Mainframe Modernization With COBOL – A Successful Transition to AWS Cloud for a Fortune 500 Manufacturing Giant
Check out how KMTEQ’s mainframe COBOL development team helped our client migrate its legacy applications to the AWS cloud server using COBOL and improve operational efficiency and user experience.
Introduction
In the dynamic landscape of technology, legacy systems can pose significant challenges for large enterprises. This case study delves into the intricacies of a mainframe modernization project undertaken by the KMTEQ team for our client who is a renowned global manufacturing leader—a Fortune 500 giant with a robust presence in the automotive industry.
The Objective
Our client aimed to migrate its legacy applications, hosted on a mainframe system, to the AWS Cloud. This ambitious undertaking by our team involved modernizing applications catering to diverse business functions across the USA, Canada, Europe, and Asia. The primary goal was to enhance operational efficiency, improve user experience, and leverage the benefits of cloud-based technologies.
Challenges and Pain Points
Onboarding & Access
Infrastructure Setup
Pipeline Setup
Video Capture of Program Execution
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
Budget Analysis
Overcoming Challenges
Overcoming the Challenges
Addressing the multifaceted challenges inherent in mainframe modernization demanded a strategic approach at the technical level. The following key technical aspects were instrumental in overcoming hurdles:
1). Customized Template Screen
The legacy system presented challenges with a hung screen and numerous patchwork issues. Our technical team successfully created a customized template screen, replacing the legacy interface. This innovation not only resolved performance issues but also improved efficiency and user experience.
2). Resource Allocation Strategies
Managing resources for Information Management System Data Communication (IMS DC) was a critical technical challenge. To ensure availability, our team adopted a dual-pronged approach. Alongside internal resources, LMTEQ’s experts proficiently handle two projects concurrently. This ensured optimal resource allocation for the mainframe migration.
3). Employee Training and Skill Enhancement
The transition to modern technologies required upskilling the workforce. Our team implemented technical training programs to equip employees with expertise in AWS technologies, Cobol, IMSDB, and other relevant skills. This proactive approach ensured that the client’s team was adept at handling the intricacies of the modernized system.
4). Supervision from Retired Mainframe Experts
Given the expertise required for mainframe modernization, the project engaged retired Mainframe experts for supervision. Their deep knowledge and experience were invaluable in navigating complex legacy code, ensuring code integrity, and guiding the team through intricate technical challenges.
5). Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication between onshore and offshore teams, as well as regular client interactions, played a pivotal role. Technical intricacies and progress were discussed pre-delivery and every week, fostering collaboration and ensuring alignment with project objectives. This agile communication approach facilitated efficient iteration and planning.
6). Rehosting Technique
One of the cornerstone technical strategies employed was the rehosting technique. Leveraging this approach, our team successfully moved applications to the cloud rapidly and efficiently. This method, also known as re-platforming or lift and shift, expedited the migration process, meeting the project’s fixed timeline and budget constraints.
Results
The mainframe modernization project delivered by our team has seen significant outcomes, including a 20% reduction in operational costs, a 90% success rate in migrating applications within the planned timeline, and a remarkable 30% improvement in user satisfaction. Our team has also seen a boost in operational efficiency with a 25% reduction in system response time.
ROC – Reduction in Operational Costs 20%
SRMA – Success rate in migrating applications 90%
IUS – Improvement in User Satisfaction 30%
RSRT – Reduction in System Response Time 25%
On top of that, real-time analytics implementation enhanced data processing speed by 15%, contributing to informed decision-making. The transition ensured a remarkable 99.5% system uptime and security measures led to a 30% reduction in incidents, achieving 100% compliance with industry regulations.
Enhanced data processing speed by 15%
Reduction in incidents 30%
System uptime 99.5%
Compliance with industry regulations 100%
Integration
Our experts leveraged a diverse skill set, including JCL, COBOL, IMSDB, RAINCODE, and AWS, for the project. Additionally, we employed Azure Board as a tool to facilitate database management using VSAM and IMSDB. Operating on Z/OS ensured enhanced security and stability. Lastly, our team adopted an Agile methodology, contributing to efficient project management practices.
Conclusion
Our team’s Mainframe Modernization project for our client stands as a testament to the successful transformation of a legacy system into a modern, cloud-based infrastructure.
Overcoming challenges through innovative solutions and strategic planning has not only enhanced operational efficiency, and user experience but also positioned our client for future growth in an ever-competitive market.
The integration of skills, tools, and methodologies played a pivotal role in achieving a seamless transition and ensuring the long-term sustainability of their IT infrastructure.
From Legacy to Leading – Revolutionize Your Operations with KMTEQ Expert Mainframe Modernization.
Ready to modernize your legacy systems and propel your business into the future? With KMTEQ, you can achieve your vision of data migration