Modernizing a Legacy Web Documentation System
Gromov, Ivan (2025)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052817288
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052817288
Tiivistelmä
This study explores the modernization of a legacy web-based documentation system (Webdoc) at Navis Engineering, transforming it from an outdated CGI-based implementation into a modern full-stack application. The legacy system suffered from several limitations: server-side rendering, tight coupling between user interface and business logic, complex data storage mechanisms, and poor user experience.
The modernization methodology involved three main phases. First, a comprehensive analysis of the legacy system was conducted to identify technical limitations and establish clear requirements for the modernized solution. Second, appropriate modern technologies were selected, including React and TypeScript for the frontend and Django with REST Framework for the backend. Third, a new system was implemented following a client-server architecture with clean separation of concerns, while maintaining direct integration with the legacy database to preserve valuable business data.
Findings from the comparative analysis demonstrate significant improvements in multiple areas. Code maintainability was enhanced through a modular architecture and modern technology stack. System performance improved dramatically, with interaction response times decreasing by up to 93% for common operations. User experience was enhanced using real-time validation, automatic data saving, and a more intuitive navigation structure.
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that even deeply entrenched legacy systems can be successfully transformed through careful technology selection and architectural redesign. The modernized system not only solves immediate limitations but also provides a sustainable foundation for future evolution – a platform that is easier to maintain, expand, or adapt to changing business needs.
The modernization methodology involved three main phases. First, a comprehensive analysis of the legacy system was conducted to identify technical limitations and establish clear requirements for the modernized solution. Second, appropriate modern technologies were selected, including React and TypeScript for the frontend and Django with REST Framework for the backend. Third, a new system was implemented following a client-server architecture with clean separation of concerns, while maintaining direct integration with the legacy database to preserve valuable business data.
Findings from the comparative analysis demonstrate significant improvements in multiple areas. Code maintainability was enhanced through a modular architecture and modern technology stack. System performance improved dramatically, with interaction response times decreasing by up to 93% for common operations. User experience was enhanced using real-time validation, automatic data saving, and a more intuitive navigation structure.
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that even deeply entrenched legacy systems can be successfully transformed through careful technology selection and architectural redesign. The modernized system not only solves immediate limitations but also provides a sustainable foundation for future evolution – a platform that is easier to maintain, expand, or adapt to changing business needs.