In our Modernization Strategies series, we look at the full range of modernization pathways available to organizations that maintain legacy applications.
In this article, we focus on refactoring, a key process that involves modifying and improving the internal structure of code without altering its external behavior. This concept becomes particularly significant when dealing with legacy applications.
What is Refactoring?
Refactoring is the process of changing a software system in such a way that it does not alter the function of the code yet improves its internal structure. When carried out manually, refactoring is applied directly to the source code and is generally a labor-intensive, ad hoc, and potentially error-prone process.
As your software evolves, continually refactoring will be necessary to keep the code clean, understandable, and maintainable.
The primary goal of refactoring is to fight off software entropy, make the code more readable, and make it easier to maintain and extend. It’s not about adding new functionality, but about improving the existing one.
Why is Refactoring Important for Legacy Applications?
Legacy systems are often critical to a company’s operation, but as they age, maintaining and updating these systems can become increasingly complex and costly. Refactoring comes into play here, offering numerous benefits:
Improved Code Readability and Maintainability
Over time, code can become convoluted and difficult to understand. Refactoring simplifies the code, making it easier for developers to read, understand, and maintain.
Increased Efficiency and Performance
Refactoring can help optimize the performance of the application, making it run faster and more efficiently.
Reduced Technical Debt
Technical debt accumulates when non-optimal or expedient solutions are implemented. Refactoring helps reduce this debt by improving the code’s structure.
Enhanced Software Longevity
By improving code quality and reducing complexity, refactoring can extend the software’s lifespan.
Facilitates Agile Practices
In agile development, refactoring plays a crucial role in keeping the codebase clean, adaptable to change, and ready for continuous integration.
Refactoring Approach for Legacy Applications
While the benefits of refactoring are clear, it’s important to note that refactoring legacy applications is not a straightforward task.
Here is a suggested approach:
Understand the Existing System
Before you start refactoring, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the current codebase. This includes understanding the architecture, functionality, and dependencies within the code. Code analysis tools like CM evolveIT can help you every step of the way, saving time and reducing errors.
Identify Areas for Improvement
Not all parts of the application may need refactoring. Identify areas where the code is complex, hard to understand, or where bugs frequently occur.
Develop a Refactoring Plan
Once you’ve identified the areas that need improvement, develop a plan for refactoring. This plan should include what needs to be refactored, the order of refactoring tasks, and the expected improvements.
Test Before and After Refactoring
Ensure you have good tests in place before you start refactoring and re-run these tests after each refactoring step. This is to ensure the behavior of the application has not changed.
Final Thoughts
Refactoring is not a one-time activity but an ongoing process. As your software evolves, continually refactoring will be necessary to keep the code clean, understandable, and maintainable. Despite the initial effort required, refactoring legacy applications can lead to significant long-term benefits, ensuring the software remains robust, relevant, and valuable in delivering business value.
If you’d like to learn more about CM evolveIT code analysis capabilities, and how it can help your organization actualize a robust refactor project, contact us.
