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Modernizing the Largest Shipping and Logistics Company’s Data Platform 

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Case Study

Modernizing the Largest Shipping and Logistics Company’s Data Platform 

Business Vision:

To modernize its data infrastructure, the shipping and logistics giant aimed to optimize operational efficiency by leveraging advanced data analytics and automation technologies. The strategic emphasis is on streamlining operations and achieving cost reduction; secondly, enhancing digital capacity and technological capabilities; and thirdly, bolstering the overall online visibility of the company. This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and leveraging cutting-edge technology for sustained growth and efficiency. 

Challenges: 

Legacy System Complexity: The shipping company encountered challenges in integrating new technologies due to the intricate web of existing systems, posing hurdles in the path to modernization.

Knowledge Gaps: Recognizing a mismatch in the skill sets of its workforce, the corporation had to invest in training programs to bridge the gap and meet the demands of the evolving technological landscape.  

Modernization Demand: The ever-changing landscape of modern technology demands constant adaptation from the shipping firm, adding complexity to the ongoing process of updating its data infrastructure.  

Broadest Customer Base: The largest shipping firm encountered heightened complexities in the process of modernization owing to the expansive and exceptionally diverse nature of its customer base. Managing the varied needs and preferences of such a wide-ranging clientele presented additional challenges that required strategic consideration and tailored solutions.  

Solution Approach:

Holistic Data Modernization: DataSwitch provided a comprehensive solution that encompassed all aspects of data modernization, including methods for transferring data, schema, and the entire procedural framework.

Process Converter: A pivotal advancement was the DS Migration Process Converter, designed specifically to transform Teradata BTEQs into Databricks PySpark and ADF Gen1 into ADF Gen2. This ensured the precise and swift migration of all legacy information and processes to the new platform.

Collaborative Engagement: The Professional Service team at DataSwitch did not operate in isolation; instead, they collaborated closely with the internal data team of the customer. This collaborative approach ensured that the migration aligned with the business goals and data requirements of the organization, in addition to being technically robust.

Tool Support: To extract metadata information, DataSwitch enhanced and customized the tool accordingly

Values Delivered:

  • Technologies Support: Transitioning from ADF Gen1 to ADF Gen2 and converting Teradata BTEQs to Databricks PySpark. 
  • Volumetric: The successful migration encompassed over 400 data assets, seamlessly transitioning to ADF Gen2 and adopting DataBricks PySpark.
  • Timeline: completed the entire modernization process within an impressively brief 10-month timeframe. 
  • Automation Percentage: achieved a remarkable 80% automation rate, ensuring both efficiency and precision in the migration process. 
  • Cost Savings: realized a substantial 60% reduction in costs associated with the comprehensive modernization effort. 
  • Time Savings: Demonstrated significant gains by markedly reducing time-to-insights, with a 70% reduction in processing times. 

In conclusion, the shipping industry leader has undertaken a revolutionary transformation facilitated by DataSwitch, shifting from conventional legacy systems to modern technology, thereby pioneering a new era. Their steadfast dedication is centered on delivering heightened value to stakeholders and refining operational efficiency. This significant pivot not only indicates the trajectory the industry is following but also stands as evidence of the considerable influence that innovation can exert. By embracing progressive technological solutions, this industry leader is not only adapting to the evolving landscape but is also shaping the future of shipping with a commitment to excellence and forward-thinking practices

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