Automating Employee Data Synchronization - Integrating WURK with Azure Active Directory for a Leading Plant-Based Medicine Organization

Location; United State

Introduction

The organization faced challenges with maintaining synchronized employee data between their existing system, WURK, and Azure Active Directory (AAD). The manual data synchronization process was cumbersome and prone to errors, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies in data management.

Problem Statement

The organization faced challenges with maintaining synchronized employee data between their existing system, WURK, and Azure Active Directory (AAD). The manual data synchronization process was cumbersome and prone to errors, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies in data management.

Project Details

To address these challenges, our objective was to develop an automated synchronization interface that would allow administrators to efficiently schedule and manage data sync between WURK and AAD. The solution was designed to offer flexible scheduling options (weekly, monthly, or daily) and provide detailed visibility into synchronization logs and reports.

Solution Summary

The solution comprised several key components:

API Integration and Data Processing:

  • API Endpoint: The WURK team provided an API endpoint to deliver delta data (changes since the last update).
  • Logic App and Function Apps: A Logic App was created to handle data retrieval from WURK. This data was processed by a Function App to compare and update records in Azure Active Directory. A second Function App managed the data upload into AAD.
  • Data Comparison: The system compared incoming WURK data with existing AAD records, logged discrepancies, and identified necessary updates to ensure accurate synchronization.

Logging and Reporting:

  • Azure Log Analytics: Synchronization runs were logged, detailing updates and changes. Logs were stored in Azure Log Analytics for tracking and audit purposes.
  • Power BI Report: A Power BI report was created based on the logs, providing a detailed view of changes made in AAD. This report was embedded into the UI, allowing users to access historical data and updates.

User Interface and Scheduling:

  • Angular UI: An intuitive user interface was developed using Angular. Administrators logged in via Microsoft SSO and accessed a dashboard displaying synchronization logs.
  • Scheduling Interface: The UI included features for scheduling synchronization tasks (daily, weekly, monthly) and running jobs on demand. Admins could manage these schedules and review synchronization history directly from the interface.

Access Controls:

  • Role-Based Access: Only administrators could schedule synchronization jobs. General users had access to the Home Page and Power BI Report Page.

Environments:

  • Development and Production: The project was developed and tested in two environments—Development and Production—to ensure stability and performance before full deployment.

Challenges:

  • Data Delta Integration: A primary challenge was negotiating with the WURK team to receive the correct delta data and determine the synchronization direction. After extensive discussions, a one-way synchronization from WURK to Azure was agreed upon.
  • Enhanced Data Consistency: Automation ensured consistent and up-to-date data in Azure Active Directory.
  • Improved Efficiency: The scheduling and on-demand execution capabilities streamlined data management tasks for administrators.

Conclusion

The implementation of the automated synchronization solution significantly improved data management between WURK and Azure Active Directory for the Plant-Based Medicine Organization. By eliminating manual processes, the project enhanced data accuracy, operational efficiency, and administrative oversight. The solution provided a scalable approach to data synchronization that supports the organization’s ongoing needs and growth.