FileCab

Built FileCab, a custom PHP/MySQL cloud document management application featuring granular access controls, remote file retrieval, and a reported 90%+ reduction in document search time.

Overview

Designed and developed FileCab, a custom cloud-based document management application for Circuitboard Computers and Technology, Inc. (CBCT).

Beginning in 2008, I built the system from the ground up using PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, creating a centralized digital file cabinet that allowed businesses to securely store, organize, and retrieve documents remotely.

The application was developed and enhanced over eight years, with features supporting document access, user permissions, and administrative management.

The Challenge

CBCT’s CEO needed a more efficient way to manage business documents. Locating older files in physical filing cabinets could take hours, and accessing documents while away from the office often required assistance from employees.

Existing document management solutions were not affordable for the company’s needs.

CBCT wanted a secure, accessible, and cost-effective alternative that could also be offered as a service to other small businesses.

The Solution

Developed FileCab as a custom web-based digital filing system that allowed users to access stored documents from different devices and locations.

Built flexible administrative controls for managing users, groups, files, and folders, including advanced permissions that restricted access to sensitive information.

The application replaced the need to search through physical filing cabinets and provided remote access to documents when users were away from the office.

Continued developing new features and improving the system over an eight-year period.

Technical Implementation

The application incorporated six primary components:

  1. Full-stack development: Built the application using PHP, MySQL, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
  2. Database architecture: Developed the MySQL-backed system supporting document organization, management, and retrieval.
  3. Document management: Created functionality for storing, organizing, and accessing digital files through a web interface.
  4. Access controls: Implemented advanced user and group permissions to restrict access to specific files and folders.
  5. Server infrastructure: Deployed the application on an Apache web server running Kubuntu, hosted on CBCT’s infrastructure.
  6. Long-term development: Continued enhancing the application’s functionality, administrative controls, and usability over eight years.

Outcome

Delivered a custom document management application that significantly improved how CBCT stored and accessed business records.

According to the company’s CEO, FileCab reduced the time spent locating older documents by more than 90%.

Remote document access reduced reliance on physical filing cabinets and allowed users to retrieve documents while away from the office.

I developed and enhanced FileCab over eight years, from its initial architecture through ongoing feature development. My involvement ended when I left CBCT, and the application’s current operational status is unknown.