Cross-Platform Application Modernization

Paragon modernizes established applications according to what the business needs. We can improve an application on its current platform, move it to a supported version of that platform, or rewrite it for a different platform, language, and database.

Improve, Upgrade, or Replatform

Modernization does not have one predetermined destination. The right approach depends on the condition of the application, the customer’s objectives, and the value each change provides.

Modernize on the Existing PlatformImprove the code, interface, architecture, database access, and integrations while keeping the application on its current operating platform.

Upgrade the Existing TechnologyMove the application to supported versions of its operating system, language, framework, runtime, or database without changing platforms unnecessarily.

Rewrite and ReplatformRebuild the application using a modern architecture and move it to Windows, Linux, IBM i, or another appropriate environment.

Modernize the User ExperienceReplace older desktop, terminal, or forms-based interfaces with secure browser applications designed around current workflows.

Modernize the DatabaseImprove the existing data model or move to DB2 for i, MariaDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, or another database suited to the application.

Modernize IntegrationsReplace file transfers, direct dependencies, and fragile interfaces with APIs, services, and controlled integration processes where appropriate.

Preserve the Business Knowledge, Not Every Technical Limitation

An established application often contains years of business decisions that are not documented anywhere else. Modernization begins by understanding those rules, the data they use, the people and processes they support, and the other systems that depend on them.

We review source code, database structures, interfaces, reports, scheduled processes, security requirements, and operational dependencies before determining what should be retained, redesigned, or replaced. The objective is not to reproduce outdated behavior automatically. It is to preserve what remains valuable while improving what limits the business.

The resulting plan may call for a focused upgrade, a phased modernization, or a complete rewrite. Each option has different costs, risks, and benefits, and we recommend the path that fits the customer’s priorities.

Projects Built Around the Right Destination

Microsoft Access to a Web Application

Replace an established Access application with a maintainable PHP, Python, Java, or Node.js web application while preserving its important workflows and data.

IBM i to a New Platform

Rewrite an RPG application in PHP or another appropriate language and move its data to Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MariaDB, MySQL, or another selected database.

Modernize Without Moving

Improve an application on its current platform through code changes, a current runtime, a redesigned interface, better database access, or updated integrations.

Desktop to Browser

Replace an older desktop or forms-based application with a responsive web application that is easier to deploy, access, and support.

Framework and Runtime Upgrades

Update an application to supported language, framework, and runtime versions while addressing the compatibility changes required by the newer environment.

Phased Application Replacement

Replace one function or workflow at a time while the established application continues operating, reducing disruption and spreading change across manageable phases.

The Platform Follows the Application Requirements

A modernization project should not begin with an assumption that every application belongs in the cloud, on Linux, on Windows, or away from IBM i. Each can be the right destination under the right circumstances.

Paragon works across PHP, Python, Java, Node.js, RPG, COBOL, SQL, and related application technologies. We also work with DB2 for i, MariaDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Microsoft SQL Server. This breadth allows the destination to be selected according to business and technical requirements rather than the limits of a single development stack.

Application Modernization Questions

Does modernization always mean moving to a different platform?

No. An application can be modernized while remaining on its current platform. The work may involve its code, interface, database, integrations, runtime, or deployment without changing the underlying operating platform.

Can you completely rewrite an existing application?

Yes. When a complete rewrite provides the best long-term result, we can redesign the application in a modern language and architecture while accounting for its existing business rules, data, interfaces, and operational requirements.

Can the programming language and database both change?

Yes. A project may change the application language, database, operating platform, and user interface. Those decisions are evaluated together because each affects the architecture, migration plan, testing, and support model.

What if the application is poorly documented?

We regularly work with applications whose documentation is incomplete or outdated. We analyze the source, data, interfaces, and running processes to determine how the application works before designing its replacement or upgrade.

Can modernization be completed in phases?

Yes. Many applications can be modernized by function, workflow, interface, or integration. A phased approach can reduce disruption while allowing the business to receive value before the entire program is complete.