The Problem
Horizon Lab, a testing laboratory with more than 30 years of analytical experience serving clients locally, nationally, and internationally, needed a web-based system to run its day-to-day testing operations — managing customer records, logging incoming samples, and getting timely, accurate results and reports back to clients — rather than relying on manual, paper-driven processes for an operation serving clients at that scale.
The Solution
I built an ASP.NET MVC/Web API system on the .NET Framework with SQL Server as the data store, giving Horizon Lab an online test lab platform to manage customers, samples, and reporting from one place. The frontend uses jQuery and JavaScript for interactive dashboard and form behavior, keeping the interface responsive for lab staff working through high volumes of samples and customer records day to day.
Key Features
Online Test Lab — a centralized system for logging and tracking testing work as it moves through the lab, replacing manual paper-based tracking.
Manage Customers — a customer management module keeping client records and testing history organized and searchable.
Manage Samples — sample intake and tracking so staff can see what's been received and where each sample stands.
Manage PDF Reports — generate and manage PDF reports so clients get consistent, professional documentation of their results.
Technical Highlights
Built on ASP.NET MVC and ASP.NET Web API over the .NET Framework, with SQL Server handling the relational data (customers, samples, reports) and jQuery/JavaScript driving the client-side interactivity — a proven, stable stack suited to a lab system that needs to run reliably day in and day out for a client base spanning local, national, and international customers.
Results
Horizon Lab got a consistent digital system for managing customers, samples, and reporting, replacing manual processes with a searchable, centralized platform that supported the lab's reputation for timely results and personalized service across 30+ years of operation.
FAQ
Why did a testing lab need a custom system instead of off-the-shelf lab software?
Horizon Lab's exact combination of customer management, sample tracking, and PDF report generation needed to match their specific existing workflow rather than forcing staff to adapt to a generic tool — a custom ASP.NET build let every screen match how the lab actually operates.
What does "Manage Samples" actually track?
Sample intake and status as it moves through testing, giving lab staff a searchable record of what's been received and where each sample currently stands, rather than relying on physical logs or spreadsheets.
How are results delivered to clients?
Through generated PDF reports, giving clients consistent, professional documentation of their results rather than ad hoc formats varying by staff member.
Why ASP.NET MVC and jQuery rather than a more modern frontend framework?
This system was built to match the lab's operational needs at the time on a proven, stable stack — ASP.NET MVC/Web API with jQuery-driven interactivity — prioritizing reliability for day-to-day lab operations over using the newest frontend tooling.
Is this the same system as Horizon Lab's current customer portal?
No — this is an earlier, internally-focused lab management system (customers, samples, PDF reports). The separate Horizon Lab customer portal project on this site is a newer, customer-facing self-service system with live dashboards, secure login, and online pricing.
