Technimove delivered specialist migration services for a Technology Services Provider.
Background
A leading migration services provider, Technimove, was selected by a technology services provider (TSP) to execute a complex project involving the relocation of IT equipment across multiple locations for one of the UK’s leading supermarkets.
The project was critical to the TSP’s operational objectives, requiring seamless execution to minimise downtime and mitigate risk.
The migration was divided into 15 phases, with equipment quantities ranging from single-device moves to larger operations involving up to 11 devices per phase.
Why Technimove Was Chosen
The TSP selected Technimove as their migration partner for several compelling reasons:
Technimove stood out as the ideal migration partner due to their proven expertise and impressive track record in handling large-scale IT migrations for similar clients.
They offer an end-to-end solution, providing everything from pre-migration audits and logistical planning to cable tracing and technical execution. Technimove’s custom-tailored approach, including detailed migration runbooks and bespoke rack plans, ensured that their solutions perfectly aligned with the unique requirements of the project.
Backed by a highly skilled team of engineers and project managers, they delivered specialised expertise at every stage of the process, making for an efficient transition.
Scope of the Project
The migration involved relocating IT equipment from two primary collection sites (Bedford and Feltham) to corresponding delivery sites (Cressex and Chessington).
Migration Schedule
15 Phases: Ranging from single-device migrations to handling larger quantities of up to 11 devices in a single phase.
Physical Constraints: Equipment movement was limited to ground floor locations or accessible areas via lifts, with no stairs or access issues anticipated.
Solution Provided
Technimove provided a detailed and carefully managed solution to ensure a successful outcome:
1. Project Management
The Project Management team offered end-to-end oversight, aligning closely with the TSP’s internal teams. This included:
Collateral Preparation: Equipment lists, rack layouts, and patching schedule verification.
Migration Runbooks: Detailed, step-by-step plans tailored to guide each phase of the migration.
Regular Updates: Clear communication and documentation throughout the project to track progress and address challenges.
Strategic Liaison: Participation in calls and meetings to ensure alignment with the TSP’s operational goals.
2.Technical Audit
The pre-migration audit played a critical role in ensuring technical readiness and reducing risks.
Key elements included:
Rack and U-Position Documentation: Engineers recorded the exact rack positions and U-locations of all devices to be migrated.
Device Details: Serial numbers, makes, and models were catalogued for accurate tracking.
Port Configuration: Detailed mapping of active ports (e.g., NIC1 – RJ45, NIC2 – Fibre) to ensure accurate replication at the destination site.
Cable Labelling: Dedicated cables (e.g., SCSIs) were labelled on both ends to facilitate reinstallation, while non-dedicated cables were excluded unless quoted separately.
This data provided the foundation for creating precise rack plans and patching schedules, ensuring a streamlined setup process at the destination sites.
3.Cable Tracing
Cable tracing added another layer of precision to the migration:
Engineers traced all server-to-switch connections, documenting switch port allocations for each device.
This step provided the TSP with a clear view of their current cabling setup, aiding in the design of the new environment and reducing post-migration troubleshooting.
4.Decommissioning to Recommissioning (Physical Migration)
The physical migration process was executed with meticulous attention to detail:
Decommissioning: Devices were powered down by the TSP before engineers de-racked and labelled each piece of equipment according to pre-approved plans.
Rail kits were similarly demounted, labelled, and packed.
Secure Transport: Equipment was wrapped in anti-static bubble wrap and loaded into foam-lined flight cases.
Transport was conducted via GPS-tracked vehicles, with live tracking available for added security.
Recommissioning: At the destination, devices were unpacked and racked according to the updated rack plans.
Engineers completed patching as per the schedules, handing the equipment back to the TSP for powering up and testing.
Benefits of the Solution
Technimove’s comprehensive approach delivered numerous benefits to the TSP:
Minimised Downtime: By adhering to a proven methodology and detailed planning, downtime was kept to an absolute minimum.
Reduced Risk: The pre-migration audit and cable tracing provided accurate data to guide the migration, reducing the risk of errors.
Seamless Execution: Tailored solutions, such as destination rack plans and patching schedules, ensured that every phase of the project was executed smoothly.
Enhanced Security: The use of secure transport methods, including GPS-tracked vehicles and security-tagged flight cases, safeguarded sensitive equipment.
Clear Communication: Regular updates and collaboration with internal teams ensured that the TSP remained informed and in control throughout the process.
Outcome
Technimove successfully completed all 15 phases of the migration on schedule, ensuring minimal disruption to the TSP’s operations.
The meticulous preparation and technical expertise resulted in a smooth transition between sites, with all equipment securely installed and ready for use at the destination.
Conclusion
This project underscored the critical importance of partnering with a trusted migration specialist.
Technimove’s expertise, technical precision, and commitment to minimising risk ensured the successful relocation of the TSP’s IT infrastructure, setting a new standard for excellence in IT migration projects.