10 Tips for Choosing the Right Data Consultancy

by Tyler Bodys | Oct 29, 2024 | Digital Transformation, Learn

10 Tips for Choosing the Right Data Consultancy

Choosing a data consultancy is a significant decision that can impact on your organisation’s success.

With the right partner, you can unlock insights, enhance decision-making, and drive growth.

However, not all consultancies are created equal. To find the right fit, consider these 10 tips to guide your selection processes.

Understand Your Business Needs

Before starting your search for a data consultancy, take the time to understand your business needs. This foundational step sets the stage for effective collaboration.

Begin by clearly defining your objectives. What challenges do you face that data and help address? Are you looking to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer insights, or drive sales growth?

Document specific goals, as this clarity will help you communicate effectively with potential consultancies.

Additionally, consider the scale and scope of your projects. Are you seeking help with a one-off project, or do you require ongoing support? The answers to these questions will shape your requirements and guide your selection process.

The right consultancy will align with your goals and offer solutions that address your unique needs.

Define Your Data Goals

Defining your data goals is crucial for a successful consultancy partnership.

Clear goals allow you to evaluate potential consultancies based on their ability to deliver on your specific needs.

Ask yourself questions like: What do I want to achieve with my data?

By articulating your desired outcomes, you can better assess which consultancy has the relevant skills and experience to help you achieve these objectives.

Research Industry Experience

Researching the industry experience of potential consultancies can reveal valuable insights. Look for firms that work in your sector or with businesses like yours.

Experience in your industry means they understand the unique challenges and opportunities you face.

Enquire about case studies that highlight their past work. A good consultancy should provide real-world examples.

Focus on Relevant Case Studies

Focusing on relevant case studies is an effective way to assess a consultancy’s experience. Examine their portfolio of projects.

Look for details like the challenges they faced, the solutions they implemented, and the results achieved.

A consultancy with a strong track record in your industry is likely to understand your context better. They’ll have insights that can help you avoid common pitfalls and leverage best practices.

Look for Specialised Skills

When choosing a data consultancy, consider their specialised skills. Different consultancies may excel in various areas, such as data analytics, machine learning, or data governance.

Identify which skills are most relevant to your needs.

You should also verify any certifications or training relevant to the services they provide. This additional layer of assurance can confirm that they are well-equipped to deliver the results you expect.

Certifications and Skills to Consider

Certifications and skills are key indicators of a consultancy’s qualifications. Look for industry-standard certifications or vendor-specific certifications from major tech companies or their partners.

These credentials demonstrate a commitment to maintaining best practices and staying updated on industry trends.

Additionally, consider the skill sets of the team members who will work on your projects. Their qualifications can significantly impact the quality of the service you receive.

Did you know we’re ISO 9001 Certified?

Learn more in the blog post!

(After you’ve read this though!)

Read the Blog Post

Assess Their Technology Stack

Assessing the technology stack of a consultancy is essential for determining compatibility with your existing systems.

Consider the tools and platforms they use. Do they align with your business’ current technology?

A consultancy that utilises modern, robust technology is likely to deliver better insights and efficiency.

Integration with Existing Systems

Integration with existing systems can make or break a data consultancy relationship. Ensure the consultancy understands your current infrastructure and can integrate their solutions effectively.

Ask about their experience with your specific tools and technologies. A consultancy with experience in similar systems will be more adept at navigating any challenges.

Additionally, consider the potential for future scalability. As your needs grow, the consultancy should have the capacity to expand their services without disruption.

Check Their Problem-Solving Approach

Evaluating a consultancy’s problem-solving approach can give you insight into their methodology and how they tackle challenges

Enquire about their process for identifying and addressing data related issues.

A good consultancy will not only provide solutions by also demonstrate a thoughtful approach to understanding your unique situation.

Handling Data Complexities

Handling data complexities is an essential aspect of any data consultancy’s role. Inquire about their strategies for dealing with large datasets, varied data types, or integration challenges.

The right consultancy should have a robust framework for managing complexities and ensuring data integrity throughout the process.

Evaluate Client Support

Client support is a crucial factor in your decision-making process. A consultancy should offer responsive and accessible support throughout your engagement.

Inquire about their communication protocols. Will you have a dedicated contact person?

The availability of ongoing support is also important. As your project evolves, you’ll want to know that assistance is just a call away.

Clear communication and reliable support are essential for a successful partnership.

Communication and Responsiveness

Effective communication and responsiveness are vital components of a fruitful consultancy relationship. Assess how promptly the consultancy responds to your inquiries during the selection process.

Are they proactive in providing updates or clarifications?

A consultancy that communicates well from the outset is likely to maintain that standard throughout your project.

Look for testimonials or reviews from past clients regarding their communication experiences. This feedback can give you insights into what to expect.

Compare Pricing Models

Comparing pricing models can help you determine the best fit for your budget. Data consultancies may offer various pricing structures, including fixed-rate or hourly fees.

Evaluate your needs and preferences before committing.

A fixed-rate model may be ideal for well-defined projects, while hourly charges might suit more flexible or ongoing engagements.

Don’t forget to consider the value you’re getting for the price. The cheapest option is not always the best if it compromises quality.

Fixed-Rate vs. Hourly Charges

Understanding the differences between fixed-rate and hourly charges is essential. Fixed-rate pricing offers clarity, as you know the total cost upfront.

This model can work well for specific projects with defined deliverables.

On the other hand, hourly charges can provide flexibility. If the project scope evolves or expands, you won’t be locked into a predetermined budget.

Evaluate your project’s needs carefully before deciding on a pricing model.

Ask About Data Security Protocols

Data security is non-negotiable in today’s digital landscape. When selecting a consultancy, inquire about their security protocols.

How do they ensure the confidentiality and integrity of your data?

A strong security framework is essential to protect sensitive information from breaches or unauthorized access.

Make sure the consultancy complies with relevant regulations, such as GDPR or CCPA. This compliance will give you peace of mind regarding data handling.

Data Compliance and Regulations

Data compliance and regulations should be a top priority for any data consultancy. Ask potential consultancies about their approach to maintaining compliance with industry regulations.

This knowledge is crucial for avoiding legal issues and protecting your organization.

Review their policies and procedures related to data security. A consultancy that prioritizes compliance will have clear processes in place to safeguard your data.

Choosing the right data consultancy requires careful consideration and thorough evaluation.

By following these 10 tips, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs.

A strong partnership with the right consultancy will empower your organization to harness the full potential of your data and drive meaningful outcomes.

Ready to Unlock the Power of Your Data?

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Let’s discuss your unique challenges and explore how Engaging Data can help you innovate and achieve your goals.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to start innovation your business sustainably!

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10 Tips for Optimising Your Legacy Systems

by Tyler Bodys | Oct 14, 2024 | Digital Transformation, Learn, Legacy Systems, News

How Can We Improve Our Legacy Systems?

Optimising your legacy systems is crucial to ensuring your business remains competitive.

A legacy system, while integral to many businesses’ operations, can quickly become a bottleneck if not properly managed.

Below are 10 practical tips to help you optimise your legacy system.

Assess the Current System

Before making any changes, start with a full assessment of your system’s performance, security vulnerabilities, and outdated components. A proper evaluation allows you to pinpoint which areas need immediate action.

We can help you with this – just fill out our Legacy System Review Form here.

Emphasise Security Patches and Updates

Legacy systems are particularly prone to security risks, especially as they become outdated. Regularly applying security patches is essential to safeguarding your system from cyber threats and ensuring compliance with industry standards like GDPR.

Adopt the Strangler Pattern

If a complete overhaul isn’t feasible, consider the strangler approach. This involves replacing old parts of the system piece by piece, maintaining operations while slowly modernising the infrastructure.

Migrate to The Cloud

Moving from on-premises to cloud solutions is a vital step in optimising legacy systems. Cloud migration allows you to scale effortlessly, reduce infrastructure costs, and benefit from modern technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Implement APIs for Seamless Integration

Legacy systems often struggle with integrating new applications. APIs provide a bridge between old and new systems, enabling smoother workflows and reducing the risk of data silos

Refactor or Rewrite Critical Components

Sometimes, the only way forward is to refactor or rewrite the most outdated parts of your legacy system. This ensures your system can handle modern demands and future technologies without causing interruptions to business processes.

Automate Testing Processes

Automated testing tools are essential for identifying and resolving system issues quickly. They help detect bugs or security vulnerabilities before they affect operations, minimising costly downtime.

Prioritise Compliance

Outdated systems not only comply with current regulatory standards. By modernising, you can ensure that your legacy systems adhere to required compliance frameworks, thus avoiding legal issues and fines.

Improving System Documentation

Clear, up-to-date documentation is critical to ensuring that your legacy systems can be maintained and updated efficiently. It helps your team manage changes and troubleshoot issues more effectively.

Future-Proof Your Systems

Adopt flexible, scalable technologies that ensure your systems can evolve with changing industry standards and customer demands. Modernising your legacy systems not only improves current operations but also positions your business for future success.

Conclusion

Optimising your legacy system is an investment in your business’ long-term success.

Whether through cloud migration, security updates, or system refactoring, taking action now will pay off in improved efficiency, lower costs, and greater agility in the future.

Ready to take the next step?

Fill out our Legacy System Review Form for a free consultation and discover how we can help you modernisation your systems effectively.

Take the Legacy System Review

How Can We Improve Our Legacy Systems?

by Tyler Bodys | Sep 30, 2024 | Digital Transformation, Learn, Legacy Systems

How Can We Improve Our Legacy Systems?

Businesses often find themselves struggling with outdated technology – commonly known as legacy systems.

While these systems were once the backbone of operations, they can now be a significant barrier to growth. Improving legacy systems isn’t about upgrading technology; it’s about ensuring your business remains competitive, secure, and efficient.

In this blog post, we will explore the challenges of legacy systems and practical strategies for improving them, helping you make informed decisions that align with your business goals.

The Challenges of Legacy Systems

Legacy systems can be a double-edged sword.

On the one hand, they contain valuable data and processes that are critical to your business.

On the other hand, they can become increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain over time.

Common challenges include:

High Maintenance Costs: Legacy systems often require specialised knowledge and resources, leading to high operational costs

Security Vulnerabilities: Outdated technology may not comply with modern security standards, leaving your business at risk

Lack of Integration: Legacy Systems can struggle to integrate with new tools and applications, limiting your ability to innovate.

Limited Scalability: As your business grows, legacy systems may not be able to scale effectively, leading to inefficiencies.

Why Modernisation is Better than Replacement

When faced with the challenges of legacy systems, the first thought might be to replace them entirely.

However, modernisation offers a more cost-effective and less disruptive solution. Here is why:

Cost-effectiveness: Modernising existing systems can be significantly cheaper than replacing them with new ones.

Minimizing Disruption: Modernisation allows you to improve your systems gradually reducing downtime and minimizing the impact on your operations

Preserving Valuable Data: Modernisation ensures that your critical data and processes remain intact, avoiding the loss of valuable business insights.

Faster Implementation: Modernising your systems can often be done more quickly than implementing a new system from scratch

Practical Strategies to Improve Legacy Systems

Assessment and Audit: Start by conducting a thorough assessment of your legacy systems. This will help you identify pain points and areas for improvement.

Adopt Microservices Architecture: Break down monolithic legacy systems into smaller independent components (microservices). This makes it easier to manage and update specific parts of your system without affecting the whole

API Integration: Use APIs to connect your legacy systems with modern applications. This allows you to leverage modern technologies without discarding your existing infrastructure.

Cloud Migration: Consider migrating parts of your legacy system to the cloud. This can enhance scalability, reduce costs, and improve system performance.

Automated Testing: Implement automated testing tools to reduce the risk of errors when updating your systems. This will improve reliability and ensure that the new features do not break existing functionality.

Incremental Updates: Instead of overhauling your entire system at once, make incremental updates. This approach reduces risk and allows you to continuously improve your system without significant downtime.

Cost Benefits Analysis: Modernisation vs. Replacement

When considering whether to modernize or replace your legacy systems, it is important to weigh the costs and benefits:

Modernisation Costs: Typically, lower than replacement, with the added benefit of preserving existing data processes.

Replacement Costs: Higher upfront costs, but may be necessary if the legacy system is beyond improvement

Long-Term Benefits: Modernisation often provides a quicker return on investment, while replacement may offer a clean state for future growth.

When Replacement is Necessary: If your legacy system is severely outdated and poses significant risks, replacement might be the best option.

Conclusion

Improving your legacy system is not just about staying current with technology – it is about future-proofing your business.

By carefully considering the challenges and weighing the benefits of modernisation, you can make strategic decisions that will enhance your operations and support long-term growth.

Start with a comprehensive legacy system audit to identify opportunities for improvement.

Ready to take the next step?

Fill out our Legacy System Review Form for a free consultation and discover how we can help you modernisation your systems effectively.

Take the Legacy System Review

The Risks of Ignoring Legacy System Modernisation

by Tyler Bodys | Sep 2, 2024 | DataAutomation, Learn, WhereScape

The Risks of Ignoring Legacy System Modernisation

Clinging to outdated systems can be a signficant barrier to growth and innovation.

While legacy systems may seem reliable and familiar, ignoring their modernisation can expose your business to a variety of risks.

Let’s explore why modernising these systems is crucial and what dangers lie in continuing to use outdated technology.

Increasing Maintenance Costs

One of the most immediate risks of sticking with legacy systems is the escalating costs of maintenance.

As these systems age, finding parts and expertise becomes more difficult and expensive.

You might find yourself spending more money on keeping an old system running than it would cost to invest in a modern one.

Over time, this can become a significant financial drain on your business, diverting resources away from more productive investments.

Security Vulnerabilities

Legacy systems are often more vulnerable to cyber threats.

Without regular updates and support, these systems can become easy targets for hackers.

A security breach can lead to catastrophic consequences, including data loss, financial penalties, and a damaged reputation.

Modern systems come with advanced security features designed to protect against the latest threats, providing a more secure environment for your business operations.

Operational Inefficiency

Outdated technology can severely hinder your business efficiency.

Legacy systems often lack the capabilities of modern software, leading to slower processing times and frequent downtime.

This inefficiency can result in lost productivity and frustrations among employees who must work with cumbersome technology.

By modernising your systems, you can streamline operations, enhance productivity, and create a more agile business environment.

Integration Challenges

Integrating legacy systems with new technologies is often a complex and frustrating process.

These systems were not designed to work with modern software and hardware, leading to compatibility issues and data silos.

This lack of integration can result in fragmented workflows and poor communication between different parts of your business.

Modern systems, on the other hand, are built to integrate seamlessly with other technologies, facilitating better data flow and collaboration.

Lack of Support and Updates

Many legacy systems are no longer supported by their manufacturers, meaning you won’t receive any crucial updates or patches.

This lack of support can leave your business vulnerable to security threats and system failures.

Additionally, when problems arise, you may find it difficult to find experts who can troubleshoot and resolve issues.

Modern systems come with ongoing support and regular updates, ensuring that your technology remains reliable and up-to-date

Competitive Disadvantage

Staying ahead often requires leveraging the latest technology.

By clinging to outdated systems, your business risks falling behind competitors who have embraced modernisation.

These competitors can offer faster, more efficient services and adapt more quickly to market changes.

Modernising your systems can help you stay competitive, attract new customers, and retain existing ones.

Scalability Issues

Legacy systems often struggle to scale with your business.

As your company grows, you need technology that can handle increased demand and complexity.

Outdated systems may not be able to support this growth, leading to performance bottlenecks and limiting your ability to expand.

Modern systems are designed with scalability in mind, allowing your business to grow and adapt without technological constraints.

Conclusion

Ignoring the need to modernise legacy systems can expose your business to significant risks, from escalating maintenance costs and security vulnerabilities to operational inefficiency and competitive disadvantages.

Embracing modernisation is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a strategic move that can protect your business, enhance productivity, and ensure long-term success.

Ready to Protect Your Business. Schedule a Call.

Don’t let outdated technology hold you back any longer.

Schedule a consultation call and take the first step towards a more secure, efficient, and competitive future.

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We’re going to Big Data LDN 2024!

by Tyler Bodys | Aug 13, 2024 | CI/CD, Events, Learn, Legacy Systems, Lunch and Learn, WhereScape

We’re Going to Big Data LDN 2024!

We are thrilled to announce that we will be at Big Data London this year!

And to make things even better, we are exhibiting with our long-term partner WhereScape!

Combining Engaging Data’s bespoke consultancy services with WhereScape’s powerful data automation solutions, we are the perfect fit for your data needs.

🗓️ Date: Wednesday 18th September & Thursday 19th September

📍 Location: Olympia, London

📈 Booth Number: X751

Visit our booth to explore how our tailored solutions, with WhereScape’s data automation software, can transform your data projects into success stories (and to get some pretty cool merch!)

Oh, and you won’t want to miss our own Simon Meacher talking about CI/CD and Data Warehouse Automation, it’ll be one for the history books! (he told me to write this)

Do you want a sneak peek of what is to come?

WhereScape RED

Unlock the Power of Automation

WhereScape RED is your all-in-one solution for data warehousing and automation. Say goodbye to manual coding complexities and embrace the efficiency of automated data infrastructure. Design, develop, and deploy data warehouses faster, streamlining processes and increasing productivity.

WhereScape 3D

Visualise, Plan, and Optimise Your Data

With WhereScape 3D, visualise your data ecosystem, making it easier to align your data strategy with business goals. Identify optimisation opportunities, reduce risks, and ensure your data projects stay on track.

WhereScape Vault

Simplify Data Vault Modelling

WhereScape Data Vault Express simplifies traditional Data Vault design, enabling rapid implementation. Accelerate your data warehousing projects while maintaining data integrity and flexibility.

CI/CD Package

Revolutionise Your Deployment Process

The CI/CD Package streamlines software release processes by automating deployments, eliminating manual intervention, and enabling faster results. This package supports all major coding languages and has an average implementation time of just four weeks.

Consultancy Services

Tailored Consultancy Packages for Your Specific Needs

Our expert consultancy services cover:

Data Engineering

Data Science & Advanced Analytics

Data Visualisation

Data Governance & Strategy

Projects:

Enhance Your Business Performance with Optimised Data Processes

Data Warehousing

Data Pipelines

AI/ML Solutions

Self-Service Data

Resource Allocation

We are the perfect fit for your data needs.

Take the next data-driven step

Click here for some exclusive resources and to learn more!

Learn More

Why Modernise Legacy Systems?

by Tyler Bodys | Aug 12, 2024 | DataAutomation, Digital Transformation, Learn, Legacy Systems

Why Are Legacy Systems Still in Use?

Legacy systems: things from history books. Well, that’s how it should be, unfortunately it isn’t.

Within technology, a legacy system is any outdated computing software or hardware that is still in use.

Despite their age, these systems are often crucial to business operations acting as the backbone for many organisations.

But with technology continuously evolving, clinging to these old systems can be more of a hindrance than a help.

So why should you consider modernisation legacy systems?

Why Modernise Legacy Systems?

Improving Efficiency

Imagine driving a vintage car on a motorway. Sure, it’s nice, a charming day out even! But it isnt not the most efficient way to travel. Legacy systems are like those vintage cars – somewhat reliable but often slow and cumbersome.

Modernising these systems can significantly boost efficiency, making business processes faster and more streamlined.

Enhancing Security

Data breaches and cyber-attacks are rampant in this digital age, so security is paramount. Legacy systems, due to their outdated nature, are more vulnerable to these threats.

Modernising these systems ensures that they are equipped with the latest security measures, protecting sensitive information and maintaining customer trust.

Reducing Operational Costs

Maintaining old systems can be expensive.

By modernising, businesses can reduce these maintenance costs. Newer systems are typically more cost-effective to run and require less frequent interventions.

Increased Flexibility and Scalability

Today’s business environment is dynamic and ever-changing.

Legacy systems often lack the flexibility to adapt to new requirements or scale according to business growth.

Modern systems, on the other hand, are designed to be more adaptable, allowing for easier updates and scalability.

Aligning with Modern Business Strategies

To stay competitive, businesses need to leverage modern technologies like cloud computing, bug data, and AI.

Legacy systems often don’t integrate well with these technologies, limiting a company’s ability to innovate.

Modernising these systems aligns them with current business strategies and technological trends.

What is Legacy System Modernisation?

Definition and Overview

Legacy system modernisation is the process of transforming outdated systems into modern, efficient ones. This transformation can involve various strategies, from rehosting to complete replacement, depending on the system’s condition and business needs.

Key Goals of Modernisation

The primary goals of legacy system modernisation are to enhance performance, improve security, reduce costs, and ensure compatibility with modern technologies.

Ultimately, it’s about enabling the business to operate more effectively.

Challenges Involved in Modernisation

Modernising legacy systems is not without its challenges. It can be a complex and time-consuming process, often requiring significant investment. Businesses may also face resistance from employees who are accustomed to the old systems.

However, the long-term benefits typically outweigh these initial hurdles.

How to Modernise a Legacy Application?

Assessing the Current System

The first step in modernising a legacy application is to thoroughly assess the current system. This involves understanding its strengths and weaknesses, identifying critical areas that need improvement, and evaluating its overall performance and security.

Setting Clear Objectives

Before diving into modernisation, it’s crucial to set clear objectives. What do you hope to achieve? Is it improved performance, enhanced security, or better integration with modern technologies?

Having clear goals will guide the entire modernisation process… obviously.

But do you need help to assess if you need to modernise your legacy systems? Well, check out our Legacy System Review form.

It’ll take under 5 minutes but will change your business for years to come!

Get My Free Legacy System Review

Are Legacy Systems Outdated?

Evaluating the Current Relevance of Legacy Systems

While legacy systems may seem outdated, they are still relevant in many contexts. They often perform critical functions that newer systems cannot easily replicate. However, their limitations in terms of efficiency, security, and scalability make modernisation a compelling option.

Pros and Cons of Legacy Systems

Legacy systems have their pros and cons. On the plus side, they are reliable and have been tested over time. However, their drawbacks include high maintenance costs, security vulnerabilities, and lack of compatibility with modern technologies.

You can read more pros and cons of legacy systems in this blog post: The Impact of Outdated Technology on Modern Businesses

Future Outlook for Legacy Systems

The future of legacy systems largely depends on the pace of technological advancements and the willingness of organisations to invest in modernisation.

While some legacy systems may continue to serve their purpose, the trend is undoubtedly moving towards modernisation in the digital age.

Conclusion

Modernising legacy systems is not just a technical upgrade; it’s a strategic move to align business operations with the demands of the digital age. By improving efficiency, enhancing security, reducing overall costs, and improving flexibility, modernising legacy systems can provide significant benefits.

Although the process comes with its challenges, the long-term advantages make it a worthwhile investment for any organisation looking to stay competitive within the world of business.

Schedule a Call with Our Data Experts

Let’s discuss the modernisation of your legacy system.

Schedule a Call

FAQs

What are the risks of not modernising legacy systems?

Failing to modernise legacy systems can result in increased security vulnerabilities, higher maintenance costs, reduced efficiency, and an inability to integrate with modern technologies.

This can ultimately lead to a loss of competitive edge and potential business disruptions.

Can small businesses benefit from legacy system modernisation?

Absolutely. While the scale may be smaller, the benefits of modernising legacy systems—such as improved efficiency, enhanced security, and reduced costs—are equally relevant to small businesses.

Modernisation can help small businesses stay competitive and agile in a rapidly changing market.

What are the costs associated with legacy system modernisation?

The costs can vary significantly based on the scope of the project, the chosen modernisation strategy, and the specific requirements of the system.

However, while there are upfront costs, the long-term savings in maintenance, improved efficiency, and reduced risk of security breaches often justify the investment.

How do you choose the right vendor for legacy system modernisation?

Choosing the right vendor involves evaluating their experience, expertise, and track record in similar projects.

It’s important to look for a vendor who understands your specific industry requirements, offers a clear modernisation strategy, and provides comprehensive support throughout the process.

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