A Structured Transition to the Cloud
By opting for AWS, McDonald’s Germany followed the corporate group’s global cloud strategy. The project began with a comprehensive inventory of the local systems. adesso analysed applications, databases, and IT services, and developed architecture concepts for future operation in the cloud. Pilot migrations helped to validate the approach and test central applications in the target environment. The subsequent transition to the AWS Cloud took place in stages in order to minimise risks and keep operations stable across the almost 1,400 McDonald’s restaurants in Germany.
Using Change Management to Reach Cloud Excellence
During the migration, adesso worked closely with each of the German McDonald’s teams, using professional change management to ensure that new processes, roles, and responsibilities were embedded in operations. Building capacity was a particular focus: Together, McDonald’s Germany and adesso set up a Cloud Centre of Excellence (CCoE). It serves as a central point for governance, security standards, and best practices in dealing with the new infrastructure.
In addition, adesso developed a training programme for the teams involved, which explained the basics of the AWS environment, operational processes, and how to use the new tools securely. Workshops, structured documentation, and the accompanying communication helped to manage the change smoothly and prepare employees for an excellent transition into the new way of working.
Stable Operations and a Basis for Future Developments
By switching to the AWS Cloud, McDonald’s Germany now has access to modern capacities, allowing it to develop its digital services further and accelerate the adaptation of its operating processes. The new infrastructure improves the availability of central applications, creates flexibility in load distribution, and makes cost structures more transparent. All regulatory requirements – including data protection, retention obligations, and access control – were fully taken into account and firmly embedded in the target architecture.
“With adesso, we had a strong and reliable implementation partner at our side,” said a spokesperson from McDonald’s Germany when asked about the collaboration. “The migration of our data centres to the AWS Cloud was professionally scheduled and implemented smoothly. This new infrastructure is our new basis for stable operations, realising growth, and for driving digital development further forward.”
