At first glance, keeping an older ColdFusion or CFML application running might seem like the safest and most affordable choice. After all, if the system still delivers the required functionality, why change it? The reality is very different. Behind the scenes, legacy CFML is quietly draining resources through downtime, rising licensing costs, and the difficulty of finding skilled developers to maintain it.
Downtime Is More Expensive Than You Think
Every moment an application is offline translates into lost revenue, unhappy customers, and disrupted operations. Older CFML applications often rely on outdated code, unpatched servers, and brittle integrations that increase the likelihood of outages. What seems like a “small hiccup” can quickly escalate into hours of downtime, costing far more than a modernization project would.
Licensing and Maintenance Costs Keep Rising
Organizations running on older ColdFusion versions frequently face escalating licensing costs and limited availability from hosting providers. On top of that, patching unsupported systems often requires expensive one-off fixes. These expenses add up, creating a cycle where companies pay more each year simply to keep outdated software afloat.
The Talent Gap Problem
Another hidden cost is the shrinking pool of experienced CFML developers. As fewer professionals specialize in legacy ColdFusion, companies face longer hiring times, higher salaries, and greater risk when staff leave. This talent shortage makes it difficult to sustain applications long term, often forcing IT teams into reactive “firefighting” instead of proactive development.
Why Modernization Cuts Costs
When you add it all up—downtime, licensing, and the lack of talent—legacy CFML systems become more expensive than most organizations expect. The solution isn’t to patch endlessly, but to modernize in a way that aligns with business goals and budget.
How Ortus Solutions Helps You Modernize
Through ColdFusion Consulting services, Ortus Solutions helps organizations escape the hidden costs of legacy systems. Our approach includes:
- Cost analysis and audits to uncover where legacy apps are draining your budget.
- Strategic migration planning that minimizes downtime and maximizes long-term savings.
- Access to expert developers who know ColdFusion, CFML frameworks, and modernization best practices.
- Evaluation of future-ready options, including BoxLang, a modern JVM-based language that preserves CFML compatibility while offering greater flexibility.
Stop Paying More for Less
Legacy CFML may appear “cheaper” in the short term, but the hidden costs tell a different story. With expert guidance, you can cut unnecessary expenses, reduce risk, and prepare your systems for the future.
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