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Legacy System

Plain English

Old still being used.

Definition

A legacy is an outdated system that is still in use, often due to its critical role.

In practice

Often maintained because replacing it is complex or risky.

In context

It is rarely kept out of nostalgia. It is kept because it works, nobody fully knows what it does, and the cost of finding out is the real project.

The reality

Legacy create and technical debt.

Compared with

Legacy System vs Technical Debt

Technical debt is a compromise taken knowingly to move faster, with an intention to repay. A legacy is one that has outlived its and its expertise. Debt is a decision; legacy is an accumulation.

FAQ

Common questions

A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.

What is a legacy system?

An older still in use.

Why are they kept?

They are critical or hard to replace.

What is a risk?

Technical debt and limitations.

How are they managed?

Through gradual updates or replacement.

Related Services

Related Terms

SystemArchitecture

Technical Constraint

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Previous feedback

I had a fantastic experience working with Andy. One of his most impressive achievements during our time at NHS HEE was masterminding a deeply complex information architecture for a new platform that brought together a large number of legacy websites.

Will Parkhouse

Senior Content Designer