Source URL: https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/10/kyndryl_mainframe_survery/
Source: The Register
Title: Mainframes aren’t dead, they’re just learning AI tricks
Feedly Summary: Kyndryl survey suggests there’s life in big iron yet
Even mainframes can’t escape the AI bug, with a report finding that big iron is becoming a prime candidate to host and run AI workloads, while enterprises are increasingly integrating their mainframes with modern infrastructure rather than seeking an off-ramp.…
AI Summary and Description: Yes
**Summary:** The text discusses the evolving role of mainframe systems in enterprise IT, particularly in the context of AI adoption and modernization strategies. It highlights a report by Kyndryl indicating that many organizations are integrating their mainframes with cloud solutions while leveraging generative AI to enhance operational efficiency and data handling. Furthermore, it underscores the security advantages of mainframes but notes a significant skills gap in the workforce that could impede modernization efforts.
**Detailed Description:**
The provided content covers significant trends and insights into how mainframes are evolving amidst the rise of AI technologies, as well as the challenges and strategies enterprises are deploying in response. Key points include:
– **AI Integration with Mainframe:** Enterprises are increasingly integrating AI capabilities, with a strong focus on using generative AI tools to enhance operational actions and improve customer experience.
– **Survey Insights:**
– Kyndryl’s survey of 500 senior IT decision-makers reveals that 86% of respondents plan to deploy AI in mainframe environments.
– While many organizations are exploring generative AI options, security and regulatory concerns are cited as reasons for some businesses not pursuing these technologies.
– **Modernization Strategy:** Three primary patterns of modernization have been identified:
– Migrating applications and data away from the mainframe to cloud solutions.
– Integrating mainframe systems with cloud platforms for enhanced accessibility.
– Modernizing existing mainframe workloads while retaining critical functionality.
– **Security and Reliability:**
– The report emphasized that security is a paramount concern, with 66% of respondents citing it as the most important feature of their mainframe, propelling modernization investments.
– Enterprises appreciate mainframes’ capabilities in securely managing sensitive data, particularly in a hybrid cloud environment.
– **Challenges in Workforce Skills:**
– There is a notable shortage of skilled professionals versed in mainframe technologies, which poses a risk to modernization projects.
– A substantial percentage of organizations report difficulties in finding qualified individuals to drive these initiatives, exacerbated by the retirement of experienced staff.
– **AI’s Role in Addressing Skill Shortages:**
– Generative AI can support developers by streamlining the modernization process, suggesting potential for easing the skills gap through automation and new toolsets.
– **Future Outlook:** Mainframes are projected to retain their significance as enterprises navigate the complexities of hybrid IT infrastructures. Modernization driven by AI and enhanced security protocols is crucial for their continued relevance, even as skills shortages remain a pressing concern.
In summary, Kyndryl’s report encapsulates a critical moment for mainframe systems within the hybrid IT landscape, showcasing their ongoing importance while emphasizing the need for skilled professionals to maximize their potential amid technological transformation.