Bridging the Gap Between Legacy Systems and Modern Workflows
What’s the oldest system you’re still using?
NASA used their 1970s control system until 2011. The US Department of Defense uses DOS-based systems to this day!
Every business has them. Old systems or bits of code that would be too expensive to replace. Besides, they “just work.”
Unfortunately, these bits of kit often lack the integration and automation features of modern tools. There are ways, however, to streamline workflows and improve data access without a complete system overhaul.
The Challenges of Legacy Systems
Legacy systems weren’t built for today’s interconnected digital landscape. Common challenges include:
- Limited Integration: Older systems often don’t support APIs or webhooks, which modern software uses to connect.
- Manual Data Handling: Without integration, data from legacy systems must often be exported and entered manually, leading to wasted time and potential errors.
- Data Siloing: Legacy systems tend to store data in isolated “silos,” making it difficult to share information across departments in real time.
These issues can slow down growth and cost thousands in lost productivity. Fortunately, there are solutions that let you keep your legacy systems while gaining many of the benefits of modern tools.
Practical Solutions to Integrate Legacy Systems
Even with the old systems, you can still automate workflows and improve data access. Here are some practical solutions:
1. Custom Scripts and Database Access
Custom scripts allow data to be pulled directly from legacy databases and updated on a schedule. This can automate repetitive data handling tasks and keep reports current without making changes to the legacy system itself.
2. Middleware Integration and ETL Tools
For a more advanced setup, Loom provides middleware and ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tools. Middleware acts as a bridge between legacy and modern systems, while ETL tools automatically transfer and organize data for central reporting. These solutions can run on a schedule or in real time, reducing manual data entry and improving efficiency.
3. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
RPA is ideal for legacy systems that have no integration options. RPA tools can simulate human tasks, like data entry, to keep systems in sync.
Enhancing Workflows with Additional Automation Tools
You can also use additional automation tools to simplify data management:
- Data Sync Notifications: Get alerts when data syncing is complete, so teams always have up-to-date information.
- Automated CSV Exports: Schedule regular data exports in accessible formats for easy analysis and reporting.
- Custom Workflows: We can build workflows tailored to your operations, ensuring data consistency and reliability.
These tools enable businesses to enhance legacy systems without a full replacement, letting you take advantage of modern efficiencies on your own terms.
Ready to Bridge the Gap? Partner with Loom Workflow Solutions
If your business relies on legacy systems, Loom Workflow Solutions can help you modernize. Our customized solutions will boost data accessibility, streamline workflows, and enable better reporting without disrupting your existing setup.
Book a free consultation with Loom today to learn how we can make your legacy systems work better for your business.