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Modern Enterprise Architecture with Legacy Systems: Integrating Critical Legacy Environments Without Increasing Technical Debt

Publisher IDC
Published Aug 23, 2025
Length 8 Pages
SKU # IDC20329124

Description

This IDC Perspective discusses IDC's frameworks on enterprise technical debt leverage (ETDL), data tech debt, and technical health to explore how organizations can connect legacy systems without compounding their technology liabilities. In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, enterprises striving for agility and innovation often face a persistent challenge: legacy systems. These vital systems, while underpinning core business operations, can significantly hinder modernization efforts, impact competitiveness, and increase risk. Legacy systems are deeply embedded in enterprise operations, particularly in regulated industries or long-established business models. These systems are often proprietary, brittle, and resistant to integration, yet their operational value prevents their retirement. As enterprises continue to attempt digital transformations, the challenge arises: how to integrate legacy systems into modern architectures without compounding and increasing technical debt that hampers innovation. Enterprise architecture can resolve this dilemma using measurable and repeatable frameworks, specifically IDC's enterprise technical debt leverage methodology."Effective management of legacy systems is about understanding and strategically leveraging technical debt," says Dr. Ken Knapton, adjunct research advisor for IDC's IT Executive Programs (IEP). "By adopting a data-driven approach, IT leaders can transform legacy systems into strategic assets that support business goals while minimizing long-term risk."

Table of Contents

8 Pages

Executive Snapshot

Situation Overview

Introduction

The Nature of Legacy Systems in Modern Architecture

Understanding and Applying ETDL

Legacy Integration Without Increased Tech Debt

The Hidden Layer: Data Tech Debt in Legacy Environments

Evaluating and Communicating Technical Health of Legacy Systems

Strategic Evaluation of Legacy Systems as Tech Debt

Recommendations for Managing Legacy Systems within Enterprise Architecture

Conclusion

Advice for the Technology Buyer

Strategic Advice

Tactical Advice

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