In terms of GIS services, people often get confused by two terms, i.e. GIS electronic data conversion and data migration. Those who know the difference between them are quite relaxed while choosing, but those who have no idea are generally very puzzled during the selection process and with the help of this post, we will be clearing the confusion once and for all.
GIS Electronic Data Conversion vs. Migration: The difference is clear...
Data Migration
The term data migration is used when defining the transferring of data from one system to another. Here is a list of situations in which this term can be used.
- Update PODS model from 3.2 to 6.0
- Switch from UPDM to PODS data model
- Newly acquired pipeline data
GIS Electronic Data Conversion
The term data conversion is used while defining the transformation or translation of data from one format to another.
This data is extracted from a source and then transformed before being loaded in other system or systems.
When this Service comes into the act?
- Legacy data stored in paper files, spreadsheets or CAD files
- Gather information from survey notebooks, as-built alignment sheets, or plant maps
- Convert job books such as hydrotests or FLC reports
- Newly acquired pipeline data
According to those offering GIS data conversion services, the major role in both these processes is of the data technician who will do the following tasks. –
- Capture, convert and load pipeline data
- Compare converted data with source documents
Then, the GIS Technician also has some work to do in terms of GIS data conversion services and their role would be to analyze spatial and technical data, create databases and then, create and manage feature classes and spatial data.
Conversion Process –
- Identifying Data Source(S)
- Reviewing Where The Data Is Coming From
- Reviewing What Information Might Be Missing Or Inconsistent
- Identify Data Destination(S)
- Defining The Data Requirements
- Ensuring The Needed Data Can Be Properly Translated And Converted
- Data Load And Review
Migration Process –
- Database Review
- Review Of The Current Implementation Is Conducted
- Data Mapping
- The Final Migration Process
