Breaking Down a System Monolith into Microservices
Project title: Modernizing a Monolithic Application into a Microservices Architecture
Client: global leader in corporate banking
Industry: Banking, Finance & Insurance
Expertise: Cloud & Infrastructure
Project scope: System migration, microservices, data processing optimization
Tools: Java 17, Spring, Apache Kafka, Hazelcast, Kubernetes, MSSQL
Modernizing a monolithic application into a microservices architecture involves transforming a unified, large-scale system into a set of independent, interconnected services. The goal is to enhance scalability, flexibility, and manageability, particularly in rapidly evolving business environments.
Monolithic applications, while stable, often lack the flexibility to meet the demands of a dynamically growing business. Our client faced this challenge and, with the support of ALTEN Polska, successfully transitioned to scalable microservices.
The project’s expertise encompassed both technological and architectural modernization of the existing system. The key objectives were to ensure scalability and reliable processing of an increasing volume of data. The implementation was carried out while maintaining the continuity of ongoing development.
Project Implementation
The ALTEN Polska team began with a detailed business analysis to identify the client’s key needs. This laid the groundwork for transforming the monolithic application into a microservices architecture. One of the main challenges was ensuring the system’s continuous operation during modernization efforts.
Critical processes, such as data collection from distributed sources, were redesigned. An asynchronous communication model based on Apache Kafka was introduced, along with the In-Memory Data Grid tool Hazelcast, which significantly accelerated data processing. The entire process was executed using the Scrum methodology with elements of SAFe, involving engineers and testers from ALTEN Polska.
Final Outcome
The result was the creation of a scalable microservices system that significantly improved the efficiency of the primary data processing pipeline. Leveraging technologies such as Java 17, Spring, Apache Kafka, and Kubernetes, the system can now be developed modularly. The client also gained the ability to implement further enhancements independently.
Additionally, the client’s team was trained to maintain and expand the application in the future. The system is now fully prepared to handle higher data volumes and support the client’s business growth.
Conclusion
Collaboration with the client resulted in the successful implementation of a state-of-the-art microservices system. ALTEN Polska not only delivered solutions tailored to the client’s current needs but also ensured their flexibility and scalability for future requirements.
