Project Overview
Challenges & Solutions
Challenges
The Andover Continuum HVAC system was running on under-desk, isolated servers with no network team visibility or cybersecurity oversight
Application version was 10 releases behind, creating compatibility and security risks
No disaster recovery setup, increasing operational vulnerability
HVAC team had to manage the servers onsite, creating dependency and potential delays during downtime
Business stakeholders were initially resistant to change due to the application’s critical role in studio operations
Solutions
Negotiated new vendor contracts ensuring the upgraded Andover Continuum application was compatible with new virtual servers, desktop systems, and Windows OS versions
Ran the legacy system in parallel with the new environment to test performance and functionality without disrupting operations
Coordinated with network, cybersecurity, and vendor teams to address all security and compatibility requirements
Established a fully operational and tested disaster recovery system before migration
Scheduled manual patching and maintenance windows to align with studio downtime, minimizing operational impact
Migrated all desktop computers to the new system once client satisfaction and operational stability were confirmed
Released the HVAC team from direct server and application management, transitioning full oversight to IT infrastructure teams
Worked closely with privacy and cybersecurity teams to ensure all security requirements were met during and after migration