Challenge

A Complex Transitioning Challenge: Modernizing the data environment with a Data Centric approach.  

JMA addresses the challenge of transitioning logistical data from legacy systems like InforM-21 and IBM Cognos to modernize our client’s data environment. This involves migrating schemas, databases, and tables to the data platform’s IBM Netezza servers. Additionally, the company aims to re-engineer their data environment with a “Data Centric & Data Model” approach to improve data organization and analytics capabilities. This transition requires addressing several complexities, such as ETL processes, code rewriting, data migration, and ensuring a smooth shift from a waterfall development approach to an Agile DevOps methodology. 

Solution

JMA Leverages Advanced Technologies and Integration Approach to Address The Transition Challenge 

To comprehensively address these challenges, JMA developed a solution that leveraged modern data technologies and practices. This involved adopting the client’s data platform as the standardized business intelligence and data platform. JMA used Qlik Replicate, ELT Maestro, Informatica, Tableau, SAS, and more for data system support, analysis, and reporting. A key focus is automating data workflows, allowing for efficient data updates to the warehouse, and achieving data centricity using a star schema for logical data organization. 

To facilitate this transition, the company re-engineered stored procedures in databases and executed a significant data migration, transferring petabyte (PB)-sized data to Yellowbrick appliances on-premises. The solution also entailed integrating with other data platform tools, such as Jupiter/ADVANA and AWARE, to enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Throughout this process, the primary focus remained on automating data workflows, ensuring efficient data updates to the warehouse, and achieving data-centricity through the implementation of a star schema for logical data organization.

Impact

JMA Transforms Customer’s Data Environment for Informed Decision-Making and Future-Ready Innovation 

The proposed solution delivered several impactful outcomes. By modernizing the data environment and adopting self-service analytics, JMA enables decision-makers to make informed choices based on real-time insights from a robust and streamlined data platform. The automation of ETL processes and data workflows not only improved data accuracy but also enhanced productivity by reducing manual intervention.

The transition to an Agile DevOps approach accelerated development cycles, ensuring faster adaptation to changing business needs. With a focus on scalability and exploration of alternative database options, the client was better prepared to meet future cloud requirements, making their data infrastructure much more adaptable and resilient.

Overall, this initiative promises to transform JMA’s support for their client’s data-driven initiatives, providing a modern, efficient, and collaborative data environment that supported data-driven decision-making and paved the way for future growth and innovation.