Maintaining and modernizing legacy system for air traffic control company

Industry: ATC, Aviation
Coverage:  Multiple airports across the US and Europe
Country:  UK

Project definition

TYMIQ was engaged by an Air Traffic Control (ATC) company to maintain and migrate their information display system (ATC-IDS) from .NET Framework to .NET Core. The Copperchase ATC-IDS is a critical tool designed to provide air navigation assistants with quick and controlled access to trusted informational resources, including PDF files, images, CCTV images, and web links. Ensuring simple-to-use and easy access to this data is essential for operational efficiency in live ATC environments.

While maintaining the old system, our team identified the rationale and background for potential improvements and consulted the customer on modernization opportunities. Based on the agreed modernization scope, our team adapted existing functionalities, optimized performance, and ensured seamless integration with broader objectives.

Pain point for the client
Solution from TYMIQ
#1
Legacy system maintenance dilemma

The client couldn’t maintain their outdated system, originally developed by a previous vendor. With no in-house expertise to support or update the existing solution, they needed a reliable technology partner to take full responsibility for maintaining and managing legacy code.

Took full responsibility for maintaining legacy code and modernized versions

TYMIQ assumed complete ownership in maintaining the old system, while also managing new releases in the modernized version.

#2
Urgent need for migration to a modern tech stack

The system faced critical performance issues, as it was not functioning correctly in all airport environments. To ensure stability and scalability, migrating to a newer technology became an urgent necessity.

Executed parallel migration while maintaining the existing system

We carried out a gradual migration from .NET Framework to .NET Core without disrupting ongoing operations, ensuring continued support for the legacy code.

#3
Reliable deployment and full support commitment

The technology partner had to assume full responsibility for the entire deployment process, ensuring continuous functionality and seamless long-term maintenance.

Deployed modernized system version and provided ongoing support

We took full responsibility for the modernized system deployment, guaranteeing long-term stability and maintenance.

Taking over and maintaining code from another vendor is always complex and demanding, requiring technical expertise, adaptability, and trust. The client essentially hands over full access to their system, expecting uninterrupted functionality throughout maintenance and modernization. A reliable technology partner not only ensures a smooth modernization process but also demonstrates the highest level of professionalism by guaranteeing system stability, security, and long-term operational continuity.

Global tasks facing the team

Maintain ATC-IDS running on .NET Framework in a fully operational state while addressing ongoing maintenance needs.

Given the deprecating nature of .NET Framework, proactively identify and recommend modernization opportunities based on the issues revealed during continuous system maintenance.

Consult the customer on the suggested modernization scope and define what fits the customer’s current requirements and capabilities.

Create a structured modernization roadmap, covering new features, performance optimization, and security improvements.

Modernize, test, and deploy the modernized system, all while ensuring uninterrupted service for the existing system

Provided services

Software maintenance
  • Initially, the customer approached TYMIQ for maintenance services of their ATC-IDS system. Our team was responsible for critical bug fixes, performance assurance, and functionality support.
IT consulting
  • Legacy system analysis -While maintaining the system, our engineers gained a full understanding of its strengths and limitations and were ready with meaningful suggestions for the modernization scope. The team was committed to delivering their ideas for improvements where they were truly necessary and would bring value to the customer.
  • Strategic planning - Modernizing a functioning system and integrating new functionality required accurate and coherent planning from our team. The initial scope was agreed upon with the customer, with every point discussed and prioritized from both technical and business points of view. Subsequently, our engineers developed a clear modernization roadmap, which served a clear trajectory for implementation and optimization.
Legacy system modernization
  • Modernization and deployment - Our engineers significantly increased the system’s performance and security through a correctly organized migration to .NET Core and adjustments to the graphical interface, which now runs on any web browser, allowing for simple interaction with data. Notably, Copperchase ATC-IDS ensures compliance with CAP 670 ATC02.36 for electronic document storage and display.
  • Testing - The ported system was completely tested and transferred to the customer along with a package of testing documentation.  
  • Project documentation and technical specifications - The team was fully responsible for maintaining technical specifications throughout the project. Along with the documented test cases, the customer received a full package of installation, migration, and user guides.
  • Ongoing maintenance - From the start of the project to the present, TYMIQ has been a reliable partner, handling bug fixes and system changes, while managing the parallel migration to the modernized version. Should the system expand to additional airports or require major updates in the future, TYMIQ will continue to provide maintenance services under a service-level agreement.

Results and impact

The profound expertise in software modernization and .NET Core allowed TYMIQ to successfully migrate key components of the customer’s ATC-IDS system, aligning it with .NET Core’s modular, future-proof architecture. As part of the system modernization service, our team also identified and resolved several legacy inefficiencies, resulting in a more robust and responsive application.

One more factor that positively affected the project result was our deep technical analysis predetermining the process. By thoroughly evaluating the customer’s existing system architecture and defining the intricacies involved in porting to .NET, we prepared a structured migration roadmap, therefore ensuring the modernization objectives were synced-up with the customer and approved.

Further to migrating the system, TYMIQ’s engineers introduced some enhancements that significantly improved usability and security. Our meticulous testing methodologies guaranteed seamless deployment, and post-migration support was focused on long-term sustainability of the system.

Due to clear and constant communication with the customer–via virtual meetings and email–our engineers were able to synchronize the priorities and deliver everything on time. Despite the complexity of running parallel migration and integration processes, TYMIQ successfully maintained uninterrupted system functionality, ensuring operational continuity in a mission-critical ATC environment.

Why the client selected working with us

Credibility

TYMIQ is a truly reliable partner who works hard and inclusively.

Focus on value

We deliver lasting value for a reasonable price. Our specialists are always result-oriented, and therefore look for only sustainable and smart solutions fitting best the customer’s needs.

True reengineering proficiency

We know how to correctly upgrade a legacy software and put it back on track in the optimal time. We strive to make this process as painless for the customer as possible.

High commitment

TYMIQ has strong dedication to the development of the customer’s business, as evidenced by our high responsibility to work.

Open and honest communication

Our team stays in constant contact with the customer and timely arise all critical issues to get their approval for remediation actions.

Client’s feedback

COPPERCHASE - logo
"We highly recommend TYMIQ to any organization seeking expert development services."

“One of the standout aspects of TYMIQ’s approach was their commitment to clear and consistent communication. They took the time to understand our specific needs, addressed potential risks proactively, and kept us informed at every stage of the transition. Their expertise in Orchard Core was evident as they efficiently adapted our existing functionalities, optimized performance, and ensured seamless integration with our broader objectives.“

Tony Myers
Tony Myers
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Director of Business Development, Copperchase Limited
Review on Clutch

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