The IBM AS/400 is a midrange server that is widely used by businesses of all sizes for managing mission-critical data, workloads, and applications. When launched back in 1988, AS400 was acclaimed for its high uptime rate, robustness, security, and low ownership cost. However, this IT asset has aged well and requires modernization since it is showing signs of poor usability and manageability and incompatibility with modern software solutions and applications used by businesses. Therefore, it makes sense to consider AS400 consulting for modernization.
In fact, AS400 consulting is the need of the hour for businesses using the IBM AS/400, also known as the IBM iSeries. With AS400 consulting, businesses get the expertise they need for configuring, maintaining, and optimizing AS/400 systems to get the most out of their investments.
Why Consider AS400 Consulting?
Businesses using AS/400 systems can benefit from consulting services in innumerable ways. Listed below are some benefits that you need to know:
Increased efficiency: IBM AS400 consulting can help businesses optimize their AS/400 systems to run more efficiently, reducing downtime, and improving performance.
Cost savings: By optimizing their AS/400 systems, enterprises can save a huge sum of money on not only hardware and software but also on maintenance costs.
Improved security: AS400 consulting can help businesses ensure that their AS/400 systems are secure and compliant with industry regulations.
Expert guidance: AS400 consulting services provide businesses with access to experts who have deep knowledge and experience in AS/400 systems and can offer guidance on how to use them effectively.
Customized solutions: AS400 consulting can provide businesses with customized solutions tailored to their specific needs and requirements.
What Services Do AS400 Consultants Offer?
AS400 consultants offer a wide range of AS400 managed services to help businesses get the most out of their AS/400 systems. Let’s dive into some notable offerings:
System configuration: AS400 consultants can help businesses configure their AS/400 systems to ensure that they are optimized for their specific needs.
Performance tuning: AS400 consultants can help businesses optimize the performance of their AS/400 systems by identifying and resolving bottlenecks and other issues.
Security and compliance: AS400 consultants can help businesses ensure that their AS/400 systems are secure and compliant with industry regulations.
Disaster recovery: AS400 consultants can help businesses implement disaster recovery solutions to ensure that their AS/400 systems are protected in the event of a disaster.
Upgrades and migrations: AS400 consultants can help businesses upgrade their AS/400 systems to newer versions or migrate to newer platforms.
Factors to Consider When Selecting AS400 Consulting Company
- Experience and Expertise
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an AS400 consulting company is their experience and expertise. Always look for a partner that has an impressive track record of working with AS/400 systems and has experience working with businesses in your industry. Ideally, the company should have a team of experts with deep knowledge and experience in AS/400 systems, as well as related technologies such as RPG, COBOL, and SQL.
- Range of Services
Another important factor to consider is the range of services offered by the IBM AS400 consulting company. Look for a company that offers a wide gamut of AS400 services, including system configuration, performance tuning, security and compliance, disaster recovery, and upgrades and migrations. Ideally, the company should offer bespoke solutions tailored to the specific business needs and requirements.
- Customer Support
Customer support is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a consulting company. Look for a company that provides reliable and immediate support and is backed by a team of experts that is always available to answer your questions and resolve any challenges that may arise. The company should offer flexible support options, including on-site support, remote support, and emergency support.
- Cost
Cost is another important consideration when choosing a company for AS400 consultation, but it shouldn't be the only factor. Look for a company that offers reasonable pricing and provides a good return on your investment. Always consider the long-term benefits of working with the consulting partner, including reduced costs, improved efficiency, and expert guidance and support.
- Reputation and Reviews
Last but not least, always consider the reviews and reputation of the AS400 service provider. Search for a consulting company that has a great reputation in the industry, with positive ratings and reviews from satisfied customers. Check testimonials and online reviews, as well as industry associations and certifications.
Conclusion
AS400 consulting can provide businesses with expert guidance and support in optimizing their AS/400 systems. By leveraging the expertise of AS400 consultants, businesses can improve the efficiency and performance of their AS/400 systems, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. If you use AS/400 systems in your business, consider partnering with an AS400 consulting company to get the most out of your investment.
Choosing the right AS400 consulting company is a critical decision for businesses that use AS/400 Systems. One of the easiest ways to find the right tech partner for your business is taking out the time to research and evaluate different companies listed on B2B review and rating platforms such as GoodFirms, G2, Clutch, and more. Also, don’t forget to consider the factors such as experience and expertise, range of services, customer support, cost, and reputation and reviews as discussed above in this detailed article.
