SQL Server Upgrade Case Study

The Problem.

Saturn Systems was contracted by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (MN-DEED) to convert its Workforce Information Systems (WINS) application from an OracleT database to SQL ServerT based system. WINS is a client/server application used by DEED staff to support its mission of job development by matching clients with job openings. The system is accessed by approximately 500 DEED Workforce Center (WFC) staff throughout the State of Minnesota.

The original application was developed as a Sybase PowerBuilderT 6.5.1 client/server application which utilized an Oracle database, running on UNIX based hardware. The middle tier was comprised of a name server, several application servers, a "key" server, and several "search engines". All these were separate applications that executed on individual UNIX platforms. DEED was in a situation where they did not have control of the application, and could not make any changes and/or enhancements for fear of entirely disabling the application.

The Solution.

The conversion of the WINS application from Oracle to SQL Server required extraordinary creativity because the source code for the middle tier of components was not available. Saturn re-architected the system to eliminate the UNIX search engines, redeveloped the key server as a new application, and learned how to use the existing name and application servers through reverse engineering.

The Result.

The result of this effort was a new and improved WINS application, which took advantage of a standardized SQL Server database, lower cost IntelT based hardware, and a streamlined architecture due to a reduction of the middle tier complexity. The new system was deployed statewide in mid-July 2004 to excellent reviews by its users.

      "This project demonstrated Saturn's unique ability to
        rise to unusual challenges and solve difficult problems."

About Saturn Systems, Inc.

Saturn Systems, Inc. is a leading provider of information technology consulting services to clients nationwide. Saturn Systems specializes in Project Management, Custom Application Design & Development, and Database Architecture for the Government and Commercial sectors through their rural locations. Since 1990, Saturn Systems has accomplished success through innovative application of technical expertise, a disciplined approach to project management, and a command of emerging technologies. Saturn Systems is a private company headquartered in Duluth MN, USA.