Existing Systems

What do you mean by existing systems?

When we refer to "existing systems", we mean the tools and software that your business relies on daily to manage various operations - whether financial, operational or administrative in nature. These systems are integral to your business's success and there comes a point where tough decisions have to be made with regards to maintaining your current systems, upgrading, changing or scrapping them.

Data management systems

Outdated excel workflows: Excel has long been a, or rather THE, go to tool for businesses for data management, reporting and analysis. However, as data grows and business needs evolve, using Excel for complex workflows can become inefficient and downright risky - something you may well have already experienced.

Legacy CRM systems

Old bespoke CRMs: Custom CRM systems are designed to meet specific business needs, but as time goes on, they can become difficult to maintain and tend to be prone to compatibility issues with newer technologies. Without the flexibility or scalability that modern systems offer, these legacy CRMs can hinder your ability to effectively manage customer relationships with potentially catastrophic consequences.

Project/Workforce Management systems

Outdated project management software: Older project management systems were suitable for basic task management but may no longer suffice as your business grows. These systems lack advanced features such as automated reporting, cloud storage and real time analytics, creating potential issues in your workflows (and your workforce!). 

Workforce Management systems: Legacy workforce management systems that lack mobile access or cloud integration can create obstacles to managing distributed teams, scheduling and time tracking. As your workforce morphs and changes, upgrading to a custom workforce management system designed for modern challenges can greatly enhance resource allocation, productivity and indeed - operational efficiency.

Legacy infrastructure

Ageing infrastructure: Older hardware and software infrastructure, whilst once state of the art, might now be a costly pain in the neck. These systems quite often rely on outdated programming languages or proprietary technologies that simply do not integrate well with modern solutions. 

The impact of keeping legacy systems

The decision to keep these older systems may seem appealing for the near future, especially if they’ve been working well 'enough' for years. However, here are some of the negative effects that businesses face when they hold on to legacy systems for too long - 

• Higher upkeep costs: As technology continues to develop, supporting outdated systems becomes more expensive. Custom built systems in particular may require specialised expertise that’s harder to find and more expensive to retain. Additionally, parts, updates and support for older software can become increasingly scarce, making it difficult to fix issues quickly.

• Incompatibility with modern software: Legacy systems often struggle to integrate with modern software systems and applications. This can create problematic data silos and disrupt your workflows, leading to inefficiencies and ultimately - lost opportunities for your business.

• Security risks: Legacy systems may not be able to support the latest security protocols, leaving your data vulnerable to cyber threats. Modern systems tend to be continuously updated to meet current security standards, ensuring better protection of your sensitive business information.

Should you stay, or should you go?

In some cases, keeping your legacy systems can be a viable option, especially if they’ve been deeply integrated into your business operations. If your systems are still reliable and effectively meet your needs, ensuring they are regularly updated and maintained can help prolong their life. This approach allows you to retain the familiarity and customisation that your team is comfortable with, whilst ensuring your systems are as optimised, secure and as flexible as they can be.

On the other hand, a new solution may well be the better option, especially if your legacy software is struggling to accommodate the demands of your growing business. A custom built system allows you to design a solution that is definitively aligned with your current and future needs, incorporating the latest technologies and best practices. Unlike legacy systems, a new bespoke solution can be more efficient, scalable and secure, offering greater flexibility for expansion and innovation.

How can we help?

If you’re currently using legacy systems that are outdated and/or difficult to maintain, we can help assess your situation and guide you through the process of migrating to more modern, efficient solutions. Our UK based development team specialises in upgrading, replacing and optimising legacy systems, ensuring that your business stays competitive, secure and of course - future proof!

Get in touch today to learn how we can help you transition from outdated technologies to innovative solutions that support your business’s growth!