OpenVMS systems migration

"OpenVMS is a very capable operating system which many organisations have exploited to the full."

Migrating mission critical OpenVMS systems requires an appropriate level of care and attention. The applications and system platforms are generally purpose-specific to achieve the necessary levels of availability, performance and security. Minimising the risk of outage requires meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of the whole system and its environment.

In 2009 Gartner identified XDelta as one of few companies world-wide capable of OpenVMS migration projects.

Systems engineering

Planning and designing a complete systems migration is far from simple. Most bespoke applications are tightly integrated with OpenVMS and the surrounding systems infrastructure.

Good software engineering practices will make the migration less difficult and will reduce long term costs of maintenance and change.

Clarity of purpose

• Have clear objectives.
• Think ahead as far as you can.
• Have a well-structured systems architecture.
• Understand the constraints.
• Focus on the core functions.
• Implement them as well as is possible.
• Ensure that everyone involved maintains a consistent understanding of the project.
• Plan ahead as best you can.