At the heart of many businesses sits software written years ago that still works but is struggling: a desktop stock program, an order system on an old database or a custom application only a few people understand. These systems accumulate technical debt and eventually hold the business back.
Signs it is time to modernise
- It requires an unsupported operating system or database.
- It cannot integrate with web, mobile or other systems.
- Even small changes take weeks.
- Only one or two people still understand it.
- It no longer receives security updates.
- Remote or branch access is a constant problem.
Modernisation methods
- Rehost: Move the application unchanged to the cloud or a new server. Fast, but does not fix underlying issues.
- Replatform: Move the database or runtime to current versions.
- Refactor: Transform the code into a modern architecture and add APIs.
- Rebuild: Redevelop the system with modern technologies.
- Replace: Switch to a suitable off-the-shelf product (SaaS, ERP).
Gradual migration reduces risk
Instead of replacing everything overnight, it is safer to move step by step. Put an API layer in front of the old system, introduce new modules one by one and retire old parts over time. This lets you transform without stopping operations.
For a successful modernisation
- Document the current system's functions, data and connections.
- Prioritise the parts that are most critical and most problematic for the business.
- Plan data cleansing and migration early.
- Run old and new systems in parallel for a while and compare results.
- Involve and train users early.
As part of IT consulting, ujans assesses your current systems, chooses the best modernisation method and manages the gradual migration end to end.