App Modernization: From Legacy to the Future
Legacy systems can be described as highly functional yet temperamental technological dinosaurs holding organizations back. Well, modernization is the magic wand that shimmies and shakes out dust from the archives, releases untapped performance, and points its nose to the horizon. So, what the heck is app modernization, and how can your company leapfrog its competition? Well, fasten your seatbelts and strap in for this newsletter ride of a lifetime!
What Exactly Is App Modernization?
Why Should You Care About Modernizing?
Legacy systems are about as agile as a tortoise on tranquilizers—slow to respond, easily buckled under pressure, and in great need of repairs. So why modernize, you may ask? Here are just a few reasons to consider:
Flexibility: Legacy systems tend to lack flexibility. Need to change business priorities or add functionality? Good luck overcoming the cumbersome code of the past!
Scalability: Legacy systems are notoriously difficult to scale. If you run a startup or need the technology to be future-proof, modernization is a must.
Cost: Legacy systems are expensive to maintain, scale, and upgrade. We all know that cash is king, so modernizing to the cloud is a no-brainer.
Security: Hackers are smarter and more resourceful than ever. Older systems are more likely to have gaps or vulnerabilities in cybersecurity.
How Do You Modernize?
- This very loaded question, since there is no single “right way” to approach modernization. Let’s review some popular strategies below, and if you’re considering upgrading your systems, these articles cover options in detail.
Rehosting (or Lift and Shift): The path of least resistance to begin the modernization process, rehosting simply means taking your legacy apps and lifting them from one platform, then shifting to the cloud. No heavy lifting required!
Refactoring: Refactoring is a slightly more complex process in which you dissect your old code and reassemble it in a way that’s more efficient to support the cloud infrastructure.
Rebuilding: Starting with a blank page can be daunting. However, this total rebuild (think ground-up construction) gives you the opportunity to create an application that meets both your present needs and your long-term goals.
Cloud, Microservices, and AI
Modernizing legacy applications is a first-class ticket into the deep end of future-facing functionality. Look below at the possibilities that await you.
Cloud Computing: Applications that are cloud-based can easily scale resources (RAM, storage, processing power), require lower infrastructure costs, and can be utilized anywhere in the world.
Microservices Architecture: Breaking up an application into “microservices” can make it more manageable, allowing teams to update and upgrade without total overhaul. Modular services make maintenance more flexible and simpler.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: AI is an exciting capability that when integrated with your digital applications can provide automation to mundane or complex tasks. Whether it’s virtual support agents, bot-based customer experiences, or highly functional data analysis, artificial intelligence has something for everyone.
The Big Payoff
Transformative tech and tinkering aside, here’s what you stand to gain when you go all in on modernizing your applications:
Faster Time to Market: By breaking up large, cumbersome applications into cloud-based microservices, your team is empowered to get products out the door at a faster rate.
Less Maintenance:Cloud-native, automated applications need less maintenance, and as a result, cost less to run and keep up with business demands.
Happy Customers: Customers are the lifeblood of your business. Modernized, microservices-based applications can provide a more personalized, efficient, and responsive experience.
Conclusion
Legacy systems were created with a specific purpose in mind. The “modernization” step up is that, in an ever-changing business environment, to be efficient, secure, and truly successful requires the ability to be nimble. If that means shaking up your system with modern, forward-thinking technology, then we’re here to help.
Share This Post:
