Choosing the Right Cloud Service Provider for IBM Power i and Mission-Critical Workloads

Migrating mission-critical workloads to the cloud is a complex undertaking for IT leaders, especially when those workloads run on IBM Power i, AIX, or Linux environments. These systems are deeply integrated into business operations, making their reliability non-negotiable. While the cloud offers scalability, flexibility, and resilience, the journey to get there requires more than a generic solution—it requires the expertise of a cloud service provider with deep knowledge of IBM-centric infrastructures. 

At GlassHouse Systems (GHS), we deliver tailored solutions for these environments, ensuring businesses transition to the cloud without compromising performance, reliability, or security. 

The Stakes of Cloud Migrations for IBM Power i Workloads 
For many organizations, IBM Power i workloads power critical functions like enterprise resource planning (ERP), financial operations, and manufacturing processes. These systems often interact with other workloads and applications in intricate ways, creating dependencies that must be carefully managed during migration. The risks of improper migration include: 

• Downtime: Disrupting operations during critical periods. 

• Data Integrity Issues: Potential loss or corruption of business-critical data. 

• Operational Delays: Challenges in maintaining business continuity if dependencies are overlooked. 

Selecting the right cloud service provider ensures that these risks are addressed proactively, allowing organizations to harness the benefits of the cloud while protecting their mission-critical systems. 

What to Look for in a Cloud Service Provider 

Expertise in IBM-Centric Environments 
Providers must understand the unique needs of IBM Power i, AIX, and Linux systems. These environments demand specialized knowledge to ensure seamless migration and post-migration performance. GHS brings decades of experience in managing complex IBM Power infrastructures. 

Infrastructure-Focused Planning 
A successful migration starts with a detailed assessment of your infrastructure, identifying: 

• Workload dependencies. 
• Resource allocation requirements. 
• Integration points with other systems. 

At GHS, we focus on infrastructure planning to mitigate risks and ensure the migration aligns with your operational needs. 

1. Seamless Execution 
   The migration itself must be executed with precision. Downtime must be minimized, and systems must perform as expected once in the cloud. GHS employs proven methodologies to ensure a smooth transition. 

1. Long-Term Support 
   A reliable provider doesn’t stop at migration. They offer ongoing managed services for infrastructure and security, ensuring that your cloud environment continues to deliver value. 

How GHS Delivers Success 

At GHS, we deliver comprehensive services for IBM-centric environments: 

• Infrastructure Assessments: Understanding the unique architecture of your workloads to plan a seamless migration. 

• Customized Migration Strategies: Tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs of your business and systems. 

• Operational Continuity: Minimizing downtime and ensuring mission-critical systems remain functional throughout the process. 

• Post-Migration Optimization: Providing long-term support to help organizations maximize their investment in the cloud. 

Conclusion 
Migrating IBM Power i and other mission-critical workloads require more than just technical expertise—it demands a service provider with deep knowledge of IBM-centric infrastructures and a focus on long-term success. By choosing the right provider, IT leaders can ensure that their transition to the cloud is secure, seamless, and aligned with their strategic goals. 

GHS specializes in helping organizations achieve reliable cloud migrations for their mission-critical workloads. Contact us today to learn how we can support your cloud journey. 

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