3
Before diving deep into each modernization approach, we will define the common terms
that will be used throughout this guide to establish a shared understanding. The definitions
for rehost, re-platform, refactor, and rearchitect are based on Gartner's definitions of the
7 Options to Modernize Legacy Systems.
TERMINOLOGY
Modernization approach
common terms guide
Common terms Definitions
Modernization
Modernization is the process of progressively transforming existing applications and infrastructure to extend into higher-value
cloud-native services that unlock new business capabilities, accelerate innovation, and reduce technical debt.
Rehost
Redeploy the application component to other infrastructures (physical, virtual, or cloud) without modifying its code,
features, or functions.
Re-platform
Migrate to a new runtime platform, making minimal changes to the code but not the code structure, features, or functions.
Refactor
Restructure and optimize the existing code (although not its external behavior) to remove technical debt and improve
nonfunctional attributes.
Rearchitect
Materially alter the code to shift it to a new application architecture and exploit new and better capabilities.
Retool
Adopt new automation and tooling to augment software delivery, build, testing, and deployment processes.
