In the world of IT, modernisation is a constant need, especially when it comes to legacy systems like OpenVMS. In this blog, we dive into the topic of OpenVMS modernisation 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 modernisation.
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 utilised by numerous organisations 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 modernisation a pertinent topic.
Considering Change:
For organizations using OpenVMS, the decision to modernise 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 emphasises the importance of aligning business imperatives with technical considerations and explores the cultural aspects that influence the adoption of change.
Options for Modernisation:
When it comes to modernising 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 modernisation approach.
The Advanced Approach:
As a leading expert in OpenVMS modernisation, 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 modernisation while minimising business disruptions. Simon further emphasises the extensive references and variety of projects Advanced has accomplished in this space.
The Modernisation Process:
Simon provides insights into the modernisation 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, organisations can make informed decisions about the modernisation path that aligns with their business goals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
One of the most common mistakes organisations make is delaying the start of the modernisation 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 modernisation specialists to avoid pitfalls.
Choosing the Right Partner:
When selecting a partner for OpenVMS modernisation, organisations 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 modernisation. Additionally, he highlights the significance of finding a cultural fit between the organisation and the partner to facilitate effective collaboration and communication. Read our blog on The Importance of Careful partner Selection for Cloud Migration.
Modernising OpenVMS is a crucial step for organisations 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 modernisation successfully.
Watch the full discussion with Simon Mikellides and Rob Anderson from Advanced.
Read our latest eBook Exploring OpenVMS Modernisation on how to form a strategy, create a detailed project plan, and execute the modernisation journey of your OpenVMS.