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Customer needs are shifting all the time . A 2022 Accenture survey of 25,000 global consumers found that 60 % of respondents said their priorities are changing based on global events , like the pandemic . So , modernisation and adaptability are key to good customer experience ( CX ). Yes , legacy migrations can be complex with integration issues and extensive data migrations , but these are risks worth taking to be able to respond to customer demands faster – and stave off the competition .

I sometimes see SMEs hesitant to replace legacy systems because of misconceptions – many fear a loss of service to their existing customers or worry that the migration will be incredibly costly . However , with careful planning , SMEs can minimise any loss of service during migration and , in many cases , migration is far more cost-effective than sticking with outdated infrastructure , which can be very expensive . According to Gartner , by 2025 companies will be spending 40 % of their IT budgets on maintaining technical debt , which includes the cost of maintaining legacy systems .

We find SMEs have the best chance of success by becoming agile , deploying regularly and moving away from legacy architecture . Just look at Microsoft – the company has launched

16 versions of its operating system since 1985 , and this doesn ’ t include the security updates that it releases on the second Tuesday of every month on ‘ Patch Tuesday ’.

Successful migration means investing in a comprehensive , well-executed migration plan . There are several key steps . First , organisations should understand what business objectives they are trying to achieve . Also , what opportunities does moving away from their legacy stack unlock , and what can they now offer their customers ? Then , IT can set realistic objectives of what the business expects to achieve , such as enhanced security and scalability – both crucial for the company ’ s Digital Transformation . We typically suggest that SMEs start with a high-level plan and then deliver it in increments .

For many companies , finding the best way to upgrade their systems can be challenging . So , it helps to work with a hands-on software partner that can guide them through the migration process . At Catapult , we ’ ll work alongside our clients ’ IT teams , ensuring updates align directly with business goals and meet the needs of internal users and customers . Also , our expert consultants and software testing engineers can help keep plans on schedule and upskill teams , preparing our customers for future migrations and future-proofing operations . �

IN MANY CASES ,

MIGRATION IS FAR MORE COST- EFFECTIVE THAN STICKING WITH OUTDATED INFRASTRUCTURE , WHICH CAN BE VERY EXPENSIVE .