Oracle Forms Support is Ending: What Are Your Best Alternatives?

Oracle Forms was introduced in the 1980s. It quickly gained recognition for its user-friendly interface and remarkable features.

Bill Friend was hired as the second employee of Oracle. His responsibility was to develop a straightforward method for users to enter data into databases. This endeavor ultimately resulted in the creation of Oracle Forms.

It rapidly established itself as a premier enterprise application due to its robust capabilities in data input, data retrieval, and data manipulation.

Over the years, the use of Oracle Forms has been claimed for key sectors like banking, insurance, and government agencies.

Concurrently, these sectors continue to depend on extensive legacy systems. It has been determined that Oracle Forms have proven to be sufficiently durable to meet their user interface requirements.

While Oracle Forms has been updated to meet contemporary technologies and user demands, the fundamental functions largely remain unchanged.

This is, in part, why many businesses continue to use it, despite the emergence of modern alternatives.

Oracle Forms Support Is Ending: What You Need to Know

Oracle has announced that Premier Support for Oracle Forms 12.2.1.4 will end in December 2026, with Extended Support available until December 2027.

Afterwards, businesses will need to rely on Sustaining Support, which does not include updates or new security patches. The end of support raises significant risks for businesses that depend on Oracle Forms, particularly in terms of security vulnerabilities, compliance, and modernization​

As organizations prepare for this transition, now is the time to explore alternative solutions. These solutions can ensure future-proof operations.

Best Alternatives to Oracle Forms

Moving away from Oracle Forms opens up better scalability, flexibility, and modern platform integration.

Presented below is a selection of distinguished oracle forms alternatives. Each alternative possesses distinct advantages, addressing a variety of needs.

A. Java with Angular/React

• Java is well-known for its stability. It integrates smoothly with modern frontend frameworks, such as Angular and React. This enhances user interfaces to meet current demands.

• Angular serves as a comprehensive framework designed for intricate applications. On the contrary, React operates as an efficient library. It excels in handling single components, which can be tailored to satisfy diverse business needs.

• Java's strong backend capabilities, combined with Angular/React, make it easier for any business to scale applications efficiently. This ensures the applications can grow with increasing demand.

Challenges and Solutions

• The UI frameworks based on JavaScript require Oracle Forms developers to learn new skills in turn. Invest in training and collaboration in development between the frontend and backend teams.

• It may be difficult to integrate the new frameworks due to the presence of legacy systems. The phase-by-phase migration approach using RESTful APIs will ensure that transitions will not be abrupt or seamless.

• The good thing with Oracle Forms is that it rarely required updates, whereas modern frameworks do. Automate testing and maintenance through CI/CD to maintain efficiency.

Adopting Java in conjunction with Angular or React allows businesses to secure the longevity of their applications. It also ensures that improvements in user experience align seamlessly with increased operational scalability.

B. Oracle APEX

• APEX can contribute to rapid application development by reducing manual coding, especially in an organization that has fewer developer resources.

• APEX is native to Oracle Database and thus provides an easy migration path for existing Oracle Forms users. Affordable - on-premise or cloud, APEX is one of the most cost-effective solutions when upgrading an application.

Challenges and Solutions

• APEX might not offer the same level of flexibility as entirely coded solutions in Java or .NET. However, this limitation serves as one of its advantages in facilitating swift development.

• Companies with very specific requirements can extend the functionality of APEX using PL/SQL or JavaScript. They can also integrate third-party tools for additional functionality.

• As APEX is built on Oracle Database, performance could be an issue for very large-scale applications. Optimize database queries and use Oracle Cloud infrastructure to enhance scalability and performance.

C. .NET Platform

• The .NET platform accommodates several programming languages, including C#. It offers a flexible solution for creating both web and desktop applications. Its flexibility makes it adaptable for various business needs.

• When utilized alongside frameworks such as Blazor or ASP.NET, .NET facilitates the development of contemporary and responsive user interfaces. This advancement substantially improves the user experience, establishing .NET as an appropriate alternative to the antiquated user interface of Oracle Forms.

• The .NET ecosystem integrates effortlessly with Microsoft technologies and third-party services, allowing businesses to connect diverse systems seamlessly and enhance operational efficiency.

Challenges and Solutions

• Moving from Oracle Forms to .NET can be challenging due to the complexities of legacy system integration. Utilize automated migration tools and adopt a phased approach to minimize disruption during the transition.

• Developers familiar with Oracle Forms might find .NET development challenging initially. Offer comprehensive training and hire experienced .NET developers to support the transition process.

• .NET applications typically require a Microsoft-based infrastructure, which could increase costs. Opt for cloud services like Azure to lower upfront infrastructure costs and scale as needed.

D. Low-Code Platforms (OutSystems, Mendix, etc.)

• Low-code platforms, including OutSystems and Mendix, enable enterprises to construct applications swiftly with limited coding requirements. This approach effectively diminishes the time required for market entry and reduces development expenses, all while upholding quality standards.

• These platforms provide pre-built connectors, enabling smooth integration with legacy systems, including Oracle databases, ensuring a seamless transition from Oracle Forms.

• OutSystems and Mendix provide both cloud and on-premise solutions. This flexibility enables companies to adjust their applications to meet increasing demands effectively.

Challenges and Solutions

• Low-code platforms may not offer the level of control that fully coded solutions do. Use the platform’s custom coding options to extend functionality as needed.

• Depending on proprietary low-code platforms can result in vendor lock-in. Choose platforms that allow for easy export of applications to other environments, providing more flexibility.

E. Other Enterprise Application Platforms (SAP, Salesforce, etc.)

• Platforms such as SAP and Salesforce offer specialized solutions designed for different industries. They meet the distinct needs of sectors including manufacturing, finance, and retail. This makes them an excellent fit for businesses that have highly specific operational needs.

• These platforms provide capabilities beyond basic data handling. They encompass powerful tools such as Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and sophisticated analytical capabilities.

• These features give businesses a comprehensive suite of tools to efficiently manage all aspects of their operations.

• SAP and Salesforce offer comprehensive cloud-based solutions. These solutions enable businesses to expand effortlessly. They enhance mobility and simplify maintenance compared to older systems such as Oracle Forms.

Challenges and Solutions

• Transitioning to large platforms like SAP or Salesforce can be a lengthy and complex process. Collaborate with seasoned consultants and adopt a phased migration strategy to minimize disruption.

• These enterprise platforms can be costly when compared to other alternatives. Opt for a plan or module that meets your immediate needs, allowing you to scale as your business grows.

• While SAP and Salesforce offer extensive functionality, they may not be as customizable as fully bespoke systems. Leverage platform extensions and APIs to expand and customize the system as required.

As Oracle Forms support comes to an end, businesses must take proactive steps to transition away from this legacy system. The alternatives presented offer diverse solutions tailored to meet various operational needs.

Each alternative brings unique strengths and challenges. Therefore it essential for organizations to carefully evaluate their specific requirements, resources, and future growth plans.