The Evolution of Mainframe Modernization in the Age of Cloud Computing
As the world continues to shift towards a more cloud-based infrastructure, the debate surrounding mainframe modernization has become increasingly heated. While some believe that mainframes are outdated and should be replaced, others argue that they are still a vital component of many organizations’ application portfolios. In this article, we will explore the current state of mainframe modernization and the role that cloud computing can play in this process.
The Misconceptions Surrounding Mainframe Technology
Mainframe technology has long been viewed as outdated and inefficient. However, a recent survey found that 57% of mainframe users are running more than half of their business-critical applications on the mainframe, with this proportion expected to increase to 64% within the next year. Furthermore, 98% of mainframe applications are dependent on processing, which suggests that mainframes are still a crucial component of many organizations’ IT infrastructure.
The Challenges of Mainframe Migration
While some organizations may believe that migrating from mainframes to the cloud is a simple solution, the reality is often far more complex. The Kansas IRD KanLicense mainframe project, which aimed to replace KDOR within six years, is a prime example of the difficulties and delays that can arise during this process. Similarly, the US Department of Veterans Affairs’ attempt to modernize its system of veterans’ health records cost nearly $2 billion, with a significant portion of this cost going towards improving the performance of existing code.
The Role of Cloud Computing in Mainframe Modernization
Rather than replacing mainframes entirely, many organizations are now adopting a hybrid approach to IT. This involves continuing to use mainframes as mission-critical assets while taking advantage of the benefits of cloud computing. By leveraging the unique strengths of mainframes, such as their security, reliability, and scalable performance, organizations can create a more efficient and effective IT infrastructure.
Prioritizing Mainframe Code
One of the key challenges facing organizations is prioritizing mainframe code. Many online citizen services, such as online payment for parking fees, ultimately depend on mainframe transactions. However, mainframe code is often isolated and not provided with modern development tools, which can hinder the overall speed of development.
Workload and Performance Management
As mainframes assume a greater workload, cost optimization becomes crucial. Unclear mainframe licensing costs can lead to unnecessary increases in costs, which can be mitigated by adjusting each application’s efforts to minimize resource consumption. By utilizing time dispersion peak application workloads to maintain the MSU average, organizations can maintain lower average costs.
The Security and Scalability of Mainframes
While some may view mainframes as insecure, the reality is that they are one of the most secure native platforms available. The complete hardware and software needed to support business reside on a single machine, making it difficult for attackers to intercept network traffic. Additionally, mainframes have a reputation for being safe, with many organizations relying on them to support their most critical applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mainframe modernization is a complex and multifaceted process. Rather than replacing mainframes entirely, many organizations are now adopting a hybrid approach to IT, which involves continuing to use mainframes as mission-critical assets while taking advantage of the benefits of cloud computing. By prioritizing mainframe code, managing workloads and performance, and leveraging the unique strengths of mainframes, organizations can create a more efficient and effective IT infrastructure.