Question 1

Why do I need to re-platform my Maximo database to move to MAS SaaS?

Accepted Answer

IBM MAS SaaS uses Db2 as its cloud-native backend, whereas many legacy Maximo systems run on SQL Server or Oracle. To migrate, your existing database must be converted and optimised for Db2.

Question 2

What are the risks of database re-platforming?

Accepted Answer

Without automation, re-platforming is time-consuming and error-prone. Risks include data loss, schema mismatches, reporting inconsistencies, extended downtime, and rollback failure. That’s why automation tools like Alchemise are critical.

Question 3

How long does a typical re-platforming project take?

Accepted Answer

Manual re-platforming can take months. With Alchemise, we’ve successfully migrated 200GB+ Maximo databases in as little as 10 days—fully tested and validated.

Question 4

Will our business users experience downtime?

Accepted Answer

Minimal. We work to ensure your cutover fits within standard maintenance windows. Alchemise’s automated testing and rollback readiness help avoid extended disruptions.

Question 5

Is Alchemise an IBM tool?

Accepted Answer

No. Alchemise is an independent, best-in-class tool developed specifically for enterprise data migration and re-platforming. It is IBM-compatible and widely used across Maximo implementations globally.

Question 6

What’s the difference between re-platforming and data migration?

Accepted Answer

Re-platforming involves moving the database to a new engine (Db2) while preserving structure and integrity. Traditional data migration often assumes same-to-same platforms. Alchemise handles both transformation and transport.

Question 7

What size databases can Alchemise handle?

Accepted Answer

Alchemise scales with your needs. It has been used for databases exceeding 1TB and smaller environments alike, maintaining integrity, speed, and performance throughout.

Question 8

Do I need to freeze my data during the process?

Accepted Answer

Only during the final cutover phase. We can perform most of the transformation work while your current Maximo system remains live, reducing business impact.

Question 9

How do we know the data will match after the move?

Accepted Answer

Alchemise includes built-in validation, reconciliation, and audit reporting, giving you confidence that every record and relationship has been preserved and properly re-mapped.

Question 10

What if our Maximo has custom objects, relationships, or extensions?

Accepted Answer

No problem. Alchemise can detect and transform custom fields, tables, and extensions as part of the re-platforming process, with full transparency.

Question 11

How do we handle integrations that rely on the old database?

Accepted Answer

We work with your integration team to map out dependencies and test them post-migration. The MAS SaaS environment includes new API and integration methods, which we help align with your ecosystem.

Question 12

Is this a one-time migration or can we use Alchemise for future projects?

Accepted Answer

While most clients use Alchemise for one-time MAS SaaS upgrades, it can also support future upgrades, test environment refreshes, or any situation requiring repeatable data transformation.

Question 13

Can we trial or pilot Alchemise first?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer pilot programs and proof-of-concept migrations for selected data sets to demonstrate the speed and accuracy of the tool before full rollout.

Question 14

How much does this cost compared to a manual approach?

Accepted Answer

Clients typically save 40–70% in delivery costs by avoiding lengthy SQL script development and manual data wrangling. Faster delivery also means reduced business disruption.

MAS SaaS & Database Re-Platforming – Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions