Project Needs

The client selected Everest Consultants to develop and maintain a more secure solution for the safe exchange of encrypted emails, files, and other information, while also ensuring users could remain within the familiar Outlook interface.

Challenges

• The project required refactoring and modernizing an older interface to support existing Outlook versions and the continued implementation of new features while maintaining technical compatibility with newly released and future versions of Outlook.
• Users did not want to leave their usual communication environment to access the secure platform.

Technology and Tools

• .NET Framework 
• Visual Studio 
• Outlook Redemption library
• Microsoft C#
• Outlook libraries
• Windows Services
• Microsoft Team Foundation Server (source-code control)
• RESTful (Web API services)
• Microsoft Outlook 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, and Office 365

Results

Everest Consultants first studied the existing application’s functionality. We then created a development model and project management methodology that helped the client consolidate and detail its requirements.

Next, we collaborated directly with key stakeholders during the early product iterations to develop the overall architecture and identify and implement high-value business features.

With these as a foundation, Everest Consultants developed a robust solution which enhanced the scalability and performance of the client’s application, while enhancing its functionality.

The add-in delivered a range of features and functions, including:

• The use of encryption algorithms for user login and other security functions
• Seamless integration with Microsoft Outlook
• Ease of use with virtually any Outlook email client
• Quick encryption of even the largest file attachments
• Easy access for message recipients
• The tracking of all secure messages and attachments
• An affordable, cloud-based subscription service
• Secure sending and receiving of emails and attachments
• Easy customization via configuration settings
• Simple, fast downloads from our client’s portal and installation, accompanied by user-friendly documentation