Migrating a Legacy Db2 Database to PostgreSQL in a Cloud Environment

case study

Transforming Legacy Systems for Scalability and Performance

Industry:  Financial Services

Headquarters: U.S.

Coverage: Global

Client Background

A global leader in credit reporting and marketing services sought to modernize its core database by migrating from an on-premises Db2 system to a cloud-based PostgreSQL platform. This transition aimed to enhance scalability, performance, and operational efficiency while leveraging advanced cloud capabilities.

Business Challenge

The legacy Db2 database depended on specialized features, including a proprietary search and matching tool and a unique integer ID generation process, both critical for accurately linking consumer and supplier data. These functionalities were not natively supported in the target cloud environment with PostgreSQL, requiring innovative solutions to maintain accuracy and performance post-migration.

mLogica’s Approach

mLogica, as the technology implementation partner, devised a two-phase migration strategy to address these complexities:

Phase I: Proof of Concept (POC)

  • Developed a custom application to replicate the search and matching functionality, seamlessly integrated with PostgreSQL
  • Designed a PostgreSQL-compatible solution to replace Db2’s unique ID generation mechanism
  • Validated accuracy and performance through test cases involving addresses, individuals, and suppliers
  • Conducted extensive query and performance testing to confirm database readiness

Upon successful POC validation, the project progressed to full implementation.

Phase II: Full Implementation

  • Automated infrastructure deployment in the cloud environment using modern tools for efficiency and consistency.
  • Enhanced the searching and matching application, scaling it to process millions of records with optimized performance.
  • Migrated the database, converting all Db2 data structures and scripts to PostgreSQL, followed by comprehensive testing across development, user acceptance testing (UAT), and production environments.
  • Provided dedicated support during the parallel run and production cutover to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.

Strategic Outcome

The migration delivered key benefits:

  • Greater scalability and flexibility in the cloud environment with PostgreSQL
  • Continuity of critical database functions through a robust, custom fuzzy matching solution
  • Improved system performance, enhancing responsiveness and user satisfaction

The Power Behind a Seamless Migration

mLogica’s deep expertise in database migrations, cloud infrastructure, and application modernization delivered a tailored, precision-driven solution to meet the client’s complex technical needs. This ensured a flawless transition from Db2 to PostgreSQL. Through strategic collaboration and innovative approaches, mLogica empowered the client to successfully migrate its core database to a modern, cloud-based PostgreSQL platform, optimizing operations and paving the way for future technological growth.