The world of mainframe applications relies on robust and proven systems, but they face challenges in usability, integration, and accessibility with modern web standards. Many companies still depend on IBM 3270 applications and TN3270 emulators to access their legacy systems, but these tools can limit efficiency and integration capabilities.
In an exclusive interview with Enterprise Executive, Sebastian Dewar, CTO of Virtel, shares his expertise on these issues and explores solutions that enable companies to preserve the value of their mainframe software without a complete overhaul or code modifications, all while using limited resources.
Many companies still rely on IBM 3270 mainframe terminals, which, while stable and secure, present several drawbacks:
✅ Complex text-based interfaces: traditional TN3270 emulator solutions rely on keyboard navigation, PF-key shortcuts, and cryptic descriptions.
✅ Steep learning curve: legacy mainframe software requires extensive training for new users.
✅ Integration difficulties: TN3270 mainframe applications have limited interactions with modern web environments, cloud platforms, and REST APIs.
These challenges lead to high training costs, reduced productivity, and reluctance from younger generations to adopt these systems. Additionally, many organizations still depend on Telnet SSL connections to secure their 3270 emulator access, which requires continuous updates and maintenance to meet modern security standards.
To address these challenges, approaches exist to enhance user experience and facilitate mainframe integration without modifying the existing code.
🔹 Native web access: transform IBM 3270 green screens into web server 3270 emulation pages accessible from a browser, eliminating the need for a traditional TN3270 emulator.
🔹 Optimized user interfaces: add dropdown menus, buttons, and interactive features to simplify navigation in mainframe terminal environments.
🔹 Interoperability: connect mainframe software to modern web systems via REST, SOAP, or JSON APIs, allowing for seamless integration with TN3270 mainframe applications.
The goal is to reduce costs, improve productivity, and accelerate user adoption while preserving the stability and security of the mainframe. By shifting from traditional TN3270 emulators to web-based 3270 emulation, organizations can simplify deployment, enhance security with Telnet SSL, and improve user experience.
Mainframe software remains at the core of business operations for many companies. Instead of replacing it, businesses can now make it more intuitive and connected without disrupting operations. Sebastian Dewar’s interview in Enterprise Executive highlights concrete strategies to address these challenges and ensure the long-term relevance of IBM 3270 applications.
📖 Read the full interview here: Link to the full interview
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