Application modernization is not without challenges, and Progress OpenEdge applications are no exception — especially because it involves moving from a desktop environment to the web. In this blog, we’ll explain what those challenges are and how to overcome them.
How to meet the front-end needs of Progress OpenEdge applications?
Front-end decision-making has a major impact on both the modernization process and the application’s subsequent performance. There is a path we’ll call the “traditional” route, which involves building the front-end using web technologies.
In other words, you’ll need to hire additional specialized staff to handle creation and maintenance. The downside is the increase in costs and potential compatibility issues between the chosen web technologies and OpenEdge.
To avoid the complexities and challenges of expanding the team, it’s advisable to choose a platform with a drag-and-drop interface. This way, the Progress developers you already have on your team can manage the front-end without relying on third parties.
This option also makes it easier to transfer your team’s existing business logic knowledge to the front-end. It provides greater agility in both the modernization process and the applications’ ongoing performance.
What strategy should you use to avoid application downtime?
Downtime can be a real headache for users, so it’s best to avoid it whenever possible. For OpenEdge applications, the ideal approach is to use a hybrid work model that allows them to continue running both on desktop and web.
With this work model, modernization can move forward gradually without interrupting service for desktop users. Another advantage is that modernization results can be delivered without having to wait until the very end of the process. This positively contributes to change acceptance, which is so critical in this type of project.
How to make the most of the ABL code you’ve already developed?
A platform that integrates natively with Progress OpenEdge will prevent disruptions and allow you to fully leverage your back-end development without compatibility issues or similar problems.
How to manage APIs?
API management can become a significant challenge if handled individually, which is why it’s best to opt for an approach that avoids such individual management. For example, a platform that connects directly to the Progress database through global methods. This way, you can optimize time usage and focus on less operational matters.
Choose DataGate GDP for Progress OpenEdge
With DataGate GDP, you can modernize Progress OpenEdge applications while overcoming all the challenges mentioned, with an agile solution that ensures a fast, secure, and modern move to the web.
In addition to the advantages already mentioned, it also ensures no data loss thanks to its state machine that writes directly to the Progress database.
If you’d like to learn more about how DataGate GDP works, contact us and our team will answer all your questions.