BUSINESS INSIGHTS
The SMB roadmap to replace legacy systems
5:00 Minute Read
5:00 Minute Read
By Spectrum Business
The need to leave behind legacy technology is clear for leaders of small to midsized enterprises. Whether it is an inefficient voice platform or the growing demand for seamless AI across network operations, outdated system costs drain both money and opportunity. But needed migration can trigger unneeded disruption.
For SMB leaders and IT directors, legacy systems sometimes work well enough for the moment. Knowing when and how to upgrade is critical. With the right comprehensive but incremental strategy in place, disruption can be minimized while the tools for future success are put in place.
The perils of keeping legacy technology are many, from compromised cybersecurity to higher maintenance costs to regulatory compliance challenges. Accepting this is critical.
According to a 2024 Deloitte survey where 82% of companies reported missing cost reduction targets, half of those companies blamed outdated technology as a key barrier to success. For SMB, legacy systems can compound hardships around efficiency, security and training.
Smaller businesses are often seen as having early-mover advantages due in part to scale. But internal complexities can be disruptive to modernization whatever the size of the enterprise. A detailed inventory should be conducted on all technologies the business uses, as well as ranking their relative importance. This will help not only in identifying outdated programs but prioritizing which should be replaced soonest.
There is no rule that migrating from legacy systems must happen all at once. A focused, graduated transition can be beneficial for customers and the workforce alike.
Introducing a single technology piece, such as installing digital points of sale at a store location, can incentivize the introduction of component pieces like cloud inventory tracking. The more familiar customers and employees become with the advantages of digitalization, the greater their appetite for more.
Engaging with a non-legacy connectivity solution can be another first step in incremental change, since fast connectivity is essential to unlocking other innovations. Cloud services offer many innovation opportunities; deploying faster bandwidth speeds helps realize them.
One important reality with legacy technology migration is the need for qualified support. Many legacy technology transitions are undertaken with outside consultants.
The process begins with finding a managed services provider willing to take time to understand your business. This should include both the value and the shortcomings of your legacy technology. Strategizing then takes place around the best ways to address future needs while minimizing disruption. This gives business owners the choice to take advantage of new opportunities to accelerate innovation, streamline operations, and reduce costs
Want to learn how small and mid-sized businesses can replace legacy systems with minimum disruption? Spectrum Business can help you on your journey.
