System iNetwork

August 27, 2008

Getting a Grip on App Modernization

Application modernization is no simple undertaking, and knowing where to start is half the battle. To help ease this endeavor, I've put together a collection of recent articles that discuss what you need to consider before tackling a project and the myriad ways to get the job done.

A Fresh Look at Application Modernization
The System i community has been arguing about just what application modernization means for at least a decade, and most System i shops have made limited progress toward achieving it. In this article, Sharon Hoffman and Carson Soule help break the stalemate.

Beyond RPG: A Java Guy's Perspective
Dan Darnell, a Java enthusiast, offers specific examples on why Java is the solution to many old and future IT problems. He also shares some pros and cons of EGL, which can be useful in the modernization process. However, even with the use of EGL, Java knowledge is imperative.

Beyond RPG with .NET
Before starting down an arduous modernization path, seriously consider whether a web interface is the best fit. For some requirements, users might be better served by small desktop tools or plug-ins to existing programs that they work with. In many environments, those programs are Microsoft Excel and Word. To get the most leverage out of the Microsoft tools, you should work with the .NET framework. Craig Pelkie explains how.

Approaches to Application Modernization
Application modernization can be scary but is a necessary step for any business. Don Denoncourt offers tips on modernizing and goes through the steps to get your business on the track to success.

Go Beyond RPG -- with Modern RPG
The value of a business-oriented application comes not from the language it's written in but from the business objectives that it lets its users achieve. Scott Klement demonstrates how you can write modular, cohesive, well-encapsulated code in today's RPG.

Application Modernization: How to Balance Business and IT Needs
For a successful application modernization project, business and IT managers need to band together as they make the move from legacy to cutting edge. As Carsten Flensburg discusses, the right strategy can ensure gain rather than pain for both sides.

Start Off Right with Browser-based Interfaces
If you've been reading System iNEWS for a while, you know that many different solutions are available to modernize System i applications, and even more solutions are specifically built to implement browser-based interfaces for System i applications. However, figuring out how to get started with these solutions can be a challenge. To help on that front, Sharon Hoffman offers suggestions to get your project on the right path.
http://systeminetwork.com/article/start-right-browser-based-interfaces

Considerations for a Successful ILE Implementation
An ILE implementation is less scary than you might think. Here, Paul Tuohy shows that all you need is a carefully thought out plan and these guidelines to lead you to success.

Externalize Database Processing
Paul Tuohy shows how to externalize your database to make it accessible to different client platforms, improve performance, and ease maintenance, all while retaining integrity.

iSeries Application Modularization Options
Modular code is generally easier to maintain and modify, but several factors--such as complexity, code reuse, and performance--can influence your modular designs. Sharon Hoffman explores RPG and SQL modularization techniques to help you choose the best solution for your situation.

Mastering Modules, Part 1
Knowing what procedures are and how and when to use them is key to implementing a modular programming approach in RPG IV. Bryan Meyers shows you how to build modular programs using procedures.

Mastering Modules, Part 2
Organizing modules and service programs containing code for reuse, and converting copy members and subroutines to procedures can help you create effective module applications. Bryan Meyers walks you through the steps to accomplish these tasks.

If you'd like to learn more about one vendor's modernization solution, check out the upcoming Demo Booth:

Discover the Hidden Value In Your Legacy System i Applications
Oct 20, 2008 - 12:00pm
Learn how RAMP from LANSA can take any 5250 application, break it down, and reassemble it into a new application, without changing a single line of code.

--Cindy Bushong, RPG editor

Posted by cbushong at August 27, 2008 12:06 PM