Public sector organisations face a critical challenge: legacy technology. Across government, old systems with siloed data create inefficiencies, security risks, and limit innovation. As Peter Hanney, CEO of Through Technology, explains, the time to address these systems is now, particularly with AI and digital transformation reshaping the landscape.
Many public sector organisations rely on legacy systems that “work well enough” but are costly to maintain and difficult to scale. These systems often exist in isolated environments, with varying data models and security controls. For AI and other advanced technologies to unlock value, data must be clean, accessible, and connected.
Through Technology helps organisations modernise by assessing each system’s risk, cost, and business value. Using the “Five Rs” approach: Retain, Repurpose, Rehost, Re-platform, Retire; organisations can determine the best path for every legacy application. This strategy ensures that data remains secure, searchable, and ready for AI analysis, while maximising cost efficiency and operational value.
Hanney highlights that data confidence is crucial. Public sector organisations often have multiple records for the same data point; validating the provenance and reliability of each data set ensures AI outputs are accurate and actionable. This is essential to avoid errors or “hallucinations” in AI decision-making.
Beyond technical modernisation, Through Technology focuses on delivering measurable added value. By embedding expertise directly with clients and providing quantifiable improvements, they demonstrate the real impact of digital transformation.
The takeaway is clear: legacy technology is no longer just a historical challenge; it’s an opportunity cost. Modernising infrastructure and data systems is essential for AI readiness, innovation, and long-term efficiency in the public sector.
🎧 To dive deeper into these insights, listen to the full conversation with Peter Hanney on The DigiGov Podcast – Episode #2: The 5 R's of Legacy Tech & the Rise of AI.
Piers Kelly
Experienced Marketing Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the events services industry. Enjoys writing on Cyber Security, Emerging Tech & Digital Transformation. Marketing professional with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Politics and Economics from Newcastle University.
