Did you know that businesses that did modernize their IBM i systems are more satisfied than those that did not, as per the survey by IDC?
Do your AS400 applications (IBM i) share 75-100% of your workload?
With the increasing number of businesses embracing modernization, should you consider changing to modernization or continuing with legacy systems?
If you thought of modernization as your preferred option, the next question will be “How will the transition to a modern structure give a guaranteed boost to my business operations?”
Take a seat!
It’s true that a significant number of business leaders are advocating for IBM AS400 modernization (IBM i).
You must read this blog to know ‘why’ and make an educated business decision!
By the end of this article, you will find your answers to –
- Is IBM AS400 Modernization meant for me?
- Why do business leaders love it?
- How to pick the right AS400 Modernization partner?
What does AS400 Modernization mean? Do you require it?
AS400 modernization is an upgrade to agility, efficiency, and scalability.
It refers to the process of updating the AS/400 system to align with modern technological advancements with little to no change in the business logic.
Many companies that are heavily invested in the AS-400 system for banking, finance, manufacturing, e-commerce, retail, healthcare, and more are transitioning toward IBM AS400 Modernization.
It involves adopting modern approaches and methodologies such as –
- Cloud integration
- Mobile optimization
- Security enhancements
- Database modernization
- Integration with modern technologies, and more
Does your business need IBM AS400 Modernization?
Let’s explore both sides- with and without modernization to provide a balanced view.
Let’s consider a company, XYZ Banking.
XYZ Banking – Before AS400 Modernization:
Before adopting the IBM i application modernization, the bank operated on the legacy banking system based on the RPG and COBOL languages.
The system worked great, but lacked:
- Seamless integration capabilities
- Cost-effective maintenance
- Centralized data
- Scalability
The employees and customers were frustrated as the outdated AS 400 systems had made their tasks time-consuming and complicated.
The leaders then realized the dire need for modernization and decided to embrace it.
XYZ Banking – After AS400 modernization
After the successful modernization, XYZ banking transformed from a black and white TV with a colorful LED TV.
- Now, the system offers streamlined operations and seamless integration, eliminating the need for manual effort and boosting employee happiness and customer satisfaction.
- The bank can easily manage the growing list of customers since scalability is achievable. Cost-effective maintenance has become a reality, resulting in better ROI and overall satisfaction.
- All the customers’ confidential data is encrypted and stored in secure systems which makes the bank more confident in their approach.
Modernization has proven to be a blessing for XYZ Banking.
But does your business really need it?
Who does not need to upgrade AS400 immediately?
Although AS400 has transformational capabilities, it might not be a matter of high priority if:
– Your AS400 system is stable and running low-risk operations.
– Your business plans to discontinue the AS/400 soon.
– If the stakeholders, employees, and customers are not majorly impacted by the legacy system’s restrictions.
Moving on, let’s find out why AS400 application (IBM i) modernization has become a favorite among wise decision-makers.
How does AS400 Modernization benefit different aspects of your business?
Now, let’s see what exactly AS/400 modernization brings to the table.
Improved User Experience
IBM i modernization empowers you with the ability to create Modern UI/UX designs, accessibility features, and other components that make it easier for users to navigate the system, perform safer transactions, and access information.
Smooth operations boost customer loyalty, inviting more customers and leading to a better-performing business.
Higher Productivity
Employees spend a lengthy amount of time achieving repetitive tasks. With your AS400 modernization, your team experiences simpler processes, automated routine tasks, and user-friendly interfaces.
The result? The team can happily focus on value-added activities, and experience smooth collaboration and a stress-free environment.
Bolstered Revenue for your Business
The AS/400 modernization benefits your business in multiple ways. One of the keyways it helps your business is by contributing to better revenue.
With the IBM modernization tools, the board can explore new opportunities, enable advanced data analytics to fetch valuable insights and unlock diversification into new lines of industries.
Decreased Technical Debt for the IT Department
For a loyal AS400 user, the challenges such as high maintenance costs and limited scalability are not new. By strategically modernizing your legacy systems, the IBM i experts unlock the door for cost-effective maintenance, improved operational efficiency, and future-proofed IT infrastructure.
The benefits of IBM i application modernization are evident, the real challenge lies in seeking the right provider. With IBM i modernization companies springing like mushrooms, how do you ensure you’re partnering with the ideal?
Choosing the Right IBM i Modernization Company
We know 10 different questions are buzzing your mind, right now.
Let’s decode it.
The right AS400 modernization service provider is the one who:
- Understands your staffing needs
- Comprehends the AS400 project essentials
- Suggests the right hires
- Has no hidden bells and whistle charges
- Provides top-notch technical expertise at a competitive price.
Here’s the list of questions to ask your potential AS400 modernization service provider to better gauge their capabilities.
- What is your experience with AS400 modernization?
- How do you approach the process of modernization?
- What’s your pricing structure like?
- What is your experience across various industries?
- What, in your view, has been the biggest shift that happened in IBM i since the last year?
- What distinguishes you from other IBM iSeries AS400 modernization service providers?
- How do ensure the success of a modernization project?
- What will be your response to (a possible pitfall) during our partnership?
If you are seeking a partner to guide your enterprise through the expansive world of IBM i modernization, let Integrative Systems be the backbone of your efforts.
We are an IBM Silver Business Partner with 25+ years of AS400/iSeries (IBM i )development experience. With a client retention rate of 95%, we seek to meet your expectations and deliver what we promise.
Reach out to us at contact@integrativesystems.com and kickstart your modernization journey today.