
Software modernization
Software modernization: Future-proof systems with MaibornWolff
MaibornWolff offers the solution: with software modernization or software refurbishment, we make your legacy systems fit for the future - while the process is running. Put your trust in our more than 30 years of experience and make your company fit for the future.
We offer customized software modernization based on the comprehensive analysis from our software audit
We focus on the functional requirements of the application rather than on existing technical conditions in order to be able to make optimal adjustments at any time.
Save time and money - we at MaibornWolff modernize your software during ongoing operations.
With over 30 years of experience in successful software modernization, we are your reliable partner for critical and complex projects.
Good to know...
For us, software remediation and software modernization are two sides of the same coin. Both processes can involve similar approaches and practices, from a partial renewal to a complete re-write. In our view, the term refurbishment tends to focus on an approach away from an existing bad situation. Modernization, on the other hand, focuses on the process towards a desired future modern application.
What is software modernization?
Imagine the following scenario: You have taken wonderful care of your old smartphone and have been using it for years. But suddenly certain apps no longer run or run slowly and updates are no longer possible. Your phone's operating system is slowly getting too old. What should you do? Most people resort to the obvious solution: buy a new smartphone.
Companies also face a similar problem from time to time. They have a system that is built in such a way that it is overloaded and difficult to adapt and therefore no longer meets the demands that a company places on its system. And this is where software modernization enters the scene.

This keeps your company flexible
Software modernization involves updating your existing system by replacing outdated technologies, adding new functions and optimizing the structure. The aim is to make the software more efficient, more secure and more adaptable, for example to meet new requirements. Software modernization can include various aspects such as updating:
- Program code,
- Development processes and practices,
- Automated tests for validation,
- databases and
- user interfaces
Software modernization with MaibornWolff - your benefits
MaibornWolff is your strategic partner for software refurbishment. With over 30 years of experience, we offer customized solutions that take into account both technological and business requirements.
Our specialized focus on software modernization means that we modernize your software while it is running, without interrupting your business processes. This saves time and costs and ensures fast, valid feedback from production. As a result, the system matures faster and more effectively.
Put your trust in our expertise and let us make your software future-proof together.
Nora Legittimo on the collaboration with MaibornWolff
"Thanks to MaibornWolff, who (1) first led us from the symptoms to the cause in our project (2) showed us the way with good digital design how better software can be created faster with less effort. And - first class! - (3) They emphasized helping people to help themselves and coached us as customers instead of making us dependent."
Nora Legittimo, former Chief Digital Officer, Digital Transformation in Construction, Schöck Bauteile GmbH

Would you like to become a satisfied MaibornWolff customer yourself?
Our references & projects
A reference is worth more than 1,000 words. Fortunately, we have dozens of them. Click through a selection of our most exciting projects and see for yourself!
-
MAN: Efficient threat analysis for control unitsSee MAN reference
Digitalization increases cyber risks - especially for MAN's new CM4 control unit. Our experts use the 4×6 methodology and ThreatSea to identify threats at an early stage and develop targeted protective measures. Find out how MAN uses intelligent risk analysis to strengthen the security of its vehicles.
MAN: Efficient threat analysis for control unitsSee MAN reference7 monthsProject duration
Over 20 workshopsThreat analyses
Over 500Potential risks evaluated
-
Siemens: AI demand prediction platform for industrial production planningSee Siemens reference
Siemens is looking to the future with the AI Demand Prediction Platform. Thanks to machine learning and AutoML, precise demand forecasts can be created for over 100 products and production can be better planned. Launched as a proof of concept, the platform quickly developed into a system that can be used productively. The self-service web application will soon be used in other plants.
Siemens: AI demand prediction platform for industrial production planningSee Siemens referenceProject durationSince February 2022
Proof of conceptin a few weeks
Time series predictionfor 100 different products
-
TÜV NORD GPT: Development of AI assistanceSee TÜV NORD reference
Find relevant information faster by chatting with documents? It's possible! The TÜV NORD GROUP uses GPT technology in the secure Microsoft Azure Cloud. With the aim of optimizing knowledge management and efficiency. The system enables new usage options within the testing group and is operated securely. Find out more about the innovative AI assistance system now.
TÜV NORD GPT: Development of AI assistanceSee TÜV NORD referenceProject durationsince September 2023
33.000GPT applications in the first month
ChatGPT Model 4in the European Microsoft Azure Cloud
-
Schöck components: Improvement of the requirements processSee Schöck Bauteile reference
Together with MaibornWolff, the construction industry specialist optimized the requirements management of its Scalix design software. Thanks to the digital design approach, the technical requirements were re-specified and the software was further developed in a user-centered manner. The aim is to continuously increase user satisfaction and integrate internal and external interests. Read more about the methodology and results now!
Schöck components: Improvement of the requirements processSee Schöck Bauteile referenceProject durationsince 2022
Team size2-3 Digital Designer:inside
In 2024Scalix replaces old software -
VW: Digitization of key production figures with the iProcess appSee VW reference
Less paper, more efficiency: Volkswagen replaces analog processes with the iProcess app. Cloud-native technologies and digital design enable intuitive recording and analysis of key production figures. This increases transparency and overall equipment effectiveness and paves the way for predictive maintenance at the automotive group.
VW: Digitization of key production figures with the iProcess appSee VW referenceProject durationSince January 2021
Team size5 to 10 persons
Fast app developmentthanks to Digital Design
-
DER Touristik: Become a digital travel companion in 7 monthsSee DER Touristik reference
Travel information, bookings, support - all in one app. With Flutter, MaibornWolff developed a cross-platform solution for DER Touristik. In just seven months, a stable app was created for iOS and Android that supports multiple brands, languages and countries. This is how customer proximity travels.
DER Touristik: Become a digital travel companion in 7 monthsSee DER Touristik reference7 monthsFrom Kickoff to Go Live
iOS and AndroidDigital travel companion
Whitelabelling solutionUncomplicated integration of additional brands, languages and countries
-
Mixed reality: driving a real car in a virtual worldSee BMW reference
Virtual racing in a real car? MaibornWolff made it possible for the BMW M. Within three months, we used Unreal Engine 4 to develop a prototype that processes vehicle signals with high performance and creates an immersive driving experience without motion sickness. The cockpit remains real, the surroundings become the racetrack.
Mixed reality: driving a real car in a virtual worldSee BMW reference<3 monthsFrom the vision to the prototype
3D applicationsin real time
TeamUnreal development, XR technology, game design, smart devices, 3D content
-
KUKA: Web interface for a new Human Machine InterfaceSee KUKA reference
Rethinking robotics: KUKA is working with us to develop iiQKA.OS - an operating system with an intuitive web HMI. Using web technologies and scrum methods, we enable flexible customization and simple control. Open collaboration makes robotics more accessible than ever before.
KUKA: Web interface for a new Human Machine InterfaceSee KUKA referenceGoalReplacing the current control software
iiQKA.OSFast and intuitive development
> 11,000 hoursProject work
-
STIHL: Control iMOW robotic mower via appRead more
Robot mower redefined: The iMOW from STIHL makes lawn care smarter. Our software expertise combined with STIHL's hardware know-how ensures intuitive app control. The result? A networked device that makes gardening easier - simple, efficient, innovative.
STIHL: Control iMOW robotic mower via appRead moreProject durationsince August 2020
Robot mowerControl via app
Process optimizationwith the customer
-
DEKRA: Modern enterprise architecture thanks to co-creationSee DEKRA reference
New IT for a sustainable future: the global auditing group needed to modernize its IT landscape. Co-Creation created a harmonized architecture and the EA Community promotes cross-border exchange for strong IT until 2025 - and beyond.
DEKRA: Modern enterprise architecture thanks to co-creationSee DEKRA referenceMost important method:Building an EA community
Created conceptEnterprise Architecture
Cooperationat eye level
-
Miele domestic appliances are networked worldwideSee Miele reference
How do household appliances become smart? Miele relies on an IoT platform that we played a key role in developing. Container-based architecture ensures stable communication, DevOps for continuous improvement - so that smart appliances can be found in millions of households worldwide.
Miele domestic appliances are networked worldwideSee Miele referenceProject durationsince 2016
Success factors:High availability and scalability
IoT platformwith container-based architecture
-
MAN: Secure Software Development Life CycleSee MAN reference
Trucks are networked - and therefore unfortunately also targets for attack. With SSDLC, MAN relies on security by design and integrates the highest security standards directly into development. Together with 22 teams, we have established security measures that go beyond the legal requirements.
MAN: Secure Software Development Life CycleSee MAN reference22 monthsProject duration
UNECE R155successfully integratedMethodsSecurity Champions, DevSecOps, OWASP SAMM
-
It's LOS: Building a cloud-based low-code applicationSee Es geht LOS reference
Democracy meets digitalization: For "Es geht LOS!", we developed a low-code app for candidate management in five weeks. Built on AWS, it enables secure draws and efficient user management - for more citizen participation digitally.
It's LOS: Building a cloud-based low-code applicationSee Es geht LOS referenceProject durationSince the beginning of 2022
MVPin only 5 weeks
TechnologiesAmplify, AppSync, CodeCommit, IAM, Cognito, DynamoDB, Lambda
-
Monitoring alarms in industrial plantsSee reference
Safety in industrial plants requires a real-time overview. We developed a live monitoring platform that networks measuring devices and collects data via Azure IoT and Kubernetes. A scalable MVP was created in just three months: alarms appear in under ten seconds thanks to automated data acquisition via smartphone and Bluetooth.
Monitoring alarms in industrial plantsSee reference3 yearsProject duration
<3 monthsto the MVP
Cloud migrationModernization & relocation -
Planning systems: Optimizing the capacity utilization of pressing plantsSee reference
Maximum capacity utilization, minimum costs: Our customer relies on a central planning system for pressing plants. We have been supporting its further development with .NET Core, GraphQL and PostgreSQL for over ten years. Now the journey is moving to the cloud - for greater scalability, flexibility and efficiency.
Planning systems: Optimizing the capacity utilization of pressing plantsSee reference>10 yearsCustomer support
Technological modernizationCloud-ready platformEfficiency through dataSite-specific cost planning -
Global workforce planning systemSee reference
How do you achieve globally harmonized workforce planning? With a modern web application based on domain-driven design and hexagonal architecture. Event sourcing ensures transparent traceability, while Azure and Quarkus provide stability and scalability. The result: a flexible, future-proof solution.
Global workforce planning systemSee referenceTeam sizeUp to 8 employees
Domain Driven DesignDevelopment approach
Microsoft Azure Cloudallows easy roll-out of new versions
-
DER Touristik Online: Development and migration of a multi-client capable travel booking platformSee DER Touristik reference
Different brands, one platform: DER Touristik merges several independent websites. We are supporting the migration to the AWS cloud with digital design, microservices and testing. The focus is on performance, SEO and UX - for a seamless digital travel experience.
DER Touristik Online: Development and migration of a multi-client capable travel booking platformSee DER Touristik referenceStandardized platformMulti-client travel portalQuality assuranceEnd-2-End test automationCloud transformationMigration to AWS cloud -
KUKA: UI/UX design for an app for load data analysis for industrial robotsSee KUKA reference
How do you reduce support requests? With a smart UX! KUKA and MaibornWolff developed a web-based application for load data analysis. Through "Understand/Build/Learn" we recognized challenges early on and validated solutions for an intuitive user experience.
KUKA: UI/UX design for an app for load data analysis for industrial robotsSee KUKA referenceMethodProduct Experience Design
Customer requestEasier interaction between users and the system
Our goalOptimized load data analysis, fewer support requests, higher satisfaction -
BMW Group: Replacement of a production-critical legacy systemSee BMW Group reference
20-year-old system, new digital future. We gradually migrated production software to a flexible architecture. After two years, central plants were running on the new solution - stable, fail-safe and ready for the challenges of tomorrow.
BMW Group: Replacement of a production-critical legacy systemSee BMW Group referenceProject durationMid-2018 to the beginning of 2024
Team size25 employees
Legacy systemreplaced after 20 years
-
BMW Group: Virtual reality brings vehicle design to lifeSee BMW Group reference
From the first draft to series production - BMW uses VR to visualize the entire development process. Based on the Unreal Engine, a uniform platform visualizes designs and processes. This saves on hardware prototypes and enables location-independent collaboration. MaibornWolff plays a key role in driving the development and integration of these VR use cases.
BMW Group: Virtual reality brings vehicle design to lifeSee BMW Group reference3.2 yearsProject duration
CooperationLocation-independent and virtual
InfrastructureScalable and expandable thanks to the cloud
-
BMW Group: Remote software upgrade for vehiclesSee BMW Group reference
No visits to the workshop, no stress - thanks to Remote Software Upgrade, BMW vehicles worldwide remain up-to-date "over-the-air". MaibornWolff has been developing and operating the backend for secure updates for over three years. Microservice architectures and DevOps approaches guarantee stability, performance and security.
BMW Group: Remote software upgrade for vehiclesSee BMW Group reference5 yearsProject duration
Millions of vehiclesreceive new features thanks to "over-the-air" upgrade
IT securityAlways up-to-date thanks to remote software upgrade
-
Creditreform: Secure proof of identity on the webSee Creditreform reference
Verifying online identities in a forgery-proof manner while maintaining user-friendliness - CrefoTrust makes it possible. Together, we developed a solution that creates trust with blockchain technology and proofs of concept. Personal and company data remain protected, while verifications run smoothly.
Creditreform: Secure proof of identity on the webSee Creditreform reference5 yearsProject duration
Pilot testsbased on several PoCs
Decentralized identityallows tamper-proof storage of identities and company information
-
Bayernwerk: Knowledge management via teamsRead more
Experience must not be lost - Bayernwerk digitizes the knowledge of long-standing employees. MaibornWolff designed an intuitive MS Teams app with a clear UX/UI. Close collaboration, lived Scrum values and user-centered development make the app a success. Promoting exchange, optimizing processes - this is how knowledge transfer works today.
Bayernwerk: Knowledge management via teamsRead more6 monthsProject duration
Target:Identify implicit knowledge
Requirements:a user-centered, intuitive and clear UX/UI design
-
Weidmüller: Progression of the Industrial Service PlatformRead more
IoT meets agility - Weidmüller and MaibornWolff developed the easyConnect platform for remote access, data visualization and machine learning. After intensive exploration, an MVP was created, accompanied by a cross-functional Scrum team. Making Industrial IoT smarter and more efficient.
Weidmüller: Progression of the Industrial Service PlatformRead more12 monthsup to the MVP
8 weeks analysisof professional, technical and organizational factors
Innovative portalfor end-to-end solutions
-
SMA: Development of a Web UI for ennexOS platformSee SMA reference
Optimizing energy flows, reducing costs - we have been developing the Web UI of the ennexOS platform with SMA Solar Technology since 2016. It digitizes energy management processes for over a million users and combines smart solutions for a sustainable energy future.
SMA: Development of a Web UI for ennexOS platformSee SMA referenceProject durationsince 2016
> 1.000Modules and components in ennexOS platform
> 7.000Fuse tests
-
digikoo GmbH: Apple Vision Pro for city plannersSee digikoo reference
Planning cities smarter: Together with TUM, we developed the 3Digipad for Apple Vision Pro. It visualizes complex energy data in 3D and makes scenarios intuitively tangible. Dynamic building data and KPIs support urban planners in making sustainable decisions.
digikoo GmbH: Apple Vision Pro for city plannersSee digikoo reference4 monthsProject duration
3D map with KPIsDisplay building data dynamicallyEnergy dataImmersive visualization -
digikoo: A data platform for the Azure CloudSee digikoo reference
Structured geodata, automated quality assurance, seamless provision - we developed a powerful Snowflake data platform on Azure for Digikoo. It makes analysis easier for data scientists and lays the foundation for precise forecasts and new use cases.
digikoo: A data platform for the Azure CloudSee digikoo reference5 monthsProject duration
Climate changePlan digitally and implement efficiently
Foundation data platformMicrosoft Azure Cloud
Reasons for a software refurbishment
As long as a system runs smoothly, you don't pay much attention to it. But at the latest when various problems start to accumulate, it becomes clear that modernization is long overdue. Companies whose individual software no longer keeps pace risk losing touch and losing their competitiveness.
Here are some typical scenarios in which modernization becomes necessary:
-
Complex or impossible development of functionalities
Even during the development of the individual software, some functionalities can no longer be implemented or can only be implemented with a great deal of effort. -
Frequent problems in running systems
Ongoing projects reach a level at which problems occur more and more frequently. These can include system crashes in production systems, unexpected errors due to the deployment of new software versions or problems with the application release process. -
Outdated individual software no longer meets changing requirements
Laws, business areas or production processes are changing. The old software can no longer map these new requirements. -
Rising costs with decreasing performance
The costs for operation and further development are rising continuously, while the functionality of the software is only increasing slowly.
Our range of services for software modernization
At MaibornWolff, we cover the entire software modernization process: from the initial analysis of your existing systems through to successful implementation. Our aim is to make your software future-proof, efficient and flexible.
Software Audit
- Detailed site analysis of your system
- Refurbishment plan with specific recommendations for action
- Implementation at eye level with your team by experts from modernization projects
- Roadmap & cost indication
- Duration: 3 weeks
- Investment: up to 60,000 €
Software modernization
- Development of the target image for your system
- Prioritization of the measures
- Empowerment of your development team or joint implementation of the projects
Long-term further development
- Decision whether implementation by MaibornWolff or your team
- Empowerment of your team and support in building a team
- Proven, step-by-step handover phases ensure security
Software refurbishment and modernization: Our approach
From the initial analysis to detailed planning and implementation: we ensure that your software modernization is efficient and successful. Our collaboration looks like this:

1. Initial conversation
Our collaboration begins with a specific problem that brings you to us. A brief discussion helps us to assess the modernization effort and understand your specific needs.
2. Offer and software audit
After the first meeting, you will receive a concrete offer for a software audit. Depending on the scope, this process costs between € 30,000 and € 60,000. During the software audit, we analyze ...
- ... current functionalities and future requirements,
- the code quality and system architecture,
- quality assurance and development processes,
- Efficiency and processes of your software and
- Cloud and mobile readiness (optional).
This check usually takes three weeks and can be carried out in parallel with your day-to-day business. We do not use any unnecessary resources and conduct our workshops exclusively with your relevant experts.
3. Final presentation and next steps
After the software audit, we present our findings and suggestions in a final presentation. Based on these findings, we decide together on the next steps.
Important: You can of course also implement the action plan independently or with an existing service provider.
4. Planning and implementation
Now the actual software modernization begins. We use proven methods and tools for this:
- Team/Ensemble Programming: We work with you to develop a target vision and establish uniform quality standards. In this way, we ensure that your team can continue to add value, even if individual members are absent. IT tasks are usually solved by two to five people.
- Test Driven Development: Establishment of test-driven development, where acceptance criteria are first defined before implementation begins.
- Domain Driven Design: Focus on the technicality of the application, not the database model.
- Code: Knowledge is formalized in code.
- Strangler pattern: Development of new functionalities parallel to the existing software. Old software parts are gradually replaced by new ones without a major conversion step. This method enables continuous integration of new features and provides early feedback during operation.
- Golden Master Test: automated tests to safeguard fragile systems.
- Emergency Response Unit: immediate support in the event of problems.
5. Smooth modernization during operation
We modernize your individual software during operation. The advantages of this are clear: it saves time and money. We also receive rapid feedback from production, which speeds up the development of complex systems and makes it more efficient.
Methods of software modernization
There are various approaches to software modernization, depending on the status and requirements of the existing software. Basically, three main methods can be distinguished:
-
Re-write
With this method, outdated software is gradually replaced with new code. This enables continuous improvement and adaptation of the software without interrupting operation. -
Complete modernization
Here, the entire code of the software is completely revised. This method is necessary if the software is very outdated and requires fundamental changes in order to meet current requirements. The tech stack (i.e. the programming language, frameworks, technologies, etc.) is often replaced with the latest technologies. -
Partial renewal
This rarely used method involves supplementing or replacing certain parts of the software, while the rest remains unchanged. This is usually only used when time or budget is very limited.
Tools for software remediation
Regardless of which method you choose, you will receive a smooth and efficient modernization - supported by our proven methods and procedures. Here are four key approaches that we use:

Strangler Pattern
The Strangler Pattern (also known as the Strangler Fig Pattern) is a proven process model that we use frequently and successfully. New functionalities are developed and integrated parallel to the old, running software. As soon as a new functionality has been implemented, this part of the new software goes live. The old software function is gradually replaced by the new one without a complete changeover at once (big bang). This enables early feedback and minimizes risk, as two software systems are in operation at the same time and have to interact with each other.
Clean Code
Refactoring
Software maps
Our software maps are a particular advantage of our approach. These visual representations make the modernization process transparent for you at all times. You can view the progress, assess the refactoring and clearly understand the code quality and dependencies. This visual representation gives you security and confidence throughout the entire process.
Ready for a comprehensive software modernization?
When your software is ready for the next step, we are your partner for successful software modernization. With proven methods, in-depth expertise and a transparent approach, we bring your software up to date. Rely on MaibornWolff to make your system future-proof and efficient. Contact us today and get started on a modern and efficient software future.
FAQ - frequently asked questions about software modernization
What role do data protection and data security play in software modernization?
Surprisingly little! Cybersecurity guidelines are usually well implemented in well-maintained systems. Data protection and security are not currently the main drivers for software modernization projects, but could become more important if legal requirements for cybersecurity increase.What is a legacy system?
A legacy system is a critical system that is indispensable for a company and needs to be modernized. It has historical value for the company, such as important know-how. However, the problem lies in technological obsolescence due to the use of sometimes outdated programming languages and architectures, for which there are often no longer any experts or resources.
Which companies should consider modernizing their software?
Software modernization affects all companies for whose value creation individual software is relevant. The term individual software is important here, as it does not refer to standard software product suites, but to customized solutions that are specifically tailored to the needs of the company. Of course, a company that offers a software product may also have a need for modernization.