In the world of IT, modernization is a constant need, especially when it comes to legacy systems like OpenVMS. In this blog, we dive into the topic of OpenVMS modernization and its significance in today's technology landscape. Our resident expert, Simon Mikellides, shares his insights on the present climate for companies with OpenVMS in their IT estate and the considerations involved in making a change. From the challenges to the options available, Simon sheds light on the process and highlights why Advanced is uniquely positioned as the best choice for OpenVMS modernization.
You can watch on demand the full discussion here.
The Legacy of OpenVMS:
OpenVMS is an operating system that traces its roots back to the 1970s. Designed to run on VAX, Alpha, Integrity, or Itanium hardware, OpenVMS has a colorful history and has been utilized by numerous organizations worldwide. Despite being a reliable and robust system, the market for OpenVMS has been steadily declining. However, there are still many critical applications running on OpenVMS, making modernization a pertinent topic.
Considering Change:
For organizations using OpenVMS, the decision to modernize often stems from various factors. Simon explains that the catalysts for change can range from technology integration challenges to resource constraints and the need for future-proofing critical systems. He emphasizes the importance of aligning business imperatives with technical considerations and explores the cultural aspects that influence the adoption of change.
Options for Modernization:
When it comes to modernizing OpenVMS, organizations typically consider two primary options: rewriting applications or replacing them with packaged solutions. Simon acknowledges the rarity of finding off-the-shelf packages that match bespoke applications developed over decades and delves into the significance of refactoring with automated tooling and migrating code to a modern stack as a more viable modernization approach.
The Advanced Approach:
As a leading expert in OpenVMS modernization, Advanced brings unique capabilities to the table. Simon highlights the importance of expertise, proven tooling, and a track record of successful projects. With a team that understands the source technology and a suite of industrial-strength tools, Advanced ensures safe and efficient migration or modernization while minimizing business disruptions. Simon further emphasizes the extensive references and variety of projects Advanced has accomplished in this space.
The Modernization Process:
Simon provides insights into the modernization process followed by Advanced. He explains the initial fact-finding phase, where system information and key details are gathered. Subsequently, technical due diligence is conducted, including a feasibility study to assess the complexity, dependencies, and risks associated with the system. Armed with this information, organizations can make informed decisions about the modernization path that aligns with their business goals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
One of the most common mistakes organizations make is delaying the start of the modernization project, leading to unnecessary risks and fewer options. Simon stresses the importance of starting the process in a timely manner and leveraging the expertise of modernization specialists to avoid pitfalls.
Choosing the Right Partner:
When selecting a partner for OpenVMS modernization, organizations should ask critical questions to ensure they are making the right choice. Simon suggests inquiring about the partner’s experience, the number of similar projects they have successfully executed, and whether they possess automated tools specifically built for modernization. Additionally, he highlights the significance of finding a cultural fit between the organization and the partner to facilitate effective collaboration and communication. Read our blog on The Importance of Careful partner Selection for Cloud Migration.
Modernizing OpenVMS is a crucial step for organizations looking to future-proof their critical systems. By considering the present climate, exploring available options, and partnering with a trusted partner like Advanced, companies can navigate the complexities of modernization successfully.
Watch the full discussion with Simon Mikellides and Rob Anderson from Advanced.
Read our latest eBook Exploring OpenVMS Modernization on how to form a strategy, create a detailed project plan, and execute the modernization journey of your OpenVMS.