8R Method — IT definition
An extended version of the 5R method used in application portfolio management and migration strategies.
An extended version of the 5R method used in application portfolio management and migration strategies. The 8Rs offer a more complete palette of strategic options.
The 8Rs include:
- •Retain: Keep the application as-is without modification
- •Retire: Remove the application if no longer needed
- •Replace: Substitute with a better solution (often SaaS)
- •Rehost: Move to a new physical or cloud environment
- •Replatform: Modify the underlying platform
- •Refurbish: Upgrade or improve the current application
- •Repurchase: Buy a new version or alternative solution
- •Refactor: Modify code to improve performance
This approach helps align IT infrastructure with business needs and provides a comprehensive framework for application portfolio decisions.
All terms
5R Method
A strategy used during application rationalization to determine the best approach for managing applications.
Application
A computer program or set of programs designed to automate a business process or deliver value to end users.
Architecture
Refers to the structure and behavior of IT systems, processes, and infrastructure within an organization.
CMDB
Configuration Management Database: a central repository that tracks every IT asset — applications, servers, licenses, cloud resources — and the relationships between them.
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