Lessons I Learned from the Software Rewrites

🚀 Thinking about rewriting your company's old software? 🤔 Here's a lesson from my experience:

In my career, I've tackled several rewrite projects, and one thing is crystal clear: doing a complete redo of the whole application at once is a recipe for disaster.

Let me give you an example from my experience: I know a CRM application that attempted four major rewrites but still couldn't smoothly transition all its customers to the new versions. People who started using version 1 stuck with it and same story for version 2. Despite efforts, versions 3 and 4 ended up without any takers, leading to serious business challenges.

This scenario isn't unique. Many companies have faced bankruptcy due to similar missteps. Why does it go wrong?

1. Hidden complexities emerge as you start rewriting.
2. Old applications lack proper documentation and test cases.
3. Ignoring enhancements for the existing product can mean losing out on business.
4. Data migration is trickier than it seems.
5. Resistance from your team and other departments can build up over time.

If you're considering a rewrite, here's a strategy:

1. Start small, tackling one piece at a time instead of a big-bang approach.
2. Write tests along the way to understand the application better.
3. Ensure the new parts mimic the old functionality but with improvements. This allows for easy fallback if needed.
4. Plan meticulously for data migration.

Don't let a rewrite project become a headache! 🙅‍♂️ Take it step by step for smoother sailing and better outcomes. 🚀