Working With a Software Modernization Partner: Best Practices & Key Questions

Software modernization goes far beyond a simple technical update; it’s a strategic transformation that requires specialized expertise.

In this article, we look best practices for selecting and working with a software modernization partner. We cover the importance of expertise, experience, methodology, communication and corporate culture, to provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating this complex process.

Software modernization requires specific expertise, distinct from traditional software development. Here are some key points to consider:

Technical & specialized expertise

• The gradual transition from an old system to a new one is distinctive and complex, often diverging from standard software development practices. Assessing a partner’s ability to manage complexities like progressive deployment vs ‘Big Bang’ approaches, and legacy code is essential.
• Ensure the partner has expertise in starting from old code and adapting to outdated technologies, whether or not access to previous code is available. Verify their resourcefulness in navigating these challenges to ensure a smooth transition.
• Guarantee that data migration will be complete to ensure a functional system integrating legacy data.

The success of software modernization depends to a large extent on the partner’s past experience. A thorough assessment of past achievements is crucial to the success of your project. Here are some key points to consider:

Similar, long-term projects

• Review recent references for similar projects in terms of size and duration, particularly those that have successfully demonstrated the partner’s ability to manage complex initiatives over an extended period.
• Check references on phased deployments, highlighting the partner’s ability to orchestrate smooth and efficient transitions between initial and final technologies.

Expertise by player, not by company

• Assess the specific expertise of key members of the partner’s team, in addition to the company’s overall expertise, to ensure quality leadership and execution throughout the project.

Past experience with QA methods and UX validation

• Confirm the partner’s experience with advanced QA methods, such as load testing, automated testing and usability testing, ensuring the quality and reliability of the modernized system.
• Examine the partner’s ability to maintain data integrity by efficiently recovering, normalizing and reintegrating data from third-party systems, crucial for a smooth transition.

Ability to integrate new technologies

• The partner must demonstrate an ability to keep abreast of the latest technological trends and integrate these innovations into modernization projects.
• Question the partner on its strategies for promoting a culture of innovation and continuous employee development, as well as on the testing of new technologies.

Agile approach

• Check the partner’s ability to clearly define the project vision and maintain an iterative, incremental focus in agile mode. Make sure they measure the value delivered and encourage frequent feedback to adjust and improve the project.
• Explore how long the partner has actually been practicing agility, and whether ongoing coaching is in place to support the adoption and effective application of agile methods.
• Investigate how this approach is lived out in reality; it’s crucial that the partner doesn’t just declare itself agile, but demonstrates a real ability to deliver in line with agile principles.

Validation and QA

• Plan and structure various types of testing, such as load tests, integration tests and functional tests, automating them to ensure the stability of the modernized system.
• Plan usability tests to guarantee quality and user satisfaction during system changeover.

Effective governance and transparent communication are crucial to the success of software modernization. Here’s what you need to consider:

Transparency and open communication

• Make sure the partner practices transparent communication, avoiding secrecy. For example, if they need to repatriate the project to your operational team, this needs to be aligned with their approach.
• Implement good project governance methods, including appropriate progress monitoring for both senior management and operational aspects.

Post-launch training and support

• Develop an effective end-user training strategy to ensure optimal adoption of the new system.
• Plan solid post-launch support, including performance monitoring, rapid problem resolution and regular system updates to meet new requirements and security threats.

Corporate culture plays a crucial role in the success of software modernization. Here’s what you need to consider:

Alignment of values and vision

• Make sure the partner shares your values and vision, facilitating smooth and effective collaboration.
• Check the partner’s employee retention rate to assess team stability and commitment.

Innovation and continuous improvement

• Choose a partner who fosters innovation and continuous improvement, regularly integrating new technologies and practices to stay on the cutting edge.
• Assess the partner’s established processes for adopting new technologies and their impact on modernization projects.

Choosing the right software modernization partner is a complex challenge that requires a thorough assessment of several key factors. By following shared best practices, you can maximize your chances of success and transform your business with effective, sustainable software modernization.

By incorporating these elements into your selection and collaboration process, you can not only avoid common pitfalls, but also take full advantage of the opportunities offered by successful software modernization.