Enterprise application modernization is about more than just the application itself, but hardware as well. Especially if your clients are already raring for a move to the cloud and are tired of keeping old legacy hardware around, even if your current application is not yet! Enterprise applications can mean different things to different people, but the idea is to keep things simple and to improve business process efficiency. The benefits of Rapid application development platform are often staggering for organizations that take the time to evaluate their needs and the ways in which they are being used. Here are some things to look for when you’re thinking about application modernization:
Time
If you’re looking at the costs of implementing a whole new open source low code application development platformfrom scratch, you’ll be looking at time. And time in itself is an asset when it comes to making a big change like an enterprise application modernization. The same goes for trying to close legacy systems that are on-going, rather than moving them to the cloud. It will save money in the short term to close the system down and bring in a modern version that will work.
Data
There are two sides to a successful enterprise application modernization program. One is the technology and the other is the data that the technology supports. Modern data warehousing strategies must support real-time intelligence, real-time analytics and continuous integration with applications. If the data is outdated, then users will find it difficult or impossible to make use of the new technologies that are part of the new generation of enterprise applications and data management systems.
Strategy
Also something to consider when you’re looking at the cost savings and the strategy involved when it comes to enterprise application modernization. Does the change management plan allow for a rolling change? Are there any plans for a second phase? What about strategic information integration? These are things that need to be looked at carefully, as they can impact the business model drastically.
User Experience
A key consideration when it comes to enterprise application modernization is the user experience. How quickly does the transformation happen? Will users be able to use the new technology easily? Can they get used to it quickly enough so that they don’t leave the existing platform? Will there be a negative impact on productivity because of the lack of real-time information management and information integration?
Architectural Styles
This is important because of the architectural structure of an organization. While an enterprise application modernization project may be able to remove some legacy systems, do you want to redesign those structures? Do you want to rely on the existing architectures and the associated processes? Is it more practical to convert the existing applications to the newer architecture, or is it better to rely on the new architectures and corresponding processes?
Technology
Some enterprises are able to make the best use of their IT resources for implementing enterprise application modernization. This can result in savings in a number of areas including server procurement, staff training, hardware procurement, IT capital expenditure and so on. There can also be savings in terms of maintaining and replacing aged systems. However, some modernizing applications will require custom engineering which can be expensive. You will need to know everything about Mendix vs outsystems vs wavemaker vs powerapps low code alternatives.
So how do you ensure that you’re getting the most out of your IT investment when it comes to enterprise application modernization? Keep these considerations in mind. Don’t try to convert legacy systems to something modern – unless you have the expertise and the budget to do so. Instead, look at updating old software in order to bring your data and business value up to date. By doing so, you’ll increase the overall value of your company, while simultaneously decreasing your maintenance and IT costs.
