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Understanding replatforming
In today’s digital world, staying competitive means more than just having a strong online presence. You need to be quick, efficient, and ready to meet changing customer needs and expectations.
More often than not, organizations are working with old content management systems (CMS), which can make adapting to change difficult. Legacy CMS systems often have high license fees; however, upgrading to a new version is often impossible, and maintenance of the system relies heavily on in-house knowledge about the platform. This can waste time and money, making it tough to keep up with customer demands.
This is where replatforming comes in - a move to boost your business and enhance your technology. But what is replatforming? Why are companies doing it, and what should you consider as you explore this option? Let’s dive in.
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What is replatforming?
Replatforming is the process of moving your digital channels - such as websites, applications, and other online interfaces and potentially the corresponding content - from one software platform to another.
Replatforming involves transferring core functionalities, data, and design (or parts of it) to a new platform. This process might include switching to a new digital experience platform such as Magnolia to enhance CMS capabilities or adopting a low-code platform to speed up the digitization of internal processes.
Essentially, replatforming lets you rebuild your digital infrastructure. It is a strategic move that enables businesses to boost their digital capabilities, improve efficiency, and align with modern technology standards.
As businesses explore replatforming, many are considering headless CMS solutions. Unlike traditional CMS, where the front-end (what users see) and back-end (where content is managed) are connected, a headless CMS separates these components. This means you can deliver content across various devices and platforms with greater flexibility and speed, making it easier to create consistent and dynamic digital experiences.
The key drivers for replatforming
Replatforming is a strategic decision often driven by various challenges and opportunities faced by businesses today. It’s not just about updating technology; it's about aligning your digital infrastructure with your growth ambitions and market demands. Whether it's overcoming outdated systems, boosting scalability, enhancing features, or optimizing costs, these triggers highlight the need for a more agile and robust digital foundation. Here are some common reasons to consider replatforming:
Outdated technology
Legacy systems can hold back your organization's performance and growth, limiting your ability to engage with customers. When you can’t deliver what you envision, it might be time to explore newer, more future-proof technology.
Scalability limitations
As your business grows, your platform should scale to accommodate more. This could mean handling more applications, expanding into additional countries, or managing more brands. A headless CMS, for instance, can offer the flexibility and scalability needed to support this growth, helping you overcome technology challenges and avoid inefficient, costly marketing processes.
Improved functionalities
Your marketing ambitions can also drive replatforming. A team seeking advanced features, like personalization, AI-driven analytics, and marketing automation, may find the need for new platforms to support these capabilities.
Improved security
Replatforming may be necessary if existing technology is reaching end of life (EOL), which leads to increased maintenance efforts to ensure safety.
Cost efficiency
Lastly, cutting maintenance costs and making better use of resources can strongly motivate the switch to a more affordable platform.
HIGH-TECH & MANUFACTURING MASTERCLASS
From complexity to clarity: How to replatform right in 2025
Watch our online masterclass about navigating complex replatforming projects in the high-tech and manufacturing industry.
Replatforming is more than just a technical upgrade. It’s a strategic move that can unlock serious business value. But too often, B2B companies underestimate what it really takes to get it right.
In this masterclass, we’ll share key insights from 30+ years of experience leading complex replatforming projects. Learn what top-performing B2B businesses are doing differently in 2025 and how you can avoid the most common pitfalls that derail projects before they deliver impact.
What to consider before replatforming
As replatforming is a strategic transformation, it is a significant commitment that requires time and energy. To determine if it's the right step for you, consider asking yourself these questions beforehand.
Business goals
First, what are your business goals? Clearly defining your objectives - whether it's boosting sales, enhancing customer engagement, or streamlining operations - will help align your goals with the new platform's capabilities. Remember, don't solely rely on technology as the answer to every problem.
Technological needs
Next, identify your technological needs by specifiying the non-negotiable features and functionalities needed for your success. What technical capabilities do you need? Think about future growth and how the platform will integrate into your existing systems.
Budgeting
Budgeting is also key. What funds are available? Set a realistic budget for the replatforming process that considers both short-term costs and long-term savings. Don’t forget to build a strong business case to support your investment.
Stakeholders
Who are your stakeholders? Engage your stakeholders early on. Including IT, marketing, finance, and executive leadership ensures alignment and buy-in across the board.
Planning
Establish a timeline that balances speed with the need for thorough testing and risk management. What is your schedule? Proper planning will ensure a smooth transition.
Migration
Plan migration carefully. How will data migration be handled? Prepare for secure and efficient transfer of data, ensuring no business-critical information is lost in transition.
Risks
Finally, what are your risks? Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential challenges and develop mitigation strategies to address them effectively.
Tips on choosing the best platform technology
Having explored what replatforming involves, the key drivers, and the questions to consider before starting, you're well-prepared to make informed decisions. If replatforming is the right step for you, the next challenge is selecting the best platform technology. Whether it's a headless CMS, a composable system like Magnolia, or a CMS for small to medium-sized websites like WordPress, your choice should align with your business goals. Technology serves as the enabler in this strategic transformation.
Assess compatibility with current systems
Ensure the new platform integrates smoothly with your existing infrastructure to maintain data integrity and workflow continuity.
Evaluate scalability
Select a platform that can grow with your business. The platform should accommodate future expansions, increased traffic, and additional features.
Focus on customization and flexibility
Choose technology that allows you to tailor functionalities to meet unique business needs. Ensure that this can be done without complex coding.
Prioritize user experience
Make sure the platform offers a user-friendly interface for both your team and customers. This will enhance usability and satisfaction.
Assess security features
Check the security features of potential platforms to ensure strong protection against data breaches and compliance with industry rules.
Consider vendor support
Opt for a technology provider that offers excellent customer support, including training, troubleshooting, and ongoing updates.
Review total cost of ownership (TCO)
Look beyond initial costs to understand total expenses over time, including maintenance and potential scalability needs.
Check for industry reputation
Research user reviews, case studies, and industry benchmarks to ensure the platform is trusted and proven in your sector.
Contact
Are you ready to begin your replatforming journey with TRIMM?
Schedule a consultation with Janinka Feenstra today to discuss your replatforming challenge. Call us at +31 53 4800480 or fill out the form below.
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