GYCLOUDATA
Project Objectives
The main objectives of this project were:
- Propose a Target Architecture: Design a suitable architecture for migrating on-premises SQL databases to Azure.
- Estimate FinOps and Costs: Evaluate the Build and Run costs associated with the migration.
- Transparent Migration: Ensure a smooth transition of SQL databases and SSAS cubes to Azure.
Platforms & Technologies Used
The migration was carried out using Azure cloud services. The following technologies were crucial to the success of this project:
- Azure SQL Managed Instances: To host migrated SQL databases.
- Azure Analysis Services: For data modelling and analysis.
- Microsoft Power BI: For data visualisation.
- VPN Gateway: To secure communications between on-premises and Azure environments.
We also used:
- Azure Data Factory (ADF): To automate and optimise data migration processes.
- Self-hosted Integration Runtime (SHIR): To enable data integration between on-premises and Azure environments.
- SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS): To orchestrate migration workflows.
- Azure Data Lake Storage Gen2: For scalable data storage.
Conclusion
This project delivered a secure, transparent migration path from on-premises SQL Server environments to a fully managed Azure platform. By combining Azure SQL Managed Instances with Azure Analysis Services and Power BI, we gave the business a modern reporting layer without disrupting existing SSAS-based workflows, while Azure Data Factory, SHIR and SSIS ensured a controlled, well-orchestrated migration of both data and cubes.
The result is a target architecture with clear Build and Run cost visibility, stronger data governance through Azure Data Lake Storage Gen2, and a BI experience that scales with the business — laying the groundwork for further modernisation of the client's data estate.