The verdict in three sentences
Migrating a WinDev application to a web application costs 80,000 to 220,000 CAD in Montreal in 2026 (about 53,000 to 147,000 EUR) depending on the number of screens and business rules, plus 8,000 to 30,000 CAD to move the HFSQL database to PostgreSQL. The safest method is progressive coexistence by module: the old software keeps running while each block is rewritten, tested and switched over. When a single developer close to retirement maintains the tool, the key-person risk alone justifies the project, before any new feature.
Rewrite cost by application size
Screen count gives a first estimate, but the business rules hidden in the code (pricing, discounts, validations) weigh the most. A 5 to 10 day audit of the existing code is essential before a firm quote.
| WinDev application size | Screens and reports | Web rewrite 2026 (estimate) | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 20 to 40 screens, 10 to 20 reports | 80,000 to 110,000 CAD | 4 to 6 months |
| Medium | 40 to 80 screens, 20 to 50 reports | 110,000 to 160,000 CAD | 6 to 9 months |
| Large | 80 to 150 screens, 50+ reports | 160,000 to 220,000 CAD | 9 to 14 months |
| Existing code audit | Mapping, business rules, dependencies | 6,000 to 12,000 CAD | 1 to 2 weeks |
| HFSQL to PostgreSQL migration | Schema, clean-up, history import | 8,000 to 30,000 CAD | 2 to 6 weeks |
| Annual maintenance | Fixes, minor changes, hosting | 9,000 to 22,000 CAD | Yearly |
The stack choice (React with Node.js, or Laravel with Vue) depends mostly on the skills market. In Montreal, both stacks have a far larger developer pool than WinDev, which reduces future risk. For reference, the same project in Rennes, France, costs 50,000 to 150,000 EUR excl. VAT.
Big bang or module-by-module coexistence
Two approaches exist. Big bang rewrites everything and switches over one weekend. Coexistence replaces the software block by block, sharing data during the transition.
| Criterion | Big bang | Progressive coexistence |
|---|---|---|
| Total cost | 5 to 10% cheaper on paper | 10 to 15% more for data bridges |
| Switch-over risk | High, everything changes the same day | Low, one module at a time |
| Visible value | Only at the end | From the first module, in 2 to 3 months |
| Team training | Concentrated, often painful | Spread by department |
| Rollback | Difficult | Possible module by module |
| Best for | Small, low-criticality software | Core software used every day |
For an SME whose invoicing or production depends on the software, coexistence is almost always the right call. Start with a high-value, low-risk module such as customer lookup or dashboards, before touching invoicing. In Quebec, plan French-language interfaces in line with Law 96 from the first module.
The hidden cost of doing nothing
A 15-year-old WinDev application carries three risks. The first is human: if the developer leaves, nobody knows the coded rules. The second is technical: WinDev licences to renew (roughly 2,200 to 3,700 CAD per developer seat), mandatory Windows workstations, remote access through remote desktop. The third is commercial: no mobile access, no customer portal, no API to connect an online store or accounting tool.
An unprepared departure can stall the company for weeks. Emergency takeover by a WinDev contractor, rare in North America, often costs 900 to 1,300 CAD a day, with a 20 to 40 day discovery phase.
Mini case study
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Marc, owner of a building materials distributor near Montreal (45 employees), uses a WinDev sales management system built in 2011. His in-house developer retires in 18 months. The tool has 65 screens, 30 reports and a 12 GB HFSQL database.
The audit (9,000 CAD) prices the rewrite at 140,000 CAD and the database migration at 18,000 CAD, in coexistence over 8 months. Total: 167,000 CAD. The do-nothing scenario assumes an emergency takeover by a WinDev contractor (30 days at 1,100 CAD, or 33,000 CAD), then about 60,000 CAD a year of external maintenance, still with no mobile access. Over 5 years this costs 333,000 CAD versus 167,000 CAD plus 75,000 CAD of web maintenance, or 242,000 CAD, with a modern tool that several teams can maintain.
FAQ
Can WinDev code be converted to web automatically?
WebDev reuses part of the code, but the company stays tied to the PC SOFT ecosystem. Automatic converters to other languages rarely produce maintainable code. An audit-led rewrite remains the most reliable path for 90% of projects.
How long do both systems run side by side?
Usually 6 to 12 months. A bridge syncs data between HFSQL and PostgreSQL, then the old software is shut down when the last module switches over.
Should we keep the same screens to avoid disrupting teams?
No, but keep the shortcuts and fast data-entry logic users rely on. Two-hour workshops per department prevent most resistance to change.
What happens to the current WinDev developer?
They are invaluable during the project: 10 to 20 days of their time explaining business rules sharply reduces risk. Their planned departure becomes a knowledge transfer rather than a loss.
Is the project eligible for funding?
Depending on the profile, programmes such as the federal SR&ED tax credit or Quebec digital transformation support may cover part of the cost. Check the conditions in force in 2026 before launching.
Let's scope your project. We scope your WinDev migration (code audit, module breakdown, HFSQL import) with an indicative budget and a first module live in 2 to 3 months. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.