Dimitrios Kalkasinas

The thesis focuses on the modernization of administrative processes in an academic institution through the use of Information Systems. The central objective is the transition from a traditional operational system to a modern system that can delegate responsibilities to its users and support decision-making by administrative services. This transition aims to improve organizational efficiency and enhance the institution’s overall performance.

The key benefits of the new system include:

• Reduction in process execution time by eliminating delays between successive tasks and enabling parallel execution of independent processes.

• Quality assurance of upgraded services and increased trust from the system’s end users.

The system’s users include all stakeholders involved in its implementation, from data administrators to the institution’s faculty members. A crucial success factor is the active participation of all stakeholders, from leadership to employees at all levels. The greater the user engagement, the higher the satisfaction with the new system’s operation. Additionally, increased user involvement fosters a greater interest in the system’s effective functioning.

The developed information system can be classified as an enterprise system, implemented using IT and internet technologies. Its primary goal is to collect, store, process, and distribute information useful to the institution.

The system’s main advantages include process automation, significantly reducing manual bureaucratic tasks. Modern technology also enables efficient data collection, analysis, and rapid distribution. Furthermore, the institution’s various departments can operate simultaneously, leading to a substantial reduction in overall process completion time. Another key benefit of utilizing a computational system is process monitoring and control, allowing for proactive issue prevention. Additionally, by leveraging web-based technologies, different or remote departments within the institution can collaborate seamlessly.

Educational Activities Scheduling

Neighborhood Map is a Single Page App that features a map with interesting places to visit. React is used to build the app, integrated with Google maps API for JavaScript, Foursquare API and WikiMedia API. Online project

This app helps a visitor of Greece, Athens to spent a day passing from interesting places around Athens center. Also, is collection of descriptions for these places, so that, the visitor to have an idea in what to expect from. This project was bootstrapped with Create React App constructs a Single Page Application. Github repository

Bookstore (back-end) application

https://github.com/desinas/bookstore-back

• Maven archetype to bootstrap the basic directory structure and manage Java EE dependencies.
• Implementing the Book entity using Java Persistance API to connect to Relational Database by map entity.
• Using Java Transaction API to implement CRUD operations with Java Persistence Query Language.
• Using JUnit to test in isolation part of the code and Arquillian integration tests to test integrated systems in a system container.
• Using constraints on Object attributes and on Object method parameters to manage data by the system container.
• Java bean is a managed Java EE class that benefits from servives given by the system container. Using injection annotation in order to better manage Java beans.
• Exposing REST API using annotations in order to consume it with a client API. So that an HTTP endpoint to be an entry point for Angular.
• Using Maven to automate the process of generating JSon contract files for documenting API and to visualize contracts with Swagger UI.

Bookstore app (front-end)

https://github.com/desinas/bookstore-front

• Angular application that follows standard Node.JS directory structure and the configuration file with Angular dependences using Yarn package manager. So that to compile and run the application on Express web server in order to add graphical components and the front-end to talk to back-end.
• Component using HTML for the visual aspect of the app and component using Typescript in order to add behaviour in the app. The graphical components generated list all books, details of one book and a form to create a new book. Also there are components binding for connecting the two components.
• Navigation through components, RouterLink in Templates Router API in TypeScript. Simple navigation, Navigation with parameters, Navigation with actions.
• Using Angular service for the Bookstore service and model for Invoking the Java EE Back-end.

Front-End Web Developer nanodegree, on line course powered by Google, 2017-2018

Web Foundations: HTML, CSS, Git: Using these technologies develop web projects: 

• Mockup to Article project
• Animal Trading Cards project

JavaScript Foundations: Build personal portfolio website

Intermediate JavaScript: Document Object Model, Object-Oriented JavaScript techniques, closures, ES6 specification:

• Pixel Art Maker project
• Memory Game project
• Classic Arcade Game clone project
• Feed Reader Testing project

Advanced JavaScript: Application Programming Interfaces to fetch data for an application. Use a front end framework and the Google Maps API to build an interactive neighbourhood map.

I approach organizing and delivering my tasks with a strong focus on planning, prioritisation, and efficiency. Here’s how I typically manage my workload:

• Problem Solving: I begin by clearly defining the problem, breaking it down into smaller, manageable components. I research and analyze potential solutions, weighing pros and cons before deciding on the most effective approach. For instance, when tackling complex software issues, I often work through them by collaborating with team members, discussing potential solutions, and ensuring that we take a well-rounded approach to address the problem efficiently.

• Multi-tasking: I handle multiple tasks by staying organized and maintaining a clear overview of all ongoing projects. I use project management tools like Jira and Trello to track deadlines and milestones, which helps me manage several projects simultaneously without losing focus. For example, when working on a feature development while handling a cloud infrastructure migration, I prioritise each task based on urgency and complexity, ensuring that nothing is overlooked.

• Prioritising Tasks: I use a priority matrix to decide which tasks to tackle first based on their impact and urgency. This allows me to focus on high-priority, high-impact tasks while ensuring that less critical tasks don’t get neglected. In my role as a software engineer, when faced with multiple competing deadlines, I assess each task’s importance to the overall project and adjust my schedule accordingly. For example, I might focus on fixing critical bugs first and leave lower-priority features for later in the sprint.

• Time Management: I believe in setting clear, realistic deadlines for myself and my team, which is key for maintaining a productive workflow. I also make sure to allocate time for unforeseen challenges or changes in priorities. For instance, when leading a project, I create detailed timelines and milestones, ensuring that I have time for revisions or testing without compromising deadlines.

• Attention to Detail: I ensure high-quality output by double-checking my work, conducting thorough testing, and reviewing code with my peers. This careful attention to detail helps me catch potential issues early and avoid costly mistakes down the line. For example, before releasing any software updates, I go through a checklist to ensure all requirements have been met and the code is fully functional.

• Delegation of Tasks: I am comfortable delegating tasks to the appropriate team members based on their strengths and expertise. I ensure that everyone knows their responsibilities and deadlines, while also providing guidance and support when needed. In one of my previous roles, I led a team through a large-scale application migration, delegating tasks based on individual skills and coordinating the overall progress to meet deadlines.

I have strong communication skills and can adapt flexibly to different situations and audiences.

• Teamwork & Flexibility: I enjoy working closely with colleagues and clients to develop solutions and overcome challenges. I can quickly adapt to different perspectives and communication styles, which makes collaboration more efficient and productive.

• Clear Presentation & Public Speaking: In my role as a team leader, I have delivered presentations at events, allowing me to effectively communicate complex technical concepts in a clear and engaging manner—whether to a technical audience or cross-functional teams.

• Strong Writing Skills: My experience in customer relationship management has honed my ability to communicate precisely and effectively in writing. This skill is valuable not only in direct customer interactions but also in documenting software solutions and processes.

• Effective Communication Across Different Environments: Whether in meetings, code reviews, or written documentation, I can convey both technical and non-technical information clearly and concisely. This ability fosters smooth collaboration between developers, product managers, and other stakeholders.

With these strengths, I can effectively engage with different teams and clients, prevent misunderstandings, and work together to develop successful solutions.