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Modernization methods explained

EducationSummary: Are you stuck with legacy applications? Do you view application modernization as risky, expensive, or potentially disruptive to your business? It doesn’t have to be, if you choose the right modernization method. Learn which modernization approach works best for you.

Confusion surrounds legacy application modernization. Some think modernization is risky. Others think it will disrupt their business. Still others think it’s not worth the expense.

Are any of these assumptions correct?

Yes and no. It all depends on which modernization method you choose.

Sure, modernization CAN be risky. But, it doesn’t have to be.

It can disrupt business, if you choose certain methods.

And yes, it can be quite expensive…if you choose the expensive approach.

The fact is, none of these apply if you use the right modernization methods. Modernization shouldn’t be risky, expensive, or disruptive.

The problem is, many businesses don’t understand the different modernization approaches. So, they choose the risky, disruptive option because they think it’s their best bet.

Today, let’s put an end to that confusion. We put together a couple of resources to help businesses better understand modernization. First, here’s a free whitepaper entitled “Crash course in modernization“. It takes an in-depth look into the modernization basics, including the need for modernization and the methods.

Second, we put together a comparison chart based on the information found in the whitepaper. It lets you compare 5 different modernization methods side-by-side and find the one that works best for you. A broader description of each option can be found in the whitepaper.

Screen
Scraping
Code
Conversion
Rip and
Replace
Buy new
and migrate
Extend and
surround
Does it replace legacy code? No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Does it replace legacy architecture? No No Yes Yes Yes
Speed Fast Fast Very Slow Slow Variable
Cost Cheap Cheap Expensive Very Expensive Moderate
Risk Low Low High Moderate Low
Ongoing maintenance Difficult Difficult Easy Easy Easy
Business Disruption Low Low High High Low
Advantages Fast and Cheap Fast and Cheap Custom apps Fully modern apps Lets you modernize at your own pace
Disadvantages
  • Not actually modernization
  • Limited capabilities
  • Difficult maintenance
  • Doesn’t replace legacy architecture
  • Limited capabilities
  • Difficult maintenance
  • High-risk
  • Time consuming
  • High cost
  • No a custom fit
  • Time consuming
Long-term modernization solution? No No Yes Yes Yes

Of course, if you have any questions about modernization, feel free to let us know. We’ve helped countless companies modernize their legacy apps over the last 30 years, and would be more than happy to help you. If you need help, just fill out this short form and let us know what you have on your plate.