AS400 Green Screen Modernization: Why It is a Wise Choice in 2024?

Dinesh Thakur
22 Jul 2024
Ditstek Blogs

AS400 Green Screen Modernization

What strikes the mind first when you think of AS400 applications? Green screens, right? But, what if we say that monochromatic green screens will soon become a thing of the past? Yes, you heard it right. 

While the thought of modernizing the green screens is a bit unsettling for some, overlooking the possibility of legacy app modernization may keep you from improving the efficiency of your business. Moving from AS400 green screens to a modern GUI interface seems a headache; however, it is a thoughtful step towards delivering a seamless user experience.

In this blog, we will discuss why AS400 green screen modernization is a wise choice in 2024. Are you ready to tap into the potential of IBM’s green screen? Let’s get started!

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Why Businesses Are Moving Away From AS400 Green Screen?

Businesses chose AS400 as it could do things faster, save time, and boost overall workflow efficiency. Today, green screen applications have some constraints that make it important to consider a shift from green screens to GUI. 

Below are some challenges that act as a catalyst for a transition toward green screen modernization-

Why Businesses Are Moving Away From AS400 Green Screen

Integration Challenges

The integration of age-old AS400 green screens with modern applications, APIs, or web services is a tough nut to crack. Modern applications are leveraging green screen modernization for streamlined operations.

Reduced Productivity

The green screen’s plain, monochromatic setup lacks the visual appeal that today’s users expect, which hampers the system’s overall efficiency and slows down workflow. Further, this reduces the team’s productivity.

Graphical Constraints

Decision-making becomes easy when data is visualized in the form of images, charts, and graphs rather than the text format. This graphical limitation of AS400 applications calls for an urgent need to look for a GUI.

In order to fix these challenges, transitioning from AS400 green screens to GUI is worth considering.

Why AS400 Green Screen Modernization Matters in 2024?

Whether you are a CIO, CTO, or an IBM i decision maker, here are some top reasons to invest in IBM i AS400 green screen modernization -

Why AS400 Green Screen Modernization Matters in 2024

  • Access the Data Anywhere Anytime

One of the best benefits of GUI is mobile access. Nowadays, businesses are not confined to workplaces. With GUIs, AS400 applications break free from the desktop constraints and users can easily access data from any device. Thus, whether your IT team is moving, working remotely or you need instant updates, GUI-driven mobile access to data improves accessibility and productivity.

  • Multi-Platform Compatibility

iSeries green screen (GUI) offers multi-platform compatibility. This compatibility is quite valuable for businesses that must operate on different devices. On the other side, legacy AS400 systems or old green screens lack this feature. With GUI, you can access your system on any device with minimal effort.

  • Offers Competitive Edge Via Multitasking

AS400 applications are slow to switch between different tasks. However, with a modern GUI interface, developers can test code in real-time and collaborate simultaneously. This improves software development workflow and fosters innovation. Here are some ways IBM i 5250 screen modernization helps you multitask-

  • Users can open and switch multiple windows or tabs simultaneously.
  • Many GUI apps continue running tasks in the background while the users work with other apps or windows.
  • Allows users to divide the screen between two or more apps via split-screen functionality.
  • Drag-and-drop functionality.
  • Displays alerts or notifications for real-time updates, events, etc.
  • Reduced Risk and Reduced Costs

Legacy AS400 apps with green screens lack modern-day security features which makes the system highly vulnerable. Iseries green screen GUI comes with advanced security features, like end-to-end encryption, strengthening the system to tackle security challenges. Further, as the system improves the team’s productivity and supports informed decision-making, it reduces costs and improves ROI.

  • Making the System Future-Ready

As discussed above, a modernized AS400 interface allows users to access the system on multiple devices, like phones, desktops, tablets, etc. However, there is more to it. GUI’s modern interface doesn’t only offer convenience, but it also upgrades the application, allowing it to integrate smoothly with workflow automation tools. The REST APIs and automated pipelines boost the quality of work, streamline the software development process, and save you valuable time & effort.

Elevate Your AS400 Green Screens to the Next Level

Our experts at DITS can modernize your systems for enhanced performance and security.

Steps To Follow When Modernizing an AS400 Application

Modernizing a legacy AS400 application requires a structured approach to ensure success. Follow these steps to streamline the process:

1. Assess the Current State of AS400 Systems

Start by evaluating the existing legacy system. Engage AS400 experts to conduct a thorough analysis, identifying user challenges and areas for improvement. This assessment should be comprehensive, covering all aspects of the system, including functionality, infrastructure, technical specifications, third-party dependencies, database management, and security measures.

2. Identify Problems and Define Goals

Understanding the system’s problems and defining clear goals is crucial. By examining different aspects, businesses can pinpoint areas for improvement and devise a modernization strategy. Establish realistic short-term and long-term goals to guide the modernization journey.

3. Analyze and Select a Suitable Modernization Approach

With problems identified and goals set, choose an approach to update the application. Several common approaches differ in complexity, cost, risk, and impact. Select one based on your requirements and limitations

Common Modernization Approaches:

  • Retain: Keep components of the AS400 application within a new architecture. Use APIs to connect the legacy application with modern elements.
  • Rehost: Also known as ‘lift and shift,’ this approach deploys legacy IBM i components to another environment (physical, virtual, or cloud) with minimal code changes. It’s fast and easy, laying a foundation for future changes.
  • Replatform: Move components to a new runtime platform without altering the code structure or functionality. This can improve performance with minimal effort.
  • Refactor: Restructure and optimize the code to reduce technical debt. This involves backend modifications without changing the front-end or functionality.
  • Rearchitect: Significantly change the code and shift to a new architecture with enhanced capabilities. This reduces total ownership costs and improves resilience and agility.
  • Rebuild: The most expensive option, involving rewriting the AS400 application from scratch. This can be done in phases, starting with critical components.
  • Replace: Scrap the legacy system and replace it with a new one that meets business needs, often through SaaS platforms. Plan data migration carefully to minimize disruption.

4. Choose a Trusted Modernization Partner

Modernizing AS400 systems requires niche skills that internal teams may lack. Collaborate with a reliable modernization company with extensive experience in legacy application modernization. Look for partners with proven expertise in re-engineering, DevOps, and Agile methodologies to ensure a smooth transition.

5. Observe and Optimize as Needed

Once the project begins, iteratively test and optimize changes to ensure there are no issues with hosting, databases, or connectivity. Continuous improvement allows the application to adapt to changing user demands. Following these steps can make your AS400 modernization project successful, ensuring your system meets current and future business needs.

Future-Proof Your AS400 Green Screen Applications!

DITS specializes in modernizing legacy systems to boost productivity and integration. Connect with us to start your transformation!

Make Your Transition from AS400 Green Screen to GUI a Breeze with Ditstek Innovations!

Are you also looking to modernize your AS400 applications? We are your trusted tech ally. As a offshore software development company, we have a team of highly experienced IBM i AS400 programmers who can bridge your talent gap and turn your AS400 initiatives to reality. We understand that modernizing green screens goes beyond attractive interfaces and it’s more about enhancing the system’s overall efficiency. Backed with a wealth of knowledge and expertise, we can handle all aspects of AS400 green screen modernization.

Drop a mail at info@ditstek.com and one of our software experts will get back to you.

FAQs

What are the security implications of using the AS/400 green screen?

Using the AS/400 green screen poses several security risks. It often has poor authentication, outdated software, and limited encryption, making it vulnerable in today’s cybersecurity landscape.To address these issues, it’s crucial to modernize the iSeries (application) green screen while still benefiting from the reliable legacy RPG software.

Can AS/400 green screen applications be integrated with newer systems and technologies?

Absolutely! Many forward-thinking CIOs and CTOs have successfully integrated their IBM AS/400 green screen applications with modern technologies. With the help of a reliable service provider, they’ve achieved 10x productivity, enhanced employee satisfaction, and a competitive edge.

What are the major challenges in AS/400 modernization?

Modernizing AS/400 systems comes with several challenges, including:

  • Data Migration Issues: Ensuring smooth and accurate transfer of data to new systems.
  • Legacy Code Transformation: Updating old code to work with modern technologies.
  • Backward Compatibility: Maintaining compatibility with existing systems and applications.
  • Managing Costs and Timelines: Balancing the budget and schedule to achieve a cost-effective migration.

How can I evaluate the ROI of AS400 Modernization?

Evaluating the return on investment (ROI) for AS/400 modernization involves assessing several key factors: increased productivity, reduced maintenance costs, and improved customer satisfaction, among other factors.

Dinesh Thakur

Dinesh Thakur

21+ years of IT software development experience in different domains like Business Automation, Healthcare, Retail, Workflow automation, Transportation and logistics, Compliance, Risk Mitigation, POS, etc. Hands-on experience in dealing with overseas clients and providing them with an apt solution to their business needs.

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