Legacy Application Support

Legacy Application Support

Published on: 08/09/2024

With over two decades of experience in web development and application maintenance, I specialise in supporting and modernising legacy systems. I understand the challenges of managing older websites and applications, and I'm here to help you keep your valuable digital assets running smoothly and securely.

Why Legacy Support Matters

Many businesses rely on legacy systems that, while functional, may be outdated or difficult to maintain. These systems often:

• Contain critical business logic developed over many years
• Use older technologies that are no longer widely supported
• Lack documentation or have outdated documentation
• Face security vulnerabilities due to outdated components
• Struggle with compatibility issues with modern browsers and devices

My role is to address these challenges, ensuring your legacy systems continue to serve your business needs whilst gradually modernising them for improved performance, security, and maintainability.

Legacy Support Services

1. System Assessment and Documentation

• Thorough evaluation of your existing systems
• Creation of comprehensive documentation
• Identification of potential risks and areas for improvement

2. Bug Fixing and Performance Optimisation

• Resolving existing issues and bugs
• Improving system performance and response times
• Optimising database queries and application logic

3. Security Audits and Enhancements

• Identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities
• Implementing modern security practices
• Ensuring compliance with current data protection regulations

4. Compatibility Updates

• Updating systems to work with modern browsers and devices
• Implementing responsive design for mobile compatibility
• Ensuring cross-browser and cross-platform functionality

5. Code Refactoring and Modernisation

• Rewriting and restructuring code for improved maintainability
• Updating to more recent versions of programming languages and frameworks
• Implementing modern coding standards and best practices

6. Integration with Modern Systems

• Developing APIs to connect legacy systems with new applications
• Implementing data migration strategies
• Creating bridges between old and new technologies

7. Phased Modernisation Planning

• Developing strategies for gradual system updates
• Balancing modernisation with business continuity
• Planning for eventual system replacement or complete overhaul

Technologies I Support

I have experience with a wide range of legacy technologies, including but not limited to:

• PHP (including older versions)
• ColdFusion & CFML
• Classic JavaScript and early jQuery
• HTML & CSS (including older versions)
• Legacy databases (e.g., older versions of MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server)
• Legacy content management systems

My Approach

1. Understand Your Needs: I begin by thoroughly understanding your system's role in your business and your goals for its future.
2. Assess and Document: I carefully evaluate your system, documenting its current state, dependencies, and potential issues.
3. Prioritise and Plan: Together, we'll create a prioritised plan that balances immediate needs with long-term goals.
4. Implement Changes: I make careful, well-tested updates to your system, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations.
5. Knowledge Transfer: I provide clear documentation and guidance to your team throughout the process.
6. Ongoing Support: I offer continued support and maintenance to keep your systems running smoothly.

Why Choose Me for Your Legacy Support Needs?

• Extensive Experience: With over 20 years in web development, I've worked with a wide range of technologies and understand the complexities of legacy systems.
• Tailored Solutions: I don't believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Each solution is carefully crafted to meet your specific needs and constraints.
• Clear Communication: I keep you informed every step of the way, explaining technical concepts in easy-to-understand terms.
• Focus on Business Continuity: My approach ensures that your critical systems remain operational throughout the modernisation process.
• Long-term Perspective: While addressing immediate issues, I always keep an eye on your long-term technology strategy.

Want to know more?

If you're facing challenges with your legacy websites or applications, I'm here to help. Let's discuss how we can keep your systems running smoothly while gradually moving them towards modern standards. Feel free to reach out for an initial consultation about your legacy support needs.