IT directors modernise to leave their legacy

70% of companies rely on legacy systems implemented before 1996

Over two-thirds of UK companies are running parts of their business on technology that is over ten years old, according to Software AG, Europes largest system software company.

The research, carried out by Software AG across 150 IT directors from companies in all sectors, showed that 70 per cent are looking to take steps to modernise their technology in 2007 to bring it into the next century. However, rather than ripping out and replacing legacy systems, 34 per cent of respondents said they were looking to use service-oriented architecture and 29 per cent legacy modernisation as alternative means to improve their technology.

With so many companies relying on legacy systems, of which a quarter have been in place since 1996, its 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 dont have to undergo a full body transplant but can instead be given a facelift for better performance and without costly downtime.

Of those surveyed, only 13 per cent will be following the rip and replace methodology, and 14 per cent said they were 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, concluded 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.

About Software AG

Software AG is Europes largest system software company with a turnover in excess of 438m per annum, and a global workforce of approximately 2,750 employees. It supports the mission-critical systems of over 3,000 customers globally in Government, finance, insurance, pharmaceuticals, retail and manufacturing.

The companys German parent company and other affiliates around the world have provided solutions specifically for the public sector since the company was founded in 1969. Worldwide, key public sector clients include the European Parliament, the State of California and the cities of New York, Munich and Bremen.

Software AG (UK) Limited has been providing solutions to local authorities, government departments and agencies in the UK for over 25 years. Central government customers include PITO, the IND and the DVLA, with local authority customers ranging from the smallest Rutland County Council to the largest Birmingham City Council, demonstrating the scalability of the companys approach.

Software AGs proposition is centred on its ability to combine its award winning process driven integration suite and enterprise transaction products into a common, service oriented (SOA) platform.