Exploring Hybrid Software Modernization
Environments: A Confluence of Legacy and
Contemporary Software Architectures
*343.006, SE Seminar in Software Engineering
Hamed Kshiem BSc
dept. Institut für Software Systems
Engineering
Linz, Austria
hamed.kshiem@gmail.com
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G. Eason, B. Noble, and I. N. Sneddon, “On certain integrals of
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J. Clerk Maxwell, A Treatise on Electricity and Magnetism, 3rd ed.,
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I. S. Jacobs and C. P. Bean, “Fine particles, thin films and exchange
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Assignment structure:
• Introduction
• Background
• Methodology
• Results and Analysis
• Conclusion
Abstract
This report provides a comprehensive review of hybrid
software modernization environments, exploring the current
state, key methodologies, tools and techniques, and
challenges and opportunities in the field. We categorize and
analyze scholarly work on the topic, identifying major
trends, challenges, and best practices. Particular attention is
given to the integration of legacy systems with modern
technologies in hybrid software modernization
environments, as well as to data migration techniques in
hybrid environments. Through a systematic review of the
academic literature and analysis of selected papers, we
present a comprehensive picture of the current state of
research in this area. Our analysis highlights that hybrid
software modernization environments require a balance of
different methodologies, tools, and techniques, and offer
organizations significant opportunities to upgrade their
systems and remain competitive. Balanced attention to
technical, operational, and organizational aspects, as well as
effective risk management, are critical to successful
software upgrades.
In order to achieve the objectives, research papers will
be analyzed and classified, taking into account their facet
and contribution, and a classification scheme will be created
to systematize research on the topic. Various aspects of
hybrid modernization environments will be considered,
including technical, operational, deployment strategies,
organizational aspects, infrastructure management, risk
management, integration risks, and the modernization
process.
Thus, this review of research papers on hybrid software
modernization environments will provide a comprehensive
view of the current state and trends in the field, identify
challenges and opportunities, and identify best practices.
Background
A. Software Modernization
With the development of information technology and
increased requirements for software functionality, there is a
need to modernize and integrate legacy systems with
modern technologies. Hybrid software modernization
environments have become a popular research topic, since
they allow creating flexible, reliable and productive
solutions, adapting to changing market conditions.
The purpose of this paper is to study the current state of
hybrid software modernization environments, the main
methodologies, tools and techniques, as well as the
challenges and opportunities in this area. To this end, a
review of research papers, including articles and papers
published from 2013 to 2023, was conducted. The review
examined various methodologies such as Agile, cloud
migration, and refactoring techniques, and examined best
practices and trends in software development and
modernization. In the following subparts there is will be
more in depth review of the topics included in the articles.
Introduction
A. Legacy Systems
Hybrid software modernization environments are
becoming increasingly relevant these days because they
provide an opportunity to integrate legacy systems with
modern technologies. The purpose of this review is to
explore and categorize the research papers on hybrid
software modernization environments in order to
understand the current state, main methodologies, tools,
challenges, and opportunities in this field.
B. Research Questions
Research questions that this paper will focus on include:
“What are the key challenges and opportunities in
integrating legacy systems with modern technologies in
hybrid software modernization environments?”
“What are the most effective techniques for migrating
data between legacy systems and modern applications in
hybrid environments?”
B. NoSQL and Database Technologies
NoSQL technologies provide high performance and
scalability for handling large amounts of data, but often
overlook security issues. The proposed hybrid software
modernization approach improves existing NoSQL
systems by implementing security mechanisms without the
need for a complete redesign. The approach includes
automated analysis of the current solution and generation
of recommendations to improve access control, privileges
and user roles. [1]
C. Microservices
Microservices is an architectural style in which a system
is designed as a set of small, self-contained services that
communicate with each other through lightweight
protocols. This approach provides an enhancement to older,
monolithic systems that typically have degraded
architecture and outdated technology. [2]
Migrating monolithic systems to microservices
improves digital transformation and innovation, reduces
systems maintenance costs, and increases efficiency.
However, the process can be complex and requires a deep
understanding of both the system itself and the new
microservices architecture. [2]
Microservices play a key role in hybrid software
modernization environments. These environments involve
using different approaches and technologies to modernize
legacy systems. Microservices allow a system to be broken
down into smaller, independent units, making it easier to
upgrade and improve individual parts of the system. [2]
The roadmap for upgrading monolithic legacy systems
with microservices presented in the article includes
initiation, planning, execution, and monitoring of the
upgrade process. This can serve as a framework for
practitioners to plan and implement upgrades and motivate
tool developers to meet existing needs. [2]
D. Machine learning in hybrid software engineering
modernization environments
Software modernization using machine learning
involves using ML algorithms to automatically update
legacy code, making it more efficient and easier to maintain.
[6]
In the context of hybrid networks, particularly in SDN
deployments, machine learning helps determine when and
which network node needs to be upgraded, simplifying the
migration process and improving hybrid network
deployment. [3]
Thus, the use of machine learning is a common approach
to improve the efficiency of upgrades in both software and
network systems. [6]
E. Model-Driven Software Modernization
Model-Driven Software Modernization (MDSM) is a
method of automating updates to legacy code that uses
approaches from Model-Driven Engineering (MDE). [4] [5]
Machine learning can enhance MDSM by helping to
identify areas of code for optimization and updates. [4]
Cloud computing provides an ideal environment for
developing and hosting applications but can create problems
when migrating legacy applications. The combined use of
MDSM and cloud technologies can ensure that legacy
applications can be efficiently adapted to new cloud
environments. [5]
A model-driven approach to migration provides an
integrated framework to support the entire migration
process, including the use of machine learning to improve
the modernization process. [4]
F. Software-Defined Networking
Software Defined Network (SDN) is an approach to
network management where a centralized controller
manages data routing that provides high flexibility and the
ability to dynamically optimize. This is especially important
in the context of energy efficiency, where there is a need to
adapt routing to traffic load to disable some hardware and
reduce overall power consumption. [7]
SENAtoR is an example of an algorithm designed for
energy-efficient routing in a gradual migration scenario
from legacy hardware to SDN. This algorithm provides the
means to safely utilize energy-saving services, including
tunneling for fast re-routing, smooth node disconnection,
and detection of traffic spikes and link failures. The
effectiveness of SENAtoR has been confirmed by
simulations and experiments. [7]
Hybrid software modernization environments, which
include SDN, represent a migration from legacy protocols
and hardware to newer and more flexible technologies such
as SDN. This provides a higher level of efficiency and
control, which is especially important in the face of everchanging traffic and network loads. Based on the above text,
the introduction of SDN reduces the power consumption of
ISP networks by 5-35%, while reducing packet loss
compared to legacy protocols. [7]
G. Hybrid Development and Quality Transformation
Hybrid development in the context of software
development refers to an approach in which organizations
use a combination of Agile and waterfall methods in
different groups. This has become particularly relevant with
the software industry's transition to the software-as-aservice (SaaS) model. In this context, quality transformation
becomes a key aspect as it seeks to increase customer
satisfaction. [8]
Quality transformation in hybrid development
organizations involves changes in six key areas: metrics,
processes, measurement, reporting, quality analytics,
culture, and leadership. The process encompasses a wide
range of changes, from reviewing key metrics to changing
corporate culture and leadership approaches. [8]
Hybrid software modernization environments are
related to this process because they involve the use of Agile
and waterfall techniques across different groups within the
same organization. This can lead to complexities in quality
management that require significant transformation to
maintain high levels of customer satisfaction. [8]
Machine learning and big data technologies can be used
to accelerate this transformation process. They can help
with quality analysis, metrics, and reporting, as well as
changing corporate culture and leadership approaches. [8]
H. Cloud and Fog Networks
Cloud and fog networks represent two levels of
computation in a distributed system. Cloud networks
centralize data processing, while fog networks perform data
processing closer to the source. The approach described
offers a convergence of these infrastructures, enabling the
migration from traditional networks to cloud networks and
the management of hybrid networks. This is particularly
useful when migrating traditional networks to the cloud and
managing existing networks. This approach can be applied
to software modernization in hybrid environments because
it combines the benefits of cloud and traditional networks.
The OpenStack-based prototype developed showed low
latency and throughput penalties, speeding up provisioning
time. [9]
I.
Cyber-Physical Systems
Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) are networks that
combine digital and physical elements, including Internet of
Things (IoT) technologies. [10]
This text describes an architecture for testing SPSs based
on hybrid cloud infrastructures. It provides ease of data
movement and processing, scalability and information
protection. [10]
The architecture supports modularity and component
upgrades and integration with existing systems and services.
This makes it easy to upgrade SPS software and add new
services. [10]
The background analysis revealed that hybrid software
modernization environments require a balanced application
of methodologies, tools and techniques, as well as attention
to technical, operational and organizational aspects.
Effective risk management and a comprehensive approach
to modernization, tailored to the needs of the organization,
are key to long-term success in hybrid software
modernization. [10]
Methodology
A. Literature Review: We conducted a systematic
literature review on the topic of "Hybrid Software Upgrade
Environments". This review includes academic articles
published in academic journals and conferences, as well as
reports and papers published by leading organizations and
research centers.
B. Article Selection Criteria
The articles were taken mainly from Scopus however to
have more variety also articles from sources such as google
scholar was included. The query for selecting the papers was
the following:
TITLE-ABS-KEY ( ( "hybrid" OR "multi perspective" )
AND (migration OR modernization OR transformation OR
re-engineering ) AND ( legacy OR "existing systems" OR
object-oriented ) ) AND ( LIMIT-TO ( SUBJAREA ,
"COMP" ) ) AND ( LIMIT-TO ( LANGUAGE , "English"
))
Articles for review are selected based on the following
criteria: they must take a "hybrid software modernization
environments" approach to the topic; they must be
academic; and they must be sufficiently detailed (at least
five pages). Articles that do not meet these criteria are
excluded.
Furthermore, any research that does not present
empirical results and Articles that misuse or fail to cite
sources are excluded.
Our research analysis was organized around several key
topics, including hybrid software, modernization
environments, legacy systems, performance optimization,
code refactoring, migration strategies, cloud system
integration, and microservices architecture.
While selecting the articles the research questions
mentioned in the introduction were also taken into account.
The articles that did not lead to answering to the research
questions were excluded.
This methodology allowed us to provide a
comprehensive and balanced analysis of the current state of
research in the field of hybrid software modernization
environments, considering aspects ranging from technical to
operational to organizational.
VI. RESULTS AND ANALYSIS
The successful transition to hybrid software
modernization environments is a topic of increasing
importance in today's digital world. However, this transition
brings to light a multitude of considerations that require a
full understanding of the effective data migration
techniques, opportunities and challenges inherent in the
process. This chapter aims to explore these critical facets of
hybrid software modernisation environments..
A. Effective Techniques for Data Migration
The task of data migration is a critical cornerstone in
creating a hybrid software modernisation environment.
With the integration of legacy systems and modern
technologies, data migration becomes an essential process
that requires careful and accurate data transfer. Several
techniques have been identified to assist in this important
task and help in the successful implementation of hybrid
environments.
The Extract, Transform, Load (ETL)
The Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) method is a wellestablished technique for data migration. Thalheim and
Wang's (2013) research explains the well-established data
migration strategy known as the Extract, Transform, Load
(ETL) method. This process begins with the extraction of
data from the original source, typically a legacy system.
This data is then transformed to meet the requirements of
the target system, often a modern application (Thalheim &
Wang, 2013). Once transformed, the data is then loaded into
the new system. The ETL approach provides an organised
and methodical framework for data migration, which
ensures accuracy and efficiency during the entire process.
However, Thalheim and Wang (2013) warn that the
complexity and success rate of the ETL process can be
greatly influenced by the characteristics of the data and the
particular systems involved(Thalheim & Wang, 2013).
done
Hybrid
software
Performance
optimization
Modernization
environments
Code
refactoring
Legacy systems
Migration
strategies
Cloud system
integration
Microservices
architecture
Data Replication
Insights into another effective strategy for data
migration are provided by Milani and Navimipour
(Milani & Navimipour, 2016), who provide a full review
of data replication techniques in cloud environments.
Their research highlights the benefits of this technique
when dealing with large volumes of data, or in
circumstances where it is critical to minimise system
downtime during the migration process. In this method,
an identical copy or replica of the original data is created
and then transferred to the new system, helping to ensure
the continuity of system operations and the maintenance
of data accuracy during the migration (Milani &
Navimipour, 2016). However, Milani and Navimipour
warn that data replication requires significant storage
resources and can present challenges in managing data
consistency between the original and target
systems(Alami Milani & Jafari Navimipour, 2016).
done
API-Led Connectivity
Finally, the API-Led Connectivity approach can also be
used for data migration, especially when the legacy
system exposes its functionalities via APIs Puittinen's
2023 study, "API Led vs. Point-to-Point: Approaches to
Integration Development with Mulesoft", discusses the
merits of the API-led connectivity approach in the
context of data migration. Puittinen highlights its
benefits especially when the existing system exposes its
functionality through APIs. In this methodology, APIs
serve as a means of communication between the old
legacy system and the modern system, making it easier
to transfer data between the two (Puittinen, 2023). This
strategy can streamline the data migration process and
reduce the chances of data loss or corruption. However,
Puittinen (2023) points out that it requires a
comprehensive understanding of the API structures of
both systems involved(Puittinen, 2023).
done
Database Migration Tools
Database Migration Tools have become instrumental in
facilitating data migration. The important role of
database migration tools in data migration is highlighted
in Elamparithi and Anuratha's study 'A Review on
Database Migration Strategies, Techniques and Tools'
(2015). These tools, as outlined by Elamparithi and
Anuratha, are designed to automate a significant portion
of the migration process and are built with features to
handle complex transformations, maintain data
integrity, and facilitate error handling and recovery.
Critical factors when selecting a tool include
compatibility with both the original and target systems,
ease of use, scalability, and support services
(Elamparithi & Anuratha, 2015). Well-known examples
of such tools include Oracle's SQL Developer, AWS
DMS (Database Migration Service), and Microsoft's
SQL Server Migration Assistant, as elaborated by the
authors(Elamparithi & Anuratha, 2015).
done
In summary, it is important to note that the choice of
technique for data migration in a hybrid environment will
depend on the specific requirements and characteristics of
the systems involved. It's therefore recommended that a full
evaluation is performed before selecting a particular
method to ensure a smooth and successful data migration
process.
B. Opportunities
The integration of legacy systems with modern
technologies in a hybrid software modernisation
environment is full of challenges, but it is also full of
opportunities for organisations. By adopting the power of
modern technologies, organisations can bring new life to
their aging infrastructure, gain a competitive edge and build
a foundation for future growth and innovation. This leads to
several opportunities. Our research has identified the
following:
Efficiency and Scalability
The first opportunity lies in the enhancement of
operational efficiency and scalability. In 'ServiceOriented Computing' (2014), Sheng, Stroulia, Tata and
Bhiri discuss the capabilities of modern systems. They
argue that these systems, designed with today's
workflows in mind, offer advanced capabilities that go
beyond those of legacy systems. According to them,
these advanced functionalities can optimise processes
and eliminate redundancies, thereby improving
operational efficiency (Sheng et al., 2014). In addition,
they claim that modern technologies can handle larger
volumes of data and increased user traffic, offering a
level of scalability that is generally superior to that of
legacy systems. This scalability gives organisations the
flexibility to expand their operations without fear of
overburdening their IT infrastructure (Hwang et al.,
2016).
done
Security
The integration of legacy systems with modern
technologies also provides a significant opportunity for
improved security. Based on the findings of Hasan, M.
H., Osman, M. H., Admodisastro, N. I., & Muhammad,
M. S. (2023) regarding the transition of legacy systems
to cloud infrastructures, it can be inferred that this shift
presents significant opportunities to improve security
measures. Modern cloud-based systems, as reviewed in
their work, are inherently designed with robust security
features that effectively protect sensitive information
and deter cyber risks. By moving to these systems,
organisations can strengthen their cybersecurity posture,
protect their digital assets and comply with sectorspecific guidelines. In addition, they highlighted the role
of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and
machine learning in this context. Modern cloud
platforms powered by these technologies are able to
identify and address cybersecurity threats in real time,
enabling organisations to adopt a more proactive
cybersecurity strategy. In this way, the transition from
legacy systems to cloud-based systems offers not only
efficiency,
but
also
advanced
security
mechanisms.(Hasan et al., 2023).
done
Costs
Another key opportunity lies in cost savings. Doaa M.
Shawky underscores the potential for substantial cost
savings when adopting a hybrid cloud migration strategy
in her study "A cost-effective approach for hybrid
migration to the cloud" (Shawky, 2013). Though there
are unavoidable initial costs associated with the
integration process, Shawky argues that the enduring
economic advantages are compelling. In the
contemporary cloud-based systems, the need for
maintenance and operational resources tends to be much
less, which inherently leads to diminished continuing
expenses (Shawky, 2013). Furthermore, the
incorporation of these up-to-date technologies can
enhance operational efficiencies, which in turn can
result in further cost reductions and considerable savings
over time(Shawky, o. J.)..
transformative change, a concern highlighted in Oredo's
research. This apprehension could be due to a number of
factors, including fear of the unknown, potential job
insecurity, or the anticipated steep learning curve
required to adapt to the new systems. Such resistance
could add major complications to the integration
process, highlighting the critical need for careful change
management and effective internal communication, as
outlined by Oredo. Careful management of these issues
is therefore essential to successfully navigate the
transition to cloud computing environments(Oredo &
Njihia, 2014).
done
done
Business agility
Documentation.
Lastly, the integration of legacy systems with modern
technologies facilitates business agility. Based on the
work of Rana, M. S., & Rahman, W. a. W. A. (2018),
unifying legacy systems with modern technologies can
significantly improve business agility. As their study
explains, modern technologies often offer more nimble
and adaptable solutions compared to inflexible legacy
systems. Such agility enables companies to respond
quickly to changing market conditions, adapt to new
business requirements and benefit from new
opportunities. Furthermore, they highlight the growing
use of cloud technologies and agility in modern systems.
These technologies offer organisations the convenience
of remote access to their systems and data at any time.
This ability to operate anywhere, anytime significantly
enhances a company's functionality in an era of
increasing digitisation. By migrating from legacy
systems to cloud-based systems, organisations can
remain competitive and responsive in a dynamic
business environment(Rana & Rahman, 2018).
Legacy systems often suffer from a lack of proper and
up-to-date documentation, in line with the findings of
Rana, M. S., & Rahman, W. a. W. A. (2018). Over time,
detailed knowledge of these systems, including their
complexities, underlying business protocols, workflow
processes and system dependencies, may have been
poorly saved or even lost. This lack of detailed
information can create major problems during the
migration process to cloud platforms, as discussed in
their research. These scenarios increase the risk of
errors, delayed projects and cost increases, highlighting
the need for a careful preparation and risk management
during such transitions(Rana & Rahman, 2018).
done
In summary, while the process of integrating legacy systems
with modern technologies can be challenging, the potential
rewards make it a worthy effort. By taking advantage of
these opportunities, organizations can not only extend the
life of their existing IT investments, but also help boost
innovation, improve operational efficiency and create a
strong basis for future growth.
done
Data migration and integrity.
Data migration and integrity are major challenges when
merging legacy systems with modern applications,
according to Hussein, A.A. (2021). The act of moving
data from traditional systems to modern systems is a
critical task that requires accuracy to prevent data loss or
contamination, as Hussein's study points out.
Maintaining data integrity during the migration process
can be a highly complex task. This becomes even more
complex when there are significant differences between
the data structures of the legacy and modern systems,
highlighting the need for careful planning and execution
of data migration strategies(Hussein, 2021).
done
Integration costs.
C. Challenges
In an attempt to upgrade or modernise the software
environment, organisations face several challenges when
integrating legacy systems with modern technologies. The
type and size of these challenges can vary depending on
factors such as the complexity of the existing systems, the
organisation's resources and the scale of the intended
integration. some of these challenges are as follows:
Organizational resistance.
Another challenge is related to organizational resistance.
Considering the work of Oredo, J. O. (2014), a
significant barrier to the transition to cloud computing in
business contexts is organisational resistance.
Employees who have become used to legacy systems
and how they operate may be resistant to this
There are several significant cost barriers to migrating
legacy applications to the cloud. As described by Rana
and Rahman (2018), the value of transforming outdated
systems into modern ones can be significant in the long
run. However, the initial costs related to this
transformation can be high and often intimidating.
These costs aren't limited to the immediate expenses
related to the purchase of new software or hardware.
They can also include the cost of training staff, possible
business disruption during the transition period, and the
cost of managing any issues that may arise during the
integration process. The process of financial planning
for such a large project can prove difficult, especially if
unanticipated complexities drive up costs(Rana &
Rahman, 2018).
done
Compatibility issues.
Legacy systems often use outdated technologies,
making them incompatible with modern applications
and platforms, as suggested by Rana and Rahman
(2018). This incompatibility often results in major
technological challenges when attempting to integrate
these systems. Often, organisations are forced to build
custom interfaces or middleware to enable interaction
between legacy systems and modern applications(Rana
& Rahman, 2018).
done
Potential Downtime
The process of integrating legacy systems with modern
applications can cause system downtime, According to
the findings of Rana, M. S., & Rahman, W. a. W. A.
(2018), the process of merging legacy systems with
modern applications can lead to instances of system
unavailability, causing interruptions in regular business
operations. As detailed in their study, some
organisations found it necessary to temporarily stop
specific services during the migration to modern
systems. This suspension had a direct impact on their
operational performance and, in turn, on customer
service. The transition from legacy to modern
applications, while beneficial in the long term, can
present immediate operational challenges that need to be
managed effectively(Rana & Rahman, 2018).
done
In summary, although there are challenges, the benefits of
integrating legacy systems with modern technologies in a
hybrid software modernisation environment often
overcome the difficulties. By understanding and addressing
these challenges ahead of time, organisations can
successfully manage the integration process and gain the
benefits of a modern, efficient and flexible IT environment.
VII. CONCLUSION
This research aimed to understand the complexities that
organisations face on their journey to software
modernisation, with a particular focus on the integration of
legacy systems with modern technologies in hybrid
environments. In addressing the first research question, we
identified several key challenges. These included
compatibility issues arising from the technological gap
between legacy and modern systems, resistance to change
within the organisation, the lack of detailed documentation
for legacy systems, the risk of data loss or corruption during
migration, the potential for cost overruns due to unexpected
complexity, and the potential for service downtime during
the modernisation process. Despite these hurdles, there are
huge opportunities that organisations can take advantage of.
Integrating legacy systems with modern technologies can
lead to improved efficiency and scalability, thanks to the
superior performance of modern applications. Modern
systems also offer improved security features, providing an
extra layer of protection for business operations.
Furthermore, while the initial cost of modernisation may be
high, organisations can achieve significant long-term cost
savings through increased operational efficiency and
reduced maintenance requirements. In response to our
second scientific question, the study identified several
effective techniques for migrating data between legacy
systems and modern applications in hybrid environments.
Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) is a commonly used
technique that involves extracting data from the source
system, transforming it into a suitable format and loading it
into the target system. Data replication, which creates an
exact copy of the original data for transfer to the new
system, is another effective strategy. In addition, there are
several robust database migration tools that can facilitate the
process, handle complex transformations and ensure data
integrity.
In conclusion, while the integration of legacy systems
with modern technologies in hybrid software modernisation
environments presents a formidable challenge,
organisations can successfully manage this process with
careful planning, a strategic choice of data migration
techniques, and a keen understanding of potential obstacles
and opportunities. As technology continues to evolve, it will
be important for organisations to remain agile and open to
change. Learning and refining modernisation strategies will
need to be an ongoing process to fully realise the benefits of
modernisation efforts. done
VIII. REFERENCES
Alami Milani, B., & Jafari Navimipour, N. (2016). A
comprehensive review of the data replication techniques in the
cloud environments: Major trends and future directions. Journal
of Network and Computer Applications, 64, 229–238.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnca.2016.02.005
Elamparithi, M., & Anuratha, V. (2015). A Review on Database
Migration Strategies, Techniques and Tools. World Journal of
Computer Application and Technology(CEASE
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https://doi.org/10.13189/wjcat.2015.030301
Hasan, M. H., Osman, M. H., Admodisastro, N. I., &
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Hussein, A. A. (2021). Data Migration Need, Strategy,
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