyer was able to explain the underlying technologies effectively and assist in determining the best solutions for the organisation. The client sought a cost-effective solution that would optimise their IT infrastructure while ensuring reliability and ease of use.

The Challenge

SenseTronics needed a comprehensive IT ecosystem that would support their operations without incurring excessive costs. The solution needed to be stable, low-maintenance, and user-friendly, while also providing robust connectivity and support for local language requirements. Additionally, the system needed to integrate seamlessly with cloud-based productivity tools to facilitate efficient collaboration.

The Solution by HighFlyer

HighFlyer developed a comprehensive strategy to build a cloud-native IT ecosystem that would meet all of SenseTronics’ requirements while minimizing costs and complexity.

Network Infrastructure

Initial plans called for a simple network infrastructure consisting of a primary LAN connection with Wi-Fi. Due to the organisation’s significant reliance on cloud-native products, it was determined during the requirements gathering phase that a backup internet connection was necessary. Consequently, a load balancer was used to connect two active internet connections from different ISPs, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity even if one connection failed.

Operating System Selection

Choosing an operating system was straightforward. After analysing the requirements, a stable, low-maintenance, and user-friendly operating system was needed. Ubuntu 20.04 LTS was chosen due to its extensive documentation, community support, and readily available YouTube tutorials. HighFlyer’s preference for Ubuntu aligned perfectly with the client’s needs, providing a robust foundation for their IT ecosystem.

Office Suite Integration

The client requested Microsoft Office as their primary office suite. Direct installation on Linux was impractical without a third-party compatibility layer such as Wine. Instead, the client opted for Microsoft Office 365 (O365), accessible via web browsers, providing the necessary functionalities without compromising on compatibility or user experience. This cloud-based approach also eliminated the need for local installations and simplified updates and maintenance.

Local Language Support

To support input in Sinhala, the client was introduced to Helakuru and Google Input Tools, which transliterate user inputs. HighFlyer developed a bash script, the Ubuntu Sinhala Font Configuration Utility, which substituted the existing font globally with Google Noto Sans Sinhala, ensuring seamless local language support across all applications.

The Impact

The implementation of the cloud-native IT ecosystem had several significant benefits for SenseTronics:

1. Cost Efficiency: By utilizing open-source solutions and cloud-based services, SenseTronics eliminated software licensing fees and reduced hardware requirements.

2. Enhanced Reliability: The dual-ISP setup with load balancing ensured continuous connectivity, while the stable Linux environment minimized system crashes and downtime.

3. Simplified Operations: With all operations running in the cloud in real-time, backups were straightforward and required minimal effort. The cloud-native approach ensured data integrity and availability without the need for complex backup solutions.

4. Improved Security: Linux’s inherent security features reduced susceptibility to viruses and other security risks, providing a more robust computing environment.

5. Seamless Transition: Before the staff transitioned to the new system, HighFlyer conducted comprehensive training sessions, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Conclusion

The collaboration between SenseTronics and HighFlyer resulted in a cost-effective, cloud-native IT ecosystem that enhanced operational efficiency and reliability. By adopting open-source solutions and providing thorough training, HighFlyer ensured a smooth transition and long-term benefits for SenseTronics. This case study highlights the importance of strategic planning and the adoption of modern technologies in achieving sustainable business growth and operational agility.