Transforming HR Management with PointWatch

Overview

PointWatch began as a simple time-tracking solution for employees but quickly evolved into a comprehensive human resources management system for companies worldwide. The project came to me as an outdated PHP and Laravel application with a clunky design. From the outset, I recognized its potential and suggested a complete rebuild. Leading a team of five developers, we embarked on a journey to transform this small SaaS project into a scalable and innovative platform.

Technical Foundations

At its core, PointWatch was reimagined using .NET 9 and C#, leveraging Entity Framework for database management. To meet the demands of a SaaS model, we implemented a multi-tenant architecture with separate databases for each client, all managed through a shared API. The frontend was built with TypeScript and Next.js, taking advantage of server-side rendering and modern features to deliver a fast, responsive user experience.

Continuous Development

Once the foundation was established, we adopted an agile approach, delivering new modules and features monthly. Some updates were straightforward, while others involved complex integrations with external devices and systems. The platform has grown to include a wide range of HR functionalities, reflecting its scalability and adaptability.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the biggest challenges was managing the organizational and technical complexity of the project. I worked closely with various teams:

Marketing: To align on promotional strategies and feature highlights.

Commercial: To demonstrate new functionalities and clarify client concerns.

Support: To address client issues and ensure smooth adoption of updates.

Development Team: As the tech lead, I delegated tasks, reviewed pull requests, resolved blockers, and coded challenging functionalities when time allowed.

Balancing these responsibilities required strong communication and time management skills, ensuring every aspect of the project was aligned with its goals.

Achievements and Growth

PointWatch has grown significantly since its relaunch, now boasting over 300 active licenses and serving 15 companies across Portugal. This journey taught me how to scale an application effectively, manage cross-functional teams, and transform a simple idea into a robust, feature-rich platform.

Vision for the Future

PointWatch is just getting started. Its current success is a testament to the power of innovative design, teamwork, and perseverance. With ongoing updates and expansion plans, I am confident it will continue to redefine HR management for companies in Portugal and beyond.