Just before The Mighty Mainframe Conference kicks off, we’ve dropped a new Fireside Chat—and this one’s truly special. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Steven Perva, Expert Mainframe Innovation Engineer at Ensono, in a conversation hosted by my respected colleague and friend Krešimir Mudrovčić. It was insightful, relaxed, occasionally funny—and very real. Here’s what went down:
Watch the whole video to get a detailed impression oft he mindset of the two modernization rockstars.
Embracing the Future: A Conversation on Mainframe Modernization
Krešimir brought us together to talk about a topic close to both Steven and me: the modernization of mainframe systems. The result? An honest, lively exchange full of ideas, shared experiences, and a few good laughs.
Modernization Through the Eyes of IBM Champions
Steven and I go way back as long-time IBM Champions, and our shared experience in the mainframe space gave this conversation a special kind of depth. Over the years, we’ve both been advocating for smarter, bolder approaches to modernization, sometimes from different angles, but always with the same end goal. That mutual understanding shaped the tone of our discussion: open, honest, and grounded in decades of real-world experience. It wasn’t just a chat, it was a shared perspective on where the mainframe is headed and why we believe the best is still to come.
Why Don’t Mainframe Shops Modernize?
Steven tackles the million-dollar question: why are some mainframe environments stuck in a time warp? He breaks it down with a mix of wit and wisdom, explaining that the hesitation often comes from a cocktail of fear, cost concerns, and the daunting complexity of revamping legacy systems. Steven’s anecdotes and analogies make the topic relatable and even a bit humorous.
Changing the Mindset and Lowering Barriers for Gen Z
This part was close to my heart. I’ve written and spoken a lot about how we need to change how we think about mainframes, especially if we want to attract a new generation of talent. In the chat, I posed a question I often come back to: what comes first—changing the mindset or lowering the entry barriers? (Yes, a bit of a chicken-and-egg situation.) I believe we need to do both. Because if we don’t, we risk becoming irrelevant to those who could actually drive innovation forward.
The Tipping Point of Modernization
Krešo brings up a game-changing point: many believe we’ve hit the sweet spot where the cost of modernization is now lower than the risk of clinging to outdated systems. Steven jumps in with gusto, highlighting the technological leaps, reduced costs, and the magic of AI in making modernization not just feasible but downright exciting. His enthusiasm is contagious, painting a picture of a future where modernization is a thrilling adventure.
The Increasing Risk of Non-Modernization
Then I took a turn flipping the narrative. Because while it’s fun to talk about innovation, we also have to talk about what happens if we don’t move. The risks of standing still are growing fast. I described it as a race where legacy systems are losing ground with each lap. The cost of doing nothing is no longer invisible, it’s painfully visible, and growing.
In Closing
We wrapped up with what I think is the most important message of all: it’s time to act. There will be bumps along the road, sure, but the alternative is far worse. Steven and I both agree that the rewards of modernization far outweigh the challenges. If you’re in a mainframe shop wondering whether it’s time to evolve? yes, it is. Let’s move forward together.
And hey, you can always reach out. We’ll be more than happy to chat with you!
Falls Sie Fragen haben, sind wir nur einen Klick entfernt.
