It's Time to Retire Your Old Application

In the enterprise environment, Android has long been touted as the up and coming operating system of choice, finally taking the mantle from Microsoft's Windows Mobile operating system versions in the last year or so. I've previously written about how Windows Mobile is Dead and how to know if it's Time for an Upgrade to your current systems, so this might not be new information to you. What is new, however, is that more and more clients are starting to believe it and are finally looking to make the move to Android as the new OS for business.

So what does this mean for your business applications? Are you using a proprietary app that's so old that no one even remembers where it came from? How do you transition something like that to Android without breaking everything you've built?

I hate to break it to you, but the answer is exactly what you think it is:

It's time to start over.

I know that can sound painful and expensive, but trust me, it's not that bad. Here are three reasons why building a new Android application from the ground up is better than putting yet another band-aid on your current solution:

1. New applications allow you to rethink how the software itself helps the business

This one almost goes without saying, but building a new app from scratch allows you and your business to re-evaluate your goals and put the focus back where it belongs. Oftentimes, an old application will work well enough but it won't be able to stay current for long. Businesses change constantly, now more than ever, which means your backend application should change from time to time to meet any new needs and use new features that may come up, such as voice-picking or hands-free scanning. Applications can become out of date after just a few years, and no matter how many hacks or tweaks you make, eventually it'll feel like you're using a bicycle on the freeway. Not a great idea.

2. New applications allow you to rethink how the users will use the software

Older applications work great for older devices. You know the ones, they have a physical keyboard and trigger handle. These devices are still very prevalent and definitely have a need in certain applications within the workforce, but all too often a smaller, lighter, or entirely different device would be better for the job. Having a trigger handle works if you've got one hand free, but workers now are expected to be doing more with less, and these older style scanners are starting to disappear as the workforce adapts to new needs and expectations.

3. It's cheaper to start over than it is to use bad software

In today's world, money talks. Budgets are being slashed across the board and surprise costs can really throw a wrench in things. Instead of waiting for the inevitable crash of your current application start getting ahead of it by planning your exit strategy early. If there's nothing wrong with your current application then now is definitely the time to start planning your next move. If something is wrong then we better get to work fast. There are some very versatile rapid application development options out there, such as Pendragon Forms, that allow businesses to move into the Android world at their own pace and without breaking the bank. They can either be hired to design the new application for you or you can build it your own. Either way, the software is designed to grow as your business grows, making it much less likely that you'll ever have to start over again.

So are you finally ready make a change? If so, GREAT! Still need more time? I can help you figure it out. Give me a call to discuss how we can work together to make the process as smooth as possible. A solution is only valuable if it fits your needs as well as your budget, and I would be glad to help make your new solution a reality.

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Andrew Hall is a barcode expert with over five years of experience in the AIDC industry. He has worked with clients of all sizes and on projects large and small and would be happy to discuss what he can do to make your life at work easier. His number is 847-995-1010 x141, his email is ahall@smg3.com, and his Twitter handle is @AndrewSMG3 for more information.