Types of migration
Hover over the boxes to find out about types of migrations and examples of when they might be used. Our vendors can help with all of them so if you have a question just ask.
Database Migration
The migration from one database to another. This is common in mergers or fast-growing companies who need more advanced or intuitive platforms.
Software Update Migration
Often the migration from one operating system to another. This could be due to the previous version going end of life, like the recent Windows 7 example.
Application Migration
Application migrations take place when companies switch vendors or platforms. Examples include implementing a new HR system or switching from one CRM to another.
Cloud Migration
Companies all over the world are opting to move their infrastructures and databases to the cloud to reduce costs, increase capacity and move away from large on-prem servers.
Storage Migration
Storage migrations are when data is transferred from one storage medium to another. For example, data from Outlook being migrated to a marketing automation platform.
Business Process Migration
Business process migration is the complex transfer of applications and databases containing information about customers, products, and operations e.g.: mergers or reorganisations.
Preparing for the move is almost as daunting as the move itself. Making sure everything is moved safely and securely is the main priority. For end-users, the backups that they create before migrating ensures that data can be recovered in case the migration doesn't go as planned. In this event, organised rollback plans mitigate the risk of losing data. However, teams should also consider how to eliminate redundant data once the migration is complete.
Finding the perfect migration method for a company is similar to a bird finding the perfect route over the Atlantic. It’s a giant open space and it feels like anything goes. However, in the planning stage of a migration project it’s important to discuss every element of the migration, from the data types to the new environment, and all the security vulnerabilities along the way. Discussing this with an experienced product specialist will help clear the fog and build a specific solution stack and method suited to your customers.
TEST! Test, test, test, test, test. It’s the most important rule of change management, especially with the security risks of migration. Wherever possible, the tests should be carried out in a development environment first rather than a live or production environment. Even after stringent testing, back-up software is highly recommended in the event of any data loss.
This is case specific and depends on the type and method of migration – there are no hard and fast rules unfortunately. Every stage of the process should be tested, altered, and tested again. Every newly implemented piece of software and environment should also be tested for performance, capacity and security before being rolled out as part of the migration process.
Backing up all data prior to the migration is essential, as is having an agreed rollback procedure. That way, if there is any breech or data loss, the information can be cross-examined and recovered with minimal downtime. Carrying out the migration outside of normal business hours will also reduce the impact of potential delays and downtime and give the IT team time to reverse the migration if it does come down to that. Once the migration is deemed a success, unnecessary backup data can be destroyed to minimise risk in case of a breach.
An attempted cyber-attack occurs every 39 seconds. Cyber-criminals specifically target vulnerabilities and known events that might cause a lower level of security than usual. Cyber-attacks resulting in large-scale data loss due to apparent negligence can result in huge fines and criminal charges. That’s why it’s vital to secure migration processes.
Back-ups are an important asset to a business. Making sure a business's data is secure and can easily be recovered in case of an emergency is essential. Once migrated, there are specific environment monitoring and management solutions to ensure the security and optimum performance of the new environment.
During the migration process, new backups may be created in addition to the data that remains on older storage setups. It will be important to secure any backup data that must remain. It is also critical to thoroughly and immediately sanitise any old devices or cloud instances of remnant data according to an industry specific standard (e.g. NIST 800-88 Purge). Neglecting these steps leaves this excess data at risk and creates greater vulnerability, especially if IT assets are to be redeployed or relinquished to external users.
Are your customers planning a Microsoft Migration?
One of the biggest hurdles your customers will face when choosing to adopt Microsoft technologies is migrating from their existing platform. To help you accelerate your customers’ move to Microsoft we offer migration services delivered by technically certified engineers.
- Mapping Migration
- SQL Migration
- ARM Migration
- IaaS Migration
- PaaS Migration
- Email Migration
These services are a great way to provide your customers with added value. They also take away the pain of having to find in-house expertise and resources to support your customers’ technical requirements.
As a Microsoft Indirect Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) we are also here to help you accelerate your Microsoft resale business and create a reliable new revenue stream. Get in touch with our Microsoft Business Development Manager, James Bayliss, to enquire about your customers' Microsoft migrations.
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