Successful Data Centre Migration for a Leading IT Reseller, Software Provider, and Local Government Authority
Client Overview
Technimove was engaged to provide specialist migration services for a leading IT reseller, a prominent software solutions provider, and a major local government authority.
The project involved two phases of physical equipment migration between internal facilities at two separate locations. The objective was to ensure a seamless and risk-mitigated transition, minimising downtime and ensuring business continuity.
Project Scope & Challenges
The project consisted of two key migration phases:
Phase 1: Migration of IT infrastructure within an internal facility at the local government authority’s production environment in Luton.
Phase 2: Migration of IT infrastructure within an internal facility at the software provider’s production environment in Farnborough.
Key challenges included:
- Ensuring minimal operational disruption.
- Conducting thorough pre-migration assessments.
- Executing a streamlined migration within the allocated timeframes.
- Coordinating across multiple stakeholders to ensure precision and efficiency.
Technimove’s Solution
Project Management
Technimove provided dedicated project management services to support the existing teams of the IT reseller, software provider, and local government authority. By implementing a proven migration methodology, the team minimised risks and downtime, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.
Key activities included:
- Verification of equipment lists, rack layouts, and patching schedules.
- Logistical planning and preparation using customized migration runbooks.
- Coordination with internal teams through meetings and conference calls.
Pre-Migration Activities
Physical Audit
A comprehensive physical audit was conducted six weeks before the migration. This audit acted as a real-time snapshot of the existing infrastructure, allowing stakeholders to validate their migration plans.
Audit activities included:
- Documenting rack and device locations.
- Recording serial numbers and port connections.
- Labelling interconnecting cables for reuse at the destination site.
Cable Tracing and Pre-Cabling
To support the design of the new environment, Technimove physically traced network cables from servers to switches and structured cabling where necessary. Four weeks before the migration, pre-cabling was conducted, ensuring:
- Proper labelling of all cables.
- Installation of copper and fibre cabling within server racks.
- Improved airflow and power efficiency by eliminating unnecessary cable management.
Execution: Decommission to Recommission
On the scheduled migration days, Technimove executed a carefully orchestrated process:
Decommissioning: Client teams shut down equipment, after which Technimove engineers de-racked, labelled, and secured each device with anti-static packaging.
Secure Transportation: Equipment was placed in purpose-built, foam-lined flight cases and relocated within the facilities.
Recommissioning: Devices were racked according to destination plans, patching schedules were executed, and equipment was handed over for power-up and testing by the client teams.
Post-Migration Support
To ensure a smooth transition, Technimove provided post-migration support, including:
- On-site engineering support for up to six hours post-migration.
- Last-minute patching adjustments and troubleshooting.
- Assurance services to handle any potential connectivity or configuration issues.
Outcome & Success Metrics
Zero unplanned downtime: Operations continued seamlessly post-migration.
100% adherence to project timelines: Migrations were completed within the designated windows.
Improved infrastructure efficiency: Enhanced cable management contributed to better power and cooling efficiency.
Stakeholder satisfaction: The IT reseller, software provider, and local government authority commended Technimove’s structured approach, risk mitigation strategies, and expert execution.
Conclusion
By leveraging its expertise in IT infrastructure migration, Technimove successfully facilitated the seamless transition of mission-critical equipment for three key clients across different industries.
With meticulous planning, technical excellence, and post-migration support, Technimove ensured a smooth, efficient, and risk-free migration experience, reinforcing its position as a trusted leader in IT relocation services.