- Cybertron Systems Ltd -

Extra II

Working in partnership with GE Global eXchange Services (GE GXS) Cybertron developed a large booking system for National Express Limited.

EXTRA II replaces the former National Express mainframe booking system and forms a centralised server which may be accessed via many existing and future client systems. These currently include: Viewdata, SMART PC and Internet booking systems.

The primary intention in rewriting the existing EXTRA reservation system to operate within a HP UNIX environment using an Oracle database was to allow the migration of the service from VME at Feltham to the GXS Super Centre in the Netherlands. Additional functionality and considerable performance improvements were also obtained.

The move from Extra I to Extra II was the most complex systems change ever undertaken by National Express. National Express Newsletter

EXTRA II was developed using industry standard tools and components and thus represents a solid, future-proof investment for National Express.

Cybertron played a major role in the functional and system specifications, database design, UNIX architecture design, programming, testing and migration of data from a previous Extra mainframe application (EXTRA I).

We now have in place a system that will enable us to respond much more effectively to the demands of the market and will provide a platform to take the company into the future. Chris Brown, Director of IT, National Express

Cybertron have provided 24 by 7 support for EXTRA II since it went live in October 1998. Since that date the application has been running continuously with a total unplanned down-time of only 45 minutes. We have also been involved with the development of several enhancements to the application and are currently working on the new web based front-end described below.

EXTRA II Web Interface

Cybertron are currently working with GE GXS to develop an internet front-end for EXTRA II. This service will be embedded into the existing National Express site; www.GoByCoach.com, and will allow travel agents to make reservations without the need for additional Viewdata hardware or software. It will also provide savings in connection and infrastructure costs.

The EXTRA II web portal will run on a secured server based at the GXS Super Centre in the Netherlands, and will utilise Apache web server software.

The pages will be dynamically generated depending on the operation being performed and the type of agent using the system. Embedded JavaScript has been used to make data entry more efficient and fluid.

Throughout this working relationship, Cybertron has delivered applications of high quality, and has demonstrated technical competence, flexibility towards changing client requirements, and has always performed the required tasks professionally and in an atmosphere of co-operation. Arthur Sank, Project Manager, GE GXS