Kyndryl Unveils Cloud-Driven Application Modernization Services with Microsoft

In a strategic move that highlights the growing trend of cloud migration and operational modernization, Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure services provider, has announced a new suite of application modernization services tailored for enterprises relying on mainframes. This initiative, unveiled in partnership with Microsoft, is designed specifically for organizations looking to transition to the Microsoft Cloud while harnessing generative AI capabilities to elevate their mainframe applications.

Bridging the Gap Between Mainframes and Cloud Technology​

As many businesses continue to lean on legacy mainframe systems due to their reliability and robustness, the pressure to innovate and integrate these systems with modern infrastructures is more significant than ever. Kyndryl recognizes this challenge and aims to help customers tap into the potential of Microsoft Azure, creating a pathway for enterprises to innovate without losing the value of their existing mainframe applications.

Key Features of the New Service Portfolio​

Kyndryl’s service portfolio includes several crucial pathways designed to assist organizations in their modernization journey. Here are the highlights of what these services offer:

1. Systems Integration: Kyndryl Consult enables customers to create new cloud-native applications through the Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework. The integration of Microsoft Azure DevSecOps pipelines facilitates agile development practices that bring both cloud and mainframe applications into a unified development framework, which enhances consistency and reduces deployment friction.
2. Data Governance: Effective data management is pivotal during the transition phase. By utilizing Azure SQL Managed Instance along with specialized replication software, customers can enforce data governance across cloud and mainframe environments seamlessly. This capability ensures compliance and security of sensitive data throughout the modernization process.
3. Application Modernization: The modernization approach incorporates cloud-native architectures and microservices into the existing mainframe systems. With built-in support for DevOps practices, customers can accelerate their development cycles, fostering rapid innovation.
4. AI Deployment: Organizations can leverage Kyndryl's extensive AI expertise to derive valuable insights from mainframe data. Tools such as Microsoft Fabric, combined with cloud-based analytics solutions like Microsoft Copilot and Power BI, allow for real-time insights and visualizations without compromising mainframe performance.
5. Enhanced Security: Security remains paramount, especially with sensitive data. Kyndryl integrates Microsoft Sentinel with rigorous security frameworks, establishing a zero-trust model that meets compliance standards for hybrid environments.

The Importance of This Initiative​

According to Kyndryl's 2024 Mainframe Modernization Survey, a staggering 86% of respondents are rapidly adopting AI to enhance their mainframe modernization initiatives, while nearly half intend to use generative AI to transform critical data into actionable insights. With around 96% of organizations migrating a significant portion of their workloads to the cloud, Kyndryl's new services position it at the forefront of this transition, ready to support businesses during their digital transformation.

The Broader Implications​

The collaboration between Kyndryl and Microsoft signifies not just a service enhancement but a larger trend in IT towards integrated cloud solutions. As cloud adoption accelerates, the integration of AI and enhanced data governance strategies becomes crucial for enterprises seeking increased agility and competitive advantage in today’s fast-paced market.

Why Should You Care?​

For Windows users and IT professionals, understanding this partnership is essential. Whether you’re running a legacy system or considering a move to a modern cloud platform, the insights gained from this initiative can inform your strategic decisions. The blend of cloud capabilities with AI opens doors to unprecedented operational efficiencies, thus enabling organizations to leverage their data for smarter decision-making.

Looking Ahead​

As Kyndryl continues to evolve its service offerings, businesses can expect to see more seamless integrations between their mainframe systems and cloud technologies. The focus on generative AI will undoubtedly drive innovative applications that could fundamentally change how enterprises operate, interact with their data, and compete in the dynamic business landscape.
For those interested in learning more about Kyndryl’s collaboration with Microsoft and the new mainframe modernization services, comprehensive information can be found on Kyndryl’s website. Buckle up, technology enthusiasts; the future of mainframe application modernization is not just about migration—it's about transforming how we think about our data and applications.

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