Businesses retaining legacy systems

Two-thirds of UK companies are running parts of their business on technology that is over 10 years old

Over two-thirds of UK companies are running parts of their business on technology that is over 10 years old, research has found.

A survey of 150 IT directors from companies in all sectors from vendor Software AG, shows that 70 per cent of firms are looking to modernise their technology in 2007.

Rather than ripping out and replacing legacy systems, 34 per cent of respondents said they were looking to use service-oriented architecture (SOA) and 29 per cent view legacy modernisation as an alternative means to improve their technology.

'With so many companies relying on legacy systems, of which a quarter have been in place since 1996, it’s vital that these are kept as efficient and effective as possible,' said Tim Holyoake, senior consultant at Software AG.

'Technology is constantly changing and being improved. Using SOA, legacy systems don’t have to undergo a full body transplant but can instead be given a facelift for better performance and without costly downtime,' he said.

Of those surveyed, only 13 per cent will follow a the ‘rip and replace’ strategy, and 14 per cent said they are considering a combination of methods for their systems upgrade, such as SOA and legacy modernisation.

'Choosing the best upgrade for your company should be the main priority,' said Holyoake.

'The main factors should include having the least knock-on effects in the short-term, such as staff downtime and high costs, yet long-term benefits and further modernisation potential. By considering all options, organisations can maximise their current IT investments and significantly reduce project and associated business risks.'

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