Application Modernization Requires Cultural Maturity

Application modernization. It’s a term we hear a lot. But what does it really mean, and how can we do it successfully?

Most people think about things like moving to the cloud, containers, or microservices when they hear about application modernization. But the reality is that application modernization is about much more than just technology. It’s about transforming your people and processes, too. In my session at the Houston DevOpsDays in 2022, there is a huge cultural component that precedes successful technology modernization. You can view the session here (my commentary is below the video)

There are a lot of different paths to modernization.

This diagram shows just a few of the many different ways you can modernize your applications. The bottom left is where you think you are today, and the top right is where you think you want to be.

But the truth is that where you think you are and where you think you want to be may not be accurate.

“The longer you stay hung up on something that people aren’t going to adopt, the more frustrated and dissatisfied you’re going to be with your life.”

That’s why it’s important to take a step back and think about what modernization means for your organization and your people.

Why and When Modernization Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)

There are many good reasons to modernize. Here are just a few:

• Revenue opportunities: Modernizing your applications can give you access to new revenue opportunities.
• Cost savings: Modernizing your applications can help you save money on infrastructure and operational costs.
• Reduced toil: Modernizing your applications can help you reduce the amount of toil involved in managing your infrastructure and applications.
• Improved security: Modernizing your applications can help you improve your security posture.
• Improved brand reputation: Modernizing your applications can help you improve your brand reputation by showing that you are a competent and innovative company.
• Attract and retain talent: Modernizing your applications can help you attract and retain top talent.

“Don’t modernize for the sake of modernization. Look for for compelling business drivers and and workforce drivers.”

Application Modernization Requires Cultural Maturity

Modernization is as much about the people as it is about the technology. If people feel motivated, they will find solutions.

“It’s as much a story about the people as it is about the technology.”

Getting Stakeholders Onboard and Invested

One of the biggest challenges in application modernization is getting stakeholders on board. To do this, it’s important to:

• Align modernization with stakeholder goals.
• Make each stakeholder a partner in the modernization effort.
• Offer more transparency around what the company needs and its objectives.

What to Do When Modernization Projects Don’t Go As Hoped

“Your project didn’t fail because it’s impossible, you just haven’t found the right path yet. So try again.”

Not all modernization projects go as planned. That’s why it’s important to:

• Set achievable expectations.
• Plan for education and skill acquisition.
• Be open to trying new things (and even retrying old things).
• Break the problem down into the smallest parts that can be delivered independently.
• Choose realistic timelines.

Conclusion

Modernizing your applications is a complex process, but it can be done successfully if you focus on your people and their goals. By aligning modernization with stakeholder goals, making stakeholders partners in the effort, and being open to trying new things, you can increase your chances of success.

I’ve been working in application modernization for many years, and I’ve seen both successes and failures. If you’re struggling with modernization, I encourage you to reach out to me. I would love to hear your story and help you find the right path for your organization.