Data Migration and Interface Development for BC Ministry of Finance

This large-scale project within the BC Ministry of Finance involved migrating data from 10 mainframe systems into a modern, centralized data warehouse. To achieve this, I fostered a collaborative environment by actively listening to stakeholder needs and ensuring open communication throughout the project.

My leadership focused on empowering the team and providing support through every stage. Leveraging the team’s analytical skills, we defined precise data mapping strategies and ensured data accuracy and consistency through robust technical data reconciliation processes. Standardized data delivery mechanisms aligned with the FIS Treasury Management System were established to guarantee seamless integration with the target environment. Challenges were effectively addressed through collaborative problem-solving, demonstrating the team’s strong technical skills and dedication.

Approach: This project employed a structured, multi-phased approach to ensure successful data migration:

1. Assessment & Evaluation:

– We thoroughly evaluated the Ministry’s current data environment, including volume, variety, complexity, and business definitions.
– A comprehensive data inventory analyzed existing sources, formats, and dependencies.
– Potential risks and challenges associated with the migration were identified and addressed proactively.

Outcomes:

– A detailed data migration plan with activities for mapping, strategy, and clear business definitions.
– A comprehensive data inventory with standardized formats and existing data quality methodologies.
– A risk mitigation framework with preventive measures and contingency plans.

2. Mapping & Design:

– The target data workflow architecture from source to destination was defined.
– Detailed mapping documents specified how source data fields correspond to target fields (FIS Treasury Management System).
– A comprehensive migration plan outlined the approach, timeline, and resource allocation.

Outcomes:

– Detailed architecture for the end-to-end data workflows.
– Detailed mapping documents encompassing all data elements and transformation logic.
– Updated migration strategy and plan with a phased timeline, resource assignments, and key performance indicators (KPIs) for tracking progress.

3. Build & Test:

– Necessary hardware and software environments were configured for the data migration.
– Custom ETL scripts were developed to move data from source to target systems.
– Integration and accuracy logic ensured seamless data flow and high-quality data.
– Unit testing verified individual components of the migration workflow on sample data.

Outcomes:

– ETL scripts for end-to-end data migration execution.
– Unit testing results incorporated into the scripts for optimal performance.

4. Reporting & Dashboard:

– Reports provided relevant metrics for both technical and business purposes based on stakeholder requirements.
– A detailed dashboard summarized key metrics related to the migration process.

Outcomes:

– Finalized report structure and format for technical and business needs.
– A finalized dashboard representing key migration process metrics.

5. Mock Runs:

– End-to-end migration workflow testing ensured system functionality.
– Performance testing validated the migration process under load.
– Business users participated in User Acceptance Testing (UAT) to verify migrated data and functionality.
– Detailed walkthroughs, reports, and business reconciliation guides were provided for user training.
– Feedback loops were established for users to report issues.

Outcomes:

– System and performance testing reports highlighting key technical metrics.
– Detailed UAT testing reports with user feedback and identified issues.

6. Deployment & Go-Live Preparation:

– The actual data migration was executed according to the plan.
– The migration process was monitored, and clear communication was maintained with stakeholders.
– A cutover plan outlined the switch from the old system to the new system.
– Post-migration support addressed any arising issues.
– User guides, technical documentation, and support materials were created.

Outcomes:

– Communication log and status reports for stakeholders.
– Detailed cutover plan outlining go-live implementation activities.
– Comprehensive technical documentation encompassing the complete data migration workflow.

This collaborative approach ensured the successful migration of ~20 million records with 100% data accuracy. Additionally, end-to-end interfaces were developed to facilitate live data exchange with financial institutions. This comprehensive solution empowers the Ministry of Finance with a unified data platform and enhanced reporting capabilities, fostering a culture of informed decision-making.