Why Now Is the Time to Move from OpenText MBPM to Appian

For years, OpenText MBPM (formerly Metastorm BPM) served as a reliable platform for enterprise process automation. It was once the preferred choice for organisations looking to design and manage workflows, particularly in document-heavy environments. But Metastorm is now a legacy system. It cannot keep pace with today’s demand for agility, seamless integration, and modern user experiences.

This slowdown comes at a critical moment. The global process automation market is projected to grow from $116.16 billion in 2025 to $154.13 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.82% (Mordor Intelligence). At the same time, Gartner forecasts that by 2025, 70% of all new applications will be built with low-code or no-code technologies, up from less than 25% in 2020. The message is clear: digital process transformation is no longer optional.

The Limitations of Metastorm BPM / OpenText MBPM

Organisations still running Metastorm BPM are likely already familiar with its challenges. The interface feels outdated, performance lags, and integration with newer platforms is limited. Specialist skills are becoming scarce, making even minor fixes time-consuming and costly. Meanwhile, OpenText’s roadmap focuses on basic maintenance rather than meaningful innovation.

Why do businesses continue to hold on? Risk. Many worry that migrating legacy workflows to a new platform will disrupt operations, inflate budgets, and cause downtime. But the greater risk lies in standing still. Outdated systems slow transformation, increase manual workarounds, and limit the ability to adapt when markets shift.

The Case for Appian

Modern low-code platforms like Appian are designed for the realities of today’s business environment. Appian combines process automation, data management, integration, AI, and reporting within a single platform. It offers:

• Faster delivery through powerful low-code tools

• Flexible architecture for seamless integration with ERP, CRM, and custom systems

• Modern, intuitive user experience across any device

• Proven track record with global enterprises and government agencies

Appian has enabled organisations such as SMBC, the USDA, the US Air Force, and the US Army to transform mission-critical operations. For example, it cut acquisition costs by $80 million for the US Air Force and streamlined contracting systems worth billions for the US Army. These are proof points that Appian can manage large-scale, complex transformations effectively.

Another advantage is how Appian handles upgrades. As a cloud-first platform, it delivers regular, backward-compatible updates that introduce new features and security improvements without breaking existing functionality. This reduces the time, cost, and disruption typically associated with upgrades on legacy systems like OpenText MBPM.

How AI Simplifies Migration

One of the biggest questions is how to migrate years of workflows, rules, data, and tacit knowledge without losing functionality. AI is now making this process much easier.

Modern AI-powered tools can:

• Analyse existing Metastorm processes and map dependencies

• Generate draft workflows in Appian, reducing manual effort

• Test processes, flag inconsistencies, and simulate user impact

With the right implementation partner, AI-enabled migration reduces downtime, minimises errors, and ensures a smoother transition.

Keys to a Successful Migration

Migration is more than a technical exercise. It requires strong planning and change management. To maximise success:

1. Prioritise workflows – Start with high-value processes that deliver quick wins.

2. Clean your data – Use migration as an opportunity to resolve legacy issues.

3. Plan for adoption – Provide training, clear communication, and phased rollouts.

4. Work with experts – A partner who understands both Metastorm BPM and Appian saves time and reduces risk.

Don’t Let Legacy Hold You Back

The longer organisations remain tied to Metastorm, the harder it becomes to keep up with competitors. Modern platforms provide speed, transparency, and adaptability. With AI-supported migration tools, moving to Appian is more achievable than ever.

We’ve helped organisations of all sizes move from OpenText MBPM to Appian, while maintaining legacy Metastorm environments during the handover. The result: lower risk, faster transformation, and operations ready for the future.

Now is the right time to explore what’s possible. Let’s talk.