“Java Monoliths” – Modernizing an Oxymoron

In the evolution of Java-based applications, what once emerged as a revolutionary tool for building scalable web applications has turned into a legacy challenge, with Java EE monoliths now seen as outdated structures that require modernization. This text describes the process of updating these systems using cloud-native principles and microservices to enhance modularity and business focus. The modernization strategy involves assessing legacy code to determine whether to reuse, refactor, rewrite, or replace it, with an emphasis on business priorities and cost-effectiveness. Platforms like vFunction utilize graph theory and machine learning to identify and untangle complex interdependencies within legacy Java applications, guiding the decomposition into microservices aligned with business domains. The process is iterative, requiring continuous refinement of microservices architecture and the involvement of both architects and developers to ensure a smooth transition from monolithic to modular systems. This modernization effort is part of a broader enterprise strategy that must adapt to changing business needs and technological advancements while carefully weighing the benefits, costs, and risks involved.