RPG Programming and the Future of AS/400 in Freight

The freight industry is often seen as a beacon of technological advancement, with innovations like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data management systems leading the charge. Yet, beneath this cutting-edge exterior lies a steadfast reliance on a classic technology—the AS/400, now known as IBM i. 

Despite the freight industry's shift towards new technologies, IBM I technology is still at the core of many freight broker ERP software and IT infrastructures, and developers familiar with RPG programming are required to maintain those systems.  

It’s a bit of a catch-22: IBM i persists, but those entering the workforce are unfamiliar with the technology as it becomes less relevant, creating a very high demand for developers with experience in the RPG programming language.  

The Enduring Legacy of AS/400 

In 1988, IBM launched the Application System/400 (AS/400), a groundbreaking family of computers designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Its introduction was monumental, accompanied by over 1,000 software packages tailored for the OS/400 operating system from IBM and IBM Business Partners. According to IBM, it was one of the biggest simultaneous application announcements in computer history. 

AS/400 was incredibly popular, with features including single-level storage, where the entire storage of a computer is seen as a two-dimensional plane of addresses; an integrated OS; and Technology Independent Machine Interface (TIMI), a virtual instruction set that allows the OS and application programs to take advantage of advances in hardware and software without recompilation. It was streamlined, highly reliable, safe, and nearly unhackable. 

In 2000, the AS/400 was succeeded by the IBM eServer iSeries, which were high-performance, integrated business servers for mid-market companies. The hardware and the software of the AS/400 have gone through many upgrades, revisions, and name changes over the years. Still, one persisting feature is the continued use of its name colloquially and its upward compatibility. (Note: Though many in the industry call their system an AS/400, the modern hardware is Power Systems, which runs an updated operating system, IBM i.) RPG programmers can still run programs created for the AS/400 in 1988 on a Power Systems server today with little or no changes. 

Fast forward to the present, and the AS/400's legacy lives on as IBM i. Although hardware and software have evolved, the core principles of upward compatibility and strong security still attract industries like freight, manufacturing, and finance. While the terminology may have changed, the AS/400's reputation for stability and security remains intact. 

The RPG Programming Paradox 

Despite the freight industry's technological strides, there exists a paradox within the realms of RPG programming and IBM i systems. While these systems remain crucial for many companies, the pool of RPG developers with the requisite expertise is dwindling. The challenges posed by this skills gap are exacerbated by many experienced RPG programmers retiring, leaving an increasingly tricky void to fill. 

Companies are at a crossroads, contemplating whether to replace their legacy technology, secure costly in-house staff, outsource RPG expertise, or seek alternative modernization strategies. Given the operational disruptions and costs associated with each option, these decisions are not taken lightly. 

Why AS/400 Still Holds Ground 

Despite the challenges, IBM i remains a trusted ally for businesses valuing stability over novelty.  

Scalability and Upward Compatibility 

IBM i systems have always been admired for their scalability, allowing businesses to grow without requiring wholesale changes to their IT infrastructure. Their upward compatibility means that even programs developed decades ago can run seamlessly on modern Power Systems, minimizing the need for costly rewrites. 

Security and Reliability 

In the freight industry, where data breaches can have catastrophic consequences, IBM i provides unparalleled security. Its built-in features make it resilient to unauthorized access, providing peace of mind to companies handling sensitive information. 

Modern Capabilities 

Contrary to misconceptions of obsolescence, IBM i systems have evolved to support modern development languages, both native and open-source. This adaptability ensures that businesses can integrate contemporary solutions with their existing systems, allowing them to benefit from modern capabilities without sacrificing their trusted infrastructure. 

Navigating the Future of RPG Programming 

The future of RPG programming within the freight industry holds promise, but it requires strategic planning and adaptation. Here are some pathways forward: 

Bridging the Skills Gap 

To address the shortage of RPG developers, freight companies can invest in training programs for new developers, ensuring that RPG skills are passed on to the next generation. Collaborations with educational institutions can help cultivate a new cohort of talent familiar with both traditional and modern technologies. 

Cloud Integration and Modernization 

Cloud hosting solutions offered by Google, Microsoft, and others enable companies to bridge the gap between legacy AS/400 systems and modern technologies. By leveraging cloud capabilities, businesses can enhance their operational agility while preserving their existing IT investments. 

Partnering with Experts 

Working alongside technology partners well-versed in IBM i systems can be instrumental in optimizing existing infrastructures. These partnerships can help businesses identify opportunities for modernization and ensure that their technology stack aligns with industry best practices. 

Conclusion and Next Steps 

While the freight industry continues to evolve, the enduring relevance of IBM i and RPG programming is undeniable. This legacy technology provides a robust foundation upon which modern innovations can be built, offering businesses a reliable, secure, and scalable solution that stands the test of time. 

As the discussion around AS/400, now IBM i, continues, it’s critical to work with partners who are familiar with this technology. At DDC FPO, we’re committed to helping you work with the technology you already have, understand your business’s unique needs, and grow alongside you.