.NET Rocks! Improving Legacy Applications with Billy Hollis
Aug 7, 2025
Billy Hollis, a seasoned software designer known for his contrarian views, dives into the complexities of modernizing legacy applications. He emphasizes the critical nature of these systems and the need for careful updates. The conversation explores enhancing user experiences through optimized workflows, accessibility, and the use of tools like Copilot. Hollis also shares insights on balancing client expectations with design challenges and highlights the importance of interpersonal skills in navigating legacy systems and user-centric designs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Legacy Apps' High Stakes
- A legacy app is defined by older technology, usually 10+ years old, yet still critical to business operations.
- Replacing legacy apps entirely carries enormous risk and can threaten business survival.
Agile Causes UI Fragmentation
- Agile development often focuses too granularly on individual features rather than the overall user workflow.
- This leads to UI clutter and loss of cohesive user experience in many legacy and evolving apps.
Front-End Refresh Follows Backend
- Most companies modernize their legacy back ends first before updating front ends.
- Updating the UI to modern platforms makes sense due to device proliferation and improved user experience.