Office 365 SharePoint Online File Migration Tool - A detailed overview

SharePoint online migration is not something that can be easily achieved; rather, it engages careful planning for successful execution of the same. The reason is simple, you need to deal with a huge volume of important data and no sort of downtime is usually tolerated by an organization. Therefore, the biggest question that crops up in such situation is how to avoid the risk of losing any data ensuring an exact move of just the elements you need alongside involving minimum time possible reducing the impact upon the users along with the systems?

Well, the solution rests with an online file migration tool. This particular tool is an online adaptation of the SharePoint server based on the new as well as latest technology of SaaS (Software As a Service). Migrating might come across as an expensive alongside a complex task, but with little software investment, you can actually get working smoothly. The tool allows you to experience a hassle free migration of Exchange to Office 365 SharePoint, Lotus Notes to Office 365 SharePoint Online, and File System to Office 365 SharePoint.

Exploring the World of Effortless Office 365 Migration
Migrating SharePoint Online is sure to come across as an effortless solution as the migrating software is not only reliable, but also fail – safe. This particular tool or software has been developed following a process of intensive testing. It has been passed fail-safe following strict rounds of analysis by expert developers and quality analysts. Therefore, there hardly stands any chance of the software going wrong during the process of executing a successful migration.

Whether the need is focused on migration of File System, Public Folder, or Lotus Notes to Office 365, you can do it all with the help of this versatile tool. After all, the task of manually copying files from multiple resources like file servers, network shares, and network drives to SharePoint Online is a challenging task. The task, especially gets difficult when there are several things to migrate as it not only gets time consuming, but also prone to errors.

A single error in the copy can interrupt as well as restrict the flow of entire switch. Additionally, you also need to keep in mind the several characters alongside the file types that SharePoint Online tends to decline at a go. A proper migrating tool helps solve all such difficulties as well as the issues that are usually faced while migrating manually. Usually, the software stands in compliance to the standards of naming a file in SharePoint Online and therefore helps save both your time as well as effort during migration.

A Look at the Features

Here is a quick look at the features that make the file migration tool stand apart from the rest alternatives as well as choices in respect to SharePoint Online:

• Compatible with Midsize Business, Small Business, Education, and Enterprise plans
• Allows automatic rename of files featuring characters that are usually denied
• Flexible to all sorts of network interruptions that crop up for temporary period
• Enables automatic zip of files featuring file extensions that are rejected
• Helps in the identification of files featuring big file sizes and file paths that are too lengthy
• Facilitates the copy of only changed files when the migration is resumed again
• Keeps a track of the original date of modification of the files
• Provides a complete and comprehensive audit trail of every migrated file
• Handles documents check-ins and checkouts automatically for libraries requiring the same
• Allows automatic re-authentication for migrations that are lengthy

The file migration tool is sure to help you leverage your business growth instantly. Prior to investing in the software, you can run a demo and see whether it suits your business approach perfectly. To ensure successful migration, you can invest in the complete software and experience better business.

You can hire developers from top companies in SharePoint who can help you build apps within allocated budgets and time schedules.

We provide SharePoint 2010 development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified SharePoint programmers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

9 Tips to Integrate DotNetNuke with SharePoint

If you need to develop an engaging as well as interesting website featuring optimum and advanced tools until date, the choice undeniably rests with DotNetNuke (DNN). With businesses facing diverse challenges in terms of content modification, DNN offering multiple solutions addressing the various technological needs of the content providers and emerging interests of the people comes to right help.

Why is DNN unique and a preferred choice?
The reason is simple; DNN offering a wide range of tools supports the rapidly changing consumer as well as technology trends thereby, enabling users to move forward without any difficulty. Being the world’s number one WCMS for Microsoft, DotNetNuke stands as the most successful and largest open-source CMS plug-in catering to the Microsoft ecosystem. This particular software is extraordinarily empowered to offer virtual help to any enterprise for approaching or facing architectural challenges from every angle. The platform also helps the nonprofit organization to save both time as well as money.

What brings SharePoint to the forefront?
SharePoint is a pioneer in providing intranet solution geared towards efficient handling of internal document management, which includes but is not restricted to sharing, editing, and uploading of reports along with contents. In simpler terms, this particular application ensures easy access of data by everybody in the business network. It streamlines the complex process of collaborating along with managing the important business documents. This particular application is actually incorporated by anybody managing content starting from business to nonprofit organizations. The SharePoint and DNN connector further ensures complete optimization of the process and has been successfully integrated by businesses across different sectors.

To ensure complete optimization of the content creation, business organizations as well as enterprises need to execute a successful integration of DNN with SharePoint.

Integrating DotNetNuke with SharePoint – Tips to Follow

Here is a quick look at the tips that you need to remember while integrating the DNN software successfully with the SharePoint application:

1. Good knowledge of SharePoint and DotNetNuke – This particular approach helps in easy as well as seamless integration of both the document management system and the software making it easy for content monitoring along with modification. It is important to have good knowledge of the software as well as the application before taking up integration.

2. Always integrate with SharePoint 2007 and 2010 – This particular objective helps you enjoy the best benefits of both the DotNetNuke along with the document management system. After all, it helps publishing fresh contents extracting it straight from the SharePoint Document library. The published documents are carefully protected by the role based security network of DNN.

3. Always publish documents that are approved for display – Undertaking this particular approach always helps you to avoid any sort of interference with the team. This helps you ensure the use of a streamlined alongside a collaborative procedure that helps in effective management of the document. Additionally, it also allows you to share the best documents that are carefully edited and ready for use.

4. Ensure consistent permission throughout the work – This particular objective if maintained right helps preventing any sort of unauthorized access thereby, ensuring a secure digital asset management. Additionally, it also helps preventing the redistribution of assets that are digital.

5. Make use of views and not folders – This helps you ensure having unlimited flexibility along with extreme level of granularity. It is also important for you to be able to combine the properties easily and this particular approach helps in successful combination. The biggest advantage rests with the fact that it helps reducing overall risk alongside human error.

6. Synchronize the deletes – Taking up this particular approaching during the process of integration also helps avoiding the errors of “file not found” during the successful execution of removal of files. This particular approach of cleaning also ensures reduction of unimportant database clogging, duplication, overall risk, and human errors.

7. Enabling of error notification is must – This specific task helps in automatic synchronization eliminating the need of active viewing or monitoring of the document in concern. This result in a smooth process that helps you to lessen the effort along with the time required for content monitoring.

8. Avoid the firewall – Always make sure that the SharePoint server can enjoy an easy access to the DOTNetNuke server. This helps in smoother as well as better content management without any modification of security policies.

9. Allow filtering of documents to be transferred – This particular approach helps the users to filter the documents easily through the integrated SharePoint filtering views. This helps the users to make use of the Create View UI and need not rely upon two different sets of filters.

Following the above-mentioned tips is sure to help you achieve a successful integration of DotNetNuke with SharePoint and ensure defining the success metrics for your organization in terms of less error, reduced publishing time, etc.

You can hire developers from top sharepoint development companies in india who can help you build apps within allocated budgets and time schedules.

We provide SharePoint portal development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified SharePoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Things to Watch while Doing SharePoint Integration with Java Web Services

Microsoft SharePoint is one of the most popular and preferred web application development platform today and most business enterprises make use of the same. Now, integration of SharePoint with the java web application can turn out to be real benefits. However, this integration requires one to take care of a number of aspects and consider certain essential factors. Only a planned and strategic approach towards integrating the two can lead to the ultimate success.

Let us begin by discussing the first few questions to which one needs to find answers. The version of the programming that is used is the first issue that plays an important role in the integration. The second point is regarding the version of the MOSS/WSS that is being employed and the third most important consideration here is the level of integration.

It can be assumed that for the purpose of the integration, Java 1.4 (J2EE 4) and the 2007/WSS 3.0 version of the SharePoint is used. With this, one can take the right approach to SharePoint and Java web applications integration. Here is an overview of the prominent requirements of the same.

Primary Requirements

To begin with, the IIS schemes for authentication support as well as the SharePoint/WSS remote access protocols support are essential. Alongside, the support for the best possible level of integration and integration based on LAN, where there is no such necessity of internet specific transport, is also required.

SharePoint Service Access Options

When it comes to the options of SharePoint/WSS service access, the MOSS/WSS products offer quite a good number of service based access options. This, however, is dependent on the version that happens to be in use. The options available are:

• XML-RPC interface on object API
• WS-* SOAP web service interface

It has to be kept in mind that the specific capabilities have to be chosen prior to deciding upon the versions.

Different Versions of Java Affecting the Integration

The integration is mostly dependent upon the version of Java used and here is a glance at the different integration options with the varying versions of Java.

Java 1.4 (J2EE 4)

The 1.4 version has limited support for the WS-* based services, found in the base distribution. Supporting for WS-* SOAP web services interfaces to MOSS/WSS necessitates extra web service framework. Now, out of the various java web service frameworks available, Axis2 is a highly recommended one, as it supports NTLM V1. With the Support for IIS authentication being a primary consideration, this particular version has XML-RPC in the base distribution.

Java 1.5 (J2EE 5)

The 1.5 version of the programming platform facilitates complete support for WS-* based services while XML-RPC interfaces are supported out of the box including that of NTLM V1 authentication.

Java 6

Java 6 is not always considered an option for integration though it provides full WS-* and XML-RPC support in the base distribution as well as facilitate NTLM V1 authentication.

Considering the Importance of Axis2

Axis2 comes with quite a few options for generating the proxy code of the client though the choice is largely determined by the particular SOAP data binding framework that one wants to use. Following are the available choices:

• AXIOM client uses the generic AXIOM classes for getting access to the web services. The same must work with raw XML.
• The Axis Data Binding is the default data binding frameworks which works well with the Axis2 web services but not with all the SOAP features.
• XML Beans is the functional schema compiler working with most of the WS compatible web services.
• JiBX, on the other hand, is flexible but involves a rather complicated setup process.

All the above- mentioned factors and issues are essential considerations in integrating SharePoint with Java Web Services. If you are thinking of SharePoint webparts development using Java web services, this can surely be helpful.

We provide SharePoint development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified SharePoint programmers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

10 Mistakes to avoid while migrating from PHP to SharePoint

In recent times, there has been a rapid rise in the use of SharePoint (SP) and a number of enterprises are considering migration from PHP to SP. While there is of course huge amount of benefits associated with staying put with Open-Source PHP, SharePoint being a Microsoft supported platform comes high on security and other benefits as well. Weighing in on the pros and cons of both, there are migrations happening both ways – while some businesses are changing from SharePoint to PHP, other are going the Microsoft way.

Custom SharePoint development ensures that your enterprise’s collaboration efforts hit the roof while redundancies in processes are eliminated. And that often attracts businesses to migrate to SharePoint. The challenge lies in ensuring that SharePoint is appropriately implemented within the environment. It is true that the document management system can be conveniently installed as well as configured. However a number of organizations tend to make certain mistakes while migrating from PHP to SharePoint.

Let us have a look at 10 mistakes which should be avoided.

1. Choosing the basic installation for SharePoint: During installation of SP many organizations are into the habit of going for the basic install option. Although the basic version can be installed with simply a few clicks of the mouse, the advanced option is always better, so far as enterprises are concerned. It is advisable to choose the advanced option if you are not interested in installing everything on a single server or want to utilize complete SQL server, either existing or new.

2. Ignoring Fault tolerance: While migrating from PHP to SharePoint, a number of enterprises commit the mistake of considering that load balancing or greatly obtainable environments are meant for performance. The truth is that most of the times, fault tolerance is a greater priority and the actual reason behind leveraging load balancing, or any other highly available solution such as RAID. The configuration of an environment with high availability is not feasible with the basic installation.

3. Inappropriate utilization of permissions and service accounts: Like a lot of other server-oriented tools, SP has to interact with the server on which it is installed as well as the services surrounding it. As a result, service accounts are required, which are in fact, special identities used for communication with crawl content, SQL server, add index information across the file system, amongst various other functions. Many organizations make the mistake of going for generic server accounts, which is not at all recommended. In place of this, distinct domain accounts are required for every primary SP service.

4. Iterating by means of SPList Items: Developers have access to SPList object and are capable of using the same either from the existing SPContext or through creation of a SPList object to gain access to a list identified through its name. Although the used code is good for local environments, it leads to performance problems in case of custom SharePoint implementations.

5. Excessive data request from content database: With the help of the SPList object, data can be conveniently accessed from the Content Database. The problem is that every time this action is taken, it leads to requesting all the list items. Using SPQuery object, the data that is really needed can be queried. SPQuery facilitates putting a limitation on the number of returned items and columns as well as raising query for particular items through utilization of Collaborative Markup Language.

6. Memory leaks through SPWeb and SPSite: For those considering migration from PHP to SharePoint, it should be remembered that SharePoint makes use of COM components for certain core features. So far as COM Objects are concerned, memory management can be an issue. SharePoint installations often do not dispose SPWeb and SPSite objects and hence the ASP.NET Worker Process ends up leaking memory. So, it is advisable to monitor the memory usage to identify memory leaks.

7. Use of Index Columns for Performance Enhancement: Index Columns can offer speedy access to SharePoint Lists but there are certain limitations. With respect to every defined index, the index value is stored by SP for each list item in a distinct table. Queries utilize the first index column while additional index columns are not utilized for speeding up database access.

8. Using SP for transactional processing of great volume: It is a good thing that SharePoint does not bound you to the content database, but you should not use it for high volumes of transactional processing. A single table stores every data element. Implementation of database indices takes place through use of a second table which is then attached with the main table. Simultaneous access to different lists becomes an issue since the data belongs to the same table.

9. Inappropriate drive space allocation: The SharePoint installation procedure puts location of custom solutions, indexes, software and logs across the primary system drive, which is most of the times, the C drive. However, in a number of organizations, the C drive is partitioned into smaller components for the OS files. Consequently, space can rapidly run out.

10. Not focusing on disaster recovery situations: While engaging in migration from PHP to SharePoint, many organizations tend to disregard the disaster recovery continuity plans. SP is more intricate than other database driven portals. Hence, the architecture should be understood and accordingly plans should be made for reconstituting the environment.

These are the mistakes that are committed most often by organizations while migration from PHP to SharePoint. Avoiding these mistakes will save time and reduce the possibility of future issues.

We provide SharePoint webparts development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified SharePoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

The Power of HTML5 and CSS3 in SharePoint 2013

SharePoint 2013 has ushered in a number of changes in the manner in which developers tend to build as well as implement branding packages. The largest changes that have taken place incorporate the capabilities of CSS3, HTML5, as well as the Design Manager. With the help of these tools for development, SharePoint branding experts are able to come up with unique and dynamic designs for the environment.

The new features of HTML5 constitute the following:

• The < audio > and < video > elements in the default player of the browser for media browser.
• Support rendered to local storage (capability of reading content offline along with the potential for using web applications)
• Fresh content-oriented elements, such as < section >, < nav >, < header >, < footer > and < article >. These tags facilitate enhanced SEO content indexing, standardization and organization with respect to all designs.

One of the significant things is that HTML5 allows developers to focus on the greatest number of devices with considerably lesser amount of effort towards development. HTML5 comes up as a universal language for every device, whether it is a SmartPhone or a wide screen desktop monitor.

Along with HTML5, a greater number of branding options are opened up in CSS3. The options in CSS3 include the following:

• Font file references are allowed to render within a live environment with the help of @font-face property
• The capability of making rounded corners over a number of objects including boxes is enabled by the border-radius.
• Generation of a shadow over elements which are customizable as per the preferences of developers.
• Proportional sizing coupled with dynamic width facilitates adjustment to manifold screen sizes. This is of immense significance as it provides developers the capability of using responsive web design. Development of a responsive website involves the utilization of a number of components. These assist the developer in creating designs which possess dynamic widths and are also capable of re-sizing proportionally depending upon the resolution of the screen or the device size.

Responsive web design is in fact a flexible grid that helps in creation of a layout which expands as the page increases in size. The design of this flexible grid takes place in terms of proportions. In this case, as the re-sizing of a window takes place, every element within the layout undergoes re-sizing of their width with respect to one another. This is done with the help of CSS3 Media Queries that involve the rendering of a web page depending upon certain conditions like screen resolution.

One of the important feature concerning a responsive website is that fixed pixel size should not be given to anything, not even images or other media.

In fact, SharePoint 2013 offers branding developers a number of options while designing the SharePoint environment. However, there are some specific factors which can be questioned so far as responsive web design is concerned.

• Money and time: The question lies in the fact whether the required money and the time is available for building an intricate grid system with the help of HTML5 and CSS3. If the same is not available, the best option is going for something that is increasingly out of the box.
• Browser Support: It is to be understood whether the project needs a design which will only be used on a laptop or desktop, or a design compatible with mobile phones, tablets, and other devices is required. Another point in question is whether more web browsers like Safari, Firefox or Chrome are required instead of Internet Explorer.
• Performance: Is the project in need of a design that will be used for a long period of time, or the design would be changed by the organization every few years?
• Content: The amount of content that the site will incorporate should be decided.
• Web Application and Website: You need to consider whether the project requires a website for every device, or a totally distinct web application that can be used on Smart Phones and tablets with different functionality.

Getting the answers to all these questions will enable developers to efficiently determine how they can utilize the new tools offered by sharepoint 2013 mobile development platform, in short SP 2013.

We provide sharepoint portal development services. If you would like to discuss with a certified sharepoint developer from our team, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Tips for Effective Migration to SharePoint 2013

In the recent times, with Microsoft launching SharePoint 2013, a large number of businesses are considering migration to this new edition to enhance their business processes. In fact, this new version of SharePoint is anticipated to revolutionize the way in which companies are building links amongst their knowledge workers, business processes as well as business-related content worldwide. This platform includes novel features such as enhanced document management capabilities with respect to sharing and contributing content, enhanced social features along with a renewed search experience. SharePoint 2013 is speedily positioning itself as one of the much sought after technology for the introduction of crucial organizational initiatives in the areas of social collaboration, enterprise content management and web content management.

The advanced features of Sharepoint make it vital for organizations to take certain points into consideration prior to adopting this latest platform. Let us discuss some of the guidelines that should be followed in order to achieve effective migration to SharePoint 2013.

1. Take care of hardware requirements: In case of SharePoint 2013 servers, minimum of 8 GB RAM and four 64-bit cores is needed for small environments while medium environments require 16 GB RAM. For every server operating in SharePoint 2013, location within a single data center is essential.

2. Operating system requisites: The ideal operating system incorporates 64-bit edition, R2 SP1 Windows Server 2008. The 2012 Windows Server operating system can also be utilized. You must consider migration to 64-bit servers before any other upgrade or migration.

3. Decide upon the destination before starting off: Doing this gives you a clear-cut idea of where you are heading to and this allows you to go for proper channelization of the resources at hand. For example, if you are using SQL 2012, use Windows 2012 along with an Office Web Application Server.

4. Divide current customizations into categories: It is advisable to categorize the customizations into three categories. The first category constitutes items such as custom authentication provider that would stop the project. You need to have solutions for this, or else the migration would not be a success. The second category comprises items that would not put a halt to the project but are required to be completed. It is good to address them once the migration is completed. Items that need to be eliminated make up the third category.

5. Realize environmental alterations: When you are deciding to go for Windows 2012, the environmental change that takes place needs to be taken into consideration. The SMTP server role has been deprecated by Windows 2012 and depending on the information, decision needs to be taken as to whether to use a more intricate configuration or go for installation of the deprecated feature.

6. Get every migration step scripted: This task involves restructuring site hierarchy, mounting content databases.

7. Conduct dry runs: While performing dry runs, you must follow a sequential guide. Through the dry runs, it is quite convenient to identify the disk space and timing requirements.

8. Go for proper space and time planning: Once the disk space and the upgrade time required are identified depending upon the dry runs, you can take necessary action. For instance, by adjusting the SQL server memory, the time for mounting as well as upgrading SharePoint can be decreased.

9. Follow dry runs with test: The only thing that separates a live run from a dry run is that the data is not updated, hence the end result should simulate the live migration. Taking this into account, through utilization of an alternate access mapping, it can be opened up to selected end users for testing, in order to validate the overall usability and the basic functionality.

10. Set up destination environment: It is advisable to configure and prepare to the maximum extent prior to migration. Once the configuration of the environment is done, the same will ensure smoother migration.

The above mentioned tips would go a long way in helping you plan your SharePoint 2013 migration. They will definitely help you enhance the overall efficiency of your SharePoint application development team.

We provide custom SharePoint development services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert SharePoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Steps to create a SharePoint 2013 App with Ruby on Rails

The SharePoint model is quite new to everybody and the recent launch of the 2013 version had made it even more ambiguous to developers around the world. Now, when it comes to creating an application pertaining to the software with Ruby on Rails, most developers seem to have a tough time in embracing the appropriate approach. Well, here is a guide for all Rails developers looking forward to creating an app successfully on the particular framework. However, please note that this particular guide should never be used as the best practice of Ruby on Rails development.

Well, before beginning the process, you must register a new application in Office 365. Ensure that a Site Collection has been created by making use of the Developer Site Template. This can be done from the Office 365 admin screens. Following the creation of the same, browse site collection and register the SharePoint application with Office 365 as well as Azure Access Control Services (ACS). For any sort of development purpose, the registration of the new app can be easily done through appregnew.aspx page present within Office 365. Since there is no such link available for the actual page, you need browse the URL directly.

Always remember that since the registration of the application is done through appregnew.aspx, the secret of the particular app will only be known by the ACS and you. Therefore, the series of characters that will be generated will be specifically used for decoding information coming from ACS/SharePoint. Always make sure to take note of the id of the app, as you will not be having any access of the same again.

Since the application will be only used for testing and development purposes, registering it through appregnew.aspx comes across as a wise choice. If there arises a need of making the app thoroughly and widely available or list in the official store of SharePoint, then an account must be registered at the Seller Dashboard.

1. Visual Studio

The next step of work rests with Visual Studio where an application package must be created, which would eventually be uploaded to SharePoint. To make this happen, you need to follow the following steps:

• Open Visual Studio (through 'Run as Administrator') for creating a new project. Go for project creation using the template ‘App for SharePoint 2013’. You will find this under the SharePoint /Office project node.
• Following this, you will be asked about the type of SharePoint app that you would like to create. Always remember to offer your app a similar name to that you have given in the appregnew.aspx and submit the URL of the Developer site collection. Ensure choosing an application type of Provider – hosted as the hosting model.
• In the last screen, leave the top option by selecting ‘Use a client secret’. Once, you click on the button OK, you will get to see the creation of 2 projects in Solution Explorer.
• It is to be noted that the first project usually implies to the SharePoint App that generates the application package. This particular app will be uploaded.
• The following step requires you to double click AppManifest.xml that consists of all the details related to the app. Upon opening the Manifest Designer, you need to remember to insert some specific values.

Always remember that the application needs to take permissions for being able to read and write data to the SharePoint site where the application is installed. This can be easily done through the permission tab. All you need to do is request just the permission that is actually needed. Always note that the more permission the app would request, the more it will run the risk of not being installed as users will be concerned about the security risk. Always remember to save and then close the AppManifest designer.

2. Ruby on Rails and Apple MacOS

To be able to work with SharePoint 2013, there stands a requirement of installing Ruby Gems to make things easier. Here is a look at the needs:

• jwt – this helps in decoding the JSON web token that emerges from the application software
• rest-client – this enables placing rest requests
• nokogiri – a library that helps querying XML that is usually returned from the SharePoint

the next step of action lies in creating a new application based on Ruby on Rails in your preferred code folder. All you need to do is type into Terminal. Rails is now ready for getting a MVC web application.

Open the gemfile and under the gem stated as ‘jquery-rails’, integrate the gems that were downloaded as pre-reqs.

• gem ‘jwt’
• gem ‘rest-client’
• gem ‘nokogiri’

This particular step is quite similar to the task of adding new reference in Visual Studio assembly.

3. Https Configuration

You must have noticed that while registering the application in appregnew.aspx, a Redirect URL is set that is https://localhost:3001. The app will be making use of the OAuth for being able to authorize the user and the application. Remember, that the for ensuring OAuth specification, both ends of communication must be https. After all, you would definitely not want any poor interception of unencrypted tokens to be transmitted over the Internet and have an access to the Office 365 or SharePoint site. Rails usually make use of WEBric, which is developed in web server. This is quite similar to the IISExpress of the Visual Studio.

To get the SharePoint 2013 mobile development right, you would have to follow the steps above. Then hopefully, you will be able to successfully create a SharePoint app with Ruby on Rails.

We provide SharePoint portal development services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert SharePoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Steps to Migrate PHP Intranet site into SharePoint 2013

Today, SharePoint has possibly emerged as one of the best tools in the world of technology. However, there has still been an increase in the number of poor as well as unusable Intranets of the application. Most often, enterprises looking forward to migrate a PHP intranet to SharePoint often face issues in the endeavor of executing a successful migration.

So, how to achieve a successful migration and develop a good Intranet? Well, here is a quick look at the three steps to a successful migration that is sure to set the right path:

Always work with SharePoint 2010

It is understandable that you want to migrate to the 2013 version of the application software; after all, being an advanced product it comes with the goodness of cloud. However, for a successful execution, you must take it easy. The 2010 version, which was released in May 2010, obtained a service pack in June 2011. The latest 2013 version, which has just released might not be able to offer a stable experience. On the other hand, the 2010 version has been tested to provide a valid experience. Truly, there exists some limitations, but not without exact workarounds along with solutions. When it comes to using 2013, it is always wiser to give it a year for better development as well as improvement.

Avoid customizing the look and feel
Well, it is quite known that every organizations wants it logo to appear at the top left corner of every page. Additionally, you also want all the links to appear in a similar manner as against the PHP intranet alongside the header featuring a navigation communicating something about your brand. You want it to look as well as feel good. However, it must be noted that such aspects rarely matters in the case. After all, it is being developed for employee use and they already know you alongside being familiar to your logo along with brand values.

The job of the intranet is much bigger than just reinforcing the brand. It plays a better role in storing the document templates and helps in smart presentation of data related to employee performance. Furthermore, it also stands as the major engine of workflow behind your organization processes. Now, the brand is definitely important and your Intranet must exude a look and feel representing the same. However, it is more important for the intranet to function right. The focus must always rest with making a functional as well as rich intranet alongside focusing on the branding of the same.

Never completely end the project
You must always remember that developing an Intranet is not just a matter of few days or months. Indeed, organizations need to work on the same continuously. Disbanding the project team will never help in determining the success of the project. Starting with the development of Intranet is just the beginning and there is a lot of work that the enterprise needs to do with time. From placing fresh content to training the users concerning the refreshing courses, the application needs to accelerate the growth of your business as well as adapt to the changing requirements of the same.

You can achieve all these functionality along with benefits through SharePoint. The application not only helps in creating the front-end of your Intranet, but the back-end as well. For better execution of the migration process, the focus must rest on creating an Intranet team for ensuring better functionality of the same. The application software comes with task lists, email alerts, calendars, and special project site templates. You have a knowledge of all these because you are constantly telling your end users about all the features. The key lies in starting to use all the features for a better experience.

Therefore, to execute a successful migration during SharePoint website development process, you must focus on the long-term end of the project and follow the above-mentioned stapes carefully for experiencing the best of SharePoint, 2013.

We provide custom SharePoint development services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert SharePoint programmers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Tips for Integrating SharePoint data with Java Applications

A number of enterprises today are looking forward to integrating content from the SharePoint site with java applications. Such organizations are usually considering avenues to deliver an integrated and optimized experience for the end user across a range of software platforms. In addition, the endeavor is also directed towards the aim of bringing the SharePoint data into compliance with governance, security, and branding standards. Net result, SharePoint application development and data migration is heading northwards.

Now, when it comes to integrating, the same can be achieved through the different tools or SharePoint integrator offering maximum competency and comprehensiveness. The software usually enhances the ability of the portal to take up an all-encompassing job that combines all assets of the enterprise together with the SharePoint content like the java applications with a scalable and saleable environment.

In today’s present age, the dominance of SharePoint is indomitable. The particular document management system application is today found everywhere and is rapidly used across enterprises. However, the challenge comes when enterprises need to integrate the SharePoint data with Java applications. Well, it is to be noted that the integration does not come easy and the organizations need to depend on a number of considerations for achieving the best.

If you seem to be wondering about the factors, then here is a look at the aspects of dependency that helps achieving optimal integration of the software with the web application –

• The particular version of Java that is being used
• The version of SharePoint that is being employed for the purpose
• The level of integration that is actually needed for the enterprise

Let’s assume the use of SharePoint 2007 and Java 1.5 for the integration exercise (the usual scenario that crops up while integrating existing applications of Java to new services of the document management system application).

Now, it is to be noted that it is quite difficult to determine the end of the particular approach. However, one of the major objectives of the integration approach rests with the fact of producing a matrix of the accurate approach of use across the various versions of Java and SharePoint.

Principle requirements
The principle requirements that must be followed while taking up the approach are as follows:

• Support for authentication schemes for IIS
• Support for the protocols of remote access
• Support for an integration up to highest level possible
• Integration based on LAN

Access Options of SharePoint Service Well, fortunately the products pertaining to SharePoint feature a number of access options that are entirely service based and dependent on the particular version. However, you need to keep in mind that the previous versions usually featured less capabilities based on the interfaces. Therefore, you must always have a look at the specific capabilities of need prior to making any choice.

Java Choices
The options of integration vary greatly depending on the particular version of the Java that is being used:

• Java 1.4 : The 1.4 version of the web application offers a restricted support for services based on the document management system application that exists in the distribution base. While a number of possible frameworks pertaining to Java web services can be used, the Axis 2 offers a special support to the NTLM V1 catering to all the requirements. Additionally, a primary consideration rests with support for the authentication schemes IIS. The base distribution features XML – RPC support
• Java 1.5 : The 1.5 version of the Java platform offers complete support for web services based on the document management system as well as the XML- RPC interface.
• Java 6 : This particular version offers complete support to the XML-RPC and web services that are available in the base distribution as well as supports an authentication of NTLM V1.

We provide custom SharePoint development services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert SharePoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

DotNetNuke vs. SharePoint - 8 Solid Reasons Why Favor SharePoint?

SharePoint and DotNetNuke are in high demand these days as they are the most preferred and popular web application development platform and content management system respectively. Now, SharePoint is favored more due to certain reasons. Here is a brief overview of the grounds on which SharePoint can be regarded as being more beneficial than DotNetNuke or the similar other platforms.

1. Documentation

SharePoint facilitates very easy as well as comprehensive documentation while an average kind of documentation is offered by DotNetNuke. Document collaboration in this platform is absolutely hassle- free. Compared to the traditional and conventional method of document sharing, documentation in this platform allows emailing of files back and forth. Additionally, versioning as well as check in/out alerts add to the advantages of documentation in this platform.

2. Product Development

Microsoft SharePoint comes with a brand new product development application that helps the product development teams to work with the help of a collaboration tool. As such, product development is executed faster in this medium compared to that of DotNetNuke.

3. Creation of Blog Site

This web application development platform comes with a built-in blog site template, including all the facilities to enhance the level of collaboration, share knowledge as well as publish news and updates. Hence, creation and maintenance of blog site is rather easy in SharePoint. The same activity in DotNetNuke, on the other hand, involves extra costs.

4. Chat Options

Chat can easily be implemented in SharePoint, where it comes as a Free Add-on. The feature is totally unavailable in DotNetNuke.

5. Photo Gallery Feature

The platform has an in-built photo gallery feature. As such, profile pictures are used to make the pages appear more inviting and interesting. The platform allows profile pictures of three different thumbnails to be used in varying contexts. This photo gallery feature comes as an ‘add on’ in DotNetNuke and involves extra costs.

6. Survey

The survey feature of SharePoint makes it stay one more step ahead of DotNetNuke. The Survey feature can be easily enabled using the settings. For the DotNetNuke, on the other hand, this survey feature comes as a free add on.

7. Subscriptions

SharePoint has in-built subscription feature, something that is totally absent when it comes to DotNetNuke. The former offers support for site subscriptions, which can be considered as a collection of sites, subscribing to a set of settings, service partitions as well as individual features. These site subscriptions are also termed as tenants and they can be managed by means of a new administration site template. Creation of a site subscription object in this web application development platform necessitates the administrator to create a SPSiteSubscription object and add a SPSite object to the SPSiteSubscription.

8. Link Management

Managing a set of links in this much preferred platform is quite hassle- free, as the same has this feature incorporated into it. Link management helps in keeping track of the essential website URLs. These links are available to anyone who logs in. Link management feature is a free add on in DNN but not in-built as it is in SharePoint.

Owing to the above- mentioned advantages and many more, SharePoint has indeed turned out to be an inseparable part of the daily business operations. It works with commendable ease and efficiency when it comes to collaborating designs as well as carrying out technical documentation. Whether it is with regards to document management or issue tracking, the platform gives utmost advantage to the SharePoint application development team while also enabling them to come up with the best- possible outcomes.

DotNetNuke is a favorite content management system too, but when it comes to comparing it with SharePoint, the latter is obviously more beneficial, which becomes explicit from a glance at the prominent points that help make the difference.

We provide custom SharePoint development services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert SharePoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Top 4 Challenges while creating Distributed Java Applications

Java is undoubtedly one of the most important programming languages used by the web and software application developers all over. Its primary advantage is that the language can be deployed on any hardware platform without the slightest need to modify the code. A compilation of code at the bit level resulting in a compilation of the Java code into a binary life makes it executable on all platforms. As java is a suitable platform, it is deployed over a distributed environment, where systems with different hardware configurations as well as platforms are located over the network.

As a mainstream programming language, it is of immense use for software development. However, the necessity of deploying it in a distributed environment causes certain difficulties that lead to several challenges. Most importantly, the distributed environment makes it troublesome to identify the issue- causing node due to the presence of large numbers of terminals.

Recognizing these problems and grasping them in details is difficult even for the expert developers. Let us take a brief look into the main challenges in distributed Java applications:

• Degrading Performance- A lot of performance issues arises for applications written in any language. Conventional languages such as C with a stand-alone or server application involve performance issues such as de-allocation of memory, poor use of system APIs as well as improper allocation. These are certainly not the characteristics of the Java language. For instance, the task of relating the code to the way the JVM manages memory is not only difficult but also prone to errors. These performance issues show up in various ways in areas other than the main problem zone. Locating the performance bottlenecks is a challenge too, in distributed application development.


• Lowering Reliability- The distributed enterprise Java applications are necessitated to work perfectly at all times. So, the developers should be in a position to determine the reliability of the applications accurately. When it comes to the distributed applications, assessing the reliability quotient is all the more difficult for even the interacting components need to be analyzed. While this programming language facilitates writing highly threaded applications that are suited in a distributed environment, chances of resource contention or deadlock related issues are much higher.


• Difficulty in Testing- Testing problems are rather common when it comes to Java applications. They are required to be tested thoroughly by the developers, who must also be aware of the extent of the test coverage prior to certifying an application. However, the distributed software systems written in Java are extremely difficult to be tested and debugged. All the components must be tested individually as well as simultaneously because each of the components resides on different computers and should work in harmony for the application to work properly.


• Difficulties in Memory Management- JVMs perform the entire memory management tasks for applications. Hence, it becomes extremely difficult to understand the memory usage of the underlying platform as well as influence memory allocation to affect performance. Conducting an analysis of the usage of the underlying memory is an essential way of building efficient applications that are effective. However, in case of the distributed Java applications, the developers have no easy way of understanding the relationship between the code and the underlying memory use.

Using Software Tools to Solve Issues
The above- mentioned challenges in deploying this programming langusge in distributed applications can be encountered to certain extent by means of the integrated development environments for Java and the tools such as the Compuware or the DevPartner for Java suite. The integrated Java application development environments are suitable for combining visual development, context-sensitive editing, runtime debugging and JIT compilation. The tools, on the other hand, are more useful as, they help in evaluating performance issues; analyze memory usage and threads apart from tracking the testing progress.

We provide java development services. If you would like to discuss with an expert java developer from our team, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Integrating ColdFusion Applications with Microsoft SharePoint

While ColdFusion is recognized as a much preferred programming platform, the recent trend is that of integrating it with Microsoft SharePoint. Why? Because SharePoint bespoke development helps create most personalized web products which greatly enhance the efficiency of operations in an enterprise. The latest version of the former platform, that is ColdFusion 9, will feature this integration. However, before going into the details of how this integration can be executed or the possible benefits of the process, let us understand few basics about SharePoint.

Basically a content management system at its best, SharePoint is an application that helps in accessing data stored in the MSSQL database. The integrated search services facilitated by it help in adding team collaboration context to the management of the data files, generated by the Microsoft Office Suite. When it comes to SharePoint, the site hierarchy and the permission- based roles become important. The key permission levels allow users to read, contribute, design as well as take full control of the SharePoint sites along with data after a certain stage.

With regards to the integration, the most important requirement is to understand the precise needs of the users. ColdFusion 9 incorporates the integration feature to solve most of the problems of a majority of users and not to satisfy only a handful of them.

Single-Sign-On Support
The demand for a single-sign-on (SSO) support is the most common of all requirements. This support would allow the ColdFusion applications working under SharePoint increase the level of the platform’s authenticity as well as security by means of removing the necessity of logins and authentication of the ColdFusion applications. Now, with ColdFusion 9, the task becomes easier as a result of an inclusion of the SharePoint integration files in ColdFusion. The installation and configuration of these files paves the way for the platform to invoke applications offering SSO support.

ColdFusion Applications
The concept of the platform applications running the Microsoft SharePoint platform might appear to be a little confusing. Web Parts and ASP.Net server controls are used to build the applications. The Web Parts can actually be pre- written in the controls provided by Microsoft, 3rd party controls as well as the individual controls. With ColdFusion 9 applications and the SSO support, necessary grounds for the perfect integration are ready.

Web Parts
Users might simply want to access data in the platform and may not be looking for running application as a Web Part. There are many who use the platform with the intention of deriving benefits out of user lists, views and groups, use the platform search option or work with the stored images and document workspaces. All these activities can be done with the help of exposed web services. However, a new tag is made available for maximum control as well as higher level of performance.

The Cfsharepoint Tag
The cfsharepoint tag is a powerful one, enabling manipulation of SharePoint by virtue of its several attributes. It facilitates around 50 actions. The tag can actually make the platform do anything. All that one needs to do is pass the credentials in a structured manner or supply the values individually in the form of domain, password and username values. The credentials must be stored in the Application.cfcfile.

An integration of ColdFusion with Microsoft SharePoint encompasses SSO, platform applications, Web Parts, SharePoint services along with the cfsharepoint tag. With these, the requirements of the users are catered in an effective manner while the incorporation of ColdFusion as an important part of an enterprise is also realized. The integration increases the power and productivity of the platform to great heights. Thus, seen from all respects, the merging of the two popular and prominent web application development platforms is of immense use for the experienced developers as well as that for the enterprises.

We provide Coldfusion Sharepoint Integration services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert certified sharepoint developers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Converting an ASP.NET site into a SharePoint site - Top 7 Issues faced and their solutions

SharePoint has become increasingly popular nowadays. A plethora of web projects are directly started in SharePoint. But still there are a lot many projects which remain out of the SharePoint scope and exist purely in the form of ASP.NET application.

A common task that becomes applicable during migration of an existing ASP site to a SharePoint site is transforming the landing page of the site to SharePoint page. That is where the problem starts. So far as .NET applications are concerned, they incorporate diverse modern technologies and tools such as URL Rewriting, SilverLight, MVC and so on. These tools are extremely common when it comes to .NET development. However, they can pose potential problems in the world of SharePoint. Let us discuss some of the issues faced in conversion of a .NET site into a SharePoint site.

1. Master.page: SP does not support the AutoEventWireup=”true” attribute on every page. So it is good to remove the same. Moreover, there is no support for user controls on master.page, so they can be moved to CONTROLTEMPLATES folder and references need to be changed. All classes from where inheritance takes place should have namespaces.

2. CSS: SP does not render 100% CSS validation. In this case, it is good to go for CSS customization and debugging, wherein you would be getting a clean CSS file. In this all the customization would be reset. Resetting reduces browser inconsistencies especially with respect to margins, default line heights, font sizes of headings, and the like.

3. Web.config: It is to be ensured that the correct sitemap defaultProvider from the ASP.NET web.config is being used. If the same is not done, all the sitemap elements would be recognized as SharePoint Publishing class elements, which is considerably different from asp.net SiteMap classes.

4. URL Rewriting: In case URL rewriting or any other specific modules are required, the < system.webServer > section needs to be created in the SharePoint config file and added accordingly. Moreover, all the DLLS need to be added to the list of SafeControls.

5. Code: So far as the DLLs are concerned, [assembly: AllowPartiallyTrustedCallers()] is a must. Again it is advisable to ensure that all the DLLs are signed. Namespaces are a must for every class.

6. Autodiscover service: It is seen that once an ascx control is created for use in SP which has access to Exchange 2010 through its web services. Everything is okay when the same is executed in the .NET test site. However, whenever the control is utilized in SP an error occurs and the following message is shown: “The Autodiscover service couldn't be located”. This problem can be warded off by adding the domain root certificate utilized by the exchange server in the form of “Manage Trust”.

7. Deployment of ASP.Net web application: In case you have a SP Portal where deployment of .Net Web application is required, the main goal is the integration of all the asp.net application created so that every application has a single access point within SharePoint. For this, initially a SP site collection needs to be created in the web application following which sub site creation is required for each application. In this way, separation of each application can be achieved.

SharePoint application development is a popular choice when it comes to developing web based projects. However, the above mentioned issues are often faced during migration of an ASP.NET site into a SharePoint site. Following the requisite solutions can do away or mitigate these issues and help individuals or organizations to go for successful migration. So, plan accordingly, utilize the proper strategies and you will definitely achieve the right migration solution that will ensure that you have complete control over your data.

We provide ASP.NET SharePoint migration services. If you would like to know more about the expertise of our expert SharePoint programmers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

The 5 Most Relevant PHP Frameworks in 2013

Most developers use PHP frameworks to build robust web applications without putting extra time and effort. Each framework also comes with a set of classes and functions to help programmers in writing code in a quicker and structured way. Also, the PHP frameworks make it easier to implement specific design patterns. For instance, a programmer can use the Model-View-Control (MVC) architecture to separate the database-talking-code from the code related to the look and feel of the application.

As a developer has option to choose from a variety of frameworks, he often chooses the one that complements the specific requirements of the project. It is also important for a programmer to evaluate the pros and cons of each framework to take the best decision. However, each web application developer can avail some additional advantages by switching to some of the most popular PHP frameworks. So programmers must keep track of the most relevant PHP frameworks.

5 Most Relevant PHP Frameworks in 2013

Symfony: As free software, Symfony is popular among web developers across the world to build and maintain robust internet applications at a rapid pace. The framework is further effective in replacing the repetitive coding tasks with speed, flexibility and reusable components. Along with supporting the MVC system, Symfony also comes with a set of PHP code classes. A programmer also has option to use specific software building blocks like forms management, translation management and dependency injector.

Yii: The component based PHP framework is designed with the features and tools required to build web 2.0 applications. The combination of powerful caching system and features to work seamlessly with AJAX enables developers to build the application at a rapid pace. At the same time, Yii also enable programmers to use the MVC pattern to separate presentation and business logic. The framework also makes it easier for programmers to optimize the security of the website by availing features like output filtering, input validation, SQL injection and option to prevent cross-site scripting.

CakePHP: As an open source web application development framework, CakePHP is designed based on some of the widely used software design patterns and software engineering concepts. The framework is further written in PHP, and supports MVC architecture. CakePHP further makes it easier for programmers to set up the database, and start developing the website without using any complex XML or YAML files. Also, a programmer can avoid writing longer lines of code by availing features like database access, caching, translation, authentication and validation.

Laravel: Laravel is hugely popular among PHP developers as a classy and clean framework that does not require spaghetti coding. In addition to supporting a variety of databases including SQL Server, MySQL, SQLite and Postgres, the framework also allows programmers to create templates using the Blade templating engine. As Laravel is developed based on key Symfony components, it provides a solid foundation to the website through code that is reliable and well-tested. It is also powered by a composer that allows seamless integration of third-party applications into a website.

Zend: PHP programmers across the world use Zend as a PHP-based and object oriented web application development framework. The framework also has many open source contributors who are passionate about making coding easier. The framework is popular due to its effectiveness in building high-traffic websites and business-critical web applications at a rapid pace. It also allows users to secure the application by using a set of cryptographic and secure coding tools. At the same time, the programmers have option to adapt Zend according to the specific needs of the project, along with integrating seamlessly with other applications and frameworks.

The PHP frameworks are further being upgraded at regular intervals. The latest version of the framework also comes with a set of innovative tools and features to complement the current trends in php application development. So businesses must monitor the fluctuations in the popularity of these frameworks among PHP developers, because of the updates happening in the frameworks and choose one for their needs after precise validation and matching against their needs.

We provide php web development services. If you would like to speak to a certified php developer from our team, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.