Turning Complexity into Opportunity – Migrating IT systems is one of the most challenging tasks in digital transformation. It requires careful planning, risk management, and precise execution to ensure that data, applications, and business functions are transferred reliably. At the same time, migration projects offer the unique opportunity to modernize IT landscapes, reduce technical debt, and establish future-ready structures.

Types of IT System Migration

  • Major Update – Upgrade to a higher version with new features, enhanced security, and improved workflows. Updates often serve as a trigger to streamline processes and expand integrations.
  • System Replacement – Transition from one platform to another with complete migration of data, interfaces, and processes. Offers the chance to remove outdated structures and adopt modern technologies.
  • Carve-Out – Separation of system components during mergers, spin-offs, or reorganizations. Requires precise planning to maintain business continuity and adapt the new environment to specific needs.
  • Lift & Shift – Move an existing system “as-is” into a new infrastructure, often into the cloud, to gain scalability, standardized operations, and reduced operating costs.

In practice, migration projects often involve a combination of these approaches. Success depends on recognizing both technical and organizational dimensions.

Technical Challenges

  • Data Integrity & Consistency
    Identifying which data is relevant, cleansing legacy data, and ensuring accurate transfer without loss or corruption.
  • Application Compatibility
    Validating that applications and integrations continue to function in the new environment; adapting code, APIs, and middleware as needed.
  • Performance & Scalability
    Ensuring systems perform reliably under higher loads, global usage, or increased transaction volumes. Migration is the ideal moment to optimize infrastructure for future growth.
  • Security & Compliance
    Adhering to strict security standards and regulatory requirements during and after migration. Sensitive data must remain protected throughout the process.
  • Infrastructure Integration
    Handling external dependencies such as APIs, DNS changes, redirects, authentication mechanisms, and connections to third-party systems.

Organizational Challenges

  • Stakeholder Alignment
    Business units, IT teams, and external partners must be aligned on goals, timelines, and responsibilities to avoid friction.
  • Change Management
    Migration is not only a technical change—it impacts how people work. Processes may need to be redesigned, and roles adapted.
  • Communication & Transparency
    Clear communication about timelines, risks, and expected outcomes is critical to maintain trust and minimize disruption.
  • Training & Adoption
    Employees must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to use the new systems effectively. Structured onboarding ensures fast adoption.
  • Strategic Opportunities
    Migration is an opportunity to retire outdated systems, reduce complexity, and establish an IT foundation that supports innovation and agility.

Success Factors

A successful IT system migration requires a structured, end-to-end approach:

  1. Comprehensive analysis of the current system environment and dependencies.
  2. Tailored migration strategy aligned with business goals and risk appetite.
  3. Rigorous testing & quality assurance to validate stability and performance.
  4. Phased execution & rollback strategies to minimize downtime and ensure business continuity.
  5. Ongoing support & optimization after migration to maximize long-term value.

Success Stories from Our Portfolio

  • Cyber Security – System replacement: migration from Akamai to Cloudflare.
  • CMS – Carve-out combined with lift & shift for CoreMedia CMS.
  • CMS – Major upgrade from CoreMedia 9 to CoreMedia 10.

Future-Ready IT Landscapes

IT system migration is not just about moving technology from A to B. Done right, it becomes a strategic enabler—building the foundation for growth, innovation, and resilience. With our expertise in both technical and organizational aspects, we help businesses transform migration projects into long-term opportunities.