IBM i and Artificial Intelligence (AI): The Key to Successful Application Modernization

1. Why modernize your IBM i applications?

IBM i applications, while efficient, are beginning to show their limits against the high level of agility required in today’s digital world. Modernizing your IBM i applications allows you to leverage modern technologies, improve the user interface, reduce maintenance costs, and attract young developers who will ensure the natural renewal of development teams.

According to a recent study, 88% of executives consider mainframe application modernization essential to long-term success, recognizing the need to simplify and integrate information sharing and data access across different platforms to leverage hybrid cloud architectures.

Tip: Before starting your modernization project, conduct a full audit of your IBM i environment to identify priorities and opportunities.

2. Why integrate AI into an IBM i application modernization project?

When it comes to modernization, AI does more than just rewrite code. It transforms the way your IT teams work on a daily basis.

Here are some key benefits:

• Code analysis and understanding: With tools like DISCOVER, AI automatically decodes complex relationships between programs, databases, and users.
• Test automation: AI identifies and automates critical test scenarios to ensure a smooth transition.
• Continuous improvement: Learning algorithms monitor the performance of modernized applications to suggest real-time optimizations.

Imagine an RPG program from the 1990s. Thanks to AI, you can not only understand it quickly but also identify obsolete or critical segments to modernize as a priority.

Good to know: DISCOVER offers a visual mapping approach to help developers easily navigate complex environments.

3. How does DISCOVER facilitate modernization with AI?

DISCOVER, developed by ARCAD Software, is a revolutionary tool designed to remove the main obstacles to modernizing IBM i applications. But how does it actually work?

• Automatic mapping: DISCOVER explores and maps your IBM i applications to provide a clear and intuitive view of dependencies.
• AI-driven impact analysis: The tool detects potential impacts of each modification, reducing the risk of errors during modernization.
• Ease of use: Even teams with little IBM i expertise can use this tool easily thanks to its intuitive interfaces.

Advice: Adopt an iterative approach to modernizing your applications. Prioritize the most critical or most frequently used features by your users.

4. What benefits can you expect from AI for your IBM i applications?

Modernizing an IBM i system does not come without challenges. Here are the most common obstacles and how to overcome them with AI:

• Complexity of legacy code: Older applications may contain thousands of lines of RPG or COBOL code that are hard to analyze. With DISCOVER’s AI, these programs become readable and understandable in just a few clicks.
• Lack of skilled resources: IBM i experts are rare. AI-driven automation of analysis and testing bridges this talent gap.
• Resistance to change: Some IT teams may be reluctant. Communicate concrete benefits (time, cost, quality) to gain their support.

Tip: Involve your teams from the start of the project and value their feedback to maximize adoption of AI tools.

5. What key steps ensure a successful IBM i transformation with AI?

Modernization with AI requires a methodical approach. Here is a 5-step plan to succeed in your transformation:

1. Diagnose: Identify the strengths and weaknesses of your current applications.
2. Prioritize: Focus your efforts on high-value applications.
3. Automate: Integrate tools like DISCOVER to reduce manual tasks.
4. Train your teams: Ensure your teams understand and adopt AI.
5. Measure and adjust: Monitor post-modernization performance to guarantee lasting results.

Good to know: According to a recent study, 78% of IT leaders surveyed said their companies were piloting or implementing initiatives that integrate AI into mainframes.

6. Conclusion: AI, a strategic lever for your IBM i

Modernizing IBM i applications should not be seen as a constraint but as an opportunity for transformation. AI, and especially DISCOVER, can make all the difference by making the process faster, safer, and more cost-effective.

Are you ready to transform your IBM i system to meet the demands of the modern world? If so, ARCAD Software is here to support you in this exciting journey.