1.1.6 Discuss problems that may arise as a part of data migration

I. Compatibility Challenges

1. File Format Incompatibility:

   • Data files come in various formats, identified by extensions like .jpg, .doc, or .xls. Converting between formats (e.g., .doc to .pages) can be problematic. Custom file formats used by companies add complexity to format transitions.

2. Incompatible Data Structures:

   • This refers to how data is stored in one system versus another. For example, moving data from FileMaker Pro to PowerSchool may involve similar content but different storage formats. Ensuring precision and accuracy during migration is crucial, especially in complex software data systems.

3. Validation Rule Differences:

   • Ensuring data accuracy during transfer is vital. However, validation rules can vary between databases, making it challenging to reconcile and adapt these rules. Techniques like check-sums and parity checking may be employed for validation.

4. Internationalization Challenges (Dates, Currencies, Character Sets):

   • International variations, such as date format differences (e.g., 01/09/18), currency symbols, and character encodings, can complicate data interpretation during migration. It’s important to account for these differences, as well as character set conversions and time zone considerations in an international context.

II. Data Transfer Challenges

1. Incomplete Data Transfer:

• • Incomplete data transfer presents a significant issue, often caused by network interruptions or connectivity problems. When data transfer is disrupted, portions of data may fail to reach their destination, leading to gaps in information flow.

2. Data Corruption:

• • In addition to compatibility issues, data migration can introduce the risk of data corruption or loss. Data corruption occurs when the binary code representing information becomes scrambled or disordered, often due to electromagnetic interference from sources like electrical wires or magnets. While validation techniques can sometimes catch data corruption, it remains a potential pitfall in the migration process.

3. Data Loss:

• • Data loss can occur due to negligence, mishaps, or rushed procedures during migration. Throughout the history of IT, instances of data loss during migration are unfortunately common. To mitigate the risk of data loss, it is essential to implement robust backup and redundancy strategies to recover from potential partial or complete data loss incidents.