How to Plan a SQL Server Migration Without Downtime
Migrating SQL Server to new hardware or the cloud can feel like a daunting task, especially if your business depends on continuous access to its data. For many organizations, even an hour of downtime can mean lost revenue, frustrated customers, and operational disruption.
Cybersecurity in Healthcare: Protecting Patient Data Beyond Compliance
In healthcare, protecting patient data isn’t just about meeting HIPAA requirements or passing audits. Compliance is the baseline, but true security goes beyond simply checking the box. Every piece of sensitive information represents real people who trust you with their most private details. Safeguarding that trust means taking proactive steps to strengthen cybersecurity practices.
Employee Spotlight: Jessica Gehman
At Sovereign Systems, we’re proud to highlight the talented individuals who keep our projects moving forward. This month, we’re excited to introduce you to Jessica Gehman, our Project Manager.
5 Lessons I've Learned from Three-and-a-Half Decades as a Software Developer
After more than 35 years in software development (I know I don’t look it—dermatologists hate me), I’ve written a lot of code, solved a lot of problems, and worked with all kinds of people and projects. The technology has changed dramatically, but the lessons I’ve learned along the way are still applicable, even decades later.
SQL Server 2016 and 2017: Preparing for End of Life in 2026 and 2027
If your business relies on Microsoft SQL Server, the clock is ticking for two widely used versions—SQL Server 2016 and SQL Server 2017. While they may still be running smoothly today, both will reach the end of Microsoft’s extended support in the next few years. When that happens, your systems will no longer receive critical security updates, leaving them exposed to potential threats.
Your Guide to Software Maintenance: Beyond the Bug Fix
At Sovereign Systems, we’ve seen what happens when maintenance gets overlooked, and we’ve seen how proactive upkeep can extend the life and value of a system by years.
The Custom Software Development Process
For many businesses, the idea of building custom software sounds exciting… but also a little intimidating. You might wonder how long it will take, what’s expected of you, or if the final product will truly fit your needs. The truth is, a clear process and open communication make all the difference.
Project Rescue: How to Save Your Business from a Failed Software Project
You’re not alone. Failed software projects happen more often than you might think, and the good news is they can be rescued.
Ask Dan: Q&A with the founder
We asked Dan the most pressing questions so you don’t have to!
How MSPs Can Add Custom Development Without Hiring Developers
The good news is you don’t have to hire developers to deliver custom software solutions. By partnering with an experienced software development firm like Sovereign Systems, you can expand your services, increase revenue, and meet your clients’ growing needs, without stretching your team thin.
When One Person Knows the System and Leaves the Company…
Let’s talk about the risks of relying too heavily on one person and how to protect your business from unexpected knowledge loss.
Your Healthcare Organization Can Eliminate Manual Data Entry
Manual data entry is one of the most common—and most costly—frustrations we see in healthcare organizations. Entering patient information across multiple systems, reconciling insurance records, and transferring lab results from paper to digital formats manually are time-consuming, error-prone, and expensive processes. But the good news is: it doesn’t have to be this way.
How to Calculate the ROI of Business Process Automation
Business process automation is a powerful way to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and free up your team to focus on high-value work. But before making the leap, many companies rightfully ask: What’s the return on investment?
Case Study: Migrating a Legacy VB6 Data Processing System to a Modern .NET Environment
This project highlights the long-term value of modernizing legacy systems. By moving away from outdated technologies like VB6 and embracing modern development practices, organizations can unlock greater efficiency, ensure long-term sustainability, and empower their internal teams for the future.
How to Prepare Your Team for New Technology
Adopting new technology can unlock major improvements in productivity, efficiency, and innovation, but success doesn't just depend on the software you choose. It depends on how well your team is prepared to use it.
Employee Spotlight: Joey Hawkins
At Sovereign Systems, we’re proud to spotlight the talented individuals who make our work possible. This month, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Joey Hawkins, one of our stars in data engineering.
How Manufacturing Companies Can Eliminate Manual Data Entry
Manual data entry may seem like a necessary evil, but it doesn’t have to be. Through smart integrations, better apps, or full system consolidation, manufacturing companies can dramatically reduce errors, cut costs, and increase confidence in their data.
Meet the Man Behind the Code: 5 Fun Facts About Dan Crawford
At Sovereign Systems, we’re not just about building powerful software—we’re about people. And at the heart of our operation is Dan Crawford, founder and seasoned developer. With decades of experience in the industry and a passion for solving tough software problems, Dan is the steady hand guiding our team and our clients toward success.
But there’s more to Dan than lines of code and database schemas. Here are 5 fun facts so you can get to know the man behind the keyboard a little better:
When Managing Your Business with Excel Spreadsheets Becomes a Problem
Excel is a powerful tool—no doubt about it. But when your entire business is held together by a web of spreadsheets, it’s often a sign that you’ve outgrown the tool. What starts as a quick solution can quickly spiral into a complex, fragile system full of inefficiencies and risks.
Employee Spotlight: Charlotte Donaldson
Her appreciation for design—especially when it comes to creating user-friendly interfaces—makes her an essential player in projects where form meets function.