Migration from Unix based solutions to consolidated IT infrastructure
Bielefeld/Schwerte (Germany), May 21st 2002. As part of an IT strategy review, Wilhelm Böllhoff Holding Company Ltd & Co. KG has decided to introduce Linux to its company mainframe. The intention is to use Linux based solutions to consolidate existing application set-ups and move away from Windows and Unix based platforms in favour of a mainframe. First and foremost Böllhoff expects the solution to improve IT administration, raise availability levels and improve cost structures, as well as pave the way for long term solution upgradability.
The company worked together with IBM Business Partner becom Information Systems to develop an overall concept for Linux based solutions. The aim of the initial project was to install new DIAMANT accounting software on the existing mainframe system (an IBM eServer/zSeries/System/390) and integrate it into the current business concept. In so doing the company avoided having to purchase further Intel or Unix based servers.
Achim Rustemeyer, Head of IT at Böllhoff, says: "We were taken aback at how simple it was under Linux to install the application with its database. We're already weighing up the options of consolidating our complete range of Unix applications on the mainframe, including the data warehouse."
Becom has already implemented a good number of Linux solutions for customers, working with Hypervisor zVM distributed by SUSE (SLES7), and thus forming a subsequent basis for installing DIAMANT financial software and an Oracle database. By using a Linux compatible client on the S/390, data storage has now been integrated with Tivoli Storage Manager (TSM) into existing data back-up procedures.
Given the need to provide a business concept across the board and gear solutions to potential future scenarios the company also installed further becom products, including cloning, Linux failovers/failbacks and zGuard firewall software. In the second half of the year Böllhoff plans to integrate the S/390 mainframe into their current CITRIX thin-client concept. To do this, a facility will be provided by an Apache web server and NFuse software from CITRIX to allow internet access via e-mail. zGuard is particularly important for this application.
Böllhoff is an international service provider with its own in-house production and development. It is one of the leading providers of joining and assembly technology in Europe and America. Its portfolio encompasses more than 120,000 products ranging from standard screws to customer-specific fastening elements, from manual assembly tools right up to fully automated assembly systems. Its core customers include companies from the automotive industry, the aviation and aerospace industry, machine makers, the electronic industry, sheet metal and plastics processors, the building industry and the furniture and wood processing industry. Its workforce of more than 2000 employees generated sales of approx. 750 mill. DM (year 2000). The company has eight sites in Germany and wholly owned subsidiaries in 15 countries, supported in all key markets by an international network of agents.