Reporting migration from Oracle Analytics Server to Power BI for RailNetEurope
Project goal
RailNetEurope, an international railway organization, decided to move from Oracle Analytics Server to Power BI and was looking for an experienced partner to validate the technical solution, migrate selected reports, and establish best practices in the new environment. The selection covered various types of outputs and technical scenarios: automatically distributed paginated reports, raw data exports to Excel, a real-time dashboard, map visualizations, and operational reports focused on international rail transport.
As part of the initial PoC, we helped migrate 10 specific reports built on an on-premise Oracle database, design semantic models, set up the Power BI service technically, and transfer know-how to key developers for further reporting development.
6
semantic models
10
migrated reports
1
custom visual
30 h
consulting and training
We delivered the project in an agile way across several phases. For each of the 10 selected reports, we first analyzed the existing reporting solution in Oracle Analytics Server and agreed with the RailNetEurope team on the appropriate output type and technical approach.
We designed a Power BI solution connected directly to the existing on-premise Oracle database. Since larger database-side changes were not possible, we prepared the necessary transformations mainly in Power Query. The solution included the creation of 6 semantic models, which now serve as the foundation for new reports and enable consistent work with operational indicators across individual areas.
An important part of the project was to preserve selected outputs that users were familiar with from the original environment. Many users mainly worked with PDF reports delivered directly by email. Together with the customer, we therefore designed a technical alternative based on a combination of paginated reports and Power Flows. We also prepared an interactive Power BI version of the same reports, enabling users to work with the data in greater depth online.
As part of the PoC, we delivered 5 reports focused on monitoring operational performance indicators in rail transport, for example for cross-border sections, international corridors, and selected traffic routes. Another 2 reports focused on the quality of information in the TIS operational system. The solution also included 2 specific map reports for visualizing railway points and the connections between them, as well as a real-time dashboard tracking the status and quality of data in the TIS system.
One of the main challenges was the specific data visualization requirements, which standard Power BI visuals did not cover to the required extent. That is why we prepared a custom visual tailored to RailNetEurope’s specific needs and certified by Microsoft. In addition to the report migration itself, we also handled the installation and administration of the on-premise data gateway, designed the Power BI service architecture, and supported the setup of licenses and report sharing, including for users outside the organizational tenant.
The result is a validated foundation for further reporting migration to Power BI. RailNetEurope gained the first set of migrated reports, a functional technical environment, a recommended Power BI service architecture, and practical know-how for further development of its own reporting.
Collaboration with the RNE team during the PoC was very intensive and very pleasant. Together, we managed to solve several visualization challenges, including the development of a custom certified visual. I greatly appreciate the RNE team’s genuine interest and willingness to dive into the possibilities of Power BI, learn and understand all options and best practices, and then use them intensively in their everyday work. We continue working together and are happy to share our know-how and experience with RNE.
Satisfied client
Intecs proved to be the experienced partner we needed to validate our technical solution and kickstart our Power BI migration. Through a smooth and agile collaboration, they delivered a functional environment, custom certified visuals, and critical architectural guidance. Their team combined technical expertise with practical training, ensuring our people are well prepared for the next phases of development. The cooperation was highly effective and truly pleasant.
Senior IT Manager (Reporting), RNE