SIG offers a structured solution for colleges and universities that need assistance with the administration of enterprise database management systems. SIG’s services provide institutions with a cost-effective way of acquiring critical assistance and technical expertise.
The database management systems that support enterprise applications are becoming increasingly complex. It is not easy to handle the myriad of configuration issues, tuning challenges, security requirements, etc. Moreover, new software releases, patches, hardware upgrades, etc., compound the difficulties.
SIG offers two approaches to support client needs. First, an SIG consultant can assist client’s DBA with the management of the institution’s database environment. Alternatively, SIG can outsource such services for clients who cannot hire or retain a qualified DBA.
SIG’s structured solution includes a collection of proven services that are customized to meet the unique needs of each client. In particular, there is usually a combination of onsite help and remote assistance that enables strong technical support at the lowest possible cost.
Clients generally seek SIG’s assistance in one or more phases of work:
Initial Implementation Phase:
- Hardware sizing and configuration
- Database installation and configuration
- Installation of compilers and other system software
- Installation of application software
- Creation of test/training environment(s)
- Creation of production environment
- Implementation of security solutions
- Development and implementation of backup and recovery routines
- Training of the client’s technical staff to handle routine administration and operations
- Development of system documentation
Production Phase:
- Tuning of system parameters
- Assistance with the transition of test systems into production systems
- Development of scripts to automate various processes
- Monitoring of database sizing requirements
Ongoing Operations Phase:
- Application of system patches and bug fixes
- Installation of new releases of application software
- Installation of new releases of system software
- Monitoring and tuning of operating system parameters
- Monitoring and tuning of database performance
- Monitoring database growth trends and estimation of future needs
- Planning for system (e.g., hardware) upgrades
- Assistance with the resolution of processing errors
SIG’s consultants work side-by-side with clients to ensure knowledge transfer; we want customers to learn the best practices associated with database administration.
In addition, SIG’s consultants have deep expertise in almost all enterprise technologies within the higher education marketplace. Our staff has helped clients who use database technologies from Oracle, IBM/UniData, Informix, and other vendors.
SIG works effectively with a variety of vendors in the higher education marketplace, including Datatel, Oracle, PeopleSoft, SAP, Sigma Systems, SunGard SCT, Microsoft, Jenzabar, Blackboard, WebCT, Hewlett-Packard, Dell, IBM, Sun Microsystems, and Cisco.
Please let us know how SIG can help you with your database administration needs. We are pleased to offer assistance.
