System & Database Architecture in Ostendo Continuum ERP
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A Robust Foundation for Performance, Scalability, and Future Growth
Ostendo Continuum ERP is built on a powerful, modern system and database architecture designed to deliver reliability, speed, flexibility, and long-term scalability. At its core, Ostendo combines a proven relational database engine with an advanced, layered technology stack that supports everything from traditional ERP processing to modern web interfaces, mobility, and AI-driven intelligence.
This architecture ensures that Ostendo Continuum can support small teams through to large, multi-company, multi-user enterprises—while remaining adaptable as business requirements and technologies evolve.
The OHJA Technology Stack
The latest generation of Ostendo Continuum is powered by the OHJA architecture, a four-layer technology stack engineered for performance and future readiness.
Ostendo Framework (O Layer)
At the foundation lies the Ostendo Framework—the core ERP engine that drives all operational functionality. This layer provides:
- Comprehensive ERP modules for manufacturing, distribution, service, jobbing, and projects
- High-performance transaction processing
- Centralised business logic and data integrity
- Secure API infrastructure for integration
This core ensures system stability, accuracy, and reliability across all operational areas.
HTML Layer (H Layer)
The HTML layer delivers a modern, standards-based user interface that works across devices and platforms. It enables:
- Responsive access from desktops, tablets, and mobile devices
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Accessibility-friendly interfaces
- Future-proof presentation standards
This ensures consistent user experiences whether staff are in the office, warehouse, factory floor, or working remotely.
JavaScript Layer (J Layer)
The JavaScript layer provides dynamic interactivity and real-time responsiveness. Key capabilities include:
- Real-time data updates
- Interactive dashboards and visualisations
- Client-side business logic
- Modern web application performance
This layer enhances usability and productivity by delivering fast, intuitive system interactions.
Artificial Intelligence Layer (A Layer)
At the top of the stack, the AI layer transforms operational data into actionable intelligence through:
- Predictive analytics and forecasting
- Natural language interaction
- Machine learning-driven insights
- Intelligent automation of workflows
This enables faster decision-making, continuous improvement, and data-driven operational optimisation.
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Firebird 5.0 SQL Database Engine

Ostendo Continuum runs on the Firebird 5.0 SQL relational database, supplied and supported as part of the platform.
Firebird provides:
- High performance with low overhead
- Excellent concurrency handling
- Strong data integrity and transactional reliability
- Scalability for growing data volumes and user counts
The database architecture supports single-user installations through to large, multi-user environments with 100+ concurrent users and multi-company configurations.
Database Utilities and System Management
Ostendo Continuum includes comprehensive system and database utilities to support stability, security, and compliance:
- Database validation tools
- Backup and restore utilities
- Audit logging of field-level data changes
- User-defined security and access controls
- Optional password strength enforcement
These tools support regulatory compliance, traceability, and operational confidence across regulated and non-regulated industries alike.
Deployment, Hosting, and Infrastructure Options
Ostendo Continuum is designed for flexible deployment:
- On-premise client-server environments
- Terminal Services and remote access setups
- Cloud-hosted deployments via secure HTTPS
- Hybrid configurations combining local and remote access
The platform operates within the Windows ecosystem, supporting workstations, tablets, and mobile devices, while integrating seamlessly with the wider Microsoft technology stack.
Advanced Automation
What Can Be Automated?
- Custom Scripts – run automatically without user intervention
- Order Scripts – optional or mandatory logic triggered from order screens
- System Action Scripts – initiate core system functions
- Related Scripts – add toolbar buttons to screens for on-demand actions
Intelligent Business Rules
- User Defined Actions – automatically trigger events (e.g. create Call Tickets when conditions are met)
- User Defined Defaults – auto-populate fields based on rules
- User Defined Validations – enforce data integrity at field level
- System Screen Conditions – control what users can see or edit
These capabilities allow Ostendo to behave exactly the way your business requires—reducing manual work, eliminating errors, and enforcing consistency.
Unlimited Customisation Without Core Code Changes
Customisation Capabilities Include:
- Unlimited User Defined Fields across multiple tables
- User Defined Tables fully integrated into the database
- User Defined Menus and drop-down lists
- Filter Conditions with instant toolbar filtering
- Custom Data Entry Screens with optional remote synchronisation
- Touchpads for graphical product selection and fast order entry
- Frequently Used Text libraries for rapid data entry
- Document & Image Management linked to Customers, Items, Jobs, Orders, Suppliers, and more
This approach ensures your ERP reflects your terminology, processes, and compliance needs—without sacrificing upgradeability.
Security, Compliance & Infrastructure
- Audit Logging tracks field-level data changes
- User Defined Security Policies control access and permissions
- Optional Password Strength Policies
- Multi-User (1–100+) and Multi-Company support
- Firebird SQL relational database included
- Client-Server or Cloud Hosted (HTTPS) deployment
- Full Microsoft ecosystem compatibility
These features support compliance-driven industries while remaining scalable and secure.
Built for Today—and Tomorrow
The system and database architecture of Ostendo Continuum ERP provides more than just operational stability—it delivers a future-proof foundation for digital transformation. By combining a proven relational database, a modern layered technology stack, and continuous architectural enhancement, Ostendo ensures your ERP system can scale, integrate, and innovate as your business grows.
Whether your priority is speed, reliability, visibility, or long-term adaptability, Ostendo Continuum’s system and database architecture is designed to support your business with confidence.

