5 pitfalls to avoid (and what to do instead)
- Treating every system the same. Some capabilities are commodities (replaceable); others differentiate you (rebuildable). Use a simple capability map and assign a path per system. IDC’s MarketScape work reveals a crowded field of low- or no-code options, so shortlist intentionally. IDC
- Jumping into a big‑bang cutover. It’s rarely necessary. Prefer a strangler approach – run old and new in parallel, move traffic gradually, and retire modules one by one. It’s easier to explain to executives and lowers operational risk.
- Underestimating the platform decision. Don’t choose by demos alone. Use the Forrester Wave (Q2 2025) for pro‑developer low‑code and Gartner’s category views to frame questions on governance, openness and scale; then test in your environment.
- Thinking low‑code is only for quick apps. Forrester’s 2024 research calls low‑code a first‑class approach for professional developers. That’s why it’s a strong candidate for rebuild tracks – especially with OutSystems. Need examples and patterns? See our OutSystems expertise.
- Forgetting the operating model. New tools without new ways of working lead to stalled value. Establish a platform “golden path” (identity, CI/CD, testing, security) and measure outcomes every fortnight. PhoenixDX’s AI + low‑code delivery provides this path from day one.
How to decide: a quick table
| Choice | Use when | Time to value | Risks | What helps |
| Legacy app replacement (SaaS/package) | Needs are standard; fit is high (80%+) | Fast | Data migration; change management | Phase the rollout; keep customisation light |
| Legacy app rebuild (low‑code + pro‑code) | You need speed and control | Medium | Design quality; skills | OutSystems + paved “golden path”; reuse patterns OutSystems |
| Refactor/strangle | Big, risky monoliths | Medium | Integration complexity | Stabilise APIs/events; migrate by feature |
How it works / Practical steps
- Make the one‑page plan. List top 10 systems, assign a path (replace/rebuild/refactor/retire), and choose two increments to ship first.
- Shortlist platforms the right way. Use Forrester’s Wave (2025) and IDC MarketScape (2024/2025) to shape your RFx; prioritise openness, governance, and ecosystem. Then run a hands‑on proof‑of‑architecture. OutSystems+2IDC+2
- Stand up the platform rails. Build once, use everywhere: identity, pipelines, tests, logging, security checks. PhoenixDX provides accelerators via AI + low‑code delivery.
- Show value quickly. Demo working software to execs every fortnight; measure lead time, change failure rate, and one business KPI.
- Scale with confidence. Add teams to the paved path; reuse components; keep the backlog outcome‑driven.
Benefits & business outcomes
- Faster time to value with control. Forrester’s “State of Low‑Code, Global 2024” shows low‑code is a first‑class approach for pro teams – helpful when rebuild is the right path.
- Market momentum and choice. Forrester forecasts low‑code + DPA could approach $50B by 2028, signalling deep enterprise adoption and ongoing innovation.
- Independent validation for shortlists. OutSystems appears in the Forrester Wave (Q2 2025) and IDC’s MarketScape reports – use these alongside your PoC results. OutSystems+1
Risks & how to mitigate them
- Lock‑in or over‑customisation. Mitigation: keep customisations thin, validate data export and extension points during PoC, and design around APIs/events. Use Gartner and Forrester research to guide due‑diligence questions. Gartner+1
- Runaway scope. Mitigation: time‑box, ship thin slices, and maintain a visible “not now” list.
- Quality drift as teams scale. Mitigation: enforce the paved path, automate testing and checks, and share metrics transparently.
PhoenixDX approach (brief)
PhoenixDX helps organisations choose replace vs rebuild pragmatically, then deliver on a paved path that balances speed and governance. We bring reference architectures, enablement, and reusable components so squads can move faster with fewer surprises.
When rebuild is the answer, OutSystems gives pro developers speed without losing control. We weave it into your stack through OutSystems expertise and a modern legacy modernisation roadmap.
FAQs
Q: How to modernise legacy apps without a risky cutover?
A: Stabilise APIs/events, run old and new in parallel, and shift traffic gradually. This reduces risk and keeps the business comfortable with the pace of change.
Q: Where does OutSystems fit best?
A: Rebuild tracks that need speed and strong governance. Use the Forrester Wave (Q2 2025) and Gartner category views to compare, then test in your environment.
Q: How do we choose between replace and rebuild?
A: If the process is standard and a package fits with minimal changes, replace. If it’s differentiating and you need control, rebuild – often faster with a platform like OutSystems.
Q: What should we measure?
A: Lead time for change, change failure rate, time‑to‑restore, and one business KPI for the journey you’re modernising.
Conclusion
Modernisation succeeds when choices are simple, increments are small, and the path is paved. If you’re looking for a pragmatic plan and a partner who helps your teams move faster, PhoenixDX is ready to help.
Ready to move faster with lower risk?
Book a quick call to discuss your roadmap or explore our legacy modernisation approach.
