In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, switching systems is sometimes inevitable. However, the end of one system doesn’t mean the end of the world; instead, it opens up new opportunities. A change often brings a breath of fresh air, offering numerous advantages and chances for optimization.
Imagine a road trip. You’re driving your trusty car that has served you well for many years. The plan is set, and the excitement is high. But two things could disrupt your travel plans: the condition of the vehicle or the manufacturer itself. Outdated technology leads to more frequent repairs, and eventually, spare parts will no longer be available as production stops.
Why a System Change Becomes Necessary
Companies face a similar situation when it comes to keeping their e-commerce systems future-proof and stable. High-performing systems form the technological foundation for the entire sales process, but they also have a lifecycle. Just like your car, systems reach an “end of life” when they can no longer meet the company’s requirements or customer expectations.
Rapid technological developments in e-commerce bring new challenges that older systems often cannot handle. Sometimes, this is because the manufacturer stops supporting certain systems, updates, security patches, or technical support—similar to your long-serving car whose production has ceased.
End of Life in E-Commerce: Current Examples
- Shopware is ending support for version 5 and recommends migrating to Shopware 6 (starting July 2024).
- SAP is ending support for SAP Commerce (formerly SAP Hybris) and will focus solely on SAP Commerce Cloud (starting July 2026).
- Salesforce is moving to Lightning and will not further develop Salesforce Classic.
End of Life, Start of System Migration: Seizing New Opportunities
A system change is not just a challenge; it also offers numerous opportunities that go beyond simple problem-solving. With a modern system, companies can:
- Increase Efficiency: Current features, user-friendly interfaces, and improved integration options enhance the user experience for both system users and customers, boosting productivity.
- Enhance Security: New systems provide advanced security measures that protect against cyberattacks and minimize risks to sensitive data.
- Reduce Costs: Despite initial investments, modern systems often lead to lower maintenance and operating costs, enabling long-term savings.
- Optimize System Landscape: Reviewing existing systems helps determine whether they still align with company goals. Modern architectures like headless and composable make it easier to adapt and introduce new functionalities.
- Improve Scalability: Contemporary systems enable companies to respond flexibly to market changes and support targeted growth and expansion.
- Increase Adaptability: New legal requirements, such as the GDPR or accessibility laws, demand high flexibility. Modern systems help companies respond quickly and innovatively to new developments, maintaining competitiveness.
Successfully Transitioning to a New System
When an old system is no longer sold, maintained, or supported, or disappears entirely, a well-planned transition is crucial. Here are our recommendations for a smooth switch:
1. Thorough Analysis and Careful Planning: Conduct a comprehensive inventory of current systems, data, and processes. Define clear requirements for the new solution and set specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Communicate the migration plan both internally and externally.
2. Realistic Approach: A system migration requires precise and realistic planning. Consider all necessary resources and create a clear roadmap that aligns with agile principles to avoid time and budget overruns.
3. Leave Old Processes Behind: Don’t cling to outdated functions during migration. Take the opportunity to optimize your processes and improve user-friendliness. Embrace modern technologies and cloud-based solutions to secure long-term benefits.
4. Gradual Transition: Reduce risks by approaching the change gradually. Test the switch in pilot projects and conduct comprehensive testing to ensure all functions work smoothly and data is accurately transferred. Choose a migration timing outside peak sales periods, like the year-end or particularly busy months.
5. Employee Training: To minimize errors and enhance efficiency, thoroughly train your employees on the new system. Utilize both internal IT resources and support from external providers and vendors.
6. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment: Keep a close eye on the system, make continuous adjustments, and document everything meticulously. Use feedback from employees and customers to identify weaknesses early and continuously improve processes.
7. Leverage External Support: Involve external experts to accelerate and optimize the migration process. These professionals bring technical know-how and experience from similar projects, ensuring a smooth transition and sustainable system stability.
Conclusion: Successful System Change in E-Commerce
“End of Life” does not mean the end—for your road trip or for companies facing the end of a system solution. A well-planned system change can be more than just saying goodbye to an old system; it marks the beginning of a new, successful era in e-commerce—or a new, exciting road trip.