Making Your SQL Server to MySQL Migration as Smooth as Possible

Sometimes your first choice of a relational database management system ends up being a poor fit for a new project or your long-term goals. If you need to migrate from SQL Server to MySQL, you can improve your chances of a successful migration by going through a few preparation steps.

Analyze Your Current Database Performance

Establish a performance baseline for your SQL Server. You need that data to compare to the MySQL deployment, so you know if you’re achieving the expected performance goals and improvements.

Audit Your SQL Server Databases to Improve Data Quality

Deduplicate your databases, get rid of junk data, and generally clean up the SQL Server databases. You don’t want poor data quality to migrate to the MySQL servers, so address it long before the migration process.

Check-in on Project Schedules and Deadlines

If the migration results in significant downtime, it’s critical to coordinate with key stakeholders to avoid disruptions. Get feedback from departments and teams within your organization, as well as from larger client accounts. While you can’t make everyone happy if downtime occurs, you can at least minimize the impact on top priority and critical projects.

Decide Which Type of Deployment Makes Sense for Your SQL Server to MySQL Migration

Do you want to take an on-premise server into the cloud? Are you looking for a hybrid infrastructure instead? Establish the type of deployment and the associated resource requirements before you get too far into the planning process.

Create a Realistic Timeline with Extensive Testing

Best case scenario timelines may sound good when you’re getting buy-in from upper management, but delays come in many forms. Unrealistic timelines lead to more stress and hassle in the long-term. Account for enough testing time for any schedule that you develop.

Make Sure You Have Enough People on Hand for the Migration Process

Do you have the right mix of specialists to handle the SQL Server migration? Consider working with database managed services providers, such as Datavail, to staff this project without taking away from other critical IT tasks.

Put MySQL Training Materials In-place

Offer training workshops and resources to your team so they’re familiar with the differences between SQL Server and MySQL. While you likely have database professionals experienced in this technology, improving awareness of its features and benefits is worthwhile. A training program also helps SQL Server specialists upskill into MySQL if they need to make that change.

Back Up Your Data

Data loss is a risk for any migration, so check your backups before you proceed. A robust disaster recovery plan gives you the safety net you need in case unexpected problems delete or corrupt critical data.

SQL Server to MySQL migrations don’t need to be filled with stress, downtime, and adoption difficulties. Advance preparation and the right database team go a long way. Contact us to learn more.