United States Geologic Survey (USGS) // Mineral Information Data System (MIDS)
PioneerTech was tasked to re-engineer USGS’ current mainframe computer system into a new client server system. The current system, the Automated Mineral Information System (AMIS), was a complex system which allowed USGS personnel to collect, maintain, and cross-reference information on a variety of commodities. AMIS allowed scientists, statisticians, financial experts, and policy makers to use the data as a series of reports, graphs, and statistical analysis. However, AMIS was built on an end-of-life platform (Model 204), so PioneerTech developed MIDS to replace the legacy application.
To create a replacement for the end-of-life technology, PioneerTech designed, developed, and implemented the new system by modifying existing data entry modules, writing new code, identifying new hardware and software, and analyzing mineral industry surveys to determine whether the existing automated system for processing surveys needed to be adjusted. Our Team also identified hardware and software for improving systems operations. PioneerTech utilized a DevOps methodology to deliver an enhanced and cost effective solution. As part of our DevOps approach, we:
- Reviewed and understood the legacy application and the database.
- Conducted joint application design (JAD) and facilitated working sessions with the stakeholders to understand their wish list, pain points, and business processes.
- Created a comprehensive project plan to depict the roadmap for successful completion of the project.
- Designed, developed, and implemented the new system by modifying existing data entry modules, writing new code, identifying new hardware and software, and analyzing mineral industry surveys.
- Improved the data processing power of the system by increasing its performance by 40 percent.
- Analyzed existing reports to identity how best to re-use the reporting logic and to recommend the new solution.