Big bang modernization creates new debt faster than it clears the old. Tech is only the visible part of legacy. The real weight is organizational.
Executives under pressure often default to “all at once” transformations.
The result? Delays, overruns, and fragile systems that become tomorrow’s legacy.
The smarter play is phasing:
• Decide what to retire first
• Contain compliance risk
• Keep business continuity
Phased modernization isn’t slower. It’s safer.
It turns modernization from disruption into a managed risk portfolio.
Executives who frame legacy as risk allocation-not migration-are the ones who actually move forward.
What’s your phasing strategy for modernization?