A Data Platform Transformation for Private Equity Service Platform
See how we helped a large PropTech company break free from a costly, on-prem data infrastructure while simultaneously scaling data source ingestion and enabling insights.
The Challenge
Our client, a forward-thinking PropTech company, recognized the critical need to transition from a cumbersome legacy SQL Server system to a modern data stack. With a legacy database maintained by a single user and encumbered by vendor lock-in, the client faced major operational constraints and risks. To realize the full potential of data capabilities and ensure future scalability, they partnered with Aimpoint Digital.
The client’s primary challenge was migrating from a legacy database to a transformative modern data stack while seamlessly integrating several new data sources and maintaining business as usual. The legacy SQL Server posed risks due to its dependency on a single user and costly API. The goal was to migrate existing logic into a more efficient infrastructure, enabling the incorporation of new, real-time data sources like property, census, demographic, valuation, tax, and MLS sale and rental listing data.
Our Approach
Aimpoint Digital took a comprehensive, meticulous approach to address the client’s multifaceted challenges:
Ingestion Layer
We onboarded approximately 10 new APIs, integrated a SFTP source, incorporated a Confluent Kafka Snowpipe stream, and established several Snowflake data shares into raw data tables. This ensured a seamless integration of diverse data sources, enabling a holistic view of the real estate market landscape.
Transformation Layer
All existing logic in the transformation layer underwent a methodical migration, encompassing over 1,000 lines of Python transformation scripts and SQL Server-stored procedures. Leveraging the modular and declarative capabilities of dbt, the Aimpoint Digital team streamlined the entire transformation process, enhancing maintainability and efficiency.
Seamless Transfer
We actively worked alongside the client’s data and analytics engineering team throughout the migration process. Their input and approval were solicited to ensure complete alignment with their operational requirements and to maintain knowledge and ownership of the platform.
Results
The successful Snowflake migration enabled the client to smoothly deploy products, minimizing disruptions while reducing operational costs. By moving away from dependency on a single-source API, they saved millions of dollars.
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Thanks to optimization, the client realized an average 20x reduction in load time for data fed into internal property purchasing and underwriting applications. This performance enhancement increased their operational agility and responsiveness, helping them to stay competitive.
The client has a modular, stable, modern data infrastructure capable of accommodating future growth and their evolving needs. By seamlessly integrating diverse data sources, the client is well-positioned to strategically gather data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making.
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Key Takeaways
A successful data platform transformation journey exemplifies the synergy between technological innovation and strategic vision.
By embracing a modern data stack and integrating diverse data sources, our client can position themselves as a frontrunner in the competitive landscape of private equity-backed PropTech services.
The successful collaboration between Aimpoint Digital and the client underscores the power of strategic partnerships in navigating complex technological transitions and unlocking new avenues of growth and innovation.
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