Challenge.

The Raan Group is expanding internationally, and its IT has to keep pace. When the existing, single‑site architecture reached the point where it needed to be replaced, the organisation faced a bigger question—simply refresh the hardware, or rethink the entire setup? The group wanted to create the same technical foundation at every location to ensure consistent performance and identical capabilities, regardless of where teams are based. To make that possible, the IT environment had to move away from isolated on‑site systems and be brought together in a modern, centralised platform. The goal was clear: an infrastructure that runs reliably, isn’t tied to hardware lifecycles and can support the company’s long‑term international growth.

Given the way our IT landscape had grown over time, it was clear to us that a central cloud solution was the right path forward. Working with Bechtle to migrate our systems to Google Cloud was a straightforward and transparent process, which meant we were able to push the transition ahead in a controlled and organised way. What mattered most was ensuring that all our data and applications were properly integrated, and that every location would benefit equally, and that’s exactly what Bechtle delivered. As a result, the transition was not only the right choice from a technical standpoint, but also something we could manage smoothly from an organisational perspective.”

Christian Hellrung, Head of IT Operations, Raan Group

Solution.

The Raan Group deliberately chose a hyperscaler as the foundation for its new setup because it provides uniform access from any location. Bechtle began by analysing the existing environment in Cologne and gradually migrating it to the cloud using Google Cloud VMware Engine. This made it possible to move the existing systems across without modification and keep them running without disruption throughout the transition. In parallel, Bechtle defined the target architecture, shifting from locally bound systems to a central environment in Google Cloud, enabling applications, data and services to be consolidated in one place and giving every site direct access. The Raan Group’s international setup informed every phase of the project, ensuring consistent workflows and consistent performance regardless of location. As individual systems were subsequently transitioned to native Google Cloud services, the environment gained additional flexibility. Together with unified Palo Alto‑based security and clearly defined access controls, this created a centrally managed, resilient IT landscape that eliminates dependence on hardware lifecycles and gives the Raan Group a future‑ready foundation for continued growth.

Business benefits.

  • Consistent experience – All locations have uniform access to applications and data, anywhere in the world.
  • Seamless system migration – Existing workloads can be moved to Google Cloud VMware Engine without modification, keeping operations stable throughout.
  • Targeted service migration – Applications are gradually transitioned to native Google Cloud services.
  • Centralised environment – Systems are consolidated in one place, creating a clear and coherent technical architecture.
  • Consistent access models – Uniform permissions and clearly defined roles apply across all locations.
  • Unified security – Palo Alto–based security provides a harmonised and reliable security model.
  • Direct site connectivity – International teams can connect directly, without relying on local infrastructure.
  • Robust operational base – The environment is independent of hardware lifecycles and remains dependable in the long run.
  • High scalability – Creates capacity for new requirements and supports the Raan Group’s global growth.