The IBM i platform is in a strong comeback phase for its reliability with the modern development speed. While low-code was once thought to be for Windows or the cloud, its origins actually go back to IBM i.
Today, these platforms enable businesses to create applications up to 90% faster, allowing them to bring solutions to market quickly. It also maintains security, control and governance for IBM i (AS/400) systems without sacrificing your existing controls.
Understanding Low-Code Development on IBM i
Low-code development on IBM i makes application building faster and simpler by replacing manual coding in RPG and COBOL with visual drag-and-drop tools. It also provides ready-made templates and reusable components that speed up the entire development process.
At the same time, low-code platforms maintain IBM i (AS/400)’s strengths, security, scalability, and reliability.
This helps organisations innovate, streamline operations, and prepare their core applications for the future. Let’s understand the advantages of using low-code tools for the AS 400 operating system.
5 Key Reasons Why Organisations Need AS 400 Operating System Modernisation?
- High Maintenance Costs and Skill Shortage
IBM AS/400 requires specific knowledge for maintenance, but finding experts in this technology is becoming harder over time. This drives up costs and slows down innovation.
- Slower Operations and More Errors
Outdated systems often rely on manual processes, which may lead to mistakes and delays. Without automation, overall efficiency drops, which also affects productivity.
- Falling Behind Competitors
Organisations that stick with old systems risk being left behind by others who are using real-time data and mobile-friendly solutions to meet modern customer needs.
- Need to Be Future Ready
Switching to low-code platforms and automation helps businesses keep up with fast-changing digital trends and stay relevant in the market.
- Limited Tools for App Development
Traditional coding methods make it tough for non-technical users to help build apps. This limits the ability to quickly create and update tools that support the business.
Advantages of Using Low-Code Tools for IBM i Development
- Faster Development Cycles
Low-code platforms speed up application delivery by replacing traditional coding with drag-and-drop interfaces, reusable components, and prebuilt templates. Thus, it allows businesses to roll out solutions much quickly.
- Citizen Developer Enablement
By opening development to non-technical users, low-code encourages collaboration between business teams and IT. It eases the burden on developers while accelerating innovation.
- Smooth Integration with Legacy Systems
These platforms connect natively with IBM i (AS/400)’s DB2 databases and existing APIs. It gives secure access to vital business data without a large-scale code rewriting process.
- Enterprise-Grade Security and Governance
Applications built on IBM i with low-code maintain the platform’s proven reliability, scalability, and security, while governance frameworks ensure compliance and quality control.
- Automation for Efficiency
Built-in automation and deployment tools simplify testing, rollout, and ongoing maintenance. Therefore, it cuts downtime and minimises resource usage.
- Cost-Efficient Modernisation
By modernising legacy IBM i applications more affordably, low-code tools help organisations boost agility and streamline operations. Also, it future-proofs their systems in a fast-changing technology landscape.
Empower your IBM i platform for tomorrow with Saamsha Technologies’ expert modernisation services. Transform your legacy systems seamlessly with secure and efficient solutions.
Traditional Development v/s Low-Code Development for IBM i
| Aspect | Traditional Development | Low-Code Development |
| Project Suitability | Best for projects that require more control and custom functionality. | Ideal for projects that require speed, adaptability, and ease of use. |
| Accessibility | Only accessible to trained and experienced developers. | Open to both technical and non-technical users. |
| Cost | Involves high costs due to longer development and expert teams. | Offers cost efficiency through faster development and fewer resources. |
| Development Time | Takes longer due to in-depth coding and manual testing. | Rapid development using drag-and-drop interfaces. |
| Customization | Highly flexible and allows deep customisation of every feature. | Flexible, though within the platform’s built-in limits. |
| Skill Requirements | Requires expertise in programming languages and system architecture. | Users with minimal technical training can use this. |
| Coding Effort | Heavy reliance on manual coding from the ground up. | Reduces manual coding through visual development tools. |
Unlock the full potential of your IBM i (AS/400) ecosystem with Saamsha Technologies. We specialise in overcoming low-code challenges like integration, customisation, security, and vendor lock-in.
The Future of Low-Code on IBM i
Combining IBM i with low-code platforms is creating a new way to modernise enterprise systems quickly and affordably. This approach connects complex IT environments with easy-to-use applications and helps businesses run more smoothly and speed up development.
With citizen development, business users can build apps without coding skills, while automation reduces the load of repetitive tasks so developers can focus on bigger goals. As IBM i and low-code continue to grow together, organisations gain flexibility, make better use of their data, and work more collaboratively.
Adopting this approach can also help your organization to drive long-term growth and stay competitive in the competitive IT industry.
The Bottom Line
Low-code solutions for IBM i (AS/400) enable organizations to modernize legacy systems quickly while maintaining the platform’s trusted security, governance, and reliability. Using visual interfaces, reusable components, and built-in automation, businesses can build applications up to 90% faster and engage citizen developers to drive innovation.
Choosing the right platform that offers smooth integration, strong security, and open standards ensures scalability and cost-effective modernization. As low-code and IBM i come together, you can strengthen your core applications and speed up digital transformation in your business.
Ready to accelerate your IBM i (AS/400) modernisation journey? Contact Saamsha Technologies today to unlock secure, low-code solutions customized for your AS/400 environment.
