Case Study: Environmental Information Management System Application

Client: Port of Seattle Location: King County (Seattle), WA Contact for information management projects: Gayle Thompson

Project Background & Challenges

Because of increased demands for environmental data, the Port of Seattle needed to convert its Environmental Management Information System (EMIS) from an MS Access to SQL Server platform. The EMIS currently contains over 10 years of environmental data from a variety of SeaPort and Aviation sites; it also features several custom front-end applications that enhance its functionality. EMIS is frequently used by the Port’s environmental managers, tenants, consultants, and other stakeholders for decision- making, regulatory negotiations, and cost-recovery activities; therefore, it was imperative that the database remained fully functional and that data integrity remained intact during conversion.

Solution

Under a fast-track schedule, Aspect migrated the EMIS to SQL Server and modified the front-end applications. Our data-management team was essential to this conversion because of their in-depth knowledge of the EMIS and their experience developing and programming front-end applications. We worked closely with the Port’s database administrator and outside IT consultants to fully test the new system and ensure that all elements were performing to specification. The new SQL system allows for future expansion and makes it easier for multiple users to communicate and transfer data.