· ai-devtools
IBM releases Z Atlas tool to use AI for mainframe modernization and management
The complexity of large mainframes can sometimes lead to reduced resilience, prompting IBM to acknowledge the need for AI assistance in managing these systems.
In a Statement of Direction for a forthcoming product, "IBM Z Atlas," the company detailed its plan to build an "AI-native solution that uses system intelligence to ground AI skills and agents in the context of key workflows like planning and validating changes or modernizing applications and infrastructure.”
This tool is designed to map a client's entire z/OS stack across infrastructure, middleware, and applications. It aims to use that system intelligence to decrease the manual effort involved in tasks such as patch management, regulatory response, and knowledge sharing across all teams, from application developers to systems programmers.
Furthermore, Big Blue hopes Z Atlas will enable mainframe technicians and operations teams to “better understand how components connect, interact, and depend on one another.” The Statement of Direction specifies that “IBM Z Atlas intends to eliminate the leading cause of unplanned z/OS outages – changes that aren't proven to be safe – by mapping how a change impacts the z/OS stack, testing it, and validating it.”
This design, the document notes, “accelerates clients' modernization efforts by keeping experts in control and giving every practitioner, in operations or development, the same shared Z system visibility to reduce risk.” IBM anticipates Z Atlas will help mainframe shops accomplish four things: assessing operational risks, understanding dependencies before making changes, accelerating planning for deployment, and offering trusted context for automation.
While AI plays a part, IBM does not appear to be fully embracing AIOps. The Statement of Direction states that “IBM intends for AI-assisted insights and recommendations to preserve appropriate human review and decision authority.”
This approach contrasts with some rivals who suggest abandoning mainframes entirely. IBM seems focused on making the existing platform more manageable, which is crucial given that IBM CEO Arvind Krishna recently noted the Z17 generation has outsold all others by $1 billion.
