Gemini Re-platforming Project; External User Participation July 2012

Background The Gemini System has been running since 2004/5 and is approaching the end of its planned asset life. To maintain a high level of service continuity for the next 5 years, the Gemini Re-platforming Project (GRP) has been established to deliver an updated design that uses new hardware and software. GRP is replacing technology, not re-writing the application; the Gemini service will be unchanged, system functionality will remain ‘as is’ and the look and feel of screens will remain the same. As part of GRP, Gemini’s infrastructure will be relocated to Xoserve’s data centres in Peterborough and Kettering. The proposed implementation cut-over of GRP is 9th June 2013.

Purpose Xoserve have spoken to various industry stakeholders via UK Link Committe, and various Operational Forums to inform them of the changes and potential impacts to External Users when the Re-platformed Gemini System goes live in June 2013. Xoserve have asked External Users to participate in ‘Readiness Testing’ to ensure that they can access the system when it goes live. However, uptake so far has been very low. It is really important that all Gemini System External Users take up the opportunity to participate in ‘Readiness Testing’ as Xoserve believes that it will provide clear benefit to organisations by ensuring that that they are prepared for the switch over. Can you therefore please encourage your organisations to take part and register their participation by contacting: GRPcommunications@xoserve.com

External User Impacts External Users will need to make some minor amendments to API’s* to enable connection to the re-platformed system and some changes will be required to connect to the new Gemini environments. Xoserve recommend that all External Users participate in ‘Readiness Testing’ to ensure API changes are working correctly and connection is maintained. Xoserve would also welcome External Users working with the GRP Project Team to help define a range of “connectivity” tests to be performed during Readiness Testing which is scheduled between 21st January 2013 and 1st March 2013. Users are invited to register their participation in Readiness Testing by contacting GRPcommunications@xoserve.com by 1st September 2012. *API means Application Programming Interface and is an automated mechanism for External Users to request data.

External User Impacts Gemini functionality is known to be unaffected, therefore there is no need for Users to do any general Gemini functionality testing. If you have queries, please contact Andy Earnshaw on 0121 623 2820 or Andrew Boyton on 0121 623 2363.