A legacy, in the computing/business world, refers to something old – an old method, old technology, an old computer system, and/or old application programs. When these types of legacies are being used in the business world, the term “outdated” also typically applies.
Even though newer technologies or more efficient methods of performing a task are available, companies may still be using legacy systems for a variety of reasons:
- the old system is still providing for their needs
- management or employees are resistant to or unwilling to change
- a lack of funds
- a lack of knowledge about new technologies/more efficient methods
Legacy systems can be problematic for numerous reasons:
- their hardware is obsolete and slow
- spare parts for the hardware are difficult to obtain
- the original supplier of the system will eventually stop supporting the system and make it increasingly difficult to maintain or, if the system was built in-house, the knowledge of the original programmer will be lost if he/she leaves for any reason
- no more updates, upgrades, software patches, or anti-virus software will be released
- older systems often have lower levels of security
The older the legacy system, the more difficult it will be to integrate its data into a new system. The older a legacy system is, the harder it will be to find a consultant with knowledge of the system to help with a conversion or system change. The older a legacy system is, the less likely it is that the system will support the things that a business needs to expand, such as mobile computing, a global workforce, and/or extensive documentation. The older a legacy system is, the more likely it is to use procedures and/or terminology that are no longer relevant, hindering understanding, productivity, and, eventually, revenue.
With things like enterprise resource planning systems, business intelligence modules, customer relationship management software, and cloud technology, staying with a legacy system can be a serious detriment to a company. The ways we do business are changing rapidly, and companies who refuse to adapt will quickly lose ground to their competition.
Do you have a legacy system that you have been putting off upgrading?
Talk to us at Oates & Company and we’ll help you decide what new system will work best for you.
