Have you ever wondered how businesses move their apps to the cloud or newer systems without causing major issues?
Application migration can feel like solving a tricky puzzle, especially with old systems and fast-changing technology. Imagine moving your most important tools and data without stopping your work. Sounds stressful, right?
However, with a proper plan, companies can easily upgrade their systems. It is not just upgrading; it is improving performance, cutting costs, and staying future-ready. And it is not only for big companies; even small businesses can reap substantial benefits by choosing the right solutions for their needs.
In this post, we will explain what application migration is, why it’s important, and how you can make the switch with ease.
Key Takeaways
After reading this blog post, you will learn:
- How to choose a cloud migration strategy that aligns with your objectives, applications, and technology.
- How to protect your data during and after the move.
- How can cloud migration save money if planned well to avoid surprises?
- How to update old apps and use this chance to adopt better tools.
- How to keep an eye on your apps after moving to make sure they work well and meet your needs.
What is Application Migration?
Application migration can be defined as the process of relocating software from one location to another. It might mean migrating an on-site server to the cloud, moving from one cloud platform to another, or even from one data center to another.
It is just like moving your office to a more advantageous location. Consider running your business in a small, outdated building with on-site servers. Moving into the modern, larger office, the cloud frees up space and offers higher security at reduced costs.
Or think of that family that moved from a small city apartment to a suburban house: it is roomier or more scalable, it has a more secure neighborhood, and finally, cheaper rent would offer cost savings. Not only would such a move ease living, but it would give one room for expansion.
For businesses, migration is all about modernization. A retailer might need faster online services. A healthcare provider might need secure systems for patient data. By migrating their apps, they save time, cut costs, and prepare for the future.
What are the types of application migration?
There are different types of application migration. Let’s break them down for better understanding:
Cloud Migration
Cloud migration involves moving applications from an on-site data center to a cloud-based system. Many companies choose this option to benefit from the flexibility and cost savings of cloud computing. It often goes hand-in-hand with application modernization. This helps the process run smoothly and improves performance.
Cloud-to-Cloud Migration
This type of migration shifts applications from one cloud setup to another. Companies might do this for reasons like cutting costs, boosting performance, or needing special cloud tools. While cloud-to-cloud migration has some challenges, especially with compatibility, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions have made it easier. These tools simplify many steps and speed up the process.
Data Center Migration
In plain words, the migration of data centers simply means the process involved in moving applications from one data center to another. It is done by an enterprise to upgrade to a better system, improve disaster preparedness, or even merge several different centers into one. In migrating data centers, smooth migration may be ensured only if proper planning is done well in advance to avoid any downtime.
Hybrid Cloud Migration
Hybrid cloud migration involves on-site systems and cloud services. This setup enables companies to have the best of both worlds: security with flexibility. With this method, businesses can more often update older systems to work well with cloud tools. This strategy provides the scalability of the cloud while keeping critical systems on-site.
What are the top Application Migration Strategies?
Moving an app from one environment to another can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—it’s all about finding the right strategy. Whether you’re upgrading to the cloud or improving your system, choosing the right method makes all the difference.
Now we are going to cover the very best app migration strategies; you’ll learn what they are, how they work, and how they will be of help to you.
Lift and Shift (Rehosting)
Rehosting is the easiest migration path. As it were, it is known as “lift and shift” because you move your app as it is-no changes, no fuss.
You copy the app and its data to a new platform, like the cloud. Tools like AWS Server Migration Service (SMS) or Azure Migrate help. Virtual machines (VMs) mimic the old setup in the new space.
Pros:
It’s quick and easy. You won’t need to change the app, so downtime is minimal.
Cons:
The app may not work as well in the new environment. If the old system had issues, they’d follow you to the new setup.
Example:
Imagine moving a customer management system (CMS) from your office servers to the cloud. Nothing about the app changes, just where it’s stored.
Tips:
- Check that the cloud can handle your current setup.
- Automate the move to save time.
- Schedule the migration during quiet hours to avoid disruptions.
Replatforming
Replatforming makes small changes to improve the app’s performance in its new home.
You tweak parts of the app, like switching to a managed service such as AWS RDS for databases. Or, you might put the app into containers using Docker to make it more flexible.
Pros:
It’s a step up from rehosting. You get better performance without a full overhaul.
Cons:
It costs more than rehosting. Also, you’ll still face limits compared to a complete redesign.
Example:
Moving an app to the cloud and switching its database to a managed service like AWS RDS.
Tips:
- Focus on changes that will make the biggest impact.
- Test everything to avoid surprises.
- Be ready for small compatibility issues.
Refactoring
Refactoring means rewriting parts of the app to improve how it works. It’s more involved than replatforming but makes the app faster and more scalable.
You break the app into smaller, independent pieces, like microservices. Tools like AWS Lambda for serverless computing or Kubernetes for containers are great for this.
Pros:
The app becomes faster, more scalable, and easier to update.
Cons:
It’s expensive and takes time. Plus, rewriting parts of the app can cause bugs.
Example:
A company might turn its old inventory system into a modern app using AWS Lambda and DynamoDB.
Tips:
- Start with the most important parts of the app.
- Use automated testing to spot errors.
- Plan for delays—it’s a big job.
Rearchitecting
Rearchitecting means redesigning the app from the ground up. The goal is to fully use cloud features like microservices and serverless tech.
You rebuild the app to run on cloud-native tools like AWS Fargate or Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE). This makes the app faster, more flexible, and ready for future needs.
Pros:
You get the best performance, flexibility, and scalability.
Cons:
It’s expensive and time-consuming. There’s also more risk of downtime during the process.
Example:
Redesigning a CRM system into a cloud-based app using microservices and scalable cloud tools.
Tips:
- Break the project into small steps.
- Train your team in cloud tools to avoid hiccups.
- Transition gradually to keep things stable.
Replacing
Replacing means swapping out an old app for a new, cloud-ready solution. It’s ideal for outdated systems.
You pick a new app, often a SaaS tool like Salesforce. Then, you move data from the old system to the new one.
Pros:
You get modern features and fewer maintenance headaches.
Cons:
It can be costly. Employees may need training, and data migration can be tricky.
Example:
Switching from a legacy CRM to a modern SaaS option like Salesforce.
Tips:
- Choose a flexible system that can grow with your needs.
- Train your team early to make the switch smooth.
- Backup data carefully before migrating.
Retiring
Retiring means shutting down apps that are no longer useful.
First, figure out if the app is still needed. Then, back up important data, archive it and remove the app.
Pros:
It cuts costs and clears up your infrastructure.
Cons:
You must ensure you’re not losing any critical data.
Example:
Closing down an old expense tracker that nobody uses anymore.
Tips:
- Regularly review your apps to find outdated ones.
- Backup all important data before retiring an app.
Retaining
Sometimes, it’s better to leave an app where it is—for now. Retaining is about waiting for the right time to migrate.
You keep the app in its current setup but plan to revisit it later.
Pros:
There’s no cost or disruption right away.
Cons:
You might miss out on cloud benefits and risk falling behind.
Example:
Keep a legacy app on your servers while moving other systems to the cloud.
Tips:
- Set a reminder to reevaluate the app’s future.
- Use retention as a short-term solution.
Repurchasing
Repurchasing replaces your app with a new, ready-made product.
You buy a SaaS tool like Salesforce or ADP Workforce Now. Then, you transfer data and integrate it with other systems.
Pros:
Modern tools come with support and regular updates.
Cons:
They can be expensive, and customization may be limited.
Example:
Switching from in-house payroll software to a SaaS tool like ADP Workforce Now.
Tips:
- Pick a system that fits your future growth.
- Plan for employee training on the new tool.
Redeploying
This means moving the app to a better location, like a new cloud region. You shift the app to a new cloud region or provider to improve speed or reliability.
Pros:
It enhances performance and makes users happier.
Cons:
The process might require reconfiguring parts of the app.
Example:
Moving an app from the US-East cloud region to Asia to serve customers there faster.
Tips:
- Test the app thoroughly after the move.
- Monitor performance closely after redeployment.
Repackaging
Repackaging changes how the app is delivered without altering its core.
You might repackage an app into a container like Docker for easier deployment.
Pros:
It makes the app more portable and easier to manage.
Cons:
It doesn’t fix any underlying problems in the app’s code.
Example:
Using Docker to make an app easier to deploy across different environments.
Tips:
- Use tools like Kubernetes to manage containers.
- Keep environments consistent to avoid issues.
Choosing the right migration strategy can feel tough, but planning helps. Whether you lift and shift, re-platform, or rearchitect, each method has its purpose. With the right strategy, your app can perform better and meet future demands.
What are some of the best practices for application migration?
To make sure your application migration is successful, follow these steps:
Assess Your Application Portfolio
First, review all your applications. Decide which ones are fit for application migration and figure out the best way to move each one. Create a list of applications, their dependencies, and how they perform now. This step is important when you plan a cloud migration or application modernization.
Create a Plan for Application Migration
Next, rank your applications by importance to the business. Plan the order in which you will move them. Focus on the ones that are critical or ready for migration. This is especially key when moving to Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platforms.
Use Tools to Discover Assets and Dependencies
Use technology to map and understand all parts of your applications before migration. This will help you find and fix issues early. It also makes the cloud migration process smoother, especially for workloads moving to SaaS or other cloud environments.
Test Before and After Migration
Always test your applications. Check their performance, data accuracy, and security before and after the move. This ensures that the transition is smooth and users are not affected during cloud migration or application modernization.
Hire Experts for Migration
Work with vendors or cloud service providers (CSPs) who have experience in application migration. They can help you plan, run, and confirm the migration. This is useful, especially for complex cloud migration or SaaS shifts.
Automate Migration Tasks
Automate repetitive and manual tasks in the migration process. This saves time, reduces errors, and lowers costs. Automation can speed up the move to cloud platforms or help with application modernization.
Make a Detailed Migration Plan
Create a step-by-step plan for the migration. Include a timeline, assigned resources, and strategies to handle risks. Also, plan for rollbacks in case something goes wrong during the cloud migration or application modernization process.
Keep Stakeholders Informed
Communicate with everyone involved in the migration. Share the goals, timelines, and possible effects of the move. This is vital, especially for SaaS transitions or modernizing applications for the cloud.
Test the Application Thoroughly
After migration, test the application again to ensure it works as expected. Check its functionality, performance, and security to confirm the cloud migration or application modernization was successful.
Monitor Application Performance
Keep an eye on the application’s performance after migration. Watch for any issues and fix them quickly. This ensures the application runs smoothly in its new cloud environment.
Evaluate Application Suitability
Figure out which applications will benefit the most from cloud migration. Prioritize these to ensure the process is cost-effective, especially when moving to SaaS or modernizing applications.
Build Team Skills
Train your team to manage cloud-based applications. Provide learning resources to ensure the mobile app development are well-maintained. This is critical for successful cloud migration or application modernization.
Back-Up Data Regularly
Back up your data often during the migration. This prevents data loss if something goes wrong, especially in complex cloud migration projects.
Plan the Migration Project
Plan everything before starting the migration. For example, decide where to install migration agents on your source servers. This step helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth application migration process.
Perform Tests Early
Run tests at least two weeks before the migration date. This gives you time to spot and fix any problems. It also ensures the application migration process goes smoothly.
By following these steps, you can make application migration simpler, faster, and more successful. Remember, a clear plan and proper testing are the keys to a smooth transition.
Conclusion
Moving applications to the cloud is a growing trend. Many companies are doing it to modernize and enjoy the benefits of cloud computing. While it can be tricky, with careful planning, the right strategy, and good tools, migration can be a success. By looking at the whole process and planning smartly, businesses can make the most of their cloud investment and meet their goals.
At Linkitsoft, we’ve helped many companies cut downtime by up to 50% and make their systems faster. Picture your systems running without hiccups, your team working better, and your customers facing fewer problems. The results are clear—better productivity and lower costs. Application migration isn’t just an idea—it’s a tested solution, and we have the results to prove it.
With a history of boosting system performance and saving costs, Linkitsoft is the partner you can trust for smooth application migration.
