DWINS: a dynamically configurable Web-based information system

Abstract

DWINS is a dynamically configurable Web-based information system we built for inventory management. It is flexible, secure and active. The database structure can be adjusted any time, even after the system has been configured and starts running. All existing functions are applicable on all new database objects once they are created. Furthermore, the functions of the system are not fixed and key operations can easily be extended and configured. High-level security is implemented by checking permission before any operation is actually carried out. Flexible fine-grain level access control is achieved with the combination of access level, group control and user access list mechanisms. By providing an alert manager, the system can actively notify the users when important events occur. Thus the system is no longer simply waiting for user commands passively but plays a more active and important role.