AS400 Consulting – A Transformative Investment

About 30 years ago, AS400/iSeries platform was introduced by IBM, and since then, it’s the best choice of mid-sized companies for their computing needs.

Since then, AS400/iSeries has evolved in a big way.

With significant evolution in offerings and technological changes, the software was renamed multiple times, like AS400 to iSeries, then System, and now the IBM Power Systems.

AS400/iSeries platform has always been ahead in the race in terms of when it came to comparison with other platforms, in terms of innovation and technologically advanced hosting infrastructure.

Many IT professionals still call it AS400, but the latest generation of the IBM AS400/iSeries is far more powerful and more technologically advanced than what AS400 once used to be.

But it is not without its set of challenges. This is when AS400 consulting comes into the picture.

Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick disclaimer – Apart from AS400 consulting services, this read explores various facets of AS400, AS400 cloud migration, AS400 security, hiring COBOL programmers, IASPs, etc.

Let’s break it all down.

Ready to explore? Let’s go!

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Why is AS400/iSeries the Most Eligible for the Cloud Model?

AS400, often seen as outdated, is actually a robust platform that adapts well to modern needs, including cloud migration.

Here’s why the AS400/iSeries is ideal for the cloud model –

Cloud readiness for AS400/i-series is available for years from a technology standpoint

The IBM AS400/iSeries provided a virtualized environment at the hardware layer by introducing the logical partition concept. And it was much before the x86-based computing environment started adopting the virtualization concept in 1999. The IBM AS400 i-series is the pioneer in introducing virtualization at the server level. However, some industry experts feel that the platform lacks a real business case in terms of hosting in a cloud-like environment.

Ensure Data and resources segregation in case of a multi-tenant environment

The data and resources are segregated beyond the operating system layer through the POWER hypervisor and LPAR structure. Moreover, segregation can be achieved this way at the hardware level.

Strong support and commitment from IBM AS400 iSeries

Generally, it is to see any MSP provides support for more than five years. But in the case of IBM AS400/iSeries, IBM has shown full commitment towards AS400 and mapped out a roadmap for the future.

With such generous support and roadmap strategy, one will do wonders. Companies do not see the AS400 i-series platform being offered in the mainstream as a primary cloud provider. And most importantly, all the conversations related to cloud stop at one point – “platform is just not supported on the cloud” why?

As an IBM AS400/i-series service provider, we understand that there are no limitations to this platform, and nothing can stop it from offering robust cloud solutions. But still, there are few non-technological challenges that act as barriers for this platform from being available for cloud services.

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Why Migrating AS400 Applications to the Cloud is a Game-Changer for Your Business?

Cloud computing service utilizes the internet’s power to give ultimate data accessibility and flexible storage facility to the companies. The large organizations have been taking advantage of IBM iSeries cloud services for years, and now the small and medium companies have got on board.

According to Gartner – “Global organizations refer to cost, innovation, and agility as some of the top reasons for making a switch to the IBM iSeries cloud platform.”

They no longer need to deal with the complicated data storage management system by moving to the automated cloud platform. As an alternative to this, enterprises gain the proficiency of the iSeries cloud and simplified and centralized data management.

IBM iSeries cloud solution is a complete game-changer as traditional tape storage is becoming less effective (in terms of primary backup strategy), and generally, it is used for long-term data maintenance or in legal proprietary issues. Moreover, disaster recovery and data storage plans are rarely left for traditional mediums.

No matter what, today’s data recovery and backup plans include IBM AS400 cloud solutions to some extent, whether alone or in combination.

Now that you see the benefits of migrating AS400 applications to the cloud, let’s explore the common challenges leaders often underestimate.

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Challenges Companies Forget About While Migrating AS400 to the Cloud

The IBM iSeries cloud migration might seem an easy deal to you, but there are lots of challenges that most of the companies are not aware of. Have a look here –

Let’s explore these challenges in detail.

1. Confusion and Disorganization

This issue may sound non-technical to you, but it’s not. Most of the data migration process and modern technology transfers fail because the people responsible for making those moves have no idea what resources will be needed to carry out the operation.

So, developing a comprehensive data migration plan should be the priority in IBM AS400 data migration.

2. Data Loss

When you transfer bulk data from one location to another, there is a strong possibility for adequate data loss.

Some of the data can be recovered from backup files, but some files cannot be recovered quickly. Also, the loss of such files could create a ripple effect that may result in the migration process’s termination.

In such a scenario and to migrate mission-critical data, organizations can set upswing and parallel environments and ensure business continuity.

3. Compatibility Issues

Migrating IBM AS400 system data from one environment to another is a simple process on paper, but practically the things are more complicated.

However, some assets can be shifted quite quickly but can create compatibility issues down the line.

Changing the IBM AS400 platform is not that easy, as all the access controls may not make a smooth transition, and the entire system may crash.

4. Hardware Challenges

Software and hardware compatibility issues are very complicated, but sometimes the destination environment cannot handle the vast data and applications being migrated.

While overestimating can lead to cost waste, it can be dangerous to think that all the assets will move to a new environment smoothly.

So, before moving to the new climate, it’s essential to ensure that the destination environment meets the operational requirements of the data being migrated.

5. Limited Knowledge of AS400 Applications

Most of the organizations lack a detailed understanding of the AS400 application. Moreover, the knowledge about the software is limited to subject matter experts (SMEs) only, and nowadays, this talent pool is shrinking rapidly.

6. Organizations Lack Clear Business Plan

The IBM AS400 footprint in large organizations varies from 10 million to 100 million code lines (MLOC). For such a vast portfolio, a robust plan is required to determine what to maintain, renew, and migrate.

7. Risk of Migration

According to the migration strategy, the old AS400 software and the new system may need to be kept p in sync through a hybrid cloud architecture. This will ensure that the end-to-end process is working fine and not broken. Furthermore, a large amount of data will be transformed and migrated to the cloud securely.

8. Delayed Migration

Delay in migration and sync process of old and new systems can result in higher complexity and risk.

9. Inadequate Funding for Migration

This is the most frequently faced challenge by most of the companies when they try AS400 migration.

10. Limited Expertise

While organizations usually have a deep understanding of the IBM i AS400 architecture and their workload, they are not familiar with the migration process of these workloads.

These challenges boil down to the difference between public and private cloud solution providers. Public cloud solutions may be cheaper but can’t guarantee company data security; that’s why companies opt for private IBM iSeries cloud providers.

You’ve heard of AS400 migration. But what if everything you’ve heard isn’t quite right? Next, let’s clear up some common myths about AS400 migration.

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Myths Related to AS400 Migration to Cloud

AS/400 systems cloud migration is often misunderstood. Many myths surround this process, requiring serious attention to separate fact from fiction.

In this section, we’ll debunk these misconceptions to help you make informed decisions.

#Myth 1 – Migrating is not Worth the Risk

Due to this strong misconception, some companies are not able to integrate cloud services. Well, without any doubt, migration requires strong efforts, and if you are working with older servers, you will need more steps.

But get going with a trusted and experienced IBM iSeries cloud service provider, and the migration process will be easy.

#Myth 2 – The IBM iSeries Cloud Is Too Expensive

If you feel this is true, you must not be seeing a flood of companies migrating to the iSeries cloud. Uncountable companies are moving towards the cloud and saving lots of money because of this.

Cloud hosting services increase business efficiency, agility, and adaptability as per market needs. Also, another important aspect is that the need to maintain on-prem servers gets removed.

#Myth 3 – Administrators will Be Replaced by the Cloud

The IBM iSeries cloud provides automation to a certain degree, and it does not mean that your data will not require manual support.

The cloud solution is just like a service, and administration and management are entirely different issues.

For example, if you benefit from the private cloud service provider, you can get services like customized backup, data archiving facility, disaster recovery, and management for securing the application access, but managing all this would still need some level of manual intervention. So, administrators would still be required in their jobs.

#Myth 4 – The Cloud Must Be Close to Be Efficient

This myth seems legit, but the myth becomes irrelevant if you have the right networking solution.

Well, it is right that you must have a clear connection between your primary location and host location, as you cannot neglect the importance of bandwidth and data transfer speed.

However, with the right IBM iSeries cloud service provider, all such issues will be eliminated.

#Myth 5 – IBM AS400 iSeries Cloud Hosting Gives Less Control to Companies

With the IBM iSeries cloud solution, you could gain more control over your IBM AS400 system than earlier you had in-house.

Moreover, you will get the support of your cloud service provider, and you will be able to customize your cloud processing power and storage capabilities as per your requirements.

Apart from this, you will be able to optimize your iSeries cloud solution concerning disaster recovery, customized backup, and much more.

#Myth 6 – Cloud Computing Will Interfere with Regulatory Compliance

Cloud computing can in fact help you meet regulatory compliance, but there is another case where the public vs. private cloud distinction makes all the difference.

The most important concern for the agreement is knowing where your data is stored and who has access to that data. If your organization is audited, it will be necessary to provide exact data location, but you can deny answering the questions in the case of the public cloud.

The organizations for whom it’s necessary to meet regulatory compliance, the IBM iSeries cloud services offer an enhanced level of security and control levels.

Now that we’ve debunked the common AS400 migration myths, let’s take a deeper look into the migration process.

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How Does Process of AS400 Migration Goes?

The process of migration consists of various tasks.

Data extraction of the source system, transformation, validation, and loading of final data in the destination system. Have a look at the step-by-step process:

So, why all the talk about AS400 cloud migration? Because the future is in the Cloud. Up next – Let’s explore why the cloud trend will boom in the future.

Why Cloud Trend Will Boom in the Future?

Despite the challenges and myths described in the blog, the IBM iSeries cloud solution is here to stay.

The solution allows organizations to modernize their data with accessible and highly reachable storage. With the AS400 iSeries cloud solution, your employees can connect and collaborate from remote locations, and there will be no risk of data loss if any system is damaged.

Moreover, it will be easier for those who are using a private cloud to meet regulatory compliance because of increased data availability and redundant data storage.

With a private cloud, your team knows exactly where its data is stored and who has access to it.

With a private IBM iSeries cloud storage facility, you will be aware of the company data storage and set an authorized access facility. Another reason companies are moving to the cloud is that it ensures data resilience and data loss will be negligible.

Therefore, IBM iSeries cloud migration is a popular solution among modern-day leaders. Also, leaders looking to tighten the security and expand the data storage capabilities prefer IBM AS400 iSeries cloud migration solution.

As we’ve explored AS400 applications migration to the cloud, let’s shift gears to AS400 security – one of the most talked-about topics of the 21st century.

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Is Your AS400/iSeries Platform Safe from All Security Threats?

Are you an iSeries system administrator troubled with AS400 security risk?

The good news is that the AS400 platform is extremely secure, making it an excellent solution for protecting essential business operations and corporate data assets.

However, some iSeries system experts believe it is inherently protected and does not require any additional security measures.

If you believe it too, you need to reconsider your perspective.

It is crucial to assess what is running in your system now and implement the necessary controls to ensure that all IBM i processes are completely secure.

The security measures are, of course, there!

All that you need to do is evaluate the common grounds of risk and implement the necessary updates to avoid cyber-attacks.

But what security risks should you watch out for?

Let’s go through the top 10 security risks concerning an iSeries system and learn how to tackle them effectively.

Too Many AS400 Operator/Admin Users

Almost all iSeries systems have too many users with far more authority than they require. In fact, many organizations grant access to all database files and objects on the AS400 operator system to an overwhelming number of user profiles.

This means that there is nothing to prevent employees from accessing and sharing unauthorized data or wiping the entire operating system.

Allowing Default AS400/iSeries Passwords

Users frequently keep passwords that match their usernames, which is a big mistake. As you must know, hackers will always try to utilize login credentials where the username and password match or it is easier for them to guess.

This aids them in testing if they can obtain access to the system, and they frequently succeed in doing so. This puts your entire iSeries system at risk of being exploited or having all important and confidential data wiped away.

Ignoring Compliance Mandates

Some organizations might not even understand how to properly install security measures to meet their applicable mandates. In fact, they might fail to properly implement the tools or controls required to achieve the standards.

Postponing the task entails risking penalties or hoping auditors would not detect any problems. It is highly possible that an auditor will not realize IBM i lacks virus protection since they do not grasp how the platform works, offering administrators an ‘escape.’

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Running on an Unsupported Version of IBM i

As with any operating system, not running the most recent version can cause issues, especially if you are running on a version that the vendor company no longer supports.

Having an outdated version of the AS400/iSeries means you might not have the most recent upgrades for your security tools and could be vulnerable due to lack of security patches. Furthermore, if your version is too old, you might not be able to get help from IBM.

Relying on Menu Security

The green screen’s menu security provides each user with unique options based on their position. However, there is nothing in the system to control because these are the only places a user can access.

Experienced users can easily go to areas beyond the menu options.
These entry points allow a user to bypass the menu options that are initially displayed.

Relying on a Single Layer of Security

It is unwise to assume that a firewall or PC virus protection will give adequate security against an attack. A multi-layered solution is required, including exit point management, virus protection, firewalls, and stringent user profiles.

Not Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) with Privileged Accounts

Using multiple levels of authentication to ensure you identify who is accessing the AS400/iSeries system is becoming more prevalent. It is especially important when working with users with administrative access.

Allowing End Users to Have Command-Line Permission

Organizations frequently utilize menus to limit users’ ability to use a command line. However, even the most inexperienced user can cause errors that allow them access to the command line.

They could use it to execute over 2,000 commands on the operating system of AS400, some of which can have disastrous effects. These could include things like deleting data, deactivating subsystems, and even exposing data.

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Operating Below Security Level 40, even 30

IBM strongly recommends that you set the security level of your operating system to at least 40. Some users, however, back-level the configuration during updates to incorporate outdated programs, intending to re-establish the security level later and then never reverting to it.

This is a major vulnerability since a user might possibly execute a task as another user without authorization.

Not Having a Cyber Attack Response Plan

A cyber-attack response plan is not the same as a normal disaster recovery plan. A cyber-attack might necessitate a very different response. You would have to figure out where the security threat is coming from, how to stop it, and the best strategy to restore damages or evaluate data loss.

Managing a virus is a different case, and a malicious attacker attempting to steal data from your system is another. The customer impact of a cyber-attack might differ from that of another type of disaster. For instance, if a hacker obtains client data, the risks are not the same as if a server is damaged beyond repair.

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Hiring Cobol Programmers? Don’t Miss This Out!

Are you planning to hire COBOL programmers for AS400-related operations?

You must be aware of the fact that finding COBOL programmers has become increasingly difficult.

Common Business-Oriented Language, also known as COBOL, was developed in 1959 and widely used in the 1970s and 1980s. COBOL’s popularity has waned, yet it is still vital to institutions and organizations all over the world.

COBOL was taught in programming classes less frequently as computer programming migrated to object-oriented languages like Java and other emerging computer languages.

It seems COBOL is being phased out gradually (which is not at all true). However, several US corporations, including IBM, continue to employ COBOL programming.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what you should be looking for before hiring COBOL programmers.

What Is the Role of COBOL Programmers?

A COBOL programmer is someone who develops and maintains software program applications in COBOL. This is their core responsibility, and they are largely associated with business data processing. COBOL developers design, build and implement code for new projects, test those programs to ensure they run on the chosen operating system, and make any necessary improvements.

Therefore, if you want to hire COBOL programmers of the new generation, make sure they have the requisite qualifications and expertise to match your company’s expectations.

Aside from extensive technical abilities, COBOL programmers are also expected to acquire certain soft skills that are much required in their profession.

Now that we have covered and discussed all the major skills you need to look out for when hiring COBOL programmers, all you need is a company that can help you recruit expert IBM iSeries COBOL programmers.

However, there are a thing or two that still need to be addressed –

• Why is COBOL important?
• Why are companies looking for COBOL programmers?

Importance of COBOL

COBOL has been around for 60 years, but that doesn’t imply that its demand has decreased over time.

COBOL programmers are still in high demand in information technology firms, government organizations, banks, and a variety of other industries.

COBOL’s flexibility and portability proved so helpful that it has controlled much of the software development requirements for government and corporations, as well as data processing, since the early 1960s.

As you should know, several large federal institutions rely on large-scale COBOL applications. Therefore, it is fair and logical to believe that the COBOL programming language is ubiquitous. Thus, it’s beneficial to comprehend what COBOL is, what a COBOL programmer does, and how they accomplish their tasks.

Demand for IBM COBOL Programmers

Several firms worldwide continue to use COBOL, a programming language that is 6 decades old, on their mainframe systems, which include critical unemployment claims structures.

For years, several COBOL-based software applications haven’t been updated or touched. Therefore, the increased requirements and demands have resulted in new requests for IBM COBOL programmers to come in and quickly perform upgrades.

So yes, if you are looking for COBOL programmers, you are certainly in the right direction.

Here’s why you should hire COBOL programmers from an AS400 consultancy.

Moving on, let’s dive into an important aspect of IBM iSeries – what IASPs are and why they’re essential.

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What are IASPs and Why You Need Them on IBM iSeries?

As you all know, IBM iSeries software was designed to stand the test of time. Released around 30 years ago, the software is alive and kicking.

Whether you call it AS400 software, IBMi, iSeries, or System i, the OS400 server has always been an integrated OS, including an IBM DB2 relational database. The software can run on IBM’s UNIX OS, the open-source Linux OS, and AIX 5L.

The AS400 software is widely considered the best OS in the universe because of its solid architecture and uptime of 99.9%, which is faster than any other system.

Every one or two years, IBM AS400 software releases an upgraded version of the software. And now, IBM has announced the modern approach to license compliance via IBM authorized SAM provider, known as IASP.

IBM has announced a new approach to license compliance – via the IBM Authorized SAM Provider Offering “Independent Auxillary Storage Pool” (IASP).

For now, it’s an invitation program only. And, the customers who qualify for the program, IBM will allow them to work with authorized IASP partners to monitor IBM usage continuously. Previously, IBM had an LMO program that was developed to provide the same services. But now the program has been disabled and no longer available for IBM AS400 iSeries customers.

What Does the IBM Authorize SAM Provider (IASP) offer?

For Whom Is the IASP Program?

As of now, it’s an invite program only, and IBM AS400 software is looking for customers fulfilling some specific requirements. If you are fit as per their needs, it will be worth talking to IBMi and knowing how to get an invitation.

Requirements to Join the IASP Program

IASP Partners

These are the four authorized partners to deliver IASP engagements –

• Deloitte
• KPMG
• AnglePoint
• EY

How do the IASP Partner Helps?

The IASP partners provide the specialized skills and knowledge required to address specific challenges within IBM AS400 software. Some of their tasks include:

• Knowledge entitlements
• ILMT connection & structure
• Planning & optimization
• Completeness of stocks
• Reporting on S&S declines, associations, etc.

How Do You Benefit from IASPs?

• ASPs provide a base for long-term, scalable HA/DR.
• IASPs offer improved uptime by empowering administrators to leave non-critical processing.
• IASPs offline and free up storage space.
• IASPs also boost safety through path encoding and offer alliance perks, including lower costs by reducing software licensing fees and the number of necessary upgrades.
• IASPs can be used for different objectives. They are frequently used to divide data connected with specific applications and facilitate a more granulated method to work management.

Commercial Benefits

This is where the IASP could make a real difference for companies as IBM AS400 software is ready to sacrifice some of their traditional penalties for license non-compliance.

For customers in the IASP program, IBM iSeries software will permit them to buy shortfall licenses at their regular discounts and waive the usual maintenance cost.

Moreover, according to AngelPoint, there will be no full-capacity controls irrespective of historical ILMT status.

Other Advantages of IASPs are –

Data Security and Compliance

• Leaving non-critical IASPs offline and getting them online only when required
• Encoding the IASP where classified data resides
• Isolating data to meeting conformity requests

Isolate Application Instances

• Having various editions of the same application available but isolated
• Having several applications on one separation but isolated in separate IASPs

Operational

• And instantly imitate a copy of application data for offline backup, development, or testing utilizing IBM’s FlashCopy;
• Library data or documents to lower-cost exterior storage space.

PowerHA technology provides users with the ability to transfer a large quantity of data between two physical servers. Moreover, nobody can use PowerHA without an IASP.

And as the demand for the application is growing and other applications are moving with IASP applications, many of our AS400 software solutions work in the IASP. With IASP licensing, customers can directly install or upgrade instantly with IASP.

Having covered the key aspects, let’s now dive into an overview of the AS400 iSeries.

A Quick Overview of AS400 IBM i

Let’s visualize the era of the 1980’s when the internet was not deployed to accommodate business transactions, and dial-up networks were extravagant (Assume thousands of dollars), and blackouts happening was so regular that companies were investing more energy in troubleshooting than really performing the tasks.

In Rochester, MN, where AS 400 iSeries was developed, the framework permitted clients to stay focused on their business applications rather than operational tasks.

This easy-to-use framework gave flawless flexibility, uptime, and low maintenance cost to the organizations as IBM designed the framework to act strongly even in a nirvana state.

IBM AS/400 is a technology platform that permits organizations to have an administrator to manage their System for all their technological needs.

Information base, web, application, mail, document, and printer all run in a centralized work environment, where the processor can be controlled to work on the important task first.

The most sought benefit of AS 400 iSeries is its database. DB2 is the OS, and it works at the most significant level and doesn’t need a database administrator. It worked impeccably and was reliable in the past and is today.

IBM Broadens its Product Line

In August of 1990, IBM revealed two low-cost processors and added a low-end processor to the Application System. By this time, the whole as400/iSeries arrangement was upgraded with many hardware and software programs.

This included working framework upgrades, new data storage items, extended memory, better framework accessibility, and various modernized applications.

Another base model and a new form of the AS400 working framework were also presented. And, in 1993, another F model, as400/iSeries, was revealed, and it was more effective by 60% as per IBM sources.

However, the new model was offered 26% better cost and performance enhancements.

Around the same time, three new superior AS400 iSeries working models were introduced. They include – the 9402-server model 100 and the 9504-server model 135 and 140.

For many organizations and IT experts that have staked their business on this stage in its different manifestations, the as400 i series is the best software that comes with unwavering quality and minimal expense.

By the end of the 90s era, IBM reported a great new line of AS400/iSeries range with fast processors, expanded execution, and more prominent adaptability to deal with numerous applications on an individual server. The new line of servers merged various models into a smaller and remarkable family.

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IBM AS400 Services Undergone Names Changes

While talking about the development and history of IBM AS400 Services, considering the name changes over the years is unavoidable.

Do things begin with the reason for changing the name from IBM as400 i series to IBM iSeries to Power Systems? You may blame IBM i marketing for this, but genuinely thinking they are trying to get ahead of the rat race of quick developmental changes.

IBM as400 i series to iSeries to System I and now IBM as400 on Power, each change fortified and built-up IBM’s obligation to keeping this platform relevant for today’s digital advancement.

Some of the key Advantages Offered by iSeries Systems are as Discussed Below –

1. IBM iSeries is Scalable

IBMi is scalable, it supports business requirements that range from very small to very large organizations. They can start with an affordable 4-core server and can go up to 256-core machines.

2. IBM iSeries is Modern

In addition, it supports a healthy mix of native and open-source development languages. including RPG, Cobol, SQL, Java, .NET, PHP, C, and C++.

3. IBM iSeries is Secure

Everything including the software, databases, files, etc. on the AS400 is object based. Due to this native architecture, it is impossible to hack data stored at the iSeries server. That’s the reason it is the preferred choice in several data sensitive organizations such as banking, finance and insurance companies.

4. IBM iSeries is Reliable

The system has successfully passed the test of time. It features enterprise-class reliability, which is the reason behind its immense popularity.

Today’s IT Environment and IBM iSeries

Organizations are going through modernization as they are re-evaluating the client’s requirements. With this, they are researching models that exploit what is feasible to survive in the era of cutthroat competition.

Leaders for long are working on innovation to improve business processing. The only thing is, now customer assumptions have changed.

Today, most organizations are not limited to the business application of the past; instead, they are implementing innovative technologies running on IBM iSeries. It is all about offering technical freedom and symbolic value to the customer.

Then, why are there so many questions about the future of AS400 Systems? Especially when it has never stopped innovating and delivered a world class platform at a considerable cost advantage.

One of the answers could be that AS400/iSeries systems are not often used for simple, popular office functions, instead they are used to handle robust, business-critical applications like ERP, finance, or health information systems.

Apart from this, business leader fears that some of the technology veterans are reaching their retirement age. And with their retirement, all their knowledge and expertise walk out of the door.

However, they need to understand the underlying technology is well documented, understood and there are several organizations that are experts on the AS400 platform.

Defining the AS400 System – Key Differentiators

The AS/400 system stands out for its unique architecture and robust components that have set industry benchmarks. Let’s explore the core elements that make AS400 a trusted choice for businesses worldwide.

Unique Architecture

Some of the distinctive features are object-based architecture, Single level storage, and integration of database with OS.

IBM Proprietary Hardware and OS

A blade server architecture and power-based hardware that can be used for AIX and LINUX.

No Virus and Hacking

Till now, no virus and hacking event has been reported, and such a track record makes it the first choice for organizations to host their mission-critical applications.

OS Integrated Database

The DB2/400 database runs on AS400. The database features are activated immediately once the OS is installed and tightly integrated with AS400. Apart from DB2, various open-source databases like -MySQL, can be loaded on this server platform.

Storage

SAN or DASD

As we conclude this insightful guide, let us introduce you to a trusted AS400 consultancy for all your AS400 iSeries needs.

Integrative Systems – Your Choice of AS400 Consulting Services Provider

As a full-time consulting firm, we have IBM iSeries AS400 experts to assist you on a short-term or long-term project. Whether you call it IBM i, iSeries, AS/400, or even Power i, our experts have done it all. We are a knowledgeable team ready to help you with modernization, upgrades, resolving technical resources, and AS400 support.

And with over 25+ years of experience, our team can help you identify and fix any barriers that prevent you from using the IBM AS/400 system effectively.

Customized Staffing Solution as Per Your Business Requirements

Whether you want to redefine roles after an unexpected departure or expand your team part-time or full-time, take advantage of our staff augmentation process. The team will act as an extension of your team and will help you in –

• Clear the backlog of projects
• Troubleshoot broken system
• Support your team on upgrades

Why Choose Us?

We are not just another staffing company. We are a full-time IBM i AS400 consulting, modernization services provider, and software development firm that also provides staffing solutions for short- and long-term assignments.

We work as an extension of your team. We make sure you won’t need to indulge in the hiring process or staff issues like registration, vacation, and healthcare – we’ve got your back!

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What Can We Help You With?

Here’s how our seasoned team of AS400 experts offers you expertise on demand.

IBM iSeries AS400 RPG Developer – Expertise on Demand

Our experienced IBM iSeries AS400 RPG developers can help you save time and money.

Each of our IBM i AS400 RPG developers has rich experience in RPG and will help you add new features or functionality to the existing software while upgrading.

IBM iSeries AS400 IT Administrator

Are you facing an unexpected departure or impending retirement for your IBM iSeries AS400 administrator? Finding an experienced professional can be difficult. From task scheduling and troubleshooting to backup and performance tuning, our AS400 consulting services have got you covered. You can also hire one of our best to fill in the gap.

IBM iSeries AS400 Security Administrator

Do you follow the best security practices for IBM AS400?

It’s never too late to secure your IBM i device.

Bringing an IBM AS/400 security administrator is a good start for the first time. They help you establish security procedures and policies, define critical roles and authorities, and review your AS/400 security levels. Our IBM-certified security administrators are ready to help your system become more secure.

Hope you have understood the importance of IBM consulting services for your business. If you are left with any queries or need an AS400 consultant for your project, feel free to initiate a conversation.

Drop us a line at [email protected] and our experts will get back to you in 2 business days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Modernizing the AS400 Green Screen Improves Workflow and User Experience?

Ans- Modernizing AS400 green screen improves workflow, user experience, and the productivity of professional users.

A simple solution is to convert the green screen into a GUI screen, commonly known as the re-interface. This trick creates a browser-based look and feel without any software changes.

Another choice you have is to separate the business logic from the user interface, allowing the same logic to be used on multiple user interfaces. Using RPG open access makes this option much more accessible.

2. Why Not Hire Full-Time In-House Staff for IBM iSeries AS400 Needs?

Ans- Instead of hiring full-time in-house team members, it’s better to turn to experienced professionals who can get you started by managing your talent needs, meeting your unique needs, saving time and reducing costs.

3. What Are the Alternatives to Staff Augmentation for AS400 Development?

Ans- Apart from staff augmentation, you can also opt for outsourcing services. It is a viable option. Also, it’s important to understand that the resources of a professional company are more affordable than they seem. Because hidden costs such as employee benefits, overheads, general administration, and control management result in double the cost of in-house employees’ salaries.

4. What is IASP?

Ans- As per the internet definition of IASP, it’s an “independent auxiliary storage pool” – made by IBM.

In ITAM terms, IASP is a new approach to compliance, i.e., it’s an alternative to the traditional software license review process. The complete program is managed and run by four authorized SAM partners (we will get to know about them later) who work with clients to proactively manage their business environment.

5. What Are the Objectives of the IASP Program by IBM?

Ans- Key objectives of IASP program by IBM include –

• Introduce and enhance the SAM process and benefits
• Provide better assurance of conformity
• Enable practical IBM management
• Accelerate the transition to hybrid cloud