ALTERNATIVE SOURCING FOR LEGACY CODE
For many, mainframes are still the heart of their
data center. However, advances in technology, the dwindling number
of workers who understand legacy code, and the rising costs to
maintain that code are driving companies to modernize these often
antiquated systems.
It is estimated that nearly 200 billion lines of
legacy code are in use today. Dealing with this monolithic yet
business-critical legacy code can be torturous, not to mention
time-consuming and costly.
Unfortunately time may be running out for the
existing code. Given that few, if any, universities are teaching mainframe
languages, the life expectancy of legacy code could only extend
another ten years at best when mainframers retire.
So where does this leave legacy code? Your options
could include quick fixes like legacy wrapping, or something more
permanent (yet complex) such as platform migration.
Platform migrations or mainframe modernization can
raise a number of issues, including what to do with legacy code –
often the biggest inhibitor to a successful migration.
Legacy code, no matter how antiquated it may seem,
remains entrenched in companies due to its unique business processes
and historical data.
A
more effective way to address legacy code
during your migration is to outsource it. Utilizing this method
allows your company to work towards finishing the migration in a
timelier manner with the confidence that mission-critical data will
not be lost in the process.
Since 1968
Computer Reserves has specialized in providing mainframe consulting
services. We have addressed legacy issues for numerous clients by
locating alternative sourcing.