BrickFTP, now known as ExaVault, is a cloud-based managed file transfer (MFT) platform designed for businesses that need secure, reliable file storage and sharing. It offers features such as SFTP/FTP access, custom branding, secure user management, and robust APIs, making it a powerful choice for organizations that require efficient file exchange with clients and partners. The platform focuses on security and compliance, providing encryption, activity logs, and permission management to meet enterprise needs. By integrating BrickFTP (ExaVault) with Frends iPaaS, businesses can automate and streamline file transfer workflows, synchronize data across systems, and ensure seamless collaboration between teams and external stakeholders.

Business use cases

Automated file transfer processes

BrickFTP serves as a secure environment for file transfers, and with Frends, businesses can automate upload and download workflows. For example, Frends can monitor a specific folder on BrickFTP and when new files are uploaded, automatically download and process them before transferring the files to other systems, such as an ERP, CRM, or cloud storage platforms like AWS S3 or Azure Blob Storage. This ensures timely and accurate file delivery without manual intervention.

Secure data exchange with external partners

Organizations frequently need to exchange files with external clients or vendors securely. By integrating BrickFTP with Frends, companies can set up workflows to automatically provision FTP/SFTP credentials for external parties and notify them via email or other communication platforms when files are uploaded for them. Frends workflows can also automate the cleanup of older files to maintain storage efficiency and compliance.

Integration with business systems

BrickFTP is often used for managing large data files that need to interact with other enterprise systems. Frends can create workflows that integrate BrickFTP with accounting, ERP, or CRM platforms. For example, when an invoice is uploaded to BrickFTP by a client, Frends can trigger a workflow to extract data from the file, process it, and upload it to an ERP system like NetSuite or SAP for further action.

Compliance-driven file archiving

Many industries, such as healthcare and finance, require strict compliance with data retention and auditing policies. Frends can work with BrickFTP to automate the retention and archival of sensitive data. For example, files uploaded to BrickFTP can be backed up to long-term storage solutions like Amazon Glacier or Azure Archive. Frends can also manage versioning and delete older files automatically according to predefined retention policies.

Real-time notifications and alerts

Frends can enhance BrickFTP's activity monitoring by automating notifications and alerts. For example, when specific files are transferred or when an upload/download fails, Frends can send alerts via email, Slack, or Microsoft Teams. This real-time communication ensures IT teams can act quickly to address any issues.

Integration with data processing workflows

Organizations often use BrickFTP as a central file transfer hub for data operations. Frends can connect BrickFTP with data processing systems for automated workflows. For example, when a data file is uploaded, Frends can trigger a workflow to process the file (e.g., format conversion or data extraction) and send the results to downstream applications or analytics tools.

Custom onboarding workflows for new users

BrickFTP supports user account provisioning, and Frends can automate this process for new customers, partners, or employees. For example, when a new vendor onboarding form is submitted, Frends can trigger a workflow to create an SFTP account on BrickFTP, configure access permissions, and notify the vendor with login credentials and usage instructions.

File usage reporting and analytics

Frends can integrate with BrickFTP to automate the collection of activity logs for usage reporting. Businesses can use this data to understand who accessed specific files, track transfer volumes, and identify trends in data usage. The information collected can be visualized using analytics tools like Power BI or Tableau, providing actionable insights for operations or compliance audits.

Enhancing supply chain operations

For organizations that manage file exchange related to supply chain operations, Frends can integrate BrickFTP with supply chain and logistics systems. For instance, when a shipment-related document is uploaded by a vendor to BrickFTP, Frends can trigger workflows that notify relevant departments, process the document, and sync it with a supply chain management system, ensuring smooth operations and timely updates.