Month: August 2022

Why Businesses Should Adopt Cloud-Based AS400 Modernization

Today, enterprises are actively looking to modernize IBM AS400 systems and migrate to newer platforms due to the necessity to leverage advanced technologies. In this regard, AS400 modernization tools and services play a significant role in digital modernization. As they help businesses to enhance the application and workloads performance by reducing technical debt and other potential risks.

Introduction to AS400 Systems

IBM AS400 popularly known as IBM iSeries or IBM I is an integrated system featuring hardware, an operating system, and several core functions like an integrated database. When compared to ‘IBM z’ (IBM Mainframe), the AS400 system offers better scalability, robustness, security, reliability, and low cost of ownership. Though it is a reliable system, IBM i does have its fair share of drawbacks and challenges.

Why is it Essential to Modernize AS400 Systems?

The key purpose behind the active modernization of AS400 systems by enterprises is due to constant maintenance, talent dwindling, and other reasons. The risk of hosting mission-critical applications and workloads on this hardware platform impacts business productivity at large. Another reason is that many organizations struggle to boost revenue and meet business goals with this legacy system.  Therefore, IT leaders and organizations highly opt for the AS400 cloud modernization approach.

Cloud-based modernization makes it easier for businesses to meet standard requirements quickly, focus on essential IT objectives, and organize their IT applications effectively. Enterprises looking to efficiently modernize their AS400 systems through Cloud migration should hire an AS400 services provider to formulate a customized migration approach.

Key Steps Followed by AS400 Modernization Experts Before Migration

  • Analyze whether the present versions of AS400 need restoration and devise a clear business case for each AS400 workload to be migrated within the cloud.
  • Performing comprehensive documentation of the existing iSeries infrastructure, including workflows.
  • Once the analyzing and documentation part is completed, the experts organizing the modernization project team up with the internal IT professionals to build the best migration plans.
  • Risk assessment and security checks to organize the workloads on the cloud
  • Offering real-time support and ensuring data security and compliance

Benefits of AS400 Cloud Modernization

1. Enable Secure Integrations

With cloud-based modernization, businesses can get access to library connectors and develop ultra-modern workflows that work at speed and offer robust digital workplace solutions. In the AS400 setup, enabling integrations with enterprise solutions and other data sources is a highly challenging concern. Whereas, the availability of library connectors in the cloud platforms like Azure and AWS offers greater scope for integrations & synchronization. With such benefits, businesses can easily fulfil current and future objectives and gain a competitive edge.

2.Reduced Risk of Threats

The scalability offered by Cloud platforms is an apparent benefit. Be it a small-scale enterprise or a leading establishment, companies can rapidly scale up or down their process with the AS400 cloud migration. This scalability also assures that IT teams can formulate and resolutely perform their migration with reliance. Besides, AS400 migration to the Cloud platform will provide better business continuity and eliminate the possibilities of on-site installation concerns, Ransomware attacks, weather conditions happenings, etc. Hence, cloud migration has been considered an effective AS400 modernization approach that delivers better business resilience.

3.Diminished Operational Costs

It is clear that iSeries systems are largely preferred by leading business sectors for facilitating large-scale transactions. However, due to its non-integrative nature and lack of self-management features, IBM i systems bring about higher maintenance costs. Therefore, large-scale companies can team up with the right AS400 Development Company to perform cloud migration and drastically reduce infrastructure expenses. Likewise, smaller businesses can also gain access to comprehensive services at a reasonable cost which would have been impossible with the iSeries systems.

4.Leverage Innovative Technologies

One of the major benefits of IBM i application modernization is that businesses can gain access to experience cutting-edge Cloud capabilities. Transferring applications or workloads from iSeries servers to the Cloud platform enables users to experience self-support provisioning, advanced scalability, storage on-demand, reduced latency, and others. Moreover, AS400 cloud modernization helps the workforce to efficiently exploit innovative technologies like Predictive analysis, IoT, and Artificial Intelligence to optimize project outcomes and user experience.

5.Interface Transformation

IT leaders and organizations no longer need to work in the green screen interfaces to scale up their business requirements and potential. Cloud migration helps enterprises include new user experiences, workflows, and functionalities. This leads to controllable operation.

6.Digital Execution                                                                                                                 

As mentioned before, operating with the aging AS400 systems is becoming hard for SMEs and RPG technologists. Since IBM AS400 is perceived as outdated technology, it necessitates more robust and skilled developers to provide 100% uptime. Migrating to a Cloud ecosystem with the support of an experienced AS400 Consulting team helps organizations leverage the digital workplace and supports business growth. Furthermore, companies adopting Cloud can accelerate self-reliance among IT teams and gain solid experience.

7.Cloud-Driven Insights

Another significant advantage of migrating to a Cloud ecosystem is that it provides organizations with robust analytical and reporting abilities that can help professionals, CTOs, CIOs, and decision-makers in delivering insights. In the era of the digital workplace, the hybrid models of work continue to expand. Therefore, organizations should experience cloud-driven information insights to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Wrapping Up

Migrating to a cloud environment helps organizations enhance application scalability and user-friendliness while eliminating AS400 systems’ hardware setup burden. With AS400 Cloud modernization, businesses can have the capability to keep up with evolving security standards and effectively combat vulnerabilities.

International eSIM Card vs Traditional SIM Card

With any technological breakthrough, a transitional period is common; this is what we are currently experiencing with International eSIM Card and its integration into smartphones. Many modern smartphones are dual-enabled, which means they include both a conventional SIM card slot and the more recent eSIM technology.

Dual SIM phones give consumers the option to add an extra mobile number or data contract via the built-in eSIM in addition to continuing to use their current physical, removable SIM.

Having a personal and business cell number on the same smartphone is something that many individuals take advantage of.

The two distinct SIMs can access two accounts, but they can only be used one at a time. If you are currently using one service—for example, making a call, replying to a text, or consuming data—that service will become inactive.

Apple’s iPhones 11 through 13, Google’s Pixel 2 and later smartphones, and Samsung phones like the Galaxy S20 are among the smartphones that presently support a dual eSIM/traditional SIM configuration.

One of the first foldable cellphones in the world, the Motorola Razr, appears to be advancing even further by employing only eSIM technology and fully doing away with the necessity of a physical SIM.

An Examination of Traditional SIMs

The majority of us are accustomed to using classic IoT SIM, which is actually little chips or cards. Of course, they are now available in a variety of sizes, including the bigger standard size as well as mini, micro, and nano variants that are seen in more recent smartphone generations.

Traditional SIMs in smartphones have shrunk in size over time, allowing for smaller mobile designs and more area for functionality. In the instance of nano SIMs, this resulted in SIMs shrinking from around postage stamp size to about 12mm.

The majority of us are accustomed to using classic SIMs, which are actually little chips or cards. Of course, they are now available in a variety of sizes, including the bigger standard size as well as mini, micro, and nano variants that are seen in more recent smartphone generations.

Traditional SIMs in smartphones have shrunk in size over time, allowing for smaller mobile designs and more area for functionality. In the instance of nano SIMs, this resulted in SIMs shrinking from around postage stamp size to about 12mm.

Negative aspects of a Traditional SIM

There are a few issues with this outdated technology, despite the fact that switching from your home country’s International eSIM Card to a new foreign one when abroad isn’t all that difficult.

One reason is that having a removable SIM always carries the danger of losing or injuring it when removing and replacing it between phones, and this risk is increased when traveling.

Lack of local mobile service on your phone as soon as you arrive at a destination can be another issue.

You have to look around to find a foreign SIM, which can leave you without data, calls, or texts for a while. During this period, you might need to call a UBER or check reservations or directions with your lodging.

When searching for an International eSIM Card online with a service that may offer multiple languages, it is frequently simpler to get a foreign SIM in person when traveling through a nation where the language is different.

A Closer Examined Embedded-SIM (eSIMs)

The reason an International eSIM Card is so titled is that it is a SIM that has been integrated into a suitable phone or gadget. You can’t get rid of it, and due to how small it is, it makes room for other pieces of technology or simply slims down your phone.

The development of technology was essential for gadgets with little space, such as smartwatches. In 2016, the Samsung Gear S2 Classic 3G wearable introduced the technology, and in 2017 and 2018, the Google Pixel phone and the iPhone, respectively, followed suit.

There is a considerable probability that you will have access to an International eSIM Card if you currently own a more recent smartphone or are in the market for one. While some devices may only support eSIM, the majority are still dual SIM capable, providing both current and outdated technology.

Additionally, eSIMs aren’t just used on mobile phones. As was previously mentioned, many laptops that enable cellular connectivity, including the Microsoft Surface Pro X, also feature eSIM technology.

An eSIM will essentially perform all of the same functions as your old SIM card; however, it cannot be removed from your device, thus software must be used in place of a new physical SIM card to change cell plans.

How Does an eSIM Function?

When registering for new service with a cell carrier, you will download your International eSIM Card profile via a QR code rather than physically inserting a new SIM.

This is done by first connecting to Wi-Fi and then using the camera on your smartphone to scan the QR code of your new mobile plan.

Then you just need to follow the instructions. You can also manually download your new plan by looking for the add-mobile plan or network option in your phone’s settings.

To make this work, you obviously need a phone that supports eSIM; you can tell whether a phone or other item has the eSIM sign on it.

Additionally, you need to be connected to a mobile carrier that provides the eSIM service, which is now provided by more than 120 providers globally.

An iSIM goes one step further than an International eSIM Card by enabling the SIM to function without an additional processor. More energy efficiency will be possible as a result. The complete intricacies of items, however, should be saved for a later post.

Ways Farmers Can Increase Their Profit Margin

Are you a farmer looking to increase your sales? There are a few things you can do to help boost your business. One important step is to target the right customers. You should also make sure that your products are priced competitively and that you have a solid marketing strategy in place. By following these tips, you can maximize your profits and grow your farm operation.

Selling to Local Businesses

If you have a farmer’s market in your town, that’s a great place to start. But don’t stop there! You can also sell to local businesses, such as restaurants, grocery stores, and even catering companies. This is a great way to get your products in front of potential customers who may not be aware of your farm.

Do your research to find out what businesses in your area would be interested in your products. Then, reach out and introduce yourself. Many businesses are always looking for new suppliers, so you may be able to make a sale right away.

Investing in Alternative Energy

If you’re looking for ways to reduce your operating costs, investing in alternative energy may be a good option. Solar and wind power are becoming increasingly popular, and there are many government incentives available to farmers who make the switch. Not only will you save money on your energy bills, but you’ll also be doing your part to help the environment.

Consider investing in alternative energy sources, such as solar or wind power. This can help you save money on your energy bills and also make you eligible for government incentives. In addition, it’s a great way to show your commitment to sustainable farming practices.

Crop Rotation Habits

As any farmer knows, crop rotation is an essential part of maintaining a healthy farm. By rotating your crops, you’ll be able to prevent disease and pests from damaging your plants. This will result in a healthier crop, which will be more likely to fetch a higher price at the market. In addition, crop rotation can help improve your yield by improving the quality of your soil. over time, rotating your crops will help build up the nutrients in your soil, making it more fertile and productive. As a result, crop rotation is an important farming practice that can have a significant impact on your farm’s bottom line.

Improving Farm Equipment

If your farm equipment is outdated or in need of repair, it can be costing you money. By investing in new or improved farm equipment, you’ll be able to work more efficiently and produce a higher quality product. This will ultimately lead to increased sales and higher profits. In addition, newer farm equipment is often more reliable and requires less maintenance, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Conclusion:

Farmers have a lot of opportunities to increase their profit margin. Selling to local businesses, investing in alternative energy, crop rotation habits, and improving farm equipment are all great ways to boost profits. These are just a few examples; there are many other ways for farmers to increase their bottom line. Increasing farm profits is essential for the future of agriculture, and we hope that more farmers will take advantage of these opportunities in order to secure a prosperous future for themselves and their families. What strategies do you use to improve your farm’s profitability?