Executive Summary / Key Highlights

One of the oldest retail banks in Massachusetts engaged Aqlix for the modernization of their Microsoft Access database to SQL Server on Azure. The project was delivered with 90% of the work done remotely from India and 10% onsite in the USA. The project involved auditing the existing system, mapping and documenting its functionality, and providing a modernization solution.

The Client

A historical retail bank in Massachusetts, USA, with assets worth over US$ 11 billion.

Problem Statement

The client’s data management tool had accumulated data over time and was outdated. Maintenance issues arose as old versions were not updated, leading to functional risks. The tool had been modified by multiple users without proper documentation, technical conventions, or best development practices. As a result, many outdated elements were causing compiler errors, slow performance, and reliability concerns.

Solution

Aqlix conducted an extensive audit and provided comprehensive documentation, diagrams, and a detailed summary of the existing MS Access system. This audit was completed through a combination of onsite presence in Massachusetts and remote work from India. Aqlix proposed solutions that significantly improved processes and upgraded the database management system.

Project Execution

Despite time-zone differences, the teams efficiently progressed by utilizing Agile methodologies. Deliverables were presented in a detailed Excel workbook, documenting the database. Aqlix conducted an in-depth analysis focusing on data flow and external data input/output points. Close collaboration with users and stakeholders ensured a thorough understanding of the tool and its primary pain points.

Results

Aqlix recommended migrating to Microsoft SQL Server on Azure as part of the modernization effort, leveraging the latest technology to significantly enhance performance, security features, and efficient management of log and data files. The team proposed semi-automated and fully automated approaches to replace many manual processes. Standardizing numerous reports allowed the tool to manage tasks efficiently, saving at least 2 hours per day. These changes improved performance, scalability, and user experience.