Migrating MS SQL Clusters for a large EU institution

The European Commission is the executive body of the European Union, responsible for proposing legislation, enforcing EU laws, and directing the union's administrative operations. It operates under the oversight of other principal EU institutions, ensuring uniform application of EU policies across all member states. The Commission also manages the EU's budget and represents the EU internationally, playing a crucial role in shaping Europe's global interactions.

This EU instituion was using different database technologies that were not the latest versions.  This caused operational headaches and also delayed innovation.  Therefore, Aricoma wes asked to embark on a crucial project with customer to migrate & upgrade Microsoft SQL database clusters to new hardware platforms. The project aimed to enhance reduce operational risks improve continuity by updating server hardware and software to the latest supported versions.

The initial phase of the project focused on the architecture design of the new database cluster. This critical stage involved determining the optimal configuration, establishing nodes, and ensuring the architecture supported high availability to provide uninterrupted data access. The goal was to lay a robust foundation for the scalable and resilient database environment needed for the project's success.

Following the design phase, the team developed comprehensive transition procedures for migrating both databases and applications. This process involved detailed assessments to identify potential issues, the formulation of methodologies to guide the migration, and the creation of detailed runbooks. These steps were designed to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth transition process, maintaining operational continuity throughout.

Additionally, a thorough Bill of Materials was compiled to support the migration efforts. This inventory included all necessary components such as hardware, software licenses, and other essential resources. The careful compilation of these materials was crucial in ensuring that all aspects of the migration were adequately resourced, facilitating a successful and efficient implementation.

This migration project not only fortified the institutions's IT infrastructure but also aligned it with modern standards, ensuring greater reliability and efficiency. Through precise planning and execution, Aricoma delivered a seamless transition to the latest MS SQL clusters, setting a precedent for future IT modernization projects within and beyond the EUI. The whole project was delivered on time, and with respect to the budget.