Software modernization
Software modernization: Future-proof systems with MaibornWolff
MaibornWolff offers the solution: with software modernization or software refurbishment, we make your legacy systems fit for the future - while the process is running. Put your trust in our more than 30 years of experience and make your company fit for the future.
We offer customized software modernization based on the comprehensive analysis from our software audit
We focus on the functional requirements of the application rather than on existing technical conditions in order to be able to make optimal adjustments at any time.
Save time and money - we at MaibornWolff modernize your software during ongoing operations.
With over 30 years of experience in successful software modernization, we are your reliable partner for critical and complex projects.
Good to know...
For us, software remediation and software modernization are two sides of the same coin. Both processes can involve similar approaches and practices, from a partial renewal to a complete re-write. In our view, the term refurbishment tends to focus on an approach away from an existing bad situation. Modernization, on the other hand, focuses on the process towards a desired future modern application.
What is software modernization?
Imagine the following scenario: You have taken wonderful care of your old smartphone and have been using it for years. But suddenly certain apps no longer run or run slowly and updates are no longer possible. Your phone's operating system is slowly getting too old. What should you do? Most people resort to the obvious solution: buy a new smartphone.
Companies also face a similar problem from time to time. They have a system that is built in such a way that it is overloaded and difficult to adapt and therefore no longer meets the demands that a company places on its system. And this is where software modernization enters the scene.
This keeps your company flexible
Software modernization involves updating your existing system by replacing outdated technologies, adding new functions and optimizing the structure. The aim is to make the software more efficient, more secure and more adaptable, for example to meet new requirements. Software modernization can include various aspects such as updating:
- Program code,
- Development processes and practices,
- Automated tests for validation,
- databases and
- user interfaces
Software modernization with MaibornWolff - your benefits
MaibornWolff is your strategic partner for software refurbishment. With over 30 years of experience, we offer customized solutions that take into account both technological and business requirements.
Our specialized focus on software modernization means that we modernize your software while it is running, without interrupting your business processes. This saves time and costs and ensures fast, valid feedback from production. As a result, the system matures faster and more effectively.
Put your trust in our expertise and let us make your software future-proof together.
Nora Legittimo on the collaboration with MaibornWolff
"Thanks to MaibornWolff, who (1) first led us from the symptoms to the cause in our project (2) showed us the way with good digital design how better software can be created faster with less effort. And - first class! - (3) They emphasized helping people to help themselves and coached us as customers instead of making us dependent."
Nora Legittimo, former Chief Digital Officer, Digital Transformation in Construction, Schöck Bauteile GmbH
Would you like to become a satisfied MaibornWolff customer yourself?
Our references & projects
A reference is worth more than 1,000 words. Fortunately, we have dozens of them. Click through a selection of our most exciting projects and see for yourself!
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MAN: Efficient threat analysis for control unitsLearn moreDigitalization increases cyber risks - especially for MAN's new CM4 control unit. Our experts use the 4×6 methodology and ThreatSea to identify threats at an early stage and develop targeted protective measures. Find out how MAN uses intelligent risk analysis to strengthen the security of its vehicles.
Learn more7 monthsProject duration
Over 20 workshopsThreat analyses
Over 500Potential risks evaluated
Reasons for a software refurbishment
As long as a system runs smoothly, you don't pay much attention to it. But at the latest when various problems start to accumulate, it becomes clear that modernization is long overdue. Companies whose individual software no longer keeps pace risk losing touch and losing their competitiveness.
Here are some typical scenarios in which modernization becomes necessary:
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Complex or impossible development of functionalities
Even during the development of the individual software, some functionalities can no longer be implemented or can only be implemented with a great deal of effort. -
Frequent problems in running systems
Ongoing projects reach a level at which problems occur more and more frequently. These can include system crashes in production systems, unexpected errors due to the deployment of new software versions or problems with the application release process. -
Outdated individual software no longer meets changing requirements
Laws, business areas or production processes are changing. The old software can no longer map these new requirements. -
Rising costs with decreasing performance
The costs for operation and further development are rising continuously, while the functionality of the software is only increasing slowly.
Our range of services for software modernization
At MaibornWolff, we cover the entire software modernization process: from the initial analysis of your existing systems through to successful implementation. Our aim is to make your software future-proof, efficient and flexible.
Software Audit
- Detailed site analysis of your system
- Refurbishment plan with specific recommendations for action
- Implementation at eye level with your team by experts from modernization projects
- Roadmap & cost indication
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Investment: up to 60,000 €
Software modernization
- Development of the target image for your system
- Prioritization of the measures
- Empowerment of your development team or joint implementation of the projects
Long-term further development
- Decision whether implementation by MaibornWolff or your team
- Empowerment of your team and support in building a team
- Proven, step-by-step handover phases ensure security
Software refurbishment and modernization: Our approach
From the initial analysis to detailed planning and implementation: we ensure that your software modernization is efficient and successful. Our collaboration looks like this:
1. Initial conversation
Our collaboration begins with a specific problem that brings you to us. A brief discussion helps us to assess the modernization effort and understand your specific needs.
2. Offer and software audit
After the first meeting, you will receive a concrete offer for a software audit. Depending on the scope, this process costs between € 30,000 and € 60,000. During the software audit, we analyze ...
- ... current functionalities and future requirements,
- the code quality and system architecture,
- quality assurance and development processes,
- Efficiency and processes of your software and
- Cloud and mobile readiness (optional).
This check usually takes three weeks and can be carried out in parallel with your day-to-day business. We do not use any unnecessary resources and conduct our workshops exclusively with your relevant experts.
3. Final presentation and next steps
After the software audit, we present our findings and suggestions in a final presentation. Based on these findings, we decide together on the next steps.
Important: You can of course also implement the action plan independently or with an existing service provider.
4. Planning and implementation
Now the actual software modernization begins. We use proven methods and tools for this:
- Team/Ensemble Programming: We work with you to develop a target vision and establish uniform quality standards. In this way, we ensure that your team can continue to add value, even if individual members are absent. IT tasks are usually solved by two to five people.
- Test Driven Development: Establishment of test-driven development, where acceptance criteria are first defined before implementation begins.
- Domain Driven Design: Focus on the technicality of the application, not the database model.
- Code: Knowledge is formalized in code.
- Strangler pattern: Development of new functionalities parallel to the existing software. Old software parts are gradually replaced by new ones without a major conversion step. This method enables continuous integration of new features and provides early feedback during operation.
- Golden Master Test: automated tests to safeguard fragile systems.
- Emergency Response Unit: immediate support in the event of problems.
5. Smooth modernization during operation
We modernize your individual software during operation. The advantages of this are clear: it saves time and money. We also receive rapid feedback from production, which speeds up the development of complex systems and makes it more efficient.
Methods of software modernization
There are various approaches to software modernization, depending on the status and requirements of the existing software. Basically, three main methods can be distinguished:
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Re-write
With this method, outdated software is gradually replaced with new code. This enables continuous improvement and adaptation of the software without interrupting operation. -
Complete modernization
Here, the entire code of the software is completely revised. This method is necessary if the software is very outdated and requires fundamental changes in order to meet current requirements. The tech stack (i.e. the programming language, frameworks, technologies, etc.) is often replaced with the latest technologies. -
Partial renewal
This rarely used method involves supplementing or replacing certain parts of the software, while the rest remains unchanged. This is usually only used when time or budget is very limited.
Tools for software remediation
Regardless of which method you choose, you will receive a smooth and efficient modernization - supported by our proven methods and procedures. Here are four key approaches that we use:
Strangler Pattern
The Strangler Pattern (also known as the Strangler Fig Pattern) is a proven process model that we use frequently and successfully. New functionalities are developed and integrated parallel to the old, running software. As soon as a new functionality has been implemented, this part of the new software goes live. The old software function is gradually replaced by the new one without a complete changeover at once (big bang). This enables early feedback and minimizes risk, as two software systems are in operation at the same time and have to interact with each other.
Clean Code
Refactoring
Software maps
Our software maps are a particular advantage of our approach. These visual representations make the modernization process transparent for you at all times. You can view the progress, assess the refactoring and clearly understand the code quality and dependencies. This visual representation gives you security and confidence throughout the entire process.
Ready for a comprehensive software modernization?
When your software is ready for the next step, we are your partner for successful software modernization. With proven methods, in-depth expertise and a transparent approach, we bring your software up to date. Rely on MaibornWolff to make your system future-proof and efficient. Contact us today and get started on a modern and efficient software future.
FAQ - frequently asked questions about software modernization
What role do data protection and data security play in software modernization?
Surprisingly little! Cybersecurity guidelines are usually well implemented in well-maintained systems. Data protection and security are not currently the main drivers for software modernization projects, but could become more important if legal requirements for cybersecurity increase.What is a legacy system?
A legacy system is a critical system that is indispensable for a company and needs to be modernized. It has historical value for the company, such as important know-how. However, the problem lies in technological obsolescence due to the use of sometimes outdated programming languages and architectures, for which there are often no longer any experts or resources.
Which companies should consider modernizing their software?
Software modernization affects all companies for whose value creation individual software is relevant. The term individual software is important here, as it does not refer to standard software product suites, but to customized solutions that are specifically tailored to the needs of the company. Of course, a company that offers a software product may also have a need for modernization.
A small selection of our customers
