Delphi partner: stabilise, support, replace

• Security vulnerabilities: Old software is often no longer up to date with the latest security technology.
• High maintenance costs: Supporting outdated systems can be expensive and time-consuming.
• Lack of integration: Legacy software is often not compatible with modern systems, which makes integration more difficult.
• Departure of employees: When experienced employees leave the company, they often lack the knowledge needed to continue to effectively maintain complex Delphi systems.
• Less Delphi developers: The number of developers who are proficient in the Delphi programming language is decreasing, which makes it more difficult to support outdated software.

• Competitive pressure: To remain competitive, companies need to be agile and innovative.
• Technological progress: New technologies offer better solutions to existing problems.
• Lack of flexibility: Outdated systems are often inflexible and cannot easily adapt to new business requirements.
• Customer requirements: Customer expectations are rising and require modern, user-friendly systems.
• Lack of support: There is often no official support for old technologies, which makes troubleshooting and maintenance more difficult.

1. analysing the initial situation

Before we make a joint decision for or against a replacement, it is important to thoroughly analyse the initial situation. This includes

• Assessing the size and complexity of the software: How extensive is the application and how many dependencies are there?
• Review of documentation and critical system components: Is all relevant information documented and available? How many people have access to the solution?
• Risk management: Are outdated or even EOL components being used? Do we need to perform an initial risk management? Is there «disaster» that could occur very suddenly? (e.g. a missing backup or the departure of a developer).

2. stabilisation, yes or no?

After our analysis, we decide whether the existing software needs to be stabilised. If this is the case, we start the stabilisation phase and stand by your side as a reliable partner. In this way, we support your company in going through the process and making the right decisions.

Stabilisation phase

In this phase, immediate measures are required to secure the software:

• Create backups: We ensure that all important data is backed up.
• Update documentation: Here we record all changes and system settings.
• Risk minimisation: We identify and minimise potential risks (quick wins)

Coordination with the customer about necessary steps

At soxes, we attach great importance to transparency and communication. We discuss the necessary steps together and coordinate the approach to find the best possible solution for your individual needs.

3. development of a re-engineering strategy

A successful re-engineering strategy requires a clear understanding of the existing architecture and well thought-out planning. Without preparation, switching to new software can bring unexpected risks and costs. Careful planning is important for the initial project phases. A fixed budget or a flexible time-and-materials model enables quick results and a gradual adjustment of the project based on initial successes.

4. the replacement

Delphi software often follows a three-tier structure with a front end, business logic and a database. The strategy for replacing Delphi systems includes several critical steps:

1. Upgrade to the latest Delphi version
   It often makes sense to update to the latest Delphi version first in order to create a stable starting point for the replacement.
2. Modularise and encapsulate internal logic
   Parts of the internal logic can be encapsulated in DLLs, allowing individual components to be reused later in other technologies.
3. Retain the existing database structure
   In a first step, the existing database is often retained in order to simplify the transition and reduce complexity.
4. Split software into modules
   Splitting the software into modules, e.g. according to business logic or technical criteria such as interfaces, makes the replacement process more flexible and clearer.
5. Define target architecture and migration path
   A clear target architecture and a well thought-out migration path prevent a ‘big bang’ and ensure a controlled, gradual transition.
6. Plan the order of module replacement and set the schedule
   In this step, we define the order in which the modules will be replaced and create a rough schedule to manage progress in a targeted manner.
7. Carry out step-by-step implementation
   Together and in close coordination, we implement the replacement in clearly defined steps, either in one or several projects, in order to minimise risks and ensure flexibility.

At the end of this process, you will have a modern and easy-to-maintain software that meets today’s technical and business requirements. The new architecture makes it easy to make customisations and extensions. The modularisation and structured transition ensures that business operations remain stable and downtimes are minimised.

In addition, the software can be better connected to other systems and utilises current technologies for higher performance, security and scalability. Your organisation now has a future-proof platform that supports ongoing operations and provides scope for innovation.