Reimagining university libraries with AWS: University of Maryland's six-month cloud migration | Amazon Web Services
Higher education institutions are modernizing critical systems to better support students, faculty, and researchers. This customer story blog details how the University of Maryland completed a six-month cloud migration to reimagine its library services using AWS. Read the blog to see how a structured, time-bound migration supported modernization goals, then reach out to Challenge Innovation Technology Inc to explore how similar approaches could apply to your organization.
Why did the University of Maryland Libraries migrate to AWS?
The University of Maryland Libraries faced several challenges, including deteriorating hardware, rising licensing costs, and staffing constraints that threatened their operations. With a small IT team managing an aging on-premises infrastructure, the decision to migrate to AWS was strategic. It allowed them to retire their data center entirely, reduce costs, enhance reliability and security, and focus on innovation rather than hardware maintenance.
How long did the migration process take?
The migration process was completed in under six months. The team began the transition in December, with a firm deadline to finish before their VMware licensing expired in June. They initially planned a lift-and-shift approach but later decided to transition to Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS) for greater efficiency, which required careful management of scope and timelines.
What benefits did the libraries experience post-migration?
Post-migration, the University of Maryland Libraries experienced enhanced security controls, improved application performance, and better cost transparency. They reported that applications were running much faster and gained access to new AWS services that addressed previous operational challenges. The migration also allowed staff to focus on innovation rather than hardware maintenance, aligning with their strategic goals.

Reimagining university libraries with AWS: University of Maryland's six-month cloud migration | Amazon Web Services
published by Challenge Innovation Technology Inc
Challenge Innovation Technology, Inc. stands as a beacon of expertise in the ever-evolving landscape of information technology. With a commitment to guiding organizations through the intricate maze of modern IT systems, this company has established itself as a pivotal ally for businesses aiming to align their technological infrastructure with their strategic objectives. The journey towards next-generation IT is fraught with complexities, whether it's navigating the nuances of virtualization, embracing the vast potential of cloud solutions, refreshing network architecture, deploying cutting-edge applications at the desktop, or executing critical system upgrades. In this dynamic arena, Challenge Innovation Technology, Inc. emerges as a trusted advisor, equipped with profound industry acumen and a dedication to excellence in service, support, and procurement.
Since its inception, the company has not only adhered to the high standards set by the Better Business Bureau but has transcended them, maintaining an A+ rating that speaks volumes about its integrity and operational excellence. This accolade is a testament to the company's unwavering commitment to quality and trustworthiness, a hallmark that has been consistently recognized since 2014. For businesses seeking a partner that can provide a strategic roadmap to technological advancement, Challenge Innovation Technology, Inc. offers a synergy of deep industry insights and a customer-centric approach to service. It's a partnership that doesn't just promise innovation but actively participates in the creation of a tech-savvy future, ensuring that every client is well-equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow's digital landscape. With Challenge Innovation Technology, Inc., companies are not just preparing for the future; they are shaping it.