Mainframe modernization has become a buzzword, used so frequently and inconsistently that its meaning has been diluted. Today, depending on who you ask, modernization may refer to migrating workloads to the cloud or reengineering existing mainframe applications. Most conversations remain narrowly focused on the specifics of legacy systems (IMS, COBOL, CICS, and others) and what to do with them, rather than considering how to build systems that are genuinely future-ready.
Our goal is to reframe the conversation: shifting from simple legacy upgrades to building future‑ready infrastructure. This means positioning the mainframe not as a relic to modernized-to-survive but as a flexible, powerful, and forward‑looking platform capable of supporting AI‑driven transformation.
We want to focus on how organizations can build fully modern systems, incorporating containers, API integrations, data lakehouse architectures, AI agentic capabilities, and confidential computing, and applying machine learning directly to transactional data, while continuing to leverage the value of existing applications and data.
15 (+1) Ways to Reinvent Mainframe Modernization
Armin Kramer, Mainframe Modernization Manager at CROZ, has been a hands‑on practitioner of mainframe modernization seven days a week for more than a decade. While preparing his presentation for IBM TechXchange in Orlando last year, he found himself unsure which angle of modernization to emphasize. That’s when he realized he needed to reinvent the way we talk about mainframe modernization — and he coined the concept “15 (+1) ways to reinvent mainframe modernization.
Armin absolutely nailed it: the idea captures the essence of true modernization, a spectrum of possible actions guided by a single, clear direction.
The topics range from migrating to standard source‑code management systems, modernizing development processes with DevOps, containers or Openshift, automating and implementing hybrid‑cloud data architectures, and applying artificial intelligence to support classic programming languages, Sysprogs, or Database Administrators or machine language using Spyre processor and many others.
And finally, the “+1” — the most important factor of all: people and their mindset.
Mighty Mainframe Conference
No presentations about “why the mainframe still matters.”
No empty buzzwords.
You’ll hear practical, real‑world insights you can put into action immediately. Experts including Martin Pluschke, Mark Wilson, Henri Kuiper, Rosalind Radcliffe, Leendert Blondeel, Tim McKeoun, and Joseph Westman will share experience‑based strategies drawn from modernizing mainframe environments across a wide range of industries.
On top of that, we’re bringing the secret sauce of the QED conference, a special atmosphere before, after, and between sessions. With a coffee in hand on the sunny terrace, it’s easy to catch up with an inspiring speaker or connect with fellow participants.