Application Modernization Trends: Key Technologies and Tools for 2024

The process of application modernization has evolved significantly from the complex and time-consuming projects of the past.

Today, it's all about seamlessly incorporating modern technologies into older systems, enabling cloud migrations for easy data access, and utilizing DevOps automation for streamlined operations.

These trends are designed to adapt to business needs, making modernization more straightforward and efficient than ever.

In this blog, we'll cover six key trends in application modernization that can transform legacy systems, along with the tools that can help you stay ahead.

Let's get started!

Why Keeping Up with Application Modernization Trends Matters

Application modernization involves updating outdated systems to meet current technology standards, and it's no surprise that nearly 87% of IT leaders recognize its importance. But why is this process crucial?

By modernizing key applications, businesses can address today’s user expectations and improve service quality. Partnering with Techzert, an application modernization consultant, or an app modernization consultancy can help you stay ahead of industry trends and overcome challenges more effectively.

The result? Modernized software delivers better scalability, stronger security, smoother user experiences, and easier maintenance.

Leveraging tools and services, such as IBM application modernization services, ensures your software is optimized for growth, enabling your business to thrive in the digital era.

The Current Market Trend for Application Modernization Technology

The landscape of application modernization technology is evolving rapidly, and staying current is crucial for businesses aiming to stay competitive.

An increasing number of companies are recognizing the need to modernize their software to meet the expectations of today’s users. This shift is driving the adoption of app modernization trends across various industries.

So, get ready to dive into the exciting world of legacy modernization and discover the key benefits of application modernization. Staying informed ensures your software keeps pace with the demands of the digital age.

1. Low-Code & No-Code Development

Low-code and no-code development tools allow users to build basic applications quickly, making them ideal for individuals with limited programming skills. It's predicted that by 2025, 70% of new apps will be created using these platforms.

But why are low-code and no-code development leading the way in mainframe modernization trends?

• Empowering Developers: It's not just beginners who benefit. Experienced developers can use low-code/no-code tools to speed up the creation of simpler apps or components, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. This approach boosts efficiency and optimizes your modernization strategy.
• Accelerating Innovation: These tools significantly shorten the time it takes to turn an idea into a working application. You can quickly create prototypes and pass them on to seasoned developers for refinement, speeding up the entire development process.
• Closing the Talent Gap: With the current shortage of skilled developers, low-code and no-code platforms are becoming essential. They enable teams to handle basic programming tasks, reducing the pressure on experienced developers and ensuring projects move forward without delays.

2. Cloud-native Development

Cloud-native applications are rapidly becoming the industry norm, with forecasts suggesting that by 2025, 90% of all apps will be cloud-native.

These applications are built on microservices architecture, allowing for continuous updates and improvements—an essential part of modernizing your software infrastructure.

So, what makes cloud-native development stand out?

• Faster Updates: Cloud-native applications enable businesses to roll out new versions and updates more quickly, giving them a competitive edge in the market.
• Cost-efficient Operations: These applications are designed for optimized resource usage, making them a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to reduce operational expenses.
• Flexibility and Performance: Their adaptable nature allows for real-time adjustments, ensuring consistent performance with minimal downtime. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining reliable services.
• Enhanced User Experience: With cloud-native applications, users enjoy smooth, uninterrupted experiences, leading to higher satisfaction and engagement.

3. Progressive Web Applications (PWAs)

In the fast-paced world of application modernization, Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) have become a game-changer. These versatile applications can run smoothly on any device—be it a smartphone or desktop—as long as there’s an internet browser.

What makes PWAs stand out?

• Speed: PWAs are designed for rapid loading times, ensuring an enhanced user experience with minimal wait times.
• Performance: With a focus on efficiency, PWAs offer smooth, responsive interactions, providing users with a seamless browsing experience.
• Data Efficiency: These applications use data conservatively, making them an excellent option for users in areas with limited bandwidth or data restrictions.
• Automatic Updates: Keeping PWAs up to date is effortless, as they update automatically in the background without requiring manual intervention from users.
• Cross-device Compatibility: PWAs offer universal accessibility, allowing them to bridge the gap between different devices and platforms, providing a consistent experience across the board.

4. Personalization and Data Tracking

Personalization, often referred to as the Internet of Behavior (IoB), allows businesses to leverage vast amounts of data and turn it into actionable insights. This data-driven approach enables you to better understand your users and streamline operations.

By analyzing data from sources like CRM software and identifying patterns through ERP systems, businesses can craft personalized experiences for both internal teams and external customers.

With these insights, you can customize interactions, improving user satisfaction and operational efficiency.

5. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Adoption

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) is playing a pivotal role in speeding up the application modernization process. These technologies, paired with high-performance computing and data caching, can evaluate legacy applications, pinpoint improvement areas, and even automate code refactoring and testing.

What does this mean?

By automating complex tasks, AI and ML reduce the workload on architects and developers, minimize the risk of inefficiencies, and result in secure, high-performing applications.

Integrating AI and ML further enhances data analysis, predictions, and automation, leading to more efficient decision-making and delivering highly personalized user experiences.

6. Integrating App Modernization Framework with DevOps

The integration of DevOps into application modernization is a natural fit, fostering collaboration between IT teams and the broader organization. This alignment ensures that developers involved in modernization projects work in sync with the company’s overall business objectives.

DevOps effectively addresses common issues like communication gaps and productivity roadblocks, paving the way for faster deployments, better quality control, and increased adaptability.

As cybersecurity becomes a growing concern, DevOps plays a crucial role in safeguarding modernized applications. By embedding security practices throughout the modernization process, DevOps helps protect against potential vulnerabilities, ensuring that security is a top priority from the start.

Application Modernization Tools

 Application modernization tools are essential for simplifying and optimizing the modernization process. From cloud migration to AI-driven code refactoring, these tools help manage every step with ease.

Below are some of the key tools and technologies driving application modernization trends in 2024. 

1. APIs

Did you know that 85% of businesses consider APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) essential for their digital transformation?

APIs are the backbone of modern application development. These powerful tools allow different software components to communicate, enabling applications to interact and share data seamlessly.

Major companies like Google and Facebook offer APIs that allow developers to integrate their services into third-party apps, extending their functionality and reach.

By partnering with Techzert for API modernization consulting services, businesses can strategically implement APIs to unlock new revenue streams, enhance user experiences, and drive innovation.

Want to learn more? One of our senior engineers explains a real-life example of application modernization using APIs and cloud solutions, step by step.

2. Microservices

Microservices architecture is transforming the way applications are built and managed. Instead of relying on large, monolithic systems, microservices break down complex applications into smaller, manageable services.

What’s the outcome? Increased agility, scalability, and fault tolerance.

This approach allows applications to scale independently, enabling resource allocation to areas that need it most, which leads to cost savings and enhanced user experiences.

The microservices model also empowers developers to focus on smaller, specialized components, streamlining development cycles and supporting continuous integration and deployment. Businesses utilizing app modernization microservices can achieve faster innovation and more flexible software management.

 3. Cloud Platforms

Cloud platforms have become a cornerstone of application modernization due to their unparalleled flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency.

Consider this: With cloud platforms, businesses can adapt to evolving demands in real-time, paying only for the resources they use while ensuring the security and availability of their applications.

By leveraging the cloud, companies can modernize their applications more efficiently, supporting growth and delivering seamless user experiences

4. Data Migration Tools

Data migration is a crucial part of application modernization, making reliable data migration tools essential for a successful transition.

These tools simplify the process of moving data from legacy systems to modern environments. For example, check out our guide on how migrating Btrieve to SQL is significantly easier with the right tools.

The benefits? Efficient data migration tools ensure data integrity, minimize downtime, and reduce the risk of data loss. By using these tools, you can fully leverage your data's potential while modernizing your applications for enhanced performance and functionality.

The Future and Rise of Emerging Technologies in Application Modernization

As we look to the future of application modernization, emerging technologies are set to play a pivotal role. Imagine applications that understand your business needs, streamline processes, and deliver personalized experiences.

With Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), this is becoming more achievable. These technologies enable businesses to gain deeper insights, automate tasks, and improve decision-making. Applications will soon be able to identify bottlenecks, suggest optimizations, and predict maintenance needs—proactively enhancing performance.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is also revolutionizing application modernization. By integrating IoT data, modern apps will support predictive maintenance, smart automation, and provide better user experiences.

Blockchain is no longer just for cryptocurrencies; it's transforming how data is securely stored. Modern applications require enhanced data security, integrity, and transparency, all of which blockchain technology offers.

The future of application modernization is filled with transformative potential. Technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain are reshaping the landscape, making it essential for businesses to stay ahead and leverage these advancements to remain competitive.

Conclusion

By embracing trends like cloud-native development, AI, and low-code platforms, organizations can stay competitive, enhance user experiences, and achieve significant cost efficiencies.

Don’t let outdated legacy systems slow you down. Now is the time to modernize and prepare your business for the future.

If you’re seeking a trusted partner for app modernization consulting services or API modernization consulting services, Techzert is here to assist. With our expertise, comprehensive application modernization services, and commitment to staying ahead of technology trends, we can help you seamlessly transform your applications for long-term success.