Data Migration for O&G company - Data Engineering

Technologies: Analytics, Master Data Management, Oracle, SAP

Industry: Energy

Learn more at https://enroutesystems.com/case-studies

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of business expansion and acquisitions, the need for efficient data consolidation becomes paramount. In this case study, we explore how Enroute tackled the formidable challenge of consolidating data from 17 recently acquired companies, each operating with a different ERP system, into a unified SAP solution. This monumental undertaking required strategic thinking, meticulous planning, and innovative solutions.

The Main Issue: Unifying Diverse Data Sources

Enroute's journey began with the realization that their client needed to harmonize data from 17 diverse companies, each with its own unique ERP system, ranging from Microsoft Dynamics to Oracle EBS. Additionally, some of these companies had their Master Data scattered across Excel files within various departments. The objective was clear: to centralize and standardize business operations by implementing SAP as the single ERP system across all 17 companies.

Navigating the Complex Terrain

Consolidating data from 17 distinct sources, each with its own idiosyncrasies, presented a complex and multifaceted challenge. The scope of the migration encompassed critical domains such as Material Master, Bill of Materials (BOMs), Vendor Master, Customer Master, Inventory, Open Purchase Orders, Accounts Receivable (AR), and Accounts Payable (AP). The data sources were provided in the form of spreadsheets and access to the database from various systems, making it a formidable task to harmonize.

Enroute's Innovative Solutions

To meet this challenge head-on, Enroute devised a comprehensive strategy that ensured efficiency and accuracy throughout the data consolidation process.

1. Centralized Rules Engine

The cornerstone of their approach was the implementation of a Centralized Rules Engine. This powerful tool served as the nerve center for controlling business operations and consolidating data transformation rules. By housing all rules in a single repository, Enroute created a cohesive and streamlined framework for data consolidation.

2. Collaborative Rule Definition

Enroute recognized the importance of collaboration in achieving success. They engaged with data owners from each company to define and validate rules within the Centralized Rules Engine. This collaborative effort ensured that data consolidation decisions were made with precision and expertise from those who knew the data best.

3. Agile Architecture

Flexibility was key to Enroute's strategy. They designed an architecture that could adapt to the evolving project environment. By selecting lightweight, agile components, Enroute ensured that the iterative approach they adopted allowed for quick adjustments and improvements along the way.

4. Incremental Data Loads

Enroute's approach to data migration was incremental. They conducted a series of data loads, with each iteration aimed at achieving a higher level of data quality than the previous one. This iterative process allowed data owners to review and validate their data in manageable portions, instilling confidence in the integrity of the migrated data.

5. Customized Rules for Clean Data

Recognizing the importance of data cleanliness, Enroute created specific rules for each data model. These rules served to exclude any extraneous or unwanted data from the source, resulting in a clean, efficient, and agile environment within the new SAP system.

In conclusion, Enroute's innovative approach to data consolidation demonstrates the power of collaboration, flexibility, and meticulous planning in tackling complex business challenges. By implementing a Centralized Rules Engine and adopting an iterative approach, they successfully unified data from 17 diverse companies into a single SAP solution, paving the way for streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency.

In an era of constant change and expansion, Enroute's story serves as an inspiring example of how strategic thinking and innovative solutions can overcome even the most daunting of data consolidation challenges.