As technology evolves it is important to convert, rewrite or port legacy applications into more modern technologies, says Wim Saunderson, managing executive for applications management at Business Connexion.
For Saunderson, as staff members who understand legacy applications move on or retire, businesses often struggle to find people with the necessary technical skills to properly utilise and support legacy applications. This, coupled with the high cost of operating legacy systems, an inability to capitalise on newer technologies and to respond to business demands, all prove challenging for businesses. "All these risks can, however, be mitigated," he points out.
Not only does application modernisation reduce IT operating spend and risks, it also promotes agility, extends the life of applications, simplifies supportability and reduces time to market, he says. In addition to this, modernisation and overhauling overcomes the lack of vendor support for outdated technologies, while opening up the possibility of running applications in the cloud.
Saunderson notes that as applications reach end of life, they become difficult and expensive to support and maintain. "Rarely are design specifications and documentation adequately maintained over the life of a system. The overhauling process thus invariably starts with a detailed application portfolio assessment using one of the modernisation tools to speed up the analysis phase."
CIOs commonly view the adoption of cloud computing services as a way to boost agility, while reducing costs, says Saunderson. But he points out that while there are many benefits of embarking on a solid modernisation strategy, it is essential for businesses to have a carefully constructed plan linked to the overall business strategy, the current state of the IT landscape and the business' readiness for transformation.
He believes the rise of cloud computing is causing companies to focus on their application portfolios, and their infrastructure, as they look to bring about transformation and overcome business problems.
"By embarking on an application overhauling journey where clear requirements and a detailed roadmap are defined, operating costs can be saved, risks mitigated and a portfolio of applications can be provided that supports the business needs and strategy," Saunderson says.
"Because of the current economic climate both locally and internationally, change is happening slowly, but there is a definite rise in the appetite for modernisation."
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