How Medvet AML achieved a seamless Oracle database migration with Monin’s assistance 

Medvet/ AML is a leading laboratory specializing in broad spectrum of advanced medical analyses, including immunological and molecular testing. Facing critical hardware obsolescence, Medvet AML needed to migrate important Oracle databases to new hardware. This case study explores how Monin enabled Medvet AML to successfully migrate its Oracle databases, emphasizing risk mitigation and validation at each step. 

The challenge

Medvet AML’s Oracle databases were running on hardware nearing their end-of-life period. The challenge was significant: to migrate the databases to new hardware without compromising performance, which is crucial for managing the influx of samples and analysis data from animal and human healthcare providers. Downtime was not an option, as the Oracle databases are an important part of the lab’s daily operations. 

Monin’s solution

Monin approached the migration with a structured methodology focused on measurable performance at every stage. Here’s how they addressed Medvet AML’s critical needs: 

Baseline performance measurement: Monin began by thoroughly assessing the performance of the existing Oracle environment. Using tools like DB Marlin, Monin established a performance baseline, defining the minimum acceptable performance levels for the migrated system. This ensured that the new environment would meet or exceed the original system’s speed and responsiveness.
 

Database migration and validation: The database migration was executed meticulously, thanks to Monin’s expertise in Oracle database management. This wasn’t a simple lift-and-shift; Monin’s approach involved creating a Proof of Concept (POC) migration in a test environment. This allowed Medvet AML to thoroughly test the migration process, identify potential bottlenecks, and optimize the configuration before touching the production system. 

Weekend migration for minimal disruption: Because of the 24/7 nature of Medvet AML’s operations, Monin planned the production migration to occur during a holiday weekend. This minimized the impact on Medvet AML’s operations and provided a buffer for any unforeseen issues. The weekend approach also allowed Monin to have extra experts on standby. 

Collaboration and communication: Monin worked closely with Medvet AML’s team to help validate the migrated databases with frontend applications. “From the beginning, Monin communicated clearly and provided a step-by-step plan,” says Filip, Medvet AML’s IT infrastructure lead. “This was crucial for us to evaluate their approach and make sure we were aligned at every stage.” 

Outcome and ongoing partnership 

Monin’s meticulous approach delivered exceptional results. The Oracle databases were successfully migrated to the new hardware, keeping the environment future proof. More importantly, the carefully validated migration process ensured that the system’s performance was maintained throughout the migration process. Medvet AML gained confidence in its Oracle databases, knowing that they were running on a stable, performant, and supported platform. “The clear division of responsibilities and proactive communication throughout the project were a huge asset,” added Filip highlighting the value of Monin’s collaborative approach. 

Building on this success, Medvet AML now calls on Monin’s expertise for the operational maintenance of Medvet AML’s databases, ensuring their long-term health and optimal performance. Furthermore, Monin and Medvet AML are engaged in ongoing collaboration to proactively address future database needs, including strategic planning for DR, patching and architectural improvements, optimizing Medvet AML’s entire database infrastructure.