Blazon for OpenText Content Server Is Going Away: Here Are 3 Options for OpenText Customers

As OpenText starts phasing out the Blazon product in June 2024, customers are faced with critical decisions regarding their document transformation and workflow solutions.

Here are their options:

Option 1: Stay on Unsupported Version of Content Server to Maintain Blazon Workflows

Choosing to remain on an unsupported version of Content Server to keep Blazon workflows intact might seem like the path of least resistance, but it comes with significant risks and drawbacks. Here’s why this option could be problematic:

• Unsupported System: If something breaks, no official support will be available to help you resolve the issue. This means that technical difficulties will fall on your in-house IT team.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Without regular updates and patches from OpenText, your system may become an easy target for cyberattacks.
• Non-compliance: Using an unsupported system could result in non-compliance with industry regulations, leading to potential legal issues and fines. Moreover, your clients and partners may lose trust in your ability to securely and efficiently manage data.

Option 2: Upgrade to New Content Server but Remove Blazon and Install Intelligent Viewing Solution – Option Proposed by OpenText

Upgrading to the new Content Server while replacing Blazon with the Intelligent Viewing Solution might initially appear to be a practical and forward-thinking approach. However, this transition comes with its own set of complexities and challenges:

• Database Compatibility Issues: The Intelligent Viewing Solution only supports PostgreSQL database, which is an issue for companies using MSSQL or Oracle databases. PostgreSQL license cost, IT resources, and time would be required for this database deployment if companies do not use PostgreSQL today.
• Cost and Resource Investment: PostgreSQL developers are currently in high demand and are very expensive. Your organization might face challenges in recruiting or training personnel with the necessary expertise, leading to increased costs and delays in deployment.
• Functionality Gaps: The Intelligent Viewing Solution is exactly that - a PDF viewing solution with basic annotation features and does not offer the same level of functionality as Blazon, resulting in gaps that will disrupt established workflows. To address these gaps, human intervention or additional solutions will be required.

Option 3: Taking Advantage of Adlib’s Safe Passage Program – Seamless Switch to Adlib at No Risk

Making the switch to Adlib offers a streamlined, efficient, and risk-free alternative for organizations facing the end of Blazon's support. Here’s why:

• No New SQL Database Required: Unlike the Intelligent Viewing Solution, Adlib does not require the deployment of a new SQL database. Your organization can continue to use its existing infrastructure without the added complexity and cost.
• Seamless Transition & Integration: Adlib seamlessly integrates with OpenText Content Server and other front-end applications. As part of the Safe Passage Program, Adlib’s team can seamlessly migrate your Blazon workflows into Adlib. This means you can maintain your current workflows with minimal disruption.
• Pixel-Perfect Conversion Accuracy and Quality: Adlib is renowned for its exceptional document conversion accuracy and quality. The solution ensures that every document is transformed to meet exact specifications, maintaining the integrity and readability of your data.
• Intelligent Document Assembly Automation: Adlib’s intelligent document assembly capabilities automate complex document workflows, even more so than Blazon and Intelligent Viewing Solution, reducing the need for manual intervention.
• Scalable and Container-Friendly Architecture: Adlib’s modern, scalable, and container-friendly architecture allows your organization to grow and adapt as needed.
• Compliant, Validated, and Submission-Ready Output: Adlib produces output that is compliant with industry standards, validated for technical criteria, and ready for submission.