Opinions on Upgrade/Merger

[dreux]

Hey all,
My company is merging w/ another and I have the fun task of connecting all of our systems. My first objective is to build a bigger Exchange server to handle the added users (approximately 400 total). They currently don't have a mail system, so that parts easy! Here's where it gets tricky. We are an NT4 shop w/ Exchange 5.5 sp4. Where do I go from here? I'll have to do a relatively quick merger/upgrade, and we'll be connected to our partner via a T1. Should I install Advanced Server and Exchange 5.5. What's the best upgrade path right now? We're obviously not using Active Directory, so I don't think we can use Exchange 2000....is it worth the pain for that? In addition, I have to change our Organization name w/in exchange which requires a rebuild also....I'm assuming Exmerge is the way to go for that part of the upgrade (just keep users mail in PST form). Any help/insight/links/experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks, Dreux

 

[Zelandakh]

If you are merging and want to keep it separate (particularly to minimise use of the T1), why not stick an Exchange 5.5 on NT box at their company as a new site in the same organisation?

You don't need advanced server for any option as far I can see.

PST files are asking for trouble, put all emails on the server and leave them there - then you have centralised backups and brick level fallback.

 

[dreux]

That's what I wanted to hear about advanced server! I'm leaning towards pst's for the loads of old mail that's on my current server from before I set limits and rights. In addition, I have close to no faith in Arcserve! We do full nightly backups to DLT, and it's great for recovering files, but I can see it being a major pain in a disaster recovery situation. I know Exchange itself is not friendly @ all in a disaster recovery. The T1 will only be used for Internet and e-mail. In addition, I'd rather have one exchange box here @ my location. The other location is 4 hrs away!
Thanks, Dreux