Custom Microsoft integrations to improve UX
Streamlining document access with Microsoft OneDrive integration
Streamline Climate, a startup funded by PearVC, needed a way for their grant-writing web app users to integrate existing documents stored in Microsoft OneDrive. Initially, the requirements were unclear, but after our investigation, we pivoted from a SharePoint integration to a OneDrive integration. Despite dealing with outdated documentation, we successfully onboarded onto their Next.js codebase and built a custom solution that allowed users to easily access and import OneDrive files into the app. This enhanced user experience and simplified document management for their clients.
Challenge
Streamline Climate, a PearVC-funded startup, approached Bloorsoft with the need to integrate document management into their grant-writing web app. The initial request was for a SharePoint integration, but as we dove deeper into the project and investigated the client’s true needs, it became clear that Microsoft OneDrive was the platform their users primarily relied on.
The challenge was twofold: First, we had to pivot from SharePoint to OneDrive integration, clarifying the scope of the project. Second, we had to work with outdated and fragmented documentation, which required creative problem-solving to deliver a seamless integration. Additionally, we needed to quickly onboard onto Streamline’s existing codebase, which was built with Next.js (using the pages router), TypeScript, and Tailwind CSS.
Solution
Despite the initial ambiguity and the challenges posed by outdated documentation, Bloorsoft’s approach focused on delivering a smooth and reliable integration that enhanced the user experience for Streamline Climate’s clients.
Tech Stack and Rapid Onboarding:Our team quickly onboarded onto Streamline Climate’s existing codebase, which utilized Next.js with the traditional pages router, alongside TypeScript and Tailwind CSS for a customized UI. By becoming familiar with the codebase early in the process, we were able to make rapid progress while ensuring our changes aligned with their existing architecture and style.
Switching from SharePoint to OneDrive:Initially, we began investigating a SharePoint integration based on the client’s request. However, during our analysis, we realized that OneDrive was the more appropriate solution for Streamline’s use case, as most users were storing their documents there. After clarifying this with the client, we pivoted our approach and began working on a Microsoft OneDrive API integration to fit the true needs of their users.
Microsoft OneDrive API Integration:The biggest hurdle we faced was working with outdated documentation. Many of the APIs were either deprecated or incomplete, so we had to dig through multiple resources to find the right approach. Despite these obstacles, we successfully built an integration that allowed users to seamlessly connect their OneDrive accounts, browse their stored files, and import documents directly into the Streamline Climate app.
UI and User Experience Improvements:In addition to the technical integration, we updated the user interface to accommodate the new functionality. We built custom UI components using Tailwind CSS that allowed users to browse and select files from OneDrive, all within the existing look and feel of the app. This integration was designed to be intuitive and easy to use, ensuring that users could quickly import their documents without friction.
Optimized for Simplicity:Our goal was to make the integration as seamless as possible, so users didn’t have to leave the web app or deal with complicated steps. The final product allowed users to log into their OneDrive accounts with a single click, browse their files, and select documents to be automatically imported into Streamline’s grant-writing app.
Results
Despite the initial ambiguity of the project and the challenges presented by outdated documentation, we were able to complete the project within just three weeks. The Microsoft OneDrive integration enhanced Streamline Climate’s web app by providing their users with a simplified, efficient way to access their existing documents.
Seamless Document Management: Users can now easily import their existing OneDrive documents into the Streamline Climate app, reducing friction and improving their workflow.
Enhanced User Experience: The custom UI components we built for document management ensured that the OneDrive integration felt like a natural extension of the app, resulting in a smooth, user-friendly experience.
Faster Project Delivery: Despite needing to pivot midway through the project, we successfully delivered a complete solution within the three-week timeline, meeting the client’s expectations and providing a clear value-add for their users.
Why Choose Bloorsoft?
Streamline Climate’s successful integration project demonstrates Bloorsoft’s ability to adapt to shifting requirements, onboard quickly onto existing codebases, and deliver high-quality solutions in record time. Our deep technical expertise with Next.js, TypeScript, and Tailwind CSS, paired with our ability to troubleshoot challenging API integrations, sets us apart as a reliable development partner for startups looking to build and enhance their digital products.
When startups need flexible, skilled developers who can handle the complexities of modern web development—whether it’s integrating with external APIs, improving user experiences, or navigating outdated documentation—Bloorsoft delivers results that matter.
By partnering with Bloorsoft, you gain more than just technical execution; you gain a team that understands the urgency of startup timelines and the importance of getting the details right. We work with you every step of the way to ensure that your product is not only functional but also a pleasure for your users to interact with.