OpenVMS to Windows Server Upgrade Best Practices

The road from OpenVMS to a Windows Server environment is full of blind turns that take out even the most experienced IT team.  Flexware Innovation has traveled this road before and has developed a series of guidelines and best practices. Below are a few of those guidelines. Contact us if you’d like to talk.

Introduction and Planning for OpenVMS to Windows Server Upgrade

• Assess and document your current OpenVMS system: Understand the architecture, applications, device connectivity and dependencies.
• Identify the necessary goals and requirements for the transition to Windows Server to avoid scope and feature creep as much as possible.  Plan on Phase II for changes that are still deemed essential, but not strictly necessary or foundationally necessary for the initial conversion. Foundational items might include:
  • UI updates and standards
  • Multi-lingual
  • Security
  • Modern Architecture for Internet/mobile connectivity
  • SQL Database
  • Open Platform Communications (OPC)
• Develop a detailed migration plan, including timelines, resource allocation, and potential risks.
• Plan on changes to your current environment to support the transition to the new environment.
• Evaluate different development environments/ecosystems/platforms that run on Windows.  Microsoft fully customized solution using Microsoft .Net, Ignition, OSIsoft Pi, Kepware, etc.  Considering current and future I.T. skill set, short-term and long-term costs, flexibility, stability, popularity, etc.

Application Compatibility and Migration Considerations

• Evaluate the compatibility of your existing applications that interact with your OpenVMS environment with the Windows Server environment.  Determine if any modifications or updates are required to those applications/systems.
• Look for opportunities to consolidate interfaces to other systems to reduce scope.
• Consider the availability of alternative applications or solutions in the Windows environment if any of your current 3rd party applications are not compatible.

Data Migration Strategies for OpenVMS to Windows Server Upgrade

• Develop a strategy for migrating data from OpenVMS to Windows. This may involve converting file formats, exporting databases, or transferring data using specialized tools.
• Ensure data integrity during the migration process and perform thorough testing to verify that all data has been successfully transferred.
• Provide a means to migrate recent data for Go-Live.

Hardware and Infrastructure Requirements for Windows Environment

• Assess the hardware requirements for the Windows Server environment and ensure that your infrastructure meets those requirements.
• Consider any necessary hardware upgrades or replacements to optimize performance in the new environment.  Don’t underestimate the infrastructure requirements for the shop floor changes, which could include physical changes to existing workstations to support additional power, mouse pads, larger displays, etc.
• Plan for network connectivity, security, and backup solutions in the Windows Server environment.

Training and Support for OpenVMS to Windows Migration

• Provide training and documentation to IT staff and end-users on the new Windows environment, including any changes in interfaces, applications, or processes.
• Set up a support system to address any issues or challenges that may arise during and after the transition.
• Consider engaging external consultants or experts with experience in OpenVMS to Windows migrations to ensure a successful transition.

Testing and Validation of Applications in Windows Server Environment

• Create a Test Plan for your current system if one does not exist, including edge cases and non-regular activities, products, etc.
• Develop a comprehensive testing plan to validate the functionality and performance of applications in the Windows Server environment.  Don’t forget maintenance activities and Disaster Recovery.
• Perform thorough testing, including regression testing, to identify and address any compatibility issues or performance gaps.
• Consider designing the new system to run in parallel with your OpenVMS system.
• Create a rollback plan in case unexpected issues arise during the migration process.
• Plan on end-users being part of your testing team.

Communication and User Engagement during OpenVMS Upgrade

• Communicate the migration plan and timeline to all stakeholders, including end-users, IT staff, and management.
• Provide regular updates and engage with users throughout the transition to manage expectations and address any concerns.
• Ensure End-user advocate(s) are part of the team from day one.

Remember that each migration is unique, and it’s essential to tailor these best practices to your specific requirements and constraints. Engaging professionals with practical, first-hand experience in OpenVMS and Windows migrations, like Flexware Innovation, can be highly beneficial. Contact the Flexware team today to discuss your current situation, your future goals, and let’s develop a high level plan for moving from here to there.

Dwayne Butcher

Director of Marketing
I’m drawn to better and smarter ways of working and communicating. Many times that involves technology. Sometimes it doesn’t. Either way, work can and should be improved – continuously. I’m drawn to the mission of Flexware Innovation for these reasons. We’re committed to unleashing the potential of technology, freeing up leaders to focus on what’s next.