Modern organizations continue to look for ways to strengthen financial visibility, streamline operations, and reduce reliance on aging systems. Cloud modernization has become an important strategic consideration, particularly for finance and technology teams seeking tools designed to support scalability, insight, and efficiency. During our Six R’s Approach: Cloud Modernization With Sage Intacct webinar, we shared a structured framework aimed at helping organizations evaluate their modernization path and understand how cloud‑native solutions such as Sage Intacct can support their long‑term progress.
1. Replace
Replace involves transitioning from legacy on‑premises systems to modern, cloud‑based platforms that offer broader functionality and integration flexibility. Replacing, also referred to as Repurchasing, indicates that an environment can be changed. For example, an organization may move from an aging enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to a cloud‑based solution such as Sage Intacct to access more modern capabilities. With the help of system implementors, data can be seamlessly migrated to a new platform with minimal friction. This approach provides access to current technology and features that support more modern capabilities. It is also designed to reduce ongoing maintenance demands while enhancing the user experience and supporting process modernization across the organization.
2. Refactor
Refactor focuses on adjusting existing applications to function more effectively in the cloud. This approach calls for more adaptation, taking an existing system and manipulating it into a cloud-based environment. For instance, an organization may modify an application so it can rely on cloud‑based databases or storage services, such as by connecting ERP data through a cloud‑enabled platform like Solver. Adapting the existing ERP system to incorporate cloud-based solutions can help improve accuracy and efficiency when generating data-driven insights. This approach streamlines data processes and is designed to enhance accuracy and efficiency in generating data‑driven insights, supporting greater responsiveness, compatibility with cloud‑native services, and more efficient resource use.
3. Rehost
Rehost describes a “lift‑and‑shift” approach in which an organization moves an existing application to the cloud with minimal change. It suggests that the environment, such as on-premises solutions, cannot currently change entirely. For example, an organization may migrate an application such as Sage 100 or Microsoft Dynamics GP to a cloud hosting environment without altering the underlying code or configuration. This method is designed to support continuity and accelerate the transition timeline by “lifting” the data without altering the original environment and relocating it within a cloud-based solution. The Rehost approach can help support a straightforward move, reduce operational disruption, and provide access to cloud‑based performance and availability.
4. Revise
Revise also involves modifying or enhancing applications so they can leverage advanced cloud features, such as automation and artificial intelligence (AI)‑supported analytics. Similarly to the Rehost approach, Revise suggests “lifting” the data, updating applications and processes, and relocating the system within a cloud-based solution. For example, a finance team may revise its reporting processes to take advantage of Sage Intacct tools such as Visual Explorer or GL Outlier Assistant, which are designed to support timely insight and enhanced visibility. The benefits of the Revise approach are the expanded functionality and integration options, increased reliability and processing speed, and increased consistency across financial insights.
5. Rebuild
Rebuild, also known as Revisit, refers to rearchitecting an application for cloud deployment. In an instance where an application would not benefit from migrating to the cloud, Rebuild suggests updating the architecture of the system from the ground up for the cloud. For example, a legacy monolithic system may be redesigned as a microservices‑based application, allowing components to be deployed and scaled independently. Rebuilding an ERP system can improve scalability with future needs, better support long-term transformation efforts, and make better improvements supported by cloud infrastructure.
6. Retire
Retire focuses on decommissioning applications that no longer serve business needs. Efficiency should be a priority when considering the Retire approach. Neutralizing an old system that is no longer effective, efficient, or in use can simplify the IT landscape and decrease licensing costs. In addition, retiring an ineffective system can reduce resource consumption, simplify the operating environment, and allow for a greater focus on systems that provide meaningful value.
Why Organizations Are Considering Sage Intacct
The open architecture, multidimensional reporting, real‑time visibility, and integration options in Sage Intacct make it a strong fit for organizations evaluating modernization strategies. Its ecosystem of marketplace partners and cloud‑native design support finance teams working toward scalability, agility, and insight.
How Forvis Mazars Can Help
The Six R’s offer a clear framework designed to help organizations evaluate their cloud modernization approach. Whether the priority is a rapid move to the cloud, enhanced operational efficiency, expanded capabilities, or long‑term digital transformation, Sage Intacct provides a platform designed to support those efforts. The Six R’s encourage organizations to select a path aligned with their readiness, goals, and vision for the future. Our Sage Intacct team is ready to help you begin exploring your cloud migration options. Connect with us today to learn more about how our technology consultants can help you.