Do you think it’s the AS400 ERP that holds you back from catching up the pace of change?
Do you think your potent business data is exposed to security threats with modern-day cyberattacks?
Are you still stuck in the riddle, to embrace cloud transformation for your AS400 ERP or not?
If you have nodded yes to any of these questions, sit back!
You are going to get all your answers as we are going to walk you through the potential of AS400 ERP, the evolution, the benefits and the challenges that you must hunt down on your way up toward growth.
Let’s begin!
What is ERP AS400 and Why is it Used?
AS400 aka Application System/400 is a mid-range server by IBM. It was created with the intent to produce large, medium, and small mobile and web applications. As we fast forward to today, many global businesses have been established on this software.
How Did AS400 ERP Evolve?
In 1988, IBM created the AS400 system with the operating system- OS400. It later evolved from –
- AS400 to iSeries in 2000.
- iSeries to IBM System, in 2006.
- In 2008, IBM combined the two systems — System I and System P to brand it as IBM Power System.
What is the Significance of AS400 ERP in the 20th Century?
Introduced in 1988, AS 400 ERP continues to play a pivotal role in modern businesses owing to its operational efficiency and strategic decision-making capabilities. The system has evolved to be a potent platform that persists in giving ahead-of-its-time solutions for all lengths of businesses, globally.
The AS400 ERP system brings us the best of both worlds- legacy and modern.
Imagine it like the captain of your software fleet that embraces the new efficiency without blowing your budget, ensuring quicker adaptation, and offering faster returns on investment.
But what about the cyber threats in the digital era?
Don’t worry, it guards your business to ensure it sleeps safely at night.
What is the Relevance of AS400 and ERP Cloud in the Technology-Driven Era?
A successful modern business stands on 4 pillars
- Efficiency and Innovation
- Scalability and Adaptability
- Data Integrity and Security
- Integration and Connectivity
AS400 software offers a powerful blend of all that efficiently addresses these pillars, ensuring a brawny, futuristic, and sustainable success.
What are the Advantages and Benefits of iSeries ERP?
Here are the top benefits of the AS400 ERP system for enterprises-
Scalability
This is one of the renowned features of AS400 that enables growing businesses to expand their operations without technical hindrances.
Modernization
Modern businesses can switch to modern practices with AS 400 ERP without disturbing their workflow or losing operational efficiency.
Strategic Insights
AS400 ERP system enables decision-makers with actionable data, allowing them to find a pathway through challenges and grab opportunities.
Real-time Data Sharing
ERP AS400 boosts business efficiency with instant data sharing for time-sensitive and mission-critical operations even when the data lives on different applications.
Compatibility and Cloud Integration
IBM is improving AS 400 software’s ability to harmonize with modern-day technologies and cloud integration capabilities, connecting the difference between the latest innovations and legacy systems.
Robust Security
AS/400 creates a robust security environment with its multi-layered security approach which includes encryption, user authentication, role-based access control, and audit trails, making it a reliable choice for businesses looking for an end-to-end secure system.
Reliability
The iSeries ERP is regularly updated and modified by its makers to meet modern technology needs. Its reliability makes it a suitable choice for enterprises- small, medium, and big.
How Can Decision-Makers Navigate Through iSeries ERP Challenges?
Although a mature system, AS/400 has its set of challenges. Let’s see how you can navigate through them.
Misconceptions about modernity and compatibility
Some individuals perceive AS 400 software as an outdated ERP system. On the contrary, it is a senior yet regularly updated ERP.
It is modern enough to meet to growing compatibility, scalability, and security needs of modern businesses. As a result, it is a top choice of many global companies including Fortune 500 companies.
Finding skilled professionals for AS400 software development
Imagine having top-notch technology such as AS/400 at your disposal but no team of qualified professionals to make the most of it. The desired software development is possible only when you have the best minds to steer your ship throughout the development journey.
As a solution, you can outsource the ERP Consultant that gets the job done for you while you focus on the other business fronts.
Data Migration and Transition
Data migration and transition can be a serious challenge in AS/400 ERP adoption. Transferring the legacy data seamlessly to a modern system needs careful planning and execution.
Enterprises can address the issue with ERP consultants who can leverage data transition and migration tools ensuring a smooth and precise transition.
Long-Term Planning
Businesses encounter multiple challenges due to poor planning and setting short-term goals. Enterprises have a high chance of ERP success if the decision-makers prioritize detailed planning with careful data migration, process adaptation, resource training, and other factors.
In addition to these factors, you can drive a pathway toward long-term success with the right AS/400 ERP partner who knows the ins and outs of the technology so that you can emphasize on your critical business operations.
ERP Consulting: A Strategic approach
The role of ERP consultants
The principal function of ERP software is to unite functions such as supply chain management, manufacturing, customer relations, human resources, sales, finances, and others resulting in a one-stop platform for all stakeholders.
It is responsible for better decision-making, streamlined operations, enhanced efficiency, and overall successful business operations.
This is when an ERP consultant comes into the picture.
They assist in managing and executing the ERP system. Their first mission is to ensure a smooth process of the company’s system. Thus, a team of ERP professionals is the leading force behind its success.
You can rely on your AS400 ERP consultant for the following roles:
Project Management:
Management is one of the major roles of a consultant. From the beginning of the project till the project submission, their job is to design thorough phases of AS 400 ERP implementation including customization, integration, support, understanding the niche, workflows, and more.
Stakeholder Engagement:
One of the important roles played by a consultant is to engage with stakeholders, including department heads, customers, and executives. They gather feedback and business needs from stakeholders and implement them in the ERP.
Risk Assessment:
It is the role of a consultant to assess potential risks and delays related to the ERP implementation. They implement tried and tested strategies to mitigate the risk and ensure project success.
Quality Assurance:
The consultant performs periodic assessments to ensure the quality of the AS 400 ERP software. They check the system functionalities, and safeguards against potential disruptions, ensuring data security, and smooth user functionalities.
What are the Questions to Ask When Hiring an ERP Consultant?
Here is the list of questions to ask before hiring an AS400 ERP consultant.
Remember the goal is to ensure successful and effective partnership.
– How long have they been in business?
– Does the consultant specialize in your chosen ERP system?
– Does the consultant specialize in your business niche?
– Does the consultant fit well in your company’s culture? Do you see a long-term relationship sprouting?
– Has the consultant implemented tailored solutions for any enterprise? If yes, what are they?
– What’s the approach to training staff for thorough system adoption?
– What kind of post-implementation support services do they offer for iSeries ERP?
Once you get answers to these questions, you get closer to your decision.
Why are Major Distributors Migrating AS400 ERP System to Cloud ERP System?
The crucial difference between these two ERP systems is the cloud-based models and traditional on-premises infrastructure. The transition not only concerns the cost but also the deployment, scalability, and maintenance of the system.
Infrastructure & Deployment:
AS400 software is generally deployed on-premises, which calls for special infrastructure within the premises of the enterprise. Whereas, ERP Cloud is hosted on remote cloud servers, easily accessible with the help of the internet, from anywhere, without the external need for hardware.
Scalability and Flexibility:
AS 400 ERP comes with limited scalability choices as it requires hardware, adjustments, which can further cause downtime. On the other hand, cloud ERP software offers access to on-demand computing resources, allowing organizations to adjust resources on-demand without disturbing the ongoing operations.
Cost Structure:
Capital expense is a major turn-off in the AS400 ERP system as it requires the cost of hardware, software licenses, and maintenance. However, businesses prefer ERP Cloud because of its scalable subscription model which doesn’t require an upfront cost, making it a manageable operational expense.
Implementation Time and Ease:
Typically, AS 400 software requires a long implementation time because of the complex hardware and customization setup. On the brighter side, cloud ERP software comes with a pre-managed setup that reduces downtime and boosts the efficiency of the implementation.
Final thoughts
Lastly, AS400 ERP has passed the test of time, paving its way through innovation, robustness, and reliability.
The question is, how long will you wait to tap into the power of cloud ERP systems and take your business closer to modern triumph?
The decision is yours!
The last good time to adapt to cloud ERP was yesterday. And the next good time is now! You can take the help of a qualified ERP Consultant to chart a successful course.
If you are planning to embrace AS400 ERP system to Cloud ERP transformation, and in quest of a right ERP consultant, let us help you. Drop us a line at contact@integrativesystems.com and our team of experts will get back to you in 48 business hours.