Infrastructure modernization is about replacing legacy inflexible hardware with modern, agile, future-ready systems. It is about rationalizing the enterprise infrastructure footprint, consolidating to reduce IT sprawl,embracing automation, and migrating to scalableand flexible cloud-native systems.

Modernizing your IT infrastructure can bring many benefits toyour organizationand people. Let’s explore these benefits.

The Many Guises of Infrastructure Modernization

“Infrastructure modernization” is a fairly broad term that can encompass multiple aspects. One interpretation refers to transitioning from classic VMware infrastructure to a contemporary hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI). HCI refers to a software-defined, unified system that enables IT management from a single tool. It combines storage, compute, networking, and management. Plus, it can fully integrate with existing infrastructure to increase IT efficiency, lower OPEX and CAPEX, and improve capacity, control, performance, and security.

Infra modernization is also the process of rewriting outdated programs so they can usethe new capabilities of cloud-native infrastructure.A third way of looking at modernization is from the containerization and Kubernetes perspective. Infra modernization with Kubernetes helps minimize and simplify data center infrastructure and its components, such as servers, network devices, operating systems, and middleware. This “on-premises” infrastructure is often very expensive and challenging to configure, administer, and update. Modernization reduces these expenses and simplifies infra management.

Finally, DevOps in software development is also considered part of infrastructure modernization. Modern apps created using DevOps methods are typically hosted in cloud settings. The DevOps approach includes practices and tools that enable organizationsto speed up application development, improve application quality, andcompete more effectively in the market.

The Benefits of Infrastructure Modernization

As mentioned above, one of the benefits of infra modernization is reduced costs.A modern infrastructure improves the efficiency of IT systems, resulting in less downtime and reducing the need for maintenance and troubleshooting, all of which creates cost savings over time.Migrating to the cloud removes the need to pay for idle resources. Costs are more transparent and predictable and the company can better control its IT budget and spends.

Furthermore, utilizing a modern network enables teams to be more agile and flexible, resulting in faster output, better quality work, and a stronger competitive posture for the company.

Modernization also eliminates the need to manually establish networks. You can replace manual processes with automation to save time, reduce management effort,and enable resources to focus on higher-value, more strategic work.A modern infrastructure also boosts security to protect business-critical assets and data from cyberattackers.

Best Practicesto Ensure Successful Infrastructure Modernization

There are many different aspects to consider when it comes to an infrastructure modernization project. The endeavor will require a significant commitment of both time and money, so make sure you can invest both before jumping into the project.At the same time, keep in mind thatpostponing the projectalso brings many risks. For example, a legacy infrastructure increases the risk of cyberattacks and costly downtime. It will also increase costs and hamper employee agility and enterprise resilience.

Once you decide to modernize the infrastructure, start by first defining what modernization means for your organization. Effective and efficient use of information? Updated procedures and processes? People with modern, up-to-date skills? Once you define what IT modernization means, determine your modernization goals. Assess the existing infrastructure, identify new requirements, and then put those requirements into action.

To support the implementation effort, create a roadmap that describesthe adjustments or changes required to realize the goals and objectives you defined earlier. Before committing to any changes, define your priorities and assess your resource and cultural readiness. Also identify the benefits you expect to gain from modernization, implement tangible metrics to measure these benefits, and share your visionto encourage buy-inthroughout the enterprise.

Finally, keep in mind that infrastructure modernization is not a one-timeeffort. Continuous assessment and improvement are vital to ensure that the infrastructure continues to meet the organization’s requirements. To this end, it’s useful to use the Deming Cycle or Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) method to direct and implementongoing modernization initiatives.

Kickstart Your Modernization Journey with Axcess

Your organization’s legacy infrastructure can hamper operational efficiency, growth, and resilience while a modern, cloud-native infrastructure brings greater efficiency, cost savings, agility, and scalability. Transform your traditional IT operational model with infrastructure modernization services from Axcess. Contact usfor more information.