Methods, systems, and techniques for role-based modernization of legacy applications are provided. Example embodiments provide a Role-Based Modernization System (“RBMS”), which enables the reorganization of (menu-based) legacy applications by role as a method of modernization and enables user access to such modernized applications through roles. In addition the RBMS supports the ability to enhance such legacy applications by blending them with non-legacy tasks and functions in a user-transparent fashion. In one embodiment, the RBMS comprises a client-side javascript display and control module and a java applet host interface and a server-side emulation control services module. These components cooperate to uniformly present legacy and non-legacy tasks that have been reorganized according to role modernization techniques.