Modernizing Java Applications with DMS Schema Conversion and GenAI Integration
In this show we demonstrate how to leverage AWS Database Migration Service Schema Conversion (DMS SC) with Generative AI capabilities to modernize a Java application's database layer from Oracle to PostgreSQL. We have a demo that walks through a complete modernization workflow.
Ibrahim Emara
Amazon Employee
Published Jun 4, 2025
The episode focused on modernizing Java applications using AWS Database Migration Service (DMS) Schema Conversion tool and Generative AI. We discussed how the modernization of applications is equally important as database modernization when migrating from one platform to another.
The demonstration showcased how to convert a Java application from Oracle to PostgreSQL using both the Schema Conversion Tool and Amazon Q Developer. The process involved using the metadata from the schema conversion project to help transform the application code, particularly the embedded SQL statements. The demonstration highlighted how GenAI capabilities could significantly reduce the time needed for code conversion, even though manual verification by experts is still necessary.
A key insight shared was that while GenAI might not always provide perfect conversions, it can dramatically reduce the time required for modernization tasks from days to hours. The discussion also covered how Amazon Q Developer can be used both with and without RAGs (retrieval-augmented generation), showing how it can help developers understand and modernize legacy code, even when dealing with complex scenarios like converting Oracle's proprietary features to PostgreSQL standards.
Key Highlights:
- Schema Conversion Tool has evolved from a desktop application to a cloud service integrated with GenAI
- The tool can now handle both database schema and application code conversion
- Amazon Q Developer can help convert complex SQL queries, including Oracle-specific features to PostgreSQL
- GenAI serves as a tool to assist experts rather than replace them
- The solution can significantly reduce modernization time from days to hours
- The tool can analyze and document legacy code, helping understand complex systems
- Integration between Schema Conversion and Amazon Q Developer provides a comprehensive modernization solution
- The service supports multiple programming languages including Java and .NET
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Ibrahim Emara - Database Specialist SA @AWS
Mike Revitt - Database Migration Specalist @AWS
Any opinions in this post are those of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of AWS.