Boosting User Experience with 99.9% Server Uptime through Azure Cloud Migration

The Challenge

• Big M had several challenges with their existing IT environment, such as:
• Unstable and aging hardware platform prone to outages
• Limited resiliency for their critical logistics application and data
• Limited accessibility to application functionality
• High value business risk related to repeated outages
• Increased upkeep to maintain and manage their current hardware
• Interest in improving their security posture

The Goal

Big M, dealing with outdated on-premises infrastructure, aimed to shift to the cloud to enhance scalability, streamline operations through automation, and bolster security for their core logistics and fleet management platform. They required a partner to evaluate their existing application and data center landscape, design an Azure landing zone, and migrate their applications with minimal downtime. Additionally, Big M wanted to facilitate third-party integrations and ensure secure, remote access to their applications.

Discovery & Assessment

By leveraging Azure Migrate, CEI successfully identified and documented Big M’s databases, applications, and on-premises servers. The CEI team then performed a thorough analysis of Big M’s applications, considering dependencies, performance, and resource utilization. CEI collaborated closely with Big M to comprehend their data and access needs for their office and transportation staff.

Cloud Architecture & Design

Using the principles outlined in the Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework, CEI was able to craft an Azure landing zone for Big M. CEI developed migration strategies, selected appropriate tools and established processes for each workload, resulting in a migration plan and roadmap. This included a robust and new Azure Virtual Desktop ecosystem to allow end users to securely interact with the logistics platform.

Cloud Migration & Validation

With a mix of Azure native (Azure Site Recovery, Azure Database Migration Service, Azure DevOps) and third-party tools, CEI implemented the migration plan. Furthermore, to ensure the functionality, performance, and security of migrated workloads, rigorous testing and validation were conducted. This included extensive work with the primary logistics software vendor and other third parties to ensure compatibility. Ongoing post-migration support and training were also provided.

Cloud Optimization & Governance

Big M’s cloud environment was enhanced through the integration of Azure Cost Management, Azure Monitor, and Azure Policy. Compliance, security and service quality was a top priority, so CEI established a robust cloud governance framework to ensure Big M’s environment was optimized and secure. Additionally, as a Microsoft CSP, CEI was able to deliver a better licensing experience by providing discounted M365 and Azure licensing and personalized support.