Moving Off Db2: Why, How, and the Prolifics Advantage 

Organizations often need to move off Db2 for cost reduction, transitioning to cloud-based platforms, adherence to open-source policies, or performance optimization. Whatever the motivation, moving away from a functional database can be a daunting prospect. Ultimately, databases exist to support applications that drive business value. Any database migration must enhance the application user experience rather than disrupt it. At Prolifics, this principle forms the cornerstone of our database migration planning process. 

When Staying on Db2 Might Be the Right Choice 

Before initiating a migration, it’s essential to evaluate whether moving off Db2 is the right decision. Technical or commercial constraints—such as an application’s compatibility being tied exclusively to Db2—may make migration unfeasible. Prolifics guides organizations through a comprehensive viability assessment to determine whether migration aligns with their business goals. Throughout the process, we prioritize minimizing risk to ensure a smooth transition. 

Minimizing Risk: The Prolifics Approach 

Prolifics’ methodology focuses on mitigating risk at every stage of the migration process. Here are our key strategies: 

• Technical and Commercial Viability Assessment: Evaluating whether migration is the best option before work begins. 
• Comprehensive Code Assessment: Performing an in-depth analysis of database code upfront, ensuring no surprises later. 
• Automated Changes: Leveraging automation to reduce human error and streamline the migration process. 
• Experienced Consultants: Providing expert guidance every step of the way. 
• Detailed Project Plans: Offering fixed-price costings and transparent roadmaps to avoid scope creep. 

Introducing ADAM: The Automated Database Agnostic Migrator 

If a migration from Db2 is deemed viable, Prolifics introduces ADAM, our proprietary tool designed to streamline database migrations. 

What Makes ADAM Unique? 

1. Automated: Unlike other tools, ADAM is a customizable automation solution built to handle the complexities of enterprise-grade migrations. It offers auditability, application-aware conversions, and automated recommendations guided by migration experts. 

 2. Database Agnostic: Traditional tools are often limited to specific database pairs. ADAM employs a hub-and-spoke model—converting source databases like Db2 into a central model and then transforming it into the target database, such as PostgreSQL, Sybase, SQL Server, or Aurora. This flexibility covers all major relational DBMS platforms. 

 3. Migrator: ADAM doesn’t just move code; it intelligently analyzes SQL code and categorizes it based on migration needs: 

• Code requiring re-architecture for compatibility.
• Code needing consultant-driven decisions (e.g., distribution keys).
• Code with application-dependent conversion options.
• Code eligible for direct, automated conversion.

Prolifics’ Database Migration Services 

Prolifics offers an end-to-end migration service utilizing ADAM to accelerate the process while minimizing risks. Here’s how we help: 

• Initial Consultation: A 30-minute call to assess the viability of migrating your database. 
• Data Collection: Gathering SQL code, table definitions, stored procedures, and triggers. 
• Analysis: Running all SQL code through ADAM for detailed evaluation. 
• Quotation: Providing a clear proposal for migration services. 

Flexible Engagement Models 

We understand that your team may have limited availability. Prolifics can work collaboratively with your team or take full ownership of the migration process, depending on your needs. Our typical services include: 

• Planning and migration of data and code. 
• Database tuning.
• Optional testing services and application development consultancy. 

As we say, “We can do this with you, or we can do this for you.” 

Conclusion

Database migrations are inherently complex due to the non-standardized nature of SQL. While every database relies on SQL, each one implements its variant of the language, with unique standards and approaches for similar tasks. This divergence makes converting code between databases the primary risk during migrations. It also contributes to organizations being locked into costly licensing agreements and outdated technologies. 

When our clients faced this daunting challenge, we knew we had to act. AI solutions offered promise but lacked the precision needed—unlike translating spoken languages, SQL requires absolute accuracy. To address this, we developed a groundbreaking solution built on innovative concepts and methods, designed to eliminate this barrier to database modernization. 

Our approach ensures precise, efficient migrations, empowering businesses to embrace new technologies and reduce costs with confidence. 

Getting Started with Prolifics 

Transitioning from Db2 to a new database platform is a pivotal decision for any organization. While the process involves challenges, it also opens doors to enhanced efficiency, cost savings, and modernized application performance. Prolifics’ database migration service, powered by our innovative ADAM tool, ensures a smooth and risk-minimized journey tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re exploring the feasibility of migration or ready to leap, Prolifics stands ready to guide you every step of the way. Begin your transformation today and unlock the full potential of your data infrastructure with Prolifics 

Ready to explore how Prolifics can help you migrate off Db2? Contact us today using the form below. Our Account Executives will guide you through the next steps and help you unlock the potential of your new database environment with minimal disruption. 

Download our latest one-pager to learn how Prolifics can help you migrate from DB2 to Postgres with ease.