Most modernization programs do not solve the problem of accumulating technical debt, and this continues to influence future decisions, essentially crippling the digitalization of the business.

Hansa Iyengar, Principal Analyst, Omdia

September 16, 2021

1 Min Read
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In the latest episode of the Omdia Digital Leaders Podcast, I explore the major challenge that hinders many modernization programs from achieving their stated goals. Also, why do enterprises have to modernize their applications constantly? This is an incorrect, inefficient, and unsustainable approach to modernization.

Coping with the reality of an ever-changing digital economy requires traditional organizations to build agility at the core of the business -- not as a helpful technique but as a matter of digital survival. Unfortunately, however, most legacy modernization programs are planned, executed, and governed as time-bound projects that remain focused on achieving KPIs and milestones. This focus on measurables is a significant flaw. The real goal is to eradicate technical debt. Otherwise, any modernization program will be doomed to repeat itself -- forever.

Once they set off on the digital transformation journey, enterprises must realize that modernization should no longer be a ‘project.’ Instead, modernization should be a continuous state that enables enterprise applications to remain relevant, evolve continuously, and adapt as business strategies and technology roadmaps change. Unless you build continuous application modernization into your operations and, indeed, your mindset, you’ll remain on the start-stop legacy treadmill.

Tune in to the Omdia Digital Leaders Podcast Ep 4 – Are you managing your modernization program correctly? -- to find out how to utilize the principles, tools, and mindset of iterative methodologies and CI/CD practices to deliver true modernization that will help significantly (maybe indefinitely) extend the lifespan of enterprise applications.

About the Author(s)

Hansa Iyengar

Principal Analyst, Omdia

As a part of Omdia’s Enterprise IT practice, Hansa Iyengar covers systems integration and digital services around emerging technologies such as AI/ML, data analytics, IoT, application modernization, and digital transformation. She advises enterprises on transformation approaches and best practices and vendors on go-to-market strategies. Hansa has been a part of Omdia (formerly Ovum) since 2008. Her areas of expertise include market and competitive intelligence around application and systems integration services, outsourcing trends, service provider strategies, global and offshore service delivery and engagement models, and vendor management and governance.

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