Achieving Cost-Effective Migration from IBMi to Modern Applications Ensuring Seamless Integration and Data Consistency
About the Client
The client is a diversified multinational corporation with primary operations in agribusiness and transportation. Key segments include Foods (premium pork products), and Marine (containerized shipping services). The client engages in international grain processing and trading through its Commodity Trading and Milling division and has operations in sugar production, power generation, and turkey processing. The client markets products under several renowned brands with a global footprint across America, the Middle East, Africa, the Pacific Basin, and Europe.
- Industry: Retail and Consumer Goods
- Headquartered: USA
- Platforms: IBMi DB2, Synon CA:2E, Implementer
- Team Size: 2 Developers
The Challenge
The client faced challenges during their migration from an IBMi-based application to a React JS and Node JS-based P2P suite application while maintaining their database on IBMi DB2. They used ER/Studio to create data models; however, they were unable to incorporate these new tables into their existing Synon-based application due to advanced database definitions that conflicted with the legacy system.
They also faced difficulties managing ‘change history’ and ‘release history’, along with other constraints imposed by ER/Studio, which created obstacles in aligning the new application with their operational needs and slowed down the migration process.
Our Solution
An AI-driven approach was leveraged to augment development and accelerate feature delivery.
Synon-Driven Data Modeling for IBM i DB2
The client implemented Synon to generate the data model on the IBMi DB2 database, which enabled seamless use by both the new React JS and Node JS-based P2P suite application and the existing IBMi-based application.
DB2 Optimization for Synon Integration
To capitalize on advanced DB2 features such as Varchar, Identity columns, and Row change timestamps, they updated the database definitions in the backend to ensure compatibility with Synon-generated code. For example, they modified the Identity column definition from 'Generated by Default' to 'Generated Always' to align with the application's requirements.
Streamlining Version Control with Implementer
The client also adopted Implementer for checking out and promoting changes, which streamlined the process of managing version control and maintaining a comprehensive change history. This approach ensured consistent data integrity and facilitated smooth integration across both legacy and modern applications.
Technologies Used
Our software architects and engineers are experts in using the latest technologies.
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IBMi DB2
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Synon CA:2E
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Implementer
Business Impact
By harnessing AI-enhanced development techniques and tools, our team delivered tangible results in significantly less time.
Here’s how we did it
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Reducing Costs Through Strategic Tool Reuse
Re-utilized existing tools to eliminate the need for ER/Studio, resulting in significant cost savings on licensing and maintenance fees.
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Database Schema Alignment Across Platforms
The newly generated tables were made fully compatible with the existing IBMi-based application and the new React JS and Node JS-based P2P suite application
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Cost Optimization Through Technology Reuse
By leveraging their existing technology stack, avoided additional expenditure on new tools optimizing operational costs.
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Comprehensive Change Tracking and Version Control
Change history’ was effectively maintained, ensuring traceability and control over modifications.
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