Application consolidation lets you run multiple, independent applications on optimized hardware. It enables you to streamline your resources and remove redundant functionalities. Also, it reduces complexity and allows better utilization of computing resources. This is why several companies having bloated application portfolios turn to application consolidation. Even though application consolidation offers several benefits, consolidation projects have a high risk of failure. This is because many consolidation projects are poorly planned, costly, and time-consuming. This results in a waste of significant investments.
Thus, before you undertake any application consolidation project, here are some of the things you should know:
1.MAPPING OUT A CONSOLIDATION STRATEGY
To make your application consolidation project successful, you need a robust consolidation strategy. Mapping a consolidation strategy requires time, planning and methodical execution. You must consider the existing architecture of your application. Also, you need to take into account the budgets and capital expenditures required for the application consolidation project. You must also lay out a change and risk management strategy. And, the most important question while planning a consolidation project is: Why consolidate? You must determine all the factors that are needed to consolidate your IT infrastructure, including email, applications, and databases. This will prevent your consolidation project from getting over-worked.
2.USE OF SINGLE VENDOR PRODUCTS
It is always advisable to use a suite of products from a single vendor. Relying on one vendor for all your needs ensures that your business processes are well aligned across applications. Also, you can use multiple modules from a single vendor. This can significantly reduce integration headaches. Additionally, you can also migrate to apps based on web services, which can help minimize redundant functionality.
3.TAKING HELP OF MANAGEMENT TOOLS
You must always remember that consolidation is an ongoing process. Hence, you must continuously reevaluate your server environment as you add new applications and new workloads. By taking help of performance management software, you can monitor the progress of the consolidation project. It gives you an automated report and feedback with which you can track your consolidated environment. This will enable you to ensure that your initial consolidation efforts continue to deliver the desired ROI as you grow the business.
4.EMPLOYEE TRAINING WAS PROVIDED
Many organizations fail at consolidation projects because they ignore an important aspect – employee training. It is important for any organization undertaking an application consolidation to provide training programs and support systems for employees. Performance Support Systems ensure that the knowledge of new systems and processes are easily available for immediate use. This can prove to be an invaluable component for the consolidation project. Rather than focusing on specific details pertinent to individual tasks, PSS focuses on group training on concepts and skills, thereby reducing training cost.
Make sure you have a strong business and technology partner at hand when you initiate your application consolidation process. This will ensure successful outcomes both during and after the consolidation project