Case Study: HCSI Web Presence

Project Screenshot:
www.hc-csi.com
Quick Facts:
  • Project Type: Consultancy/Implementation
  • Domain: CMS for financial sector
  • Timeframe: 6 months of development and 2 years maintenance contract
  • Technologies Used: Drupal CMS, PHP, Apache web server, MS Windows 2003 Server
  • URL: http://www.hc-si.com



Scope:

To build a web presence for HCSI's three main arms: Brokerage, Investment Banking (Advisory Services), and Asset Management Division, in order to enhance the firm's marketing efforts. The service included an 'Account Viewer' to allow Institutional and Retail clients the freedom to browse their accounts and access personalized services. Clients will not only be able to view and monitor their accounts, but will also gain direct access into the HCSI knowledge centers, known for their research and strong analytics. OpenCraft responsibilities include:

  • Designing and developing the web site
  • Deploying, maintaining and monitoring the site
  • Training HCSI staff on updating and administering the site content


Execution:

The solution included two distinct areas: HCSI's profile and a brokerage-specific area (located at http://www.hc-si.com/marketbeat). The first acted as an online brochure for the group's three activities. The second area was designed to attract active traders to the company's trading platform. In it, users can access delayed quotes, through our custom developed stock quote module that consumes a feed of the Egyptian stock market and graphs. The Research component allows HC Research personnel to update the site using Drupal's powerful and easy-to-use content management features. Content is currently being updated on an hourly basis without the involvement of technicians.


Client Profile:

HC Securities and Investment (HCSI) was established in 1994, as an Egyptian Investment Bank. Its activities include raising capital, advising clients in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, divestitures and spin offs, capital-market service, project finance, securities brokerage and real estate. HCSI's asset-management services include mutual-fund and portfolio management, with assets under management in excess of L.E. 1.2 billion. Finally, HC Brokerage is the third largest brokerage firm in Egypt, it also currently owns a subsidiary in the UAE and plans for an aggressive regional expansion.