A Structured Methodology for PowerDesigner to erwin Migration
DCS Itech provides a structured, evidence-based methodology for organisations moving from SAP PowerDesigner to Quest / erwin. Our approach covers assessment, source-to-target mapping, controlled migration, model reconciliation, exception management, validation, controlled deployment and migration acceptance – so that enterprise models remain trusted assets, not just converted files.
Migration isn’t complete until the target models have been reconciled against the source.
Our 9-Stage PowerDesigner to erwin Migration Methodology
We utilize a controlled, auditable method to ensure enterprise data models migrate with full integrity and transparency.
- 01 ASSESS – Understand the existing PowerDesigner estate.
- 02 MAP – Define source-to-target mapping rules.
- 03 MIGRATE – Execute a controlled migration.
- 04 RECONCILE – Compare source and target models.
- 05 REMEDIATE – Investigate and resolve exceptions.
- 06 VALIDATE – Validate model quality and integrity.
- 07 DEPLOY – Move validated models through erwin environments.
- 08 SIGN-OFF – Provide evidence for migration acceptance.
- 09 MODERNISE – Connect migration with wider modernisation.
ASSESS
MAP
MIGRATE
RECONCILE
REMEDIATE
VALIDATE
DEPLOY
SIGN-OFF
MODERNISE
Reconciliation, Remediation and Validation
DCS Itech uses structured model and object reconciliation, exception management and validation to ensure that migrated erwin models are fit for their intended purpose, not just successfully converted files.
- Reconciliation can consider, where applicable:
• Model – name, type, subject area, organisation, hierarchy
• Entity / table – entities, tables, logical and physical names, definitions
• Attribute / column – attributes, columns, names, definitions, data types, length, precision, scale, mandatory / optional properties, default values
• Relationships – parent / child structures, cardinality, referential relationships
• Keys – primary, alternate and foreign keys, key composition
• Domains & data types – domains, usage, standard and physical data types, source-to-target mappings
• Physical objects – schemas, tables, columns, constraints, indexes, views, database-specific structures
• Metadata – definitions, descriptions, notes, comments, naming standards, documentation
• Customisation – custom properties, extended attributes, PowerDesigner extensions, organisation-specific metadata, custom modelling conventions
• Dependencies – cross-model references, model dependencies, repository relationships
Reconciliation outcomes are classified using clear statuses: MATCHED, EXPECTED TRANSFORMATION, EXCEPTION, REMEDIATED, ACCEPTED VARIANCE, OUTSTANDING.
Controlled Deployment and Migration Acceptance
Validated models are promoted through appropriate erwin environments using a clear repository and environment strategy that reflects the organisation’s governance and operational requirements.
A typical flow may include: Development → System Test / UAT → Production, with the exact topology tailored to the customer’s erwin architecture and governance model.
Promote approved models – not simply migrated files.
Start Your PowerDesigner to erwin Migration
DCS Itech can help organisations plan, validate and modernise their PowerDesigner-to-erwin migration, including governance, repository strategy and alignment with modern data platforms such as Databricks.
Plan a migration you can validate. Request a Migration Assessment or Discuss Your Requirements with DCS Itech.