If you are a technology leader still relying on legacy IBM i application, you might feel stuck as if you are standing at a crossroads.

You know that it works well, is reliable and your business has been dependent on it for years. But let’s face the fact that your system is old, difficult to update and doesn’t work smoothly with newer applications.

Sounds relatable?

Here is the good news!

You don’t have to rip off and replace the entire system at once.

Instead, you can modernize it.

This way, your system becomes faster, easy to use, and future ready.

IBM i modernization breathes new life into your existing system.

Modernization is just not about updating your technology.

It is about making your system smarter, more reliable, so it -

• Improves user experience

• Reduces the overall operational costs

• Helps you stay ahead of your competition

Now, let’s talk about some important IBM i modernization strategies which will help you future proof your IBM i environment and pull real business value.

But before that, let us know why modernization is no longer just a luxury but a necessity.

Why Should IBM i Modernization be on Your Agenda?

Here’s a stat on IBM i users prioritizing application modernization.

57% IBM i users prioritize application modernization this time around ~ As per 2025 IBM i Marketplace Survey.

Don’t do it because your fellow IBM i users are doing it.

Don’t do it because it’s the easiest to keep your IBM i relevant.

Don’t do it because with a plain hope that it will change something.

Do it because you can’t afford to slow down.

Do it because you can’t let data silos ruin your reports.

Do it because you can’t let poor user experience dismantle productivity.

When done in right, at the right time, with the right approach, IBM i Modernization can help -

• Reduce technical debt

• Improve performance and security

• Future-proof your IBM i infrastructure

• Improve integration with third-party apps & modern solutions

• Attract new-age talent that prefer working in modern development environments

Now, let’s look at various strategies to futureproof your IBM i ecosystem.

IBM i Modernization Strategies to Futureproof Your IBM i

Modernization doesn’t have to be “Rip & Replace”, always.

Moving away from IBM i.

Loosening up on years of investments.

Disregarding matured business processes.

Is this what comes to your mind when you hear IBM i modernization ?

Well, it doesn’t have to be like that.

Modernization is all about making your IBM i applications more relevant, compatible, and accessible in the modern-day business environment.

Let's look at some of the proven IBM i modernization strategies that work.

Embracing Modular Architecture with IBM i/AS400 Modernization Services

Legacy IBM i applications were built as one single program where everything was interconnected, making it harder to upgrade individual functionalities.

That’s where IBM i Modernization Services come into the play.

IBM i modernization experts are focused on adding modular structure to IBM i applications. They break complex functionalities into smaller, individual modules.

And this helps to adapt & upgrade functionalities that are slowing workflows down.

The best part? If you want to upgrade a module, you can do it easily in real-time and without disturbing the whole process.

This approach promises gives you -

• Faster upgrades

• No to low downtime

• Ease of handling to upgrade/change functionalities

Transformation without disruption – that’s IBM i modernization for you.

Green Screen Modernization - Give Your Interface a New Look

Legacy IBM i applications were built as one single program where everything was interconnected, making it harder to upgrade individual functionalities.

That’s where IBM i Modernization Services come into the play.

IBM i modernization experts are focused on adding modular structure to IBM i applications. They break complex functionalities into smaller, individual modules.

And this helps to adapt & upgrade functionalities that are slowing workflows down.

The best part? If you want to upgrade a module, you can do it easily in real-time and without disturbing the whole process.

This approach promises gives you -

• Faster upgrades

• No to low downtime

• Ease of handling to upgrade/change functionalities

Transformation without disruption – that’s IBM i modernization for you.

Green Screen Modernization - Give Your Interface a New Look

To be honest – green screens and command lines are boring and difficult to use.

Through AS400 GUI modernization , you can revamp the look and feel of your applications.

For example, think web-based dashboards, simple menus, and mobile access.

A modern UI isn’t just nice to have – it saves your time, reduces human errors, and makes onboarding new talent much easier.

Better design leads to better productivity, isn’t it?

With AS400 GUI modernization, you can -

• Replace traditional green screens with modern user interface

• Enable real-time dashboards and analytics

• Make data more accessible across your enterprise

As we discussed earlier, you don’t need to “rip off and replace” existing system. Instead, upgrade it to modern UI layers that elevate usability without losing the core functionality.

Modernization should be intentional and not forceful. It’s more about retaining your technology and building over it – not replacing it, right from the core. You have spent years, or decades shaping your IBM i processes, discarding them isn’t an option – rather try futureproofing.

Thiking, “What futureproofing your IBM i looks like?” - Read here for more insights! IBM i Modernization – The Integrative Systems Approach

Collaborate with AS400 Experts for Long-Term Success

Even the best strategies can fail if you don’t have the right people to execute.

Partnering with AS400 modernization experts helps you get insights, all-round support and a proven process ensuring your modernization journey reaches success.

They bring in-depth expertise, great understanding of legacy systems and have a strong know-how of modern tools. Thus, ensuring a smooth, customized and modernization roadmap for your transformation journey.

They help you to -

• Identify the quick wins for early ROI

• Reduce the risks during transition process

• Build a future-ready strategy for your enterprise

Think of them as your co-pilots in a complex but rewarding journey called strategic IBM i modernization.

IBM i Integration - Find New Possibilities with APIs & Connectors

To truly future-proof your IBM i, you need your system to effectively communicate with the rest of your tech tools like CRMs, ERPs, or cloud-based analytics. IBM i integration makes it all possible using APIs and connectors.

Integrating modern API tools with your IBM i applications ensures -

• Smoother communication

• Real-time insights

• Faster data flow

It helps you bridge the gap between your legacy applications and growing demands of modern businesses.

IBM i Cloud Migration - Move to the Cloud At Your Pace

Moving to the Cloud isn’t a trend, it is the new standard.

17% IBM i users plan to mover their IBM i workloads to the cloud ~ As per 2025 IBM i Marketplace Survey by Fortra.

Again, IBM i cloud migration doesn’t have to be disruptive. It’s an incremental, phased approach where you shift your IBM i workloads to the Cloud.

You can move only high intensity workloads to the cloud and retain rest on-premises. Or you can shift complete workloads to the cloud environment, depending on your scalability needs.

All this while your routine operations function at regular pace – and that’s what we call IBM i(AS400) application modernization without disruption.

Moving your IBM i workloads to the cloud fully or partly -

• Reduces overall operational & infrastructural costs

• Improves resource utilization

• Enhances security stature

• Increases agility

Modernize Your Codebase

Again – this doesn’t mean moving away from IBM i.

Modernizing your codebase is one of the key IBM i modernization strategies where IBM i experts transform your legacy RPG code into modern RPG form.

60% of IBM i users cited IBM i skill gap as a major concern ~ As per 2025 IBM i Marketplace Survey by Fortra.

Retiring IBM i talent is growing as a bigger concern. And the new age talent is struggling to decode legacy RPG codes, with ease, creating a bottleneck.

Having translated your legacy RPG code to modern RPG form, your worries to find the right set of RPG developers would be alleviated to an extent.

Also, modern RPG code is easier to maintain, integrate, and scale.

Now is the Time to Future-Proof Your IBM i

You don’t have to do it alone.

We, at Integrative Systems, specialize in helping businesses like yours in aligning your lBM i/ AS400 systems with modern day business needs.

If you are looking for a complete IBM i modernization, or a team of IBM i modernization experts as an extension to your in-house team - we are here to help you futureproof your IBM i investments.

Because futureproofing isn’t optional – it’s essential.

Join us at Common POWERUp 2025 to witness how Integrative Systems empowers you to retain your IBM i investments with strategic IBM i modernization.

Our IBM i modernization experts will be discussing our unique approach to IBM i modernization, challenges and queries that are holding you back from approaching modernization – stories, strategies and a lot more on the go!

Let’s unfold the future of IBM i together. See you at COMMON #POWERUp 2025!

As business needs evolve, the need for IBM i modernization becomes evident.

No questions asked — IBM i is still the most reliable and robust platform to run mission-critical business applications.

What’s creating a problem is — its growing irrelevance with modern–day business needs.

Thinking,   “Is there a way to retain my existing IBM i investments and stay relevant with changing business needs?”

A strategic   IBM i modernization   is the answer.

When to Consider IBM i Modernization?

IBM i application modernization is a top priority for 57% users   ~ As per 2025 Marketplace Survey by Fortra.

Still, there is a staggering 43% of users who are still deferring, postponing, or ignoring   IBM i modernization .

If you find yourself among the rest of 43% users — it’s time to act and embrace modernization as a strategic initiative.

Let’s look at some crucial operational roadblocks that call for IBM i application modernization.

Slowed Down Business Processes

We often say this to our customers/prospects — a timely upgrade was all you needed to keep your technology at pace with your changing business needs.

Now, this isn’t propaganda to make them keep coming to us.

But, a fact that we all must start to believe.

How long are your legacy processes going to support your business functions?

Fine. Can you affirm that your operational preferences haven’t changed even a bit over the years?

They have changed, haven’t they?

Then, how do you expect the legacy processes which were written using legacy RPG code to match your current operational needs?

Well, lack of adaptability isn’t the only reason for your business processes to slow down.

It could be the patch fixes & temporary turnarounds your team applied.

It could be excessive manual intervention, and siloed data systems leading to strained resources & missed opportunities.

It could be the lack of process automation resulting in valuable time burnt for mundane tasks.

Realize, the agenda is to understand that rigid & legacy business processes hold you back. They prevent you from embracing market changes — cutting your growth potential.

AS400 modernization   allows you the opportunity to   futureproof your IBM i   investments via improving collaboration between departments, enabling faster decision-making and boosting operational efficiency.

5250 Green Screens

“I don’t think AS400 green screen to GUI modernization would make a difference to my IBM i/AS400 applications!”

Precisely, a classic reply we would get from 7/10 AS400 CTOs.

Among our timely discussions with our prospects/existing customers, we often hear them complain about –

• Weakened   AS400 application   performance
• Application accessibility concerns
• Time-intensive administration
• Dipping user productivity

When we tell them —   AS400 green screen modernization   can resolve all these problems; they defend their green screens like anything!

Well, we understand — AS400 green screens have been a symbol of reliability for a long time.

Considering the time, energy, and cost that went into nurturing these systems is unparalleled — and a sudden change doesn’t seem soliciting.

The users who have got comfortable with 5250 green screens would resist the change.

The new graphical user interface might call for extensive efforts to integrate with the old applications.

But at what cost would you delay this change?

• IBM i applications slowing down & failing?
• IBM i users immersed into administrative overheads?
• IBM i users struggling to access applications & data in real time?

Acc to 2024 IBM i Marketplace Survey Results ~ Out of 270 IBM i users surveyed from all over the world;   “For the third straight year, concern around modernization has grown with 72% of respondents now citing it as a top concern compared to just 51% in 2021.”

Why settle and continue with incompatible green screens when you can adopt sleek and responsive interfaces?

Limitations on Reporting & Analysis

Limitation on reporting and data analysis a yet another concern cited by most of the AS400 CTOs.

May it be making crucial business decisions or identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies — data plays a vital role.

Legacy IBM i systems struggle to date to offer real-time visibility into the data owing to their outdated reporting capabilities.

How long will you rely on static reports?

How long will you delay time-sensitive business decisions?

How long will you let your critical business operations suffer?

As a progressive CTO in today’s dynamic business environment, you must have access to data across departments for reliable business forecasts.

Additionally, legacy reporting lacks customization — presenting challenges in visualizing data.

Without dynamic reporting capabilities –

• You struggle identifying data trends
• You struggle predicting market shifts
• You struggle addressing inefficiencies

IBM i application modernization   presents you an opportunity to redefine your reporting and analytical capabilities.

Legacy Infrastructure & Security

77% of respondents listed cybersecurity as a top concern   ~ 2025 IBM i Marketplace Survey by Fortra.

IBM i systems are hailed for their robustness, security and indomitable infrastructure. But, when it comes to modern-day cyberattacks, it lacks the necessary security provisions.

Why does this happen?

Again — delayed upgrades and paying no heed to inclining security concerns.

But, as the stat above reads — about 79% of IBM i users are prioritizing security of their IBM i assets.

Would you still wish to be among the 21% who would delay security patches, upgrades, and leave their systems vulnerable to security breaches?

Hope you don’t!

Realize, regulatory compliance becomes difficult with outdated security stature.

And not just that

Aging hardware & software leads to –

• System downtime & reduced performance
• Frequent system outages & disruption
• Damaged customer trust

AS400 modernization   brings you an opportunity to redefine the overall security stature of your IBM i environment.

Next, let’s understand Integrative Systems approach to IBM i application modernization.

Integrative Systems’ Approach to IBM i Modernization

What comes to your mind when you hear “ IBM i modernization ”?

Rewriting matured business workflows from ground-zero?

Replacing existing IBM i systems from scratch?

Loosening up on years of IBM i investments?

Well, it’s the least of what you read.

IBM i modernization   is a transformative approach and not disruptive.

We at Integrative Systems help you retain your existing IBM i investments and redefine the way you operate with strategic IBM i modernization.

Thinking,   “How?”

Without any further ado, let’s understand.

Keep What Works. Modernize What Doesn’t!

At Integrative Systems, we differ by our approach to   AS400   modernization.

Though IBM i users are prioritizing IBM i application modernization these days, there are users who are still skeptical about it.

We often hear them say —   “We’ve built competitive processes around IBM i. We don’t want to loosen up on the value we’ve created over the years by modernizing it completely.”

Though, we understand the concern and it has a merit. And this is where our approach to AS400 modernization creates a difference.

We don’t encourage dump and build from scratch approach.

We understand it’s a time-consuming, and costly affair. It also involves a bigger risk where critical operations come to a standstill.

Instead, our   AS400 experts   assess your AS400 systems and environment — to help you keep what works and revamp what doesn’t.

The goal is to keep your core processes intact and optimize your IBM i applications for performance, efficiency, and relevance.

To   futureproof your IBM i   applications — a team of dedicated RPG experts works as an extension of your in-house team.

They help retain the business logic and modernize the processes.

They help you attain your custom development goals.

They offer on-going 365 x 24 x 7 support.

Integrative Systems   approach to AS400 modernization involves translation of legacy RPG programs into the modern form without any changes to the core business logic.

As a result, you get to leverage the competitive business processes you’ve built over the years with the improved relevance with modern-day functionalities.

From Green Screens to Modern GUI

Green screens — something that existing IBM i users prefer over a change, and new users refrain from accepting!

We often hear our existing customers/prospects complain about the green screens.

They say —   “Feels like we’re stuck in the 1980s. New hires hate the green screens. It affects recruiting and job satisfaction but replacing everything isn’t an option.”

And our answer is simple — you don’t have to replace everything, except the green screens!

As discussed earlier in the conversation — replacing IBM i is an overhauling process which invites time commitment, costs, with a considerable degree of operational disruption.

It should be the last option you may take — the extreme!

You may ask —   “Can we replace the green screens without changing the existing business logic & processes?”

Yes, of course — that’s what Integrative Systems GUI modernization approach is all about!

Our team of AS400 experts begin with identifying underlying critical AS400 applications and workflows.

Then the team works on translating these interfaces into sleek, and intuitive interfaces.

All of this with your critical business applications running in the background. You lose nothing on the green screens, unless your team gets comfortable with the newly designed user interface.

The team of   AS400 experts supports   the transition with continued support and user adoption.

The switch happens only when you say —   “We are ready!”

From Static Reports to Actionable Insights!

Reporting and analytics have been a rooted problem for AS400 users.

“Our reports are outdated before we even see them. Extracting data is a nightmare — only a few people can do it and even then, they’re clunky and limited.”

9/10 AS400 prospects would complain about below par reporting capabilities impacting crucial decisions.

Our capable team of   AS400 experts   help fix the reporting issues without disrupting operations.

You may ask,   “How?”

The Integrative Systems approach to improved reporting & analytics — this involves the double power of SQL and Power BI.

1st — A team of AS400 experts help migrate your crucial business data to SQL databases — this enables improved connectivity with data sources, doubles the speed of data retrieval and accelerates access to real-time data.

2nd — A team of Power BI experts help create intuitive dashboards, and reports that sync with the data in real-time — this enables decision-makers to access actionable insights in real-time and get a holistic view of the business data.

We help you attain advanced reporting & analytics without disrupting your routine operations, even a bit.

Strengthen AS400 Infrastructure with Security Practices

RPG talent is retiring.

IBM i infrastructure is vulnerable to modern-day cyberattacks.

How should we prioritize   IBM i modernization ? Who would do the due diligence and disaster recovery if something goes wrong?

8/10 AS400 users cite staffing as a growing concern amidst IBM i modernization initiatives.

That’s where Integrative Systems pitches in!

We provide 365 x 24 x 7 on-going   AS400 support .

We offer round-the-clock support where our team handles L1, L2, and L3 tickets, enabling your in-house team to handle the strategic priorities.

Besides that our team of AS400 experts also offer development, maintenance, and project management help. They help you strengthen end-to-end security stature of your IBM i systems, fortifying your IBM i environment against modern-day threats.

Thinking of long-term enhancements?

Our team of AS400 experts is capable of handling integrations, strategic upgrades, and IBM i modernization needs, effortlessly.

Bottom line is, we help you keep what works and replace what needs attention. We help you modernize your IBM i systems, while preserving your existing IBM i investments.

Let’s Meet at Common POWERUp 2025

The future of IBM i is here, already.

You must decide — if you want to let the legacy challenges hold you back or embrace IBM i modernization while retaining your IBM i investments.

Join us at   Common POWERUp 2025   to witness how   Integrative Systems   enables you to modernize your IBM i environment and open new avenues for growth.

Our AS400 experts will be there to discuss your unique IBM i challenges, share real-life success stories, and shed light on the transformative power of strategic IBM i modernization.

Let’s witness the future of your IBM i together. See you at Common POWERUp 2025!

Source-   https://www.integrativesystems.com/futureproofing-ibmi-applications/

In the fast-paced environment of IT and enterprise infrastructure, the demand for innovation, adaptability, and performance is ever increasing. Businesses operating on IBM i (AS400) platforms are no exception. That’s why Common POWERUp 2025, the premier gathering of the global IBM i community, is the place to be—and we at Integrative Systems are thrilled to be a part of it.

Set to take place from May 19–22, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas, this four-day conference is the ultimate hub for IT professionals, developers, and decision-makers looking to sharpen their IBM i skills, discover modern technologies, and forge valuable connections.

As an exhibitor and long-time IBM i solution provider , Integrative Systems is proud to participate in POWERUp 2025—and we look forward to connecting with you to share ideas, discuss your challenges, and explore future-ready solutions.

Why POWERUp 2025 Is a Key Industry Event

POWERUp is not just another tech conference—it's a one-of-a-kind experience tailored for professionals working on IBM Power Systems and IBM i technologies. Hosted by COMMON, the largest IBM i user group, the event features:

• 300+ Educational Sessions
• Hands-On Labs
• Workshops Led by Industry Experts
• Vendor Expo with Leading IBM i Solution Providers
• Endless Networking Opportunities

From RPG programming and database modernization to DevOps, cloud strategies, and AI integration—POWERUp 2025 covers a wide spectrum of the IBM i ecosystem.

Whether you’re a CIO, developer, systems admin, or business analyst, this event offers relevant insights to drive digital transformation across your organization.

Why Integrative Systems Is Excited to Exhibit

At Integrative Systems , we’ve been delivering IBM i (AS400) services for over 20 years, supporting clients across North America with customized solutions that reduce technical debt and drive business growth.

We understand the complexity of legacy systems and the importance of preserving their reliability while unlocking new levels of agility and scalability. That’s why we're excited to exhibit at POWERUp 2025—to connect with forward-thinking organizations looking to transform their IBM i environments.

What We Offer: Solutions Tailored for Modern Business Needs

Our team of experts will be on-site at POWERUp 2025 to walk you through how our services can support your business objectives. Here’s a glimpse into what we bring to the table:

1. IBM i Modernization Services

Many businesses still rely on legacy IBM i systems—but aging interfaces, performance limitations, and lack of skilled resources can hinder growth. Our modernization approach is designed to help you retain what works while evolving your infrastructure for future-readiness.

We provide:

• Code refactoring and optimization
• Database modernization
• Modularization of monolithic apps
• APIs and web services integration

2. RPG Development & Enhancement

Our highly skilled team of RPGLE, RPG/400, & RPG developers can help you enhance, maintain, and scale your existing applications. Whether it’s migrating to Free Form RPG, optimizing legacy code, or developing new modules—we ensure your business logic remains strong and scalable.

3. UI/UX Modernization for IBM i Systems

Your backend might be powerful—but what about your user experience?

We modernize green screens and outdated interfaces into intuitive, web-based UIs using technologies like:

• PHP, Angular, and .NET
• Web services and API layers
• Mobile-responsive dashboards

This not only improves user adoption but also reduces training costs and boosts productivity.

4. Staff Augmentation & IT Support

Finding experienced IBM i talent can be a challenge. With our flexible staff augmentation services, you get access to dedicated IBM i experts who seamlessly integrate with your team. Whether you need support for ongoing development, application management, or 24/7 system monitoring—we’ve got you covered.

5. Cloud & Hybrid Integration

We help organizations integrate their IBM i systems with cloud services such as Microsoft Azure etc ensuring a hybrid architecture that balances security, scalability, and cost-efficiency.

Future-Proof Your IBM i 

We, at Integrative Systems, specialize in helping businesses like yours in aligning your lBM i/ AS400 systems with modern day business needs.  

If you are looking for a complete IBM i modernization, or a team of IBM i modernization experts as an extension to your in-house team - we are here to assist you in achieving your IBM i investments.

Because futureproofing isn’t optional – it’s essential. 

Join us at Common POWERUp 2025 to witness how Integrative Systems empowers you to retain your IBM i investments with strategic IBM i modernization.  

Our IBM i modernization experts will be discussing our unique approach to IBM i modernization, challenges and queries that are preventing you from approaching modernization – stories, strategies and a lot more!

Let’s unfold the future of IBM i together. See you at COMMON POWERUp 2025!