Solving Data Migration Challenges with Bluesource and ArchiveMASH™

Moving emails, files, and storage from one system or location to another might appear to be straightforward. However, projects with large volumes of structured and unstructured data present some data migration challenges. Businesses deal with compatibility issues, security risks, downtime, and the rising costs associated with data governance. The proper data migration service with the proper data migration software in their toolbox alleviates some of those challenges.  Bluesource’s expert data migrations team uses ArchiveMASH™, our in-house software for efficient, organized, and secure migrations.
 

Maintaining Critical Data 

One of the biggest data migration challenges is maintaining data integrity from the source to the target systems. As businesses work with an increasing number of programs and software, migrating data becomes more complex.  Different systems work with distinct data structures, file formats, and protocols. Data schemas vary, and all data fields may not align between the source and the target. Metadata, including creation and modification dates, authors, and tags need to remain unchanged for a successful migration.  

Data mapping prior to any data migration limits the potential for processing errors, file corruption or migration failures.  

Proven Data Connectors 

Testing data connectors prior to any migration limits the risk of errors. When developing a new connector for ArchiveMASH™, Bluesource analyzes and reviews file formats, database schemas and API.  Bluesource tests all connectors to identify and remediate potential issues before implementing them in any migration project.  Data connectors include file types such as EDB, PST, and NSF, data archiving tools like Arctera Enterprise Vault and Mimecast. ArchiveMASH has connectors for mail migrations from Microsoft Exchange or Outlook, Google Mail, and other email platforms with EML files. Bluesource can easily migrate workplace collaboration tools, including Slack and Microsoft Teams.    

Our most common data sources include:  

• Arctera Enterprise Vault 

• Microsoft Exchange Online 

• SourceOne 

• Barracuda 

Filtering Migrations 

Sometimes, not every piece of data needs to be moved from a source to a target. Migrating unnecessary files complicates data mapping, can slow migration, and increases target system storage costs. Filtering source data streamlines the entire data migration process and improves efficiency. Bluesource uses ArchiveMASH to filter source data based on a variety of attributes, including custodian, date range, and legal hold status.  

Secure Data Migrations 

Bluesource is the data migration expert, with over 20 years of experience in migrations. Our dedicated migrations team manages migrations end-to-end, from the initial analysis until the last piece of data is successfully transferred. We developed ArchiveMASH to improve our data migration abilities. With ArchiveMASH, our team can move many terabytes of data per day. Our 20+ hour/day staffing lowers the amount of system downtime during a large-scale data migration so businesses can return to normal sooner and enables us to support clients all around the globe. Plus, Bluesource is ISO 27001 certified, ensuring we are following industry best practices. 

Efficient Performance  

Performance and scalability are other common challenges of data migration, especially with large volumes of data. Poorly optimized and inefficient migrations can cause system slowdowns, extra downtime, and place an excessive load on infrastructure. Data transfer speeds depend on factors such as network bandwidth, storage I/O capacity, and database performance. Moving large volumes of data can take days or weeks if there is limited bandwidth or tools not designed for speed. ArchiveMASH was built for speed, giving Bluesource the power to deliver migrations faster than ever before.  

Lack of Planning and Expertise  

Jumping into a data migration project without the proper knowledge or planning can lead to delays, data loss, errors, and project failure. Organizations often underestimate the complexities of migration, assuming a straightforward transfer. Data mapping, compatibility, security checks, and consolidating files are important steps in the migration process.  

Without proper planning, shortcuts and links can end up invalid. Plus unnecessary files might be moved, increasing the scope, timeline and budget of the project. Unforeseen problems due to a lack of preparation require additional time and resources to fix.  

Data migration also requires specialized knowledge of databases, storage systems, APIs, and compliance requirements. The proper experience and skill reduces the inefficiencies and security risks during a migration. Organizations without prior migration experience may overlook key steps, including pre-migration testing and validation, increasing the risk of data integrity issues.  

Working with a specialized team like the Bluesource migration team, ensures projects run smoothly, from planning to implementation and follow-ups. Understanding the size, formats, and schemas of the the source data is a critical first step in data migration. Scoping is the first step in Bluesources’ migration process with ArchiveMASH,  accurately sizing your environment and the data volume.  

Solving Data Migration Challenges  

Data migration is a complex process that requires careful planning, the right tools, and expert execution. Bluesource solves common data migration challenges with our in-house software, ArchiveMASH. ArchiveMASH is a world-class migration tool, developed to be fast, affordable, and defensible. With ArchiveMASH, the expert Bluesource migration team can smoothly move data from hundreds of different sources, to hundreds of targets. The ArchiveMASH software maintains a full chain of custody, meeting the strictest regulations.  

The ArchiveMASH Process  

The dedicated migrations team installs and configures ArchiveMASH™, then delivers the migration until all data has reached its destination.  

Compatibility issues, security risks, performance concerns, and lack of expertise can turn a straightforward migration into a costly and time-consuming challenge. However, with proper pre-migration analysis, secure data handling practices, and efficient tools like ArchiveMASH, Bluesource mitigates these risks and ensures a smooth transition. 

Partnering with an experienced team like Bluesource further enhances the success of migration projects, minimizing downtime and ensuring data integrity. Whether you’re moving to a new system, consolidating storage, or transitioning to the cloud, a strategic approach to data migration is essential for business continuity and long-term success.