EP33 - Legacy Modernization - Cobol and the aging workforce

Think Big Code Small

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This episode explores the challenges and considerations of modernizing legacy applications, particularly those running on mainframes. Dan and Chris discuss the persistence of mainframes in various industries and the potential risks associated with the retirement of experienced technologists who understand these systems. They also examine the options for modernization, including rip and replace, building a wrapper around the legacy system, or gradually transitioning to new technologies.

Takeaways

- Legacy applications running on mainframes continue to play a critical role in many industries, and the retirement of experienced technologists poses a risk to organizations that rely on these systems.

- Modernizing legacy applications requires a deep understanding of the business domain and the complex business logic embedded in the code.

- Rip and replace approaches are costly and time-consuming, and may not always be the best solution. Building a wrapper around the legacy system or gradually transitioning to new technologies can be more practical.

- The cloud can offer scalability and accessibility benefits, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution for legacy modernization.

- Strategies for modernization should focus on the fringes and edges of the system, gradually replacing components and leveraging existing API layers. Legacy system modernization requires a deep understanding of the domain knowledge and business rules embedded in the system.

- The complexity of legacy systems makes it challenging to fully comprehend their functionality and make informed decisions about modernization.

- AI can assist in certain aspects of legacy system modernization, but it is not a silver bullet and cannot replace human expertise.

- Courageous leaders are needed to take on the challenge of legacy system modernization and make strategic decisions based on ROI and business outcomes.

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