#67: Pitfalls and Landmines in Migration

Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering

Welcome to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your insider guide to all things digital in product manufacturing. In this episode, hosts Jonathan and Jen are joined by Michael Welti, a migration expert, to explore the common pitfalls of data migration and strategies to avoid them. From understanding source data and ensuring quality to the critical role of timing and rehearsals, this episode offers invaluable insights for smooth transitions during digital transformations.

Summary of the Episode

Michael Welti delves into the complexities of data migration, emphasizing preparation, intentionality, and thorough analysis to avoid costly mistakes. The discussion covers everything from knowing what data to migrate, addressing quality issues, rehearsing the process, and identifying latent issues that might arise long after the migration. Michael shares practical advice on planning, execution, and leveraging expertise to ensure a successful migration.

Episode Highlights

• Key Pitfalls in Data Migration:
  • Migrating unnecessary data while leaving out critical information.
  • Failing to account for data quality, constraints, and legacy system issues.
  • Overlooking the importance of security during and after migration.
• Strategies for Success:
  • Thorough analysis of source and target systems, identifying constraints and potential issues.
  • Conducting multiple rehearsals to test the migration process and identify hidden problems.
  • Planning for go-live timing, ensuring minimal downtime with bulk and delta migrations.
• Latent Issues to Watch For:
  • Problems surfacing weeks or months later due to overlooked details.
  • Security gaps resulting in exposed sensitive data during the migration.
  • Performance issues and mismatches between legacy and new system requirements.

Conclusion

Data migration is a challenging but crucial step in digital transformation. Success lies in thorough preparation, understanding your systems, and leaning on expertise when needed. Michael’s advice underscores the importance of rehearsals, planning, and a “Goldilocks approach”—finding the balance between too much and too little preparation for your unique business needs.

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Stay Sharp, and we’ll see you next time!

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