The purpose of this blog is to shout from the rooftops we just got a new FIRST-TIME IBM i user! These are rare indeed. When this new client explained his reasoning, it was so good I had to share it with others. I wish we had more IT folks that think like this IT director. Disclaimer: IBM i is an operating system. iSeries and AS400 are servers. I use these terms interchangeably …. not to confuse …. instead, to make is easy for folks to find this kind of information on the web. Most … [Read more...]
How Long Does It Take To Move Off IBM i (iSeries/AS400)?
The purpose of this blog is to highlight issues to consider when migrating off the IBM i to a new platform. This is a high-level summary and is not inclusive of all the pitfalls that I have seen. I do want to stress that "We need to get off this 'antiquated server' that does not have GUI" is the WRONG reason. Further, as with any move to new technology proper discovery and planning are essential to ensure success. It can also take much longer than you think -- like 5-7 years. Sometimes … [Read more...]
Thinking Of Leaving IBM i (iSeries/AS400)? Read This First.
The purpose of this blog is to discuss factors that companies should consider before they decide to leave the IBM i (iSeries/AS400). I confess that I have a bias towards the IBM i platform. And after 2 decades I am astounded by the number of bad choices and unfulfilled promises made by the IBM i replacements. In most cases I have seen, the transition took way longer, cost a lot more (staggering how much more money it costs), and never worked as promised. So, let’s take another look at how … [Read more...]
9 Steps To Avoid ERP Software Implementation Failure
A good friend of mine called me this week to explain how his company is on the path to ERP implementation failure. The sad part of this tale is that so many blunders could have been avoided. Let me explain. My friend is 67. He is an experienced IBM i programmer with over 41 years of experience. He is also the IT manager for a western wear garment manufacturer. Over the years he has told me how he has customized the legacy garment software to fit his employer’s business. (Sound … [Read more...]
The “RIGHT” ERP RFP For Success…And No Surprises
I am shocked how many “IT experts” miss the mark for successful software selection and implementation without surprises. This probably explains why Gartner estimates approximately 75% of all ERP implementations fail. So, what’s missing? I have had several conversations with a colleague who is an ERP selection and implementation expert. How good is he? Well, in his 40 year career he has selected and installed 55 ERP solutions, for small businesses to multi-billion, multi-national … [Read more...]