Legacy systems like IBM’s IMS are commonplace in many organizations but come with complex management issues. The metaphor of the St. Anthony Falls’ concrete wall illustrates the challenges of ownership; both the Army Corps of Engineers and the State of Minnesota deny responsibility for its maintenance, just as organizations often lack clear ownership of their IT architecture. Additionally, while IMS may not pose an immediate catastrophic risk, it creates a thousand cuts in the organization due to difficulties in recruiting skilled staff for maintenance and integration.
The enduring nature of legacy systems often leads to complacency, where the lack of visible danger diminishes the urgency for reform. In contrast, the concrete wall’s potential for failure provokes concern and action; similar pressures need to be established for outdated IT platforms. Organizations are urged to identify stakeholders responsible for their legacy systems and advocate for a proactive approach to mitigate the risks associated with their prolonged usage before it’s too late.
👉 Pročitaj original: CIO Magazine
