Kyndryl Launches Mainframe Modernization Services with Microsoft Cloud

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In an exciting development for enterprises juggling legacy systems with modern cloud demands, Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, has unveiled a groundbreaking suite of services aimed at customers looking to modernize their mainframe applications through Microsoft Cloud technologies. The launch took place on November 14, 2024, and promises to shake up how organizations leverage their existing mainframe assets while harnessing cutting-edge technologies like generative AI.

Comprehensive Mainframe Modernization Services​

Kyndryl's new portfolio features end-to-end services tailored for enterprises eager to transition from traditional mainframe environments to the more flexible and scalable architecture that Microsoft Azure provides. This modernization strategy offers five distinct pathways, enabling businesses to select a path that best aligns with their operational needs and long-term goals. Let's dive deeper into these paths and their implications for organizations:

1. Systems Integration​

Kyndryl's integration services facilitate the creation of cloud-native applications using the Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework for Azure. This approach allows businesses to simultaneously migrate and re-platform existing applications. Importantly, Kyndryl integrates Azure DevSecOps pipelines into the mainframe ecosystem, enabling businesses to maintain agility by incorporating automated testing and consistent code scanning processes.

2. Data Governance​

The necessity for governance cannot be overstated, especially as more enterprises seek to transition critical data into cloud environments. By synchronizing mainframe data with Azure SQL Managed Instance, Kyndryl enables organizations to uphold robust data governance practices using Azure Purview. This capability ensures sensitive data remains protected during the transition.

3. Application Modernization​

Kyndryl encourages rapid innovation by incorporating technologies such as Azure cloud-native architectures and microservices into mainframe application development. This modern approach enhances the operational effectiveness of legacy systems while supporting robust monitoring and real-time performance analytics.

4. AI Deployment​

Generative AI stands at the forefront of innovation, and Kyndryl is helping customers leverage this potential through Microsoft Fabric. By contextualizing cloud-based data alongside real-time mainframe data, organizations can utilize powerful analytics tools like Microsoft Copilot and Power BI to visualize data and derive actionable insights—all without burdening the mainframe.

5. Security Enhancements​

Security is paramount, especially in hybrid IT environments. Kyndryl integrates Microsoft Sentinel and other authentication frameworks to provide a cohesive security posture across platforms. This results in a single, auditable control layer that supports regulatory compliance, addressing pressing security and regulatory challenges in modern cloud deployments.

Navigating Change in the Digital Landscape​

As organizations accelerate towards cloud adoption — as evidenced by Kyndryl's surveys indicating that 86% of respondents are swiftly aligning with AI to enhance mainframe modernization — the implications for cross-industry innovation are profound. With nearly half of these businesses looking to utilize generative AI for actionable insights, Kyndryl’s services are timely. The collaboration with Microsoft is designed not just to modernize workloads but to drive meaningful transformation, enabling data-driven decision-making at every organizational level.

A Look At the Bigger Picture​

The partnership between Kyndryl and Microsoft is indicative of larger trends within the IT and cloud service industries, highlighting a significant shift towards hybrid IT solutions and generative AI applications. As enterprises face increasing pressure to innovate amid economic uncertainties and operational challenges, solutions that integrate legacy systems with cloud functions will likely proliferate.

Conclusion​

Kyndryl's new modernization services with Microsoft promise to be a game-changer for organizations trapped in the complexities of mainframe applications while yearning for the agility that modern cloud infrastructure offers. As businesses embrace these advancements, the opportunity to extract more value from their significant legacy investments through scalable, AI-driven cloud environments has never been more attainable.
If you're curious about what these changes mean for your enterprise or looking to embark on a modernization journey, Kyndryl may just be the partner you need. The path to innovation is looking clearer, and the time to act is now.

Source: PR Newswire Kyndryl and Microsoft unveil new application modernization services and generative AI capabilities for mainframe customers adopting Microsoft Cloud
 


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