Choose Not to Choose Mainframe

The benefits of cloud approaches might have you asking, “Is now the right time to move from mainframe?” The availability of cloud and on-premises cloud hybrid, consumption models have led to organizations rethinking their entire application portfolio strategy. This is no less the case for mainframe users. It’s been happening for a while, and more and more are moving to reap the benefits. What are the main ones?

So if mainframe migrations are risky, what are the common mistakes? Mainly it’s a lack of experience. Afterall, mainframe shops are not in the habit of migration. Secondly, it’s not knowing the accuracy of the application library, where used, where they reside, and any untoward interdependencies. Tied-in with this would be a sense of knowing what to move and when, a priority list based on ease and impact. In turn, the ease and impact graph should reflect on which of the 6Rs are applicable to each of the applications. Let’s not forget stakeholder buy-in. Many fail because of business-based pressures to NOT act, or at least not yet. See how this can tie-in with phasing?

HPE

The value of a trusted partner in migrating from mainframe cannot be underestimated. Mainframe migration is not a core competency for most companies. There are clear and obvious criteria you should be looking for in choosing a mainframe migration partner. You need to figure out how to assess the strengths, challenges, and differentiators of your potential partner. Many think of the cloud perhaps as a potential destination, whereas others might suggest other paths where you can choose not to choose. Either way, it’s going to take time. This is your business critical workload being discussed – it’s a continuous experience and a journey of choices. When looking for a partner to provide mainframe migration, there are some obvious features such as strengths and experience, but it is much more than that, it is about them taking the journey with you and bringing your digital visions to life. If you want to migrate successfully, your team may definitely need some help, allowing you to focus on your business, while they focus on your new operating model.