Re-architecting Legacy Applications Lays the Foundation for an Adaptive Enterprise

I recently participated in a webcast titled Re-architecting Legacy Applications Lays the Foundation for an Adaptive Enterprise, along with Ovum Analyst Hansa Iyengar. This insightful webcast discussed application re-architecture, its importance and benefits, and provides practical suggestions on how to overcome legacy application challenges. We also spoke about how re-architecture is becoming increasingly critical for organizations seeking to become more adaptive and agile.

man in office looking at diagrams on wall - Dell Re-Architecture method and software

Hansa shared her insight, and talked about how technology transformation is high up on the agendas of Chief Information Officers (CIOs). CIOs today want cloud-delivered, mobile-enabled platforms and applications. They are also seeking to overhaul IT delivery, using agile methodologies. It is interesting and ironic to note that modernization, which should precede the adoption of modern technologies, is generally ignored. There are many reasons for this oversight. In general companies:

  • Don’t have a clear return on investment (ROI)
  • Are wary of the risks involved
  • Are often reluctant to fix something unless it is broken
  • Are concerned about the cost involved—including up-skilling existing software engineers

Hansa then spoke about several modernization approaches, and how re-architecture is a viable long-term option, because, above all, it lays the foundation for a strong core structure, upon which organizations can build future systems. She also discussed some key components of a successful re-architecture effort, stressing how important it is to first analyze and thoroughly assess the system to be migrated; the utility of automation tools, and testing methodologies; and the importance of maintaining the system after the modernization effort, with integration initiatives.

I then spoke about Dell’s vast modernization capabilities and experience across platforms, languages, re-architecture, re-hosting, and our consolidation capabilities. I presented our legacy modernization journey, which is unique in that—apart from the strong data and application modernization capabilities—we also bring to the table a business layer. This is extremely critical in a modernization journey, since it answers key questions, such as why a company is under-taking the modernization journey and maps out dependencies and functionalities, among other key business and technology considerations. Based on this, we build a future case scenario and chart out the path for a best-fit solution that is cost-effective, low-risk, and accelerates implementation, using our time-tested IPs and patented technology.

Diagram of the three phases of Dell Re-architecture method and software

Hansa and I then discussed two Dell customers and how we helped them modernize their systems to save costs and boost performance.

Dell has also helped P2 Energy Solutions modernize their system. The specialized oil and gas software and data solutions leader wanted to modernize its functionally rich but technology-outdated application to better meet market demands. We modernized a key application to Java. The new system has simplified maintenance by reducing lines of code 80 percent; it has also created a solid platform for product and market-share growth and prepared P2 Energy Solutions to be more competitive in the market.

Click here to listen to the webcast.

Learn more about our re-architecture capabilities.

About the Author: Cameron Jenkins