In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, where new programming languages, frameworks, and platforms emerge almost daily, it might seem surprising that a system as old as the AS400 (now known as IBM iSeries) continues to hold relevance. However, for many businesses, especially those in industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, the AS400 remains a cornerstone of their IT infrastructure. This blog explores why AS400 application development is still relevant for modern businesses, delving into its history, unique features, and the advantages it offers in today's digital age.

1. Introduction to AS400

The AS400, now known as IBM iSeries, is a mid-range server designed for small businesses and departments in large enterprises. Introduced by IBM in 1988, the AS400 was revolutionary for its time, offering an integrated system that combined hardware and software into a single package. Over the years, it has evolved, but its core principles of reliability, security, and ease of use have remained consistent.

2. A Brief History of AS400

The AS400 was introduced by IBM in June 1988 as a successor to the System/36 and System/38. It was designed to be a versatile, all-in-one system that could handle a wide range of business applications. Over the years, the AS400 has undergone several name changes, including iSeries, System i, and IBM i, but its core architecture has remained largely unchanged.

The AS400 was designed with a focus on ease of use, reliability, and scalability. It was one of the first systems to offer an integrated database, which was a significant advantage at the time. The system was also designed to be future-proof, with a layered architecture that allowed it to evolve over time without requiring a complete overhaul.

3. Key Features of AS400

The AS400 has several key features that have contributed to its longevity and continued relevance:

• Integrated Database: The AS400 comes with an integrated database, which simplifies data management and reduces the need for additional software.
• Object-Oriented Architecture: The AS400 uses an object-oriented architecture, which makes it easier to manage and maintain.
• Single-Level Storage: The AS400 uses a single-level storage model, which simplifies memory management and improves performance.
• Backward Compatibility: The AS400 is known for its backward compatibility, which allows businesses to run older applications on newer hardware without modification.
• High Availability: The AS400 is designed for high availability, with features like hot-swappable components and redundant systems.

4. Why AS400 is Still Relevant Today

4.1 Reliability and Stability

One of the primary reasons why the AS400 remains relevant is its reliability and stability. The system is known for its uptime, with many businesses reporting years of continuous operation without significant issues. This reliability is crucial for industries like finance and healthcare, where downtime can have severe consequences.

4.2 Security

Security is another area where the AS400 excels. The system was designed with security in mind, and it includes features like object-level security, which allows administrators to control access to individual objects. This level of granularity is particularly important in industries that handle sensitive data, such as healthcare and finance.

4.3 Scalability

The AS400 is highly scalable, both in terms of hardware and software. Businesses can start with a small system and scale up as their needs grow, without requiring a complete overhaul of their IT infrastructure. This scalability is particularly important for small and medium-sized businesses that may not have the resources to invest in a large system upfront.

4.4 Cost-Effectiveness

The AS400 is also cost-effective, particularly when compared to other enterprise systems. The integrated nature of the system reduces the need for additional software, and the system's reliability reduces the need for costly downtime and maintenance. Additionally, the system's longevity means that businesses can amortize their investment over many years.

4.5 Integration Capabilities

The AS400 is known for its integration capabilities. The system can easily integrate with other systems, both within and outside the organization. This is particularly important in today's interconnected world, where businesses need to share data with partners, suppliers, and customers.

5. AS400 in Modern Business Environments

5.1 Financial Services

The financial services industry is one of the largest users of AS400 systems. The system's reliability, security, and scalability make it ideal for handling the complex transactions and sensitive data that are common in this industry. Many banks and financial institutions continue to rely on AS400 systems for their core banking operations.

5.2 Healthcare

The healthcare industry is another major user of AS400 systems. The system's security features are particularly important in this industry, where patient data must be protected at all costs. Additionally, the system's reliability ensures that critical healthcare applications are always available.

5.3 Manufacturing

The manufacturing industry also benefits from the AS400's reliability and scalability. The system is often used to manage complex supply chains and production processes, where downtime can be costly. Additionally, the system's integration capabilities make it easier to connect with suppliers and customers.

5.4 Retail

The retail industry is another area where the AS400 is still relevant. The system is often used to manage inventory, sales, and customer data. The system's reliability ensures that these critical functions are always available, even during peak shopping seasons.

6. AS400 Application Development: Tools and Languages

6.1 RPG (Report Program Generator)

RPG (Report Program Generator) is one of the primary programming languages used on the AS400. It was specifically designed for business applications and is known for its simplicity and efficiency. Despite its age, RPG continues to be widely used, particularly in industries like finance and healthcare.

6.2 COBOL

COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) is another language commonly used on the AS400. Like RPG, COBOL was designed for business applications and is known for its readability and maintainability. Many legacy applications on the AS400 are written in COBOL, and there is still a demand for developers with COBOL skills.

6.3 Java and PHP

In addition to RPG and COBOL, modern AS400 systems also support languages like Java and PHP. This allows businesses to develop modern, web-based applications that can run on the AS400. The ability to use modern languages has helped to extend the life of the AS400, making it more relevant in today's digital age.

6.4 Modern Development Tools

IBM has also introduced modern development tools for the AS400, such as Rational Developer for i (RDi). These tools provide a more modern development environment, with features like code completion, debugging, and version control. This has made it easier for developers to work on the AS400, even if they are more familiar with modern development practices.

7. Challenges in AS400 Application Development

7.1 Legacy Code

One of the biggest challenges in AS400 application development is dealing with legacy code. Many AS400 applications were written decades ago, and the original developers may no longer be available. This can make it difficult to maintain and update these applications, particularly if the documentation is lacking.

7.2 Skill Gap

Another challenge is the skill gap. Many younger developers are more familiar with modern programming languages and platforms, and may not have experience with RPG or COBOL. This can make it difficult to find developers with the necessary skills to work on AS400 systems.

7.3 Perception Issues

Finally, there is the issue of perception. Many people view the AS400 as an outdated system, and may be reluctant to invest in it. This can make it difficult for businesses to justify the continued use of the AS400, even if it still meets their needs.

8. Future of AS400 in Modern Businesses

8.1 Cloud Integration

One area where the AS400 is likely to evolve is in cloud integration. IBM has already introduced cloud-based solutions for the AS400, such as IBM i on PowerVC. This allows businesses to run their AS400 applications in the cloud, providing greater flexibility and scalability.

8.2 AI and Machine Learning

Another area of potential growth is in AI and machine learning. The AS400's reliability and scalability make it an ideal platform for running AI and machine learning algorithms, particularly in industries like finance and healthcare. IBM has already introduced AI capabilities on the AS400, such as Watson, and this trend is likely to continue.

8.3 IoT Integration

Finally, the AS400 is likely to play a role in the Internet of Things (IoT). The system's reliability and integration capabilities make it an ideal platform for managing IoT devices, particularly in industries like manufacturing and healthcare. As IoT continues to grow, the AS400 is likely to play an increasingly important role.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, the AS400 remains a relevant and valuable platform for modern businesses, particularly in industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. Its reliability, security, scalability, and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal choice for businesses that need a stable and secure platform for their critical applications. While there are challenges, such as dealing with legacy code and a skill gap, the AS400 continues to evolve, with new tools and capabilities that make it more relevant than ever. As businesses continue to look for ways to modernize their IT infrastructure, the AS400 is likely to remain a key player for years to come.

This blog has explored the various reasons why AS400 application development is still relevant for modern businesses. From its reliability and security to its scalability and cost-effectiveness, the AS400 offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for businesses in a variety of industries. While there are challenges, the continued evolution of the platform, with new tools and capabilities, ensures that the AS400 will remain a key player in the world of enterprise computing for years to come.