DevOps focuses on closing the gap between software development and IT operations to enable faster and more reliable software delivery. Which is why mainframe development and operations teams are keen to embrace DevOps as they seek greater agility, and faster cycle times for delivering both mainframe and cross-platform applications.
However, in the mainframe arena, there is the added complexity created by ongoing skills shortages as many experienced mainframe technicians reach retirement age.
An open-first DevOps strategy is an effective way of navigating these challenges. It involves combining specialized tools for z/OS development, testing and monitoring provided by Macro 4, a division of UNICOM Global, with popular open-source tools that are used across other software platforms and are familiar to most technical teams. Organizations can use specialist z/OS software when they need to and open-source tools for everything else.
The result is a more agile, connected IT operation. Adopting an open-first approach such as this breaks down the traditional barriers between mainframe and modern development practices. It means non-specialist staff and newcomers to the mainframe find it easier to perform mainframe-related tasks using familiar open-source tools. At the same time, the whole team, whether they are working on mainframe or distributed applications, can benefit from adopting a common set of DevOps practices.
Driving productivity gains across development, QA and operations
This way of combining popular off-platform open-first tools with best-of-breed mainframe solutions allows enterprises to support continuous integration and continuous delivery of high-quality mainframe code. The improved collaboration it enables has the potential to significantly boost productivity across development, QA, and operations.
The automated monitoring and testing that is enabled also means errors can be resolved faster, and with less effort, driving additional productivity gains.
Running a more agile business
Integrating the mainframe into a continuous development cycle enables faster development, testing, and deployment of enterprise applications. This enhanced agility allows businesses to respond more swiftly to opportunities and threats, accelerating time to market for new features and services.
Minimizing development and maintenance costs
There are numerous ways in which open-first DevOps paves the way for cost reductions. For example, moving non-essential DevOps workload off the mainframe can save valuable z/OS CPU cycles. Plus, savings can result from choosing more affordable community-based open-source tools rather than expensive vendor frameworks.
On top of this, the automation that DevOps can support throughout build, test and deployment processes can lower the overall cost by helping to reduce the reliance on manual labor for many tasks.
Attracting the next generation and supporting digital transformation
Another benefit is the potential to attract a new generation to work on IBM Z while enabling skills transfer between newer entrants and long-time mainframe veterans. Combining the skills of newer IT technicians with highly skilled mainframe experts in a collaborative culture can foster greater innovation.
The mainframe has always been the de facto platform for mission-critical enterprise applications due to its superior processing power, security and reliability. By adopting an open-first DevOps strategy, businesses get the most value from their existing investments in mainframe technology. They can continue to rely on the mainframe's advantages while also making it more adaptable and aligned with emerging technologies. The skills transfer and the innovation that open-first DevOps can enable has the potential to deliver digital transformation on the mainframe while leveraging the platform's core strengths.
For more information about Macro 4's open-first DevOps solutions click here.