ROCKET Software, a global leader in modernization software, today announced the results of its survey, ‘IT Modernization Without Disruption,’ conducted by Forrester Consulting. The survey involved over 300 global decision-makers, including CIOs, VPs, and Directors responsible for modernizing their companies’ IT environments. It explored strategies and examined the value of external partners in these modernization efforts.

One of the key findings revealed that modernization challenges continue to disrupt businesses, with one-third of respondents reporting reduced productivity due to roadblocks. Additionally, successful IT modernization strategies are closely linked to stronger technological and business outcomes, which explains why 42 percent of C-suite executives are leading these efforts, recognizing their transformative potential. For many businesses, modernization is no longer optional; it is essential for maintaining agility and competitiveness in the market. A substantial majority, 69 percent of respondents, believe that IT modernization is critical for achieving their business goals over the next 12 months.

However, the modernization journey is fraught with difficulties. Many businesses have found themselves facing costly and time-consuming application re-writes, with over half of respondents having attempted at least six re-writes as part of their cloud migration strategies. These re-writes often lead to extended timelines, operational disruptions, and fail to deliver the expected outcomes. Other modernization challenges include concerns about security, reported by 41 percent of participants, talent shortages and skills gaps faced by 38 percent, and inadequate tools affecting 30 percent.

The consequences of these challenges are significant. Modernization difficulties have negatively impacted organizations’ ability to recruit new talent, as indicated by 38 percent of respondents. Furthermore, 35 percent stated that these issues have diminished their competitive edge, and 44 percent reported that these obstacles have led to delayed project timelines. Despite these setbacks, the survey found that companies working with external partners—such as hyperscalers, managed service providers, trusted software vendors, system integrators, or external consultants—were able to mitigate many of the risks and challenges associated with modernization.

“Modernization is an imperative for achieving both business and technology goals, yet it comes with a range of challenges,” Phil Buckellew, President of the Infrastructure Modernization Business Unit at Rocket Software said emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships in this process.