Use Case: Create an Employee Search Directory with LDAP/AD Integration for WP
Overview
The objective of this use case is to create an employee search directory integrated with the Active Directory / LDAP Server. This will enable users to search for employee profiles based on various parameters like user name, UID, department, company, and role sourced from the LDAP server. The solution includes creating a search widget that can be embedded on the WordPress page using a shortcode, displaying real-time data without storing any data locally.
Scenario:
An organization has Multiple Active Directories/ LDAP Servers that contain information about AD objects like users, computers, electronic devices, etc. And wishes to display the employee directory on the WordPress page without storing the user data locally.
Problem Statement:
- Create an employee directory to display LDAP/AD users' information on a WordPress page.
- Search users using various LDAP attributes and display each user's profile on the WordPress page.
Components:
- miniOrange Staff / Employee Business Directory for Active Directory Plugin
Solution:
The solution involves installing and configuring the miniOrange staff/employee business directory for the active directory plugin. In the plugin itself, you can add the LDAP attributes that you are going to use for searching the users present in the LDAP/Active Directory.
To display the search widget on the desired WordPress page you have to add a shortcode on that page. On adding the shortcode and configuring the plugin you will see a search widget where you can search any user present in the active directory / LDAP server.
No user data is stored locally. You can customize the appearance of the search results and user profiles as per your liking as the plugin offers various UI templates.
Benefit:
- Real-time Data: Users can access the most up-to-date employee information directly from LDAP/AD.
- Easy Integration: The Search Widget can be seamlessly integrated into any WordPress page using shortcode.
- No Data Redundancy: Eliminates the need for duplicating or storing employee data on the WordPress site, reducing maintenance overhead and ensuring data integrity.
- Customization: Administrators have the flexibility to customize the widget's appearance and functionality to suit their specific needs.
Conclusion:
By implementing the Employee Search Directory with LDAP/AD integration, organizations can support existing employee databases securely and efficiently. The solution not only enhances user experience by providing real-time access to employee profiles but also ensures data security and compliance by avoiding local data storage on the WordPress platform. This approach optimizes resource utilization and simplifies the management of employee directories within WordPress-based environments.
