The Looming Legacy: How the IBM i Skill Shortage Threatens Business Continuity
In IT infrastructure, The IBM i platform, known for its reliability and stability, has served many organizations faithfully for decades, these workhorses handle everything from enterprise resource planning (ERP) to supply chain management. However, a concerning trend is emerging — the IBM i skill shortage. As seasoned professionals with expertise in this legacy system retire or move on, organizations are left grappling with the challenge of maintaining and optimizing their IBM i environments. This shortage poses a significant threat to business continuity, as the intricate knowledge required to manage and support these systems becomes increasingly scarce.
The IBM i Skill Shortage: A Growing Concern
The IBM i platform, formerly known as AS/400, has been a cornerstone of many businesses for decades, powering critical applications and data processing operations. Yet, as the workforce ages and younger professionals opt for more modern technologies, the pool of skilled IBM i administrators is dwindling. This shortage not only hampers the ability of organizations to manage their IBM i environments effectively but also leaves them vulnerable to disruptions and downtime.
The Impact on Businesses
1) Maintenance and Support — Insufficient skilled personnel can lead to difficulties in maintaining and supporting existing IBM i systems. This can result in downtime, security vulnerabilities, and hindered innovation.
2) Modernization Efforts — Organizations struggling to find talent may encounter obstacles in modernizing their IBM i systems. This can leave them trailing behind competitors who capitalize on the platform’s latest capabilities.
3) Knowledge Transfer- With experienced professionals retiring, their valuable knowledge and insights are at risk of being lost. This creates a knowledge gap that disrupts smooth operations and complicates the training of new hires.
Bridging the Gap with IBM i Managed Service Providers
To address the challenges posed by the IBM i skill shortage, businesses are turning to IBM i managed service providers. These specialized firms offer a lifeline to organizations struggling to find or retain IBM i talent. By leveraging the expertise of these providers, businesses can ensure the smooth operation of their IBM i systems without being hampered by the scarcity of in-house skills.
Embracing IBM i Managed Services for Business Continuity
IBM i-managed service providers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, enabling businesses to optimize their IBM i environments, implement best practices, and proactively address potential issues. By partnering with these experts, organizations can safeguard their business continuity, mitigate risks, and unlock the full potential of their IBM i investments.
