All Blog Articles

Key strategies and tools for GIS application modernization to help you maintain operational efficiency and technological competitiveness.

The retirement of ArcGIS Web AppBuilder (WAB) in July 2024 marks more than just the end of an era for GIS professionals. It signifies an urgent need for enterprises to transition to modern platforms that meet today’s technological demands and operational challenges. Postponing this move is potentially risky and could result in reduced efficiency, increased security risks, and missed opportunities to take advantage of more innovative solutions for app development.

Here’s why upgrading your software is not only necessary but also advantageous.

The Problem with Legacy Tools

Outdated Technology

ArcGIS Web AppBuilder operated on the ArcGIS API for JavaScript 3.x, an outdated framework incompatible with modern web requirements. Continuing to rely on this technology constrains your ability to scale, secure, and optimize operations.

Rising Costs with Maintenance

Legacy platforms often incur hidden expenses, such as increasing maintenance costs, inefficiencies in scaling, and higher dependency on custom development. These costs can negatively impact both IT budgets and operational efficiency.

Risk of Security Vulnerabilities

Older systems lack the capacity to meet evolving security threats effectively. This leaves organizations more exposed to cyber risks, which can lead to data loss or breaches—issues no business can afford.

Here’s why app modernization and specifically migrating to a commercial off-the-shelf software platform that simplifies the design, deployment, and maintenance of apps, such as VertiGIS Studio, is crucial for GIS professionals moving forward.

Why Modernize? Key Benefits of Cloud App Modernization

Transitioning from WAB offers an opportunity to not simply replace an old tool but to step into a new era of efficiency and innovation. Here are the key advantages of modernizing your GIS application ecosystem:

Cost Efficiency

Modern platforms, such as VertiGIS Studio, leverage cloud architecture to lower operational costs. Automating processes, minimizing reliance on high-maintenance custom code, and scaling easily with shared infrastructure contribute to measurable savings.

Improved Security

Modern systems are built with robust security protocols to address today’s threats. Platforms like VertiGIS Studio Web, built on Esri’s latest ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript, provide cutting-edge solutions for protecting your applications against vulnerabilities.

Seamless Integration

Modernized software is designed to integrate effortlessly across diverse systems. For example, VertiGIS Studio allows users to consolidate workflows and unify data sources, ensuring that teams can focus on decision-making rather than battling compatibility issues.

Scalability and Resilience

Whether it’s exponential user growth or expanded operational requirements, modern platforms provide dynamic scalability. They ensure reliability under heavy demand while avoiding the downtime prone to legacy tools.

Innovation and Growth

Upgrading to contemporary tools opens the doors to faster innovation cycles. Platforms such as VertiGIS Studio utilize a configuration-first approach, enabling GIS teams to focus on creativity rather than coding-heavy development processes.

Why VertiGIS Studio?

While Esri’s Experience Builder is one option for replacing Web AppBuilder, VertiGIS Studio offers distinct advantages that make it an excellent choice for enterprises seeking long-term benefits.

Low-Code, Configuration-First Design

VertiGIS Studio prioritizes a no-code/minimal-code approach, reducing development complexity. This not only speeds up project timelines but also lowers maintenance costs.

Built to Last with Next-Gen Technology

VertiGIS Studio is powered by Esri’s ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript, ensuring compatibility with evolving technologies. By choosing a future-ready platform now, organizations can avoid many of the pitfalls of future migrations.

Enhanced Enterprise Features

VertiGIS Studio delivers tools like VertiGIS Studio Workflow and Reporting that empower organizations to streamline multiple applications while maintaining operational consistency. This enterprise-grade efficiency ensures a cohesive, high-performing app ecosystem.

Proven Track Record

With over 20 years of experience in helping GIS organizations transition through technological advancements, VertiGIS is a trustworthy partner for navigating this transformation effectively.

Steps to Begin Modernization

Migrating from Web AppBuilder to a modernized platform doesn’t have to be complex. Follow these steps to streamline your transition:

Assess Current Applications

Evaluate your active WAB applications to identify those critical to your business operations. Determine which can be retired, overhauled, or migrated.

Test New Tools

Leverage demo environments or trial versions of VertiGIS Studio to see how its solutions align with your organization’s goals.

Start Incrementally

Begin by modernizing smaller, non-critical applications. This approach helps your team adapt to the new system gradually and prepares you for larger-scale migrations.

Future-Proof Your GIS Strategy

The retirement of Web AppBuilder isn’t merely a phase-out; it presents a clear signal to evolve. By transitioning now, you’ll secure your organization’s ability to handle future challenges, enhance daily operations, and unlock incomparable value through innovation.

Don’t wait to act. Explore the advanced features of VertiGIS Studio and start your modernization strategy today—because the tools you use will define your GIS potential for years to come.