Extranet for distributors' needs
We developed a custom extranet system for Fimet that serves as the primary source of information for Fimet’s distributors. This standalone web application is designed to leverage modern technologies, such as the Next.js and React frameworks, which provide a fast and flexible user interface. Content and user management are handled by WordPress, which operates as part of the same multisite network as the client’s main website. Although the Extranet shares the same visual identity and style as the main website, it has been implemented as a completely separate system without any technical reliance on elements from the main website.
Technological solutions
The solution utilizes a headless architecture, in which the user interface and the backend system are separated from one another. In particular, the system utilizes the Incremental Static Regeneration (ISR) method provided by the Next.js framework, which combines the speed of static content with the flexibility of dynamic pages. ISR enables the static generation of website content during the development phase, while also allowing page content to be updated dynamically without requiring the entire application to be regenerated. This occurs at specified intervals or as needed, when content is fetched from a backend system, such as WordPress.
The greatest advantage of ISR is its ability to provide users with extremely fast loading times, as statically pre-generated pages are loaded directly from CDN networks. This is particularly important in an extranet system, where users may be geographically dispersed and the need for fast access to information is critical. At the same time, ISR’s dynamic nature ensures that the extranet’s content always remains up-to-date, even if updates are made through the WordPress admin panel. This makes the system both high-performing and flexible, as content can be updated without worrying about delays or outages caused by heavy processing.
User management
All content on the Extranet is password-protected, and user authentication is handled using WordPress’s built-in authentication system. At the heart of the user experience is a customized access control system that enables precise permissions at both the group level and for individual users.
Media file management
A key feature of the extranet system is its media file management solutions. All media files are stored in an external system separate from WordPress, to which users do not have direct access. Files are accessed via time-limited and encrypted links that are automatically updated during the user’s visit. This ensures the security of the files and the accuracy of access restrictions.
Search functions are also carefully designed and take user-specific access rights into account. Users can efficiently find the information in the system to which they have access.
