Modernizing Without Destroying: 5 Time-Tested Strategies
The temptation to 'tear down an existing system & build a new one' in a hurry is the downfall of many a successfully running applications
Use these 5 time tested strategies instead to modernize your application without killing it.
Analyze the current system
• Thoroughly analyze the legacy system in terms of design, implementation, security, usage, operating costs
• Leave nothing to guesswork & gather every little information about the existing implementation
Focus On Steady State
• Introduce changes at pace which does not impact performance or end user experience
• The goal should be to ensure that while you're making these improvements, the essential functions of the system remain reliable and aren't disrupted
Choosing Tech Stack
• Avoid the temptation to choose the shiniest tech in the market
• Analyze all the options, tools & technologies & choose the best suited ones
Smaller Rewrites
• The urge to do mass rewrites is great but it's seldom a good idea
• Instead breakdown features into as smaller items as possible, it helps build faster & test better
Continuous Improvement
• Don't let technical debt pile up, pay it down as you go
• Collect feedback & improve in an agile manner