Top 10 leading application modernization companies 

When it comes to legacy systems, they are often discussed as a costly burden. Mainframes, monolithic applications, and outdated UIs, that were once cutting-edge, now slow down business development, limit scalability, eat up budgets, and present significant security risks. We, however, have a different perspective and look at them as an opportunity – cloud-native development, microservices, and AI open numerous doors to modernizing legacy systems and making businesses more profitable and competitive. 

This blog explains the specifics of app modernisation services and their benefits, while also presenting the list of the top software modernization companies. The global application modernization services market, valued at $20.8 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a 16.8% CAGR, reaching nearly $100 billion by 2034, which means it’s high time to find an experienced and reliable technical partner for system modernization. Keep reading to learn how to do it properly. 

What modernization services are there? 

Assessing and auditing of legacy systems 

Modernization always starts with a clear picture of what’s already in place. An assessment helps map out the current IT landscape, highlight outdated technologies, uncover security gaps, and pinpoint performance or compliance issues. It also weighs the cost of keeping legacy systems running against the potential return on modernization. This stage often involves code analysis, dependency mapping, and talking to users to shape a roadmap that fits real business goals. Skipping this step can lead to scope creep, wasted effort, or investments that miss the mark. 

Migration to the Cloud 

Cloud migration is one of the most in-demand modernization services – and for good reason. It gives businesses the flexibility to move applications, workloads, and data onto platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud. Depending on goals, migration can take different shapes: a quick lift-and-shift (IaaS), adapting applications to use managed services (PaaS), or fully replacing legacy apps with cloud-native SaaS solutions. Many providers also help with hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, making sure systems stay portable, scalable, and compliant no matter where they run. 

Microservices and containerization with Docker and Kubernetes 

Breaking a monolithic application into microservices is a crucial step for companies seeking greater flexibility. Instead of a single massive codebase, modernization teams break systems into smaller, independent services that can be built, deployed, and scaled individually. These services typically run in containers using Docker and are managed by orchestration tools such as Kubernetes. The result is better scalability, higher fault tolerance, and the freedom to update or roll out new features without touching the entire system – exactly what dynamic and modern businesses need. 

API integration 

Legacy systems often operate in isolation, making it challenging for teams to share data or integrate processes. That’s where API integration comes in. Software modernization companies design and manage APIs that enable different applications to communicate securely and efficiently with each other. With strong API management in place, businesses can monitor usage, control access, and scale integrations as needed. For example, a bank might use APIs to connect its core system with mobile apps or third-party fintech tools, delivering new features without overhauling the entire backend. 

Code refactoring and re-engineering 

Modernization isn’t always about starting over. Sometimes, it means making what you already have work or work better. Code refactoring focuses on cleaning up and reorganizing existing code so it’s easier to maintain and runs more efficiently, without changing how the app behaves on the outside. Re-engineering takes things even further by adapting applications to modern languages, frameworks, or architectures. Both approaches can breathe new life into legacy systems, extend their lifespan, and reduce the costs of ongoing maintenance, all without the disruption of a complete rebuild. 

UX/UI modernization 

UX/UI modernization gives applications a fresh look while also making them more user-friendly. Modernization teams rebuild front ends with frameworks like React, Angular, or Blazor to deliver responsive, mobile-friendly, and accessible experiences. But it’s not just about appearances; a well-designed interface improves productivity, reduces training time, and keeps customers engaged. In many cases, updating the user experience can deliver just as much business value as the technical upgrades happening behind the scenes. 

Modernizing data and analytics 

Data is often the most challenging yet the most important part of modernization. Legacy databases can’t always keep up with the speed, scale, or variety of today’s business needs. Data modernization helps companies transition to modern solutions such as PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or cloud-native databases like Amazon Aurora. Beyond storage, it’s about adding analytics and real-time reporting so businesses can act on data, not just store it. Modernization partners also ensure that systems meet security and compliance requirements, incorporating encryption, governance, and auditing from the outset.  

DevSecOps implementation 

Instead of treating security as an afterthought, DevSecOps builds it directly into the development and deployment pipeline. Modernization partners establish automated workflows that incorporate security checks, vulnerability scans, and compliance testing alongside coding and deployment. This means faster releases without sacrificing safety, giving businesses the confidence to innovate while staying protected. 

Mainframe modernization 

Mainframes still power some of the world’s most critical systems, think banking transactions, airline reservations, or government records. The problem is, maintaining them is costly, and updating them is complex. Mainframe modernization companies help organizations migrate these workloads into more flexible environments without compromising the reliability for which mainframes are known. Depending on the need, that might mean rehosting applications on modern servers, gradually replatforming them for the cloud, or breaking them down into microservices. The goal is always the same: preserve what works while opening the door to scalability and lower costs.  

What to look for in a modernization partner 

Choosing the right partner for application modernization can be just as crucial as selecting the technology itself. The right vendor will guide you through the process, offer individual solutions, and minimize risks. Choosing the wrong one can lead to spiraling costs, missed deadlines, or systems that create more technical debt than they resolve. To avoid that, enterprises should weigh several key factors before making a decision. Here are seven of the most important. 

Expertise in both industry and tech 

Not all modernization projects are alike. A hospital faces very different challenges from a retail chain, and a bank has stricter compliance rules than a media company. That’s why industry-specific expertise is a game-changer. The best partners not only know modern technologies, such as cloud platforms, containerization, and modern frameworks, but also understand the regulations and workflows specific to your sector. Their experience helps anticipate problems before they happen and tailor solutions that make sense for your business, not just your tech stack. 

Track record and client feedback 

A strong partner should be able to point to successful modernization projects for organizations of similar size or industry. Case studies, references, and independent reviews offer a clear window into how they work. Did they deliver on time? How did they handle setbacks? Which is the best example of modernization they can present? What do past clients say about communication and transparency? A proven track record is the best insurance against unpleasant surprises. 

Partnerships with major cloud providers 

The cloud is at the center of most modernization efforts, so vendor partnerships are crucial. A company that’s a certified AWS Advanced Partner or a Microsoft Azure Gold Partner will have early access to tools, training, and support channels. For businesses, it means smoother migrations, optimized architectures, and fewer roadblocks. Strong alliances with cloud providers also demonstrate your partner’s commitment and responsiveness to various projects. 

Proven delivery methodologies 

Application modernization vendors that work with Agile methodologies and DevOps practices bring flexibility and speed to the table. Instead of waiting months for results, you’ll see progress in small, manageable iterations. Continuous integration and automated testing reduce risks and help your business adapt quickly when priorities shift. The methodology is the difference between a rigid, risky project and one that evolves with your needs. 

Security and compliance as priorities 

Modernization often involves sensitive data, such as financial transactions, patient records, and customer details. Therefore, security has to be built in from the start. Look for partners that adopt DevSecOps practices, run regular vulnerability checks, and have experience meeting regulatory requirements like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS. A security-first mindset ensures your modern applications won’t introduce new risks while solving old problems. 

Scalability and long-term value 

A strong modernization partner will design systems that can scale in sync with your growth, whether that means handling more users, connecting with AI solutions, or supporting multi-cloud deployments. They should also rely on technologies with active communities and strong vendor support, so you don’t end up modernizing into a dead end. It’s vital to remember the goal – to ensure your system’s longevity, not fix the situation in the short term. 

Effective communication  

If communication breaks down, even the most technically skilled vendor can fall short. Clear reporting, accessible project managers, and collaborative tools like Jira, Azure DevOps, or Slack make all the difference. The best partners keep stakeholders informed and involved, flag risks early, and maintain transparency throughout the process. Also, look for a cultural fit, as working styles that align with your team can make the modernization journey smoother. 

Leading application modernization companies 

Blackthorn Vision 

Blackthorn Vision is a Ukraine-based technology partner with a strong focus on digital product development and application modernization. Among numerous legacy software modernization companies, the company has carved out a reputation for combining deep technical expertise with a client-first approach. Blackthorn Vision helps organizations modernize outdated systems by introducing cloud-native architectures, microservices, and modern front-end frameworks, while ensuring minimal disruption to daily business operations. 

What makes Blackthorn Vision stand out is its commitment to long-term partnerships. Rather than treating modernization as a one-off project, the company positions itself as a strategic ally, guiding clients from discovery and system audits all the way through continuous improvement. Blackthorn Vision has experience across industries, including energy, biotech, healthcare, finance, and enterprise SaaS. 

Clients often highlight Blackthorn Vision’s transparency and agility, emphasizing how teams adapt quickly to changing priorities. For mid-size businesses and startups, it’s a great partner that balances high-quality engineering talent and competitive costs, making modernization achievable even without enterprise budgets. 

Infosys 

Infosys is one of the world’s largest IT consulting and services providers, headquartered in India with a global client base. Its modernization offerings fall under the umbrella of Infosys Modernization Suite, which includes tools for assessing, migrating, and re-architecting legacy systems. Infosys has particularly strong expertise in mainframe modernization, helping Fortune 500 companies reduce costs by moving mission-critical workloads to cloud-native environments. 

A key differentiator is Infosys’s focus on automation and AI-driven modernization. The company uses proprietary tools to analyze codebases, suggest refactoring strategies, and accelerate migration timelines. Combined with its massive global delivery network, this allows Infosys to tackle large, complex modernization projects at scale. 

Cognizant 

Known for working with some of the largest enterprises worldwide, Cognizant provides end-to-end modernization services, including cloud migration, data modernization, API-led integration, and DevSecOps adoption. 

The company is widely recognized for its strong partnerships with major cloud providers, which it leverages to build resilient, cloud-native systems. Cognizant is particularly attractive to enterprises with large, complex IT estates that require modernization without disrupting mission-critical operations. 

Deloitte 

As one of the “Big Four” consulting firms, Deloitte combines business strategy with deep technology execution. Its application modernization practice goes beyond technical upgrades, incorporating change management, compliance, and business transformation.  

Deloitte’s strength lies in its holistic approach. Teams bring expertise in cloud migration, ERP modernization, cybersecurity, and data-driven decision-making. Unlike purely technical application modernization vendors, Deloitte positions modernization into the broader business context, ensuring alignment with long-term growth objectives. It’s best suited for enterprises that need both strategy and execution, particularly in highly regulated industries such as finance, energy, and healthcare. 

N-iX 

N-iX is one of the leading European IT modernization companies, with a strong reputation in cloud migration, data modernization, and microservices architecture. Based in Ukraine and with global offices, N-iX has helped enterprises across fintech, telecom, and logistics re-architect legacy systems into modern, cloud-ready solutions. 

N-iX emphasizes modular, future-proof architectures that enable enterprises to adapt quickly to market changes. Its teams are skilled in Kubernetes, Docker, and API-driven ecosystems, making it a strong choice for businesses adopting containerization. Clients also appreciate N-iX’s flexibility. Whether a company needs a full modernization partner or simply an extension of its engineering team, N-iX can adapt engagement models accordingly.  

Binariks 

Binariks is a software development and consulting firm known for helping companies modernize digital platforms with a focus on cloud and mobile ecosystems. The company possesses strong expertise in the healthcare, fintech, and automotive industries, delivering application modernization solutions with a focus on stringent compliance requirements. 

Binariks differentiates itself from similar application modernization companies through its product mindset. Teams don’t just re-platform old systems – they align modernization efforts with business objectives and user experience goals. Its portfolio includes cloud migration, microservices, and AI-driven enhancements, supported by partnerships with AWS and Google Cloud. With development hubs in Eastern Europe, Binariks combines engineering quality with cost efficiency, making it a good fit for startups and mid-market companies. 

Cleveroad 

Cleveroad is a Ukrainian IT services provider with a strong background in UI/UX modernization and mobile-first solutions. The company’s niche is blending modernization with user-centric design. Cleveroad helps organizations transform legacy systems that may function well but look outdated into intuitive, responsive platforms that enhance engagement. It has worked with clients across e-commerce, healthcare, and logistics, where user experience is central to competitiveness. 

DataArt 

DataArt is a global software engineering firm with a strong reputation for custom modernization projects. With offices across Europe, the U.S., and Latin America, DataArt supports enterprises in finance, travel, media, and healthcare.  

DataArt partners closely with clients to assess business needs, design tailored modernization roadmaps, and deliver application modernization solutions that combine legacy system migration with new product development. Its services include cloud transformation, DevOps enablement, and legacy re-engineering. The firm places strong emphasis on collaboration and transparency, making it a trusted long-term partner for enterprises looking to balance modernization with innovation. 

ScienceSoft 

ScienceSoft is a U.S.-based IT consulting and software development company with over three decades of experience. Its application modernization services cover everything from code refactoring and re-platforming to UI/UX redesign and cloud-native development. 

ScienceSoft’s value lies in its broad expertise across industries, including banking, retail, manufacturing, and healthcare. The company has modernized ERP systems, CRM platforms, and custom enterprise applications for global clients. A particular strength is its ability to integrate modernization with analytics and data strategy, ensuring that re-architected systems don’t just perform better but also deliver new business insights.  

Sigma Software Group 

Sigma Software Group provides modernization services to clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Its portfolio includes cloud migration, microservices adoption, API management, and UI/UX modernization.  

What distinguishes Sigma from other software product modernization companies is its blend of innovation and enterprise delivery discipline. The company actively engages in R&D, exploring AI, AR/VR, and IoT, and incorporates these technologies into modernization strategies where relevant. The company has worked with brands in automotive, media, and telecom, offering both nearshore engineering talent and strategic advisory.  

Bottom line 

Application modernization is nothing but a strategic business priority. Outdated systems drain resources, slow down innovation, and create security risks. Modernization replaces these limitations with cloud scalability, flexible architectures, enhanced security, and improved user experiences. 

The application modernization companies featured in this article, ranging from global leaders such as Infosys, Deloitte, and Cognizant to specialized partners like Blackthorn Vision and Cleveroad, demonstrate the diversity of approaches available. Some excel at large-scale, complex transformations, while others focus on delivering highly tailored, cost-efficient solutions. What unites them is a shared mission: helping organizations move from legacy constraints to future-ready platforms.  

Modernization is about building a foundation for growth, agility, and resilience. What to ensure this for your organization? Contact us!