Over the decades, IBM POWER has earned the trust of numerous companies for its robust and dependable platform. However, it is natural to question the continued relevance and longevity of any technology in an ever-evolving market.
In this article, we will address some of the common concerns voiced by IBM POWER users and offer practical recommendations to help you optimize your investment.
Read on to explore a comprehensive solution that addresses the 4 key concerns outlined below.
Following a significant initial investment in IBM POWER systems, some organizations find that the ongoing costs associated with this technology can be quite substantial. Common areas of concern include:
- Higher hardware maintenance costs compared to Intel
- Expensive software maintenance renewal fees for IBMi licenses
- Challenges in finding skilled professionals
To address these issues, organizations need effective alternatives.
NOVIPRO’s advice:
We recommend considering a private cloud solution for IBMi or AIX®. This approach can mitigate the need for specialized resources and allow you to pay only for the capacity and capabilities you require.
Additional benefits of this solution include:
- Optimization of costs and resources
- Transition from capital expenditure (CAPEX) to an operating expenditure (OPEX) model
- Enhanced scalability, with the ability to adjust resources based on demand fluctuations
- Reduced maintenance costs
- Improved overall business performance
- Robust data and application protection, including disaster recovery options
- Increased system agility and resilience
Click here to read our article about IBM POWER servers optimization
Ensuring the security of IBM POWER systems is crucial for:
- Protecting sensitive data
- Ensuring business continuity
- Guaranteeing compliance with regulations
- Maintaining reputation and customer trust
- Preventing financially damaging security breaches
For small and medium-sized businesses, staying abreast of the evolving threat landscape and meeting compliance requirements can be particularly challenging.
NOVIPRO’s advice:
To effectively manage these challenges, we advise subscribing to a comprehensive cybersecurity solution. This approach can significantly reduce risk and support your IT department in maintaining robust security and compliance.
3. “I am afraid of the downtime my critical system, IBM POWER may have on the business.”
Service interruptions can significantly impact the performance and delivery of products and services, which in turn can damage customer reputation.
Ensuring high availability is crucial for:
- Maintaining business continuity and supporting strategic growth
- Guaranteeing operational efficiency
- Securing financial stability
- Achieving high levels of customer satisfaction
- Remaining competitive in the market
IT staff must be highly responsive to minimize downtime, which requires proper tools.
NOVIPRO’s advice:
To address these concerns, companies should consider partnering with an IT firm specializing in High Availability (HA), Disaster Recovery (DR), and Backup as a Service (BaaS) solutions. Such expertise ensures operational continuity and mitigates the risks associated with system downtime.
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4. “I don’t have enough internal IBM POWER specialized resources”
The shortage of IBM POWER experts has become a significant concern as many specialists approach or have already reached retirement. Given that IBM POWER operating systems require specialized knowledge, having skilled personnel is crucial to achieving:
- Optimal performance
- Reduced downtime
- Enhanced security
- Efficient resource utilization
- Comprehensive knowledge and capability
- Effective risk mitigation
NOVIPRO’s advice:
To address the challenge of limited internal IBM POWER expertise, companies should consider subscribing to a managed service that provides access to a team of experienced IBM POWER professionals. This approach ensures that you have the necessary expertise available to address any issues that may arise.
NOVIPRO provides managed services in many areas.
Learn more on our dedicated page
What If All Four Concerns Could Be Addressed with One Comprehensive Solution?
NOVIPRO recently launched a Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) solution for IBM POWER systems, including IBMi, AS/400, Linux, and AIX. As an IBM Platinum Partner with over 30 years of experience in managing IBM POWER platforms, our solution effectively addresses all four key concerns without requiring a departure from the trusted platform you have relied on for years.
Security & Compliance
At NOVIPRO, security is our utmost priority. Our SOC 2 Type II certification underscores our commitment to maintaining operational integrity and ensuring robust data protection.
Our VPC solution for IBM POWER systems provides:
- The highest levels of security and resilience
- Access to the latest IBM POWER technologies for enhanced performance and security
- 24/7 bilingual operational support
- Comprehensive security services tailored to your needs
- Assistance with compliance for both local and international regulations
“NOVIPRO’s proactive approach provides businesses the confidence to operate within a regulatory-compliant infrastructure tailored to meet complex requirements.” Gilles Gagnon, Senior Service Manager, NOVIPRO
Availability
NOVIPRO ensures robust connectivity through advanced redundancy options. Our cloud solution is meticulously engineered to maximize uptime and resilience, delivering optimal performance even under constrained bandwidth conditions.
We provide managed services designed to address disruptions swiftly, coupled with comprehensive backup strategies to safeguard your data from loss. Our solution includes:
- High Availability (HA)
- Disaster Recovery (DR)
These integrated features collectively ensure continuous operational stability and data security, effectively protecting your business against external challenges.
Explore more information on our VPC solution in our solution brief.
Click here to download it
Lack of resources
NOVIPRO addresses the challenge of limited expertise through its comprehensive managed services.
Our Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) solution for IBM POWER systems includes:
- 24/7 support
- Issue resolution with established Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
- Proactive critical alert management
Our VPC solution is backed by a dedicated team, comprising:
- 15 IBM specialists
- 10 network and security experts
- 12 network operations center (NOC) technicians
This extensive support structure ensures that your business can leverage cloud technology without the need for extensive training or additional hiring. Our specialists provide ongoing feedback and are committed to continuously enhancing your experience with our VPC solution for IBM POWER systems.
"Our current customers all share the same need to focus on value-added activities, despite the shortage of internal IBM POWER skills. Since delegating the management of their POWER systems to NOVIPRO, they've been able to sleep soundly and focus on tasks that really matter to them.” Rodolphe Rigault, Services, Solutions and Cloud Specialist, NOVIPRO
Click here to listen to our podcast about the VPC solution
(podcast recorded by Blair our sister company)
Costs
By investing in NOVIPRO’s Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) solution, you transition from capital expenditures to predictable operational costs. Our flexible pricing models are designed to accommodate your specific needs.
Our customized cloud solution delivers a significant return on investment by enhancing operational efficiency and reducing long-term costs.
In Summary
NOVIPRO's Virtual Private Cloud solution for IBM POWER systems (IBMi, AS/400, Linux, and AIX) addresses key concerns with a focus on:
- Security
- Cost-effectiveness
- Compliance
- Reliability
- Control
- Expert support
“NOVIPRO’s virtual private cloud solution for IBM POWER systems goes beyond a mere technological advancement; it represents an investment in the operational future of your company.”
John , Vice President Technology Solutions Practice, NOVIPRO Group
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