IBM i (iSeries – AS400) “Challenges – Known And Unknown" PART 1

The purpose of this blog is to highlight issues that confront IBM i users that need to upgrade to newer technology – both IBM i and alternatives platforms.

We operate in a complex world. While helping IBM i users over the last few months move to newer IBM i technology, my clients have encountered some or all of the issues below. Unfortunately, most were unaware of the challenges. Consequently, their progress was delayed … and in many cases completely halted for lack of relevant answers.

Hopefully, this will help some prepare for the coming changes they must deal with.

Disclaimer:? IBM i is an operating system. iSeries and AS400 are servers. I use these terms interchangeably to make it easier for folks to find this kind of information on the web.

We live in a complex world beyond our abilities to understand. Planning begins with the subjects we may understand from study and experience. After all, how can we get the answers we need, if we don’t know which questions to ask.

I get the sense that many IBM i users experience decision fatigue – their day-to-day duties require a wide variety of tasks that can include anything from assessing distractions to organizing how to provide the support to their stakeholders.

I also get the sense that many IBM i factors get overlooked because the user experience has been that the IBM i server is so reliable … it just runs. Predictably. Consequently, the IBM i server may not get the attention it deserves as users prepare for the future.

This can lead to many surprises … even shock…when making changes to your IBM i server.

Here is a list of considerations I believe IBM users will benefit from reviewing as they prepare for changes.

1)????? IBM i Perpetual Software License To Subscription Software License.

Effective May 6, 2024, all IBM software for IBM i POWER servers that are P05 or P10 Software Tier are only available on a subscription basis.?

So what?

Higher cost. That’s what.

I just concluded an analysis for a P10 Software Tier client. Over a 5 year term, the new subscription software was 35% MORE expensive than perpetual license pricing.

My sense is that many IBM i users will hesitate and look for alternatives. On the other hand, if you understand the benefits of this rock solid technology, you may be able to justify the extra cost as “less” than the additional people and support services needed for non-IBM i solutions.

2)????? Will You Need New Software Keys?

Too often IBM i users can forget that when they move their software developed by prominent software providers, they need new software keys for these applications to reside on a different IBM i POWER server. The software providers want to protect their intellectual property from theft with software keys, so research the cost to migrate your software. The transfer fees range from reasonable to exceptionally expensive.

Expensive transfer fees may be a deal-killer, so do this research early to avoid surprises or missed pricing opportunities.

3)????? The IBM i Talent Pool Continues To Shrink.

Skilled IBM i talent is leaving the market for a multitude of reasons – pursue different skills, better job offers, retirement, etc.

This talent is also consolidating to the few IBM expert teams, often hosting and consulting organizations.

Start your search and recruitment as necessary.

4)????? Support Services Are Changing.

For technical support, I have always liked to talk to real people that know their stuff.

Unfortunately, this is getting harder to do.

In your quest for phone support, be prepared to deal with voice options … to speak to a dispatcher … that does not know what you really need … to send you to technical support … that will send you a PDF manual … that you must read … to help yourself. UGH!

If you've found these insights helpful- check out part 2 coming tomorrow!

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1)?????IBM I on POWER (iSeries/AS400)

https://www.source-data.com/ibm-i-on-power-server/

2)?????IBM I (iSeries/AS400) Cloud Hosting

https://www.source-data.com/cloud-400/

3)?????IBM I (iSeries/AS400) Disaster Recovery Options

https://www.source-data.com/cloud400-disaster-recovery/

4)?????IBM I (iSeries/AS400) Version Upgrade

https://www.source-data.com/4-hour-version-upgrade/