Data Migration
Data Migration is the process of moving information from old systems to new ones, like moving boxes when changing offices. It's a crucial skill in data analytics because companies often need to update their systems or combine data from different sources. This could involve transferring customer records from an old database to a new one, moving files to cloud storage, or combining data from merged companies. Data Migration specialists ensure that all information moves correctly, nothing gets lost, and everything works in the new system. Think of it like carefully moving a fully set up chess game to a new table - all pieces need to end up in exactly the right spots.
Examples in Resumes
Led Data Migration project for 10TB of customer data from legacy systems to cloud storage
Successfully completed Data Migration of financial records during system upgrade
Managed Data Migration and Data Transfer processes during company merger
Supervised Data Migration team for enterprise-wide database consolidation
Typical job title: "Data Migration Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Data Migration Specialists
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a data migration project for a large company with minimal system downtime?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that discuss planning, testing with sample data first, breaking the migration into smaller parts, having a backup plan, and strategies to keep the business running during the move.
Q: What's your approach to ensuring data quality during a migration?
Expected Answer: Should mention data validation, cleaning processes, comparing source and destination data, testing procedures, and how they handle inconsistencies or errors found during migration.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take to prepare for a data migration project?
Expected Answer: Should discuss analyzing current data, planning the migration strategy, creating backups, testing procedures, and establishing timeline and success criteria.
Q: How do you handle data mapping between different systems?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they match fields between old and new systems, handle different data formats, and ensure all necessary information transfers correctly.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic steps in a data migration process?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic workflow: planning, backing up data, moving the data, checking everything transferred correctly, and testing the new system.
Q: How do you verify that a data migration was successful?
Expected Answer: Should mention comparing record counts, checking sample data, ensuring systems work properly, and basic validation techniques.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic data transfer processes
- Simple data validation
- Understanding of databases
- Basic project documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex data mapping
- Error handling and troubleshooting
- Migration tool expertise
- Project planning
Senior (5+ years)
- Large-scale migration management
- Strategy development
- Risk management
- Team leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with data backup procedures
- Lack of attention to data validation and testing
- Poor understanding of data security practices
- No experience with project planning or documentation
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