Full patching of the operating system; tuning of the database to create a stable environment; resolution of application coding issues in conjunction with the app vendor and implementation of a third remote server to act as an offsite DataGuard environment.
Our client is a large UK-based container port operating a critical Oracle and AIX-based database infrastructure for warehouse management.
Issues
Prior to Xynomix’ involvement, the client was operating a 2 node HACMP AIX cluster. The cluster was operating slowly, holding up key business processes and serious database outages were frequent. The Operating System had not been managed effectively and the Oracle database itself had not been tuned since installation.
As the database systems are a critical element of port operations, poor system performance seriously affected business operations as a whole, reducing productivity and causing costly hold ups. Furthermore, there was a concern that the single-site AIX cluster did not provide enough data security in the event of system failure.
Xynomix’ Solution
The client asked Xynomix to evaluate system performance and identify existing and potential problem areas. A lack of operating system and database management, including patching and tuning, was highlighted as having a negative effect on overall system performance. A number of issues were also identified with the application code.
Initially, the operating system was fully patched and the Oracle database tuned in order to create a stabilised environment. Xynomix also stepped in to work in conjunction with the client’s application vendor to resolve application coding issues.
It was clear that measures would need to be taken to eliminate the risk of entire data loss. Having discussed the backup and recovery options available to the client, it was concluded that Xynomix should design and implement a third remote server to act as an offsite DataGuard environment: a simple yet effective solution to data vulnerability stored at a central location.
Other solutions implemented included:
Xynomix have provided a fully managed monitoring solution for Oracle and AIX. The client’s key requirements for a robust, quick functioning database environment and effective DR strategy were achieved within the proposed time frame. Since the implementation of the monitoring solution, port operations have been smoother and productivity has increased. The client is comfortable that all valuable data is backed up and stored at a remote site, and support costs have been reduced by 50%.
