An architecture firm without its own servers. Cloud-only from day one.

Cloud migration and digitalisation in the context of modern work and cloud infrastructure

Meier + Steinauer has completely modernised its IT infrastructure as part of its cloud-only strategy. The existing local servers were replaced by state-of-the-art cloud technology from Microsoft Azure, which enables location-independent working. The result is an agile and scalable cloud platform. This migration has significantly simplified collaboration between employees, architects, planning offices and clients.

A future-proof IT infrastructure and increased cost efficiency help everyone involved to concentrate more on their core competences. Since the successful completion of the project, Baggenstos has also taken over the ongoing management of the IT services.

Meier + Steinauer Partner AG

Meier + Steinauer Partner AG handles architecture and construction management tasks as a general planner or individual service provider in classic building renovation or as construction management/GP for new replacement buildings. With efficient measures, it creates sustainable solutions, e.g. for residential and commercial buildings. In this way, she secures long-term investments in the building fabric for the benefit of the owners, the environment and society.

{{Referenz (/meier-steinauer) | Martin Meier}}

{{Referenz (/meier-steinauer) | Markus Stäss}}

Facts & Figures

Initial situation and objective

Meier + Steinauer planned to switch to a cloud-only environment as the existing local infrastructure no longer met current requirements. Outdated server, storage, network and backup systems were another reason for the modernisation. The new IT solution should enable modern, digital and contemporary working in the architecture environment. Another component of the project is to improve IT security, availability and the performance of CAD and business applications in order to increase the efficiency and reliability of our work processes.

Key figures

• 47 users & 50 clients with Intune
• 8 virtual servers in Azure, combined with Platform as a Service services (databases) - Cloud Only
• Microsoft 365 for data storage including Teams Telephony
• Operating service: Baggenstos 'Operation Care'

Solution & Implementation

To replace the outdated local infrastructure with a cloud solution, Meier + Steinauer opted for the development of Baggenstos' generalised target architecture. This included the service and application analysis in collaboration with the existing providers of the specialised applications to ensure a smooth migration to the Microsoft Azure Cloud with data storage in Switzerland.

During the implementation, eight virtual servers in Azure and platform services were implemented and Microsoft-AVD (Azure Virtual Desktop) session hosts were set up to provide the virtualised specialist applications, offering a flexible and scalable working environment. The Infoniqa ERP system and Messerli construction management software were also migrated. The central specialist applications such as ArchiCAD, AutoCAD and Office365 are installed and configured on the employees' end devices.

The new hardware equipment includes high-performance notebooks, docking stations and workstations for the CAD draughtsmen, which guarantee optimum performance for graphics-intensive applications. In addition, managed services were set up to ensure smooth operation and continuous maintenance and further development of the IT environment.

Challenges

Existing legacy applications in particular, which are still widely used in the architecture and construction environment, often do not support the new cloud technologies 1:1. These applications are susceptible to latency when clients access the cloud data. Using app streaming, Microsoft Azure Cloud also offers solutions here so that the applications can be provided reliably and with high performance.

The cloud settings were optimised in terms of computing power and runtimes by means of a proof of concept and a targeted test phase. This demonstrates another major advantage of Microsoft Azure technology, which enables the flexible provision of computing power according to customer requirements without having to invest in hardware

Results

The entire IT landscape was converted to an all-cloud approach, which significantly increases the availability, security and flexibility of the IT infrastructure. By migrating to the cloud-only solution, Meier + Steinauer benefits from a future-proof IT solution that significantly increases operational efficiency. Flexible working on the move is now also possible with the legacy applications without any problems.

As part of the cloud migration and the introduction of Microsoft 365, the existing legacy telephone system was replaced at the same time. Teams telephony makes it easier to reach employees on the move and, in addition to the audio function, they also benefit from video calls and the ability to share documents and construction plans.

Why Baggenstos?

Baggenstos has extensive expertise in industry-standard applications, particularly CAD applications and their workstations. Meier + Steinauer Partner AG was looking for a partner with a similar cultural background, an SME that also emphasises personal support, relationships and transparent and trusting communication.

This synergy of personal contact, cultural similarity and technical expertise made a decisive contribution to the success of the project. We look forward to continuing our great collaboration and shaping future successes together.

Many thanks for the good cooperation

We are delighted that we were able to complete this successful project together and would like to thank Meier + Steinauer for the trust they have placed in us. Since the completion of the project, Baggenstos has also taken over the ongoing management of the IT services, ensuring smooth and secure IT operations.