Dear Reader,
Artificial intelligence was the dominant topic in IT in 2023 and it certainly will continue to be so in 2024. But, do you really want to wait with your modernisation projects until these technologies have matured to the point where you can reliably use them to transform your large, complex and business-critical core applications?
With our tailor-made, proven solutions and the first-class tools of our AMELIO family, you can analyse, (re-)understand, clean up and modernise your applications securely and reliably right now. With every step you take, you are already making a profit, making your application more and more fit for the future and realising the future vision for your IT step by step.
Read today how you can find the right strategy and obtain realistic planning for your modernisation projects in a first step by means of a tailored assessment.
Gothaer and Provinzial have already taken a big step towards the future and have very successfully replaced their IMS databases with our solutions. How did they go about it and what would they do differently next time? Find out in our article on the webinar.
Modernisation was also the topic at the leading industry get-together "IT for Insurance Trade Fair Congress" in Leipzig. Read our review here.
We wish you a happy festive season and a healthy and prosperous 2024!
Your Delta Software Technology Team
Review: Webinar 'Replacing IBM IMS/DB' and exchange of experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
Our webinar "Automated and secure from IBM IMS/DB to DB2" took place on 25 October 2023.
We presented our AMELIO solution and, together with Gothaer Solutions GmbH and Provinzial Versicherung AG, answered questions from the participants.
Are you also facing the challenge of consolidating or replacing your DBMS but were unable to attend the webinar? No problem:
You can request the presentation slides and the webinar recording here:
PS.: The solution can be used for all database systems, not just IBM IMS and Db2.
Review: Webinar 'Replacing IBM IMS/DB' and exchange of experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
Review: Webinar 'Replacing IBM IMS/DB' and exchange of experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
You probably know all the good reasons to replace your IMS databases:
- Reduction of cost and maintaining multiple database technologies
- Lack of flexibility of IMS databases
- Diminishing know-how and specialists
- No successors available
- Difficult connection with new technologies like Mobile Cloud etc.
The hurdles for replacing IMS-databases are huge and the applications are running smoothly. These, often mission critical, applications are big, complex and the documentation is in most cases not sufficient for the task ahead.
From hierarchical to relational - 100% automated
The aim is to convert the application to clean SQL, i.e. not to "translate" the IMS accesses to SQL at runtime using a proprietary intermediate layer. The customised, fully automated transformation with AMELIO Modernization Platform guarantees the consistent and audit-proof migration of your COBOL and PL/I applications.
How can you replace your IMS system safely and efficiently?
Delta Software Technology presented a reliable solution that gives you the following advantages:
- You are supported in defining the new relational data model.
- The transformation is carried out securely and completely automatically - with automatic integration of the changes from the parallel ongoing development.
- The testing effort is drastically reduced thanks to the complete automation of all changes.
- There is no footprint and no vendor lock-in.
Review of the Webinar
We were able to win Gothaer Solutions GmbH and Provinzial Versicherung AG for this webinar. The participants took the opportunity to ask their questions directly to the companies' experts who have already successfully replaced their IMS databases.
Dr. Daniela Schilling (CEO, Delta Software Technology GmbH) presented the Delta solution AMELIO:
"Automated and Secure Migration from IBM IMS/DB to Db2 with AMELIO Modernisation Platform"
In the subsequent discussion, experts from Gothaer and Provinzial were on hand to answer questions from the audience. They reported that production and development continued undisturbed and that the migration project ensures the maintainability and future viability of the systems. Processes have been standardised and, thanks to targeted and, of course, automatically implemented optimisation of the access logic, individual applications now run even more efficiently than with the hierarchical database system.
When asked what they would do differently next time, both customers agreed: less testing and no more manual migration! This would save them even more time, money and nerves, because Delta's automated solution simply works.
Slides and Recording of the Webinar
You couldn't attend?
No problem: you can request the presentation slides and recording here.
(it will be in german - If you would like the presentation in english, please contact us by
We would be happy to show you the possibilities that AMELIO Modernisation Platform offers you for your projects. We look forward to hearing from you.
Are you looking for further information?
Then you will find the relevant reports here:
Gothaer migrates its IBM IMS Databases to IBM Db2 together with Delta Software Technology
Gothaer Systems migriert zusammen mit Delta mehr als 400 IMS-Datenbanken zu Db2. Durch den Aufbau einer passgenauen Factory konnten notwendige Schritte zur Transformation automatisiert, gut kalkuliert und risikoarm durchgeführt werden.
„By migrating from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 together with Delta, we have successfully mastered the next big step in the ‘Smarter Mainframe’ project.“
Burkhard Oppenberg, CIO, Gothaer
Read here the success story:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=0314
From IBM IMS/DB to Db2 - Provinzial realizes complete Migration
With the tools and services from Delta Software Technology, Provinzial Rheinland finished the complete application and data migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2, automated and securely, of over 75 IBM IMS databases and over 36,000 artefacts.
"The guaranteed operational “smoothness” in the project, despite the complex modernization, is certainly a unique feature of the solution.“
Stephan Kaiser, Program ‘sponsor’ Provinzial
Read here the success story:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=0329
4 Important Steps for the Sustainable Software Modernisation
- You value the reliability, speed and functionality of your COBOL and PL/I applications?
- You consider these applications and their functionality as an indispensable basis of your future application landscape?
- You want your operational backend applications to be permanently of good quality?
But: You also want to implement changes quickly and benefit from new technologies. You want to play it safe with all changes.
In this and our next newsletters, we will show you 4 steps that will help you to modernise your applications securely and sustainably.
4 Important Steps for the Sustainable Software Modernisation
4 Important Steps for the Sustainable Software Modernisation
- Do you value the functionality and reliability of your COBOL and PL/I applications?
- Are you struggling with the complexity and do you lack precise knowledge about the implementation of the functionality?
- Have you also been reducing your investment in existing backend applications for a long time and your experts and knowledge carriers are on their way to retirement?
- Do you want to modernise your operational backend applications and benefit from new technologies while playing it safe with all changes?
We discuss 4 steps that will help you to modernise your applications securely and sustainably. Read now:
Best Practices for Application Modernisation
Although there are countless reasons for application modernisation, the overarching goal is always to reduce the risks of legacy applications, save costs, increase organisational agility with modern IT and, last but not least, be attractive to new specialists.
The following 4 steps will help you to modernise your applications securely and sustainably.
- Custom-fit Assessments for good decisions: For detailed information, read ‘4 Important Steps for Sustainable Software Modernisation (Step 1: Custom Fit Assessments)’
- Automated Application Analysis for a comprehensive and accurate (re)understanding of the implemented application logic in order to reduce risks and costs for modernisation or new implementation and ensure easy knowledge transfer. For detailed information, read ‘4 Important Steps for Sustainable Software Modernisation (Step 2: Automated Application Analysis)’
- Agile Clean-up to optimise the use of your resources.
- Fully Automated Transformation for a completely secure and flexible modernisation.
Simplify Your Legacy Application Modernisation
For almost 50 years, our customers have benefited from our automated solutions to develop their customised IT applications securely and sustainably while reducing costs and risks. From our experience with very large projects, we can say that most of the applications developed in COBOL and PL/I or created by generators are very large and complex because the business logic they implement is extensive and complex.
Application size, complexity and strong interconnectivity of the individual components, code that is no longer required in the applications as well as a lack of knowledge about the applications' implementation and inappropriate documentation hinder safe, effective and efficient modernisation.
So, how do you gain a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the applications that enables secure modernisation and flawless transformation of your valuable legacy applications into future-proof applications?
So, how can you attain good decisions and realistic planning, get a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the applications and execute a reliable clean-up that enables a secure modernisation and error-free transformation of your valuable legacy applications into future-proof applications?
Step 1: Custom-fit Assessments
Step 1
Custom-fit Assessments for Good Decisions
So, how can you attain good decisions and realistic planning that enables a secure modernisation and error-free transformation of your valuable legacy applications into future-proof applications?
The solution is an assessment. But, be careful: It is not enough - as many providers propose - to simply list a few figures about the approximate size and number of modules in order to receive reliable estimates of the effort and costs. The risks, as so often, lie in the details.
Of course, rough decisions and gut feeling could also lead to success. As a rule, however, they lead to delays (also in other projects) and significant cost increases and, unfortunately, often also to the failure of modernisation projects.
In its Chaos Report 2019, the Standish Group reports that 83.9% of IT projects fail partially or completely. The following reasons for failure are repeatedly cited in studies:
- Badly defined requirements
- Poorly defined or unrealistic planning
- Inaccurate and unrealistic estimates
The modernisation projects that we have implemented for large financial service providers have shown that only a complete analysis of all sources in advance provides reliable information. The emphasis here is placed on Complete and All. This is the only way to recognize all obstacles and dependencies. This is the only way to make good decisions and eliminate the risks.
Tailor-made Assessment - Why?
Simply collecting all the data about your applications will not help you to reliably assess the risks and costs of extensive changes. This can only be achieved by an analysis that is precisely tailored to your project goal and your applications.
Our projects have shown us that a targeted and individually tailored analysis of the applications is a crucial basis for:
- The exact definition of the requirements
- Reliable planning
- Inaccurate and unrealistic estimates
The modernisation projects that we have implemented for large financial service providers have shown that only a complete analysis of all sources in advance provides reliable information. The emphasis here is placed on Complete and All. This is the only way to recognize all obstacles and dependencies. This is the only way to make good decisions and eliminate the risks.
Tailor-made Assessment - Why?
Simply collecting all the data about your applications will not help you to reliably assess the risks and costs of extensive changes. This can only be achieved by an analysis that is precisely tailored to your project goal and your applications.
Our projects have shown us that a targeted and individually tailored analysis of the applications is a crucial basis for:
- The exact definition of the requirements
- Reliable planning
- The realistic assessment of the risks and efforts
A tailor-made assessment finds all stumbling blocks and helps to precisely define the requirements for a project, enables precise planning and thus paves the way for the successful implementation.
What Can We Do for You?
If you want to ensure the success of your modernisation projects, find out about the possibilities of our tailor-made application assessments.
You can find an initial overview in our flyer “Application Assessment: Don't Guess – Assess”.
Download Language: Englisch - Version: mt21085.02
Tailor-made application assessments enable you to pinpoint and to reliably evaluate all critical issues for your projects. They help you to accomplish your projects in the areas of modernisation, migration, mass changes and clean-up of your COBOL and PL/I applications successfully in time and in budget.
Read moreEvery project is different and our flyer just gives you a first general idea. To get the best solution for you, you should directly discuss the requirements and details of your project with us.
Step 2: Automated Application Analysis
Step 2
Automated Application Analysis – Why?
Regardless of whether you want to modernise the functionality of your backend applications by changing the data management system or replacing individual technology modules, or whether you want to redevelop them using ‘modern’ languages, you always need to know exactly what is currently implemented and how it is implemented.
Understanding large and complex applications is a Herculean task! Especially if you have not developed the applications yourself and even more so if the original developers are no longer available. The documentation - if available and up-to-date - does not provide the knowledge about the implementation of the functionality that is necessary for understanding and modernising or rewriting.
Even if the applications were originally well structured, this design has often suffered over the decades. Old architectures and techniques are used. New code was repeatedly added to fulfil new requirements. However, code that was no longer needed was rarely removed, as there was no real certainty that this code was no longer needed under any circumstances and the cost and effort of testing was spared. It is generally estimated that the proportion of ‘dead code’ in applications increases by around 10% per decade. This also prevents precise understanding.
Poor understanding of existing applications leads to
- poorly or even incorrectly defined requirements
- poorly defined and unrealistic planning
- unrealistic estimates of risks and expenses
- errors during modernisation or new implementation
Read also ‘Chaos Report 2019 by the Standish Group’ for more details.
In addition, a lack of understanding of existing applications usually also leads to delays (also in other projects) and significant cost increases and, unfortunately, often to the failure of modernisation projects.
Really Understanding Applications – A Dream?
The truth or rather the entire knowledge about your applications, their functionality and their actual implementation is in the current source code!
But beware: It is not enough - as many providers propagate - to simply visualise the application code, data usage and possibly also the dependencies. Some tools, especially those that are also used for maintenance, also offer step-by-step execution of the code. All of this is not enough to really understand the applications and their implementation.
But, the good news is: this knowledge can be recovered quickly using our automated application analysis.
Proper Structuring and Logical Abstraction
Real understanding can only be gained through the right structuring and logical abstraction, through the ability to view the analysed code under varying aspects and from different perspectives and, above all, to be able to abstract the implementation across multiple levels.
The aim is not only to visualise the physical code and data structures, but also to determine the logical components of the source code and the conditions for their interaction. This is the only way to derive the implemented functions, their interfaces and the conditions for their execution.
To simplify knowledge transfer, onboarding and subject-specific communication, the information also needs to be presented in a language-neutral way.
Automated Application Analysis with AMELIO Logic Discovery
AMELIO Logic Discovery is an innovative analysis tool that helps you to better understand your native and generated COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications and to comprehensively secure the relevant functionality.
Through in-depth and comprehensive analyses of the applications, AMELIO Logic Discovery determines
- what is implemented
- how it is implemented
- which logical relationships exist
- which components form a logical unit (procedures, composites, ...)
- the conditions under which procedures and components are called or executed
- what the interfaces of these components look like
- which data structures are used, how and where (definition, scope, ...)
The implementation details are abstracted, the information obtained is connected, logically structured and the knowledge about the functionality of the application is derived. The result is a clear, language-neutral and technology-independent visualisation of the application logic, in which users can navigate freely across all levels, in topic-related views and in selectable levels of detail, so that your teams can easily understand the applications.
The modernisation projects we have accomplished for large companies have shown that a precise understanding of the functionality of the existing applications and their implementation is essential for the success of modernisation projects.
AMELIO Logic Discovery offers new, flexible and well-structured views of our applications. Especially the logical views help to find and understand the crucial points in our applications.
Marcel Rozema (Senior Software Architekt, RDW)
AMELIO Logic Discovery offers you a reliable basis for your application modernisation, for the elimination of technical debt, for decisions on the next development steps, for new development with modern languages and for many other tasks.
The AMELIO Tool Family
AMELIO Logic Discovery can be extended according to your specific needs. For example, it is possible to use code-smell analyses to determine whether company-specific coding standards are being violated and, if so, where. For modernisation projects, the ‘points of interest’ and thus possible crucial points can be determined automatically.
Especially for clean-up and modernisation projects, AMELIO Logic Discovery can be combined with other tools from the AMELIO family to perform the necessary changes to the source code in a fully automated and audit-proof manner.
Our tools help you to analyse COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications in a targeted manner, to adapt them quickly and securely to new requirements and technical infrastructures and to reliably assess risks.
This (and more) is what we can do for you!
If you want to reduce the risks and costs for your modernisation projects and to make it easier for your teams to really (re)understand your applications, then find out now about the possibilities of our automated application analysis with AMELIO Logic Discovery.
We offer you an initial overview in our flyer ‘Analysis for COBOL & PL/I - (re)understanding applications’
Download Language: Englisch - Version: MT21098.02
AMELIO Logic Discovery is an innovative analysis tool that helps you to better understand your native and generated COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications and to comprehensively secure the relevant functionality.
Read moreFurther information on AMELIO Logic Discovery can also be found here:
AMELIO Logic Discovery: Really Understanding COBOL, PL/I, Delta ADS Applications
Every project is different and our flyers only give you an initial overview. To get the best solution for you, you should discuss the requirements and details of your project with us directly.
Step 3: Agile Clean-up
Step 3
First Clean Up, Then Modernise - Why?
How often have you removed code from productive applications? Were you sure about it or did you feel queasy because you were not 100% sure whether this code would really never be needed again? Or did you simply add the new functions, thinking that code that won't be executed won’t do any harm? And if you only add code, you only need to test this code. So everything is OK? Not at all!
With the important backend applications in COBOL and PL/I, which have been in use for decades, it is not uncommon for 25 - 40% of the code to be no longer required. This code impairs readability, makes it difficult to understand the applications and not only drives up maintenance costs, but it is also a significant hurdle to modernisation and obstruct development processes.
Technical debt and neglected clean-ups in productive applications are responsible for
- poorly defined and unrealistic project planning
- higher maintenance costs and maintenance delays
- slower development and higher workload for developers
- bumpy development processes
- greater risk due to security vulnerabilities
- larger module sizes and therefore higher system load
- higher costs and risks for modernisation projects
- lack of future sustainability of applications
- poorer support for business processes
- and much more ...
It is therefore worth to execute clean-ups and the elimination of so-called technical debt before starting to modernise and also at regular intervals or as part of the maintenance. After all, you also regularly declutter your possessions or take your car in for a service so that you can enjoy and benefit from the things you really need for as long as possible.
Automated and Agile Clean-up of Applications - Why?
The requirements for the clean-up are high:
- Ongoing operations must not be disrupted under any circumstances.
- The maintenance and further development of the applications must not be impaired in any way.
- A step-by-step approach is required as it economises resources.
- The clean-up should be automated in order to ensure audit compliance.
Normally, software clean-ups are carried out manually (if at all). The variety of possible clean-ups is executed programme by programme. However, not all necessary or possible clean-up measures are always known from the outset. Some can only be recognised when other measures have already been completed.
It is safer and more manageable if a specific clean-up is executed for all programs or program packages at the same time. This may require programs to be tackled several times. Risk and effort can be minimised with an automated procedure that can be used as often as required for clean-ups and that can also be expanded to include new clean-ups.
All this is guaranteed by cleaning up your software with AMELIO CleanUp, our washing machine for software. AMELIO CleanUp also offers an agile approach:
- New clean-up measures can be added gradually.
- The applications can be divided into manageable packages and the measures to be applied can be defined separately for each package.
- Each package can be processed by the washing machine as often as required.
For more information, read the report from our customer RDW: ‘RDW eliminates technical debt with Delta's automated solution’.
Download Language: Englisch - Version: mt21093.02
Existing applications have accumulated a lot of technical debt over the years. Removing it could speed up maintenance significantly. In reality the task of improve the software by removing the obsolete parts is seldom performed. The risk of introducing errors and the cost of testing is the biggest reason for not doing anything.
Read moreAutomated, Secure and Efficient Cleaning with AMELIO CleanUp - the Washing Machine for Your Software
AMELIO CleanUp is an innovative solution that cleans up your native and generated COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications securely and automatically - a washing machine for your software.
You can
- define any number of steps for the clean-up
- use ready-made wash programmes
- have project-specific wash programmes developed iteratively
The washing machine AMELIO CleanUp will be perfectly customised to your situation. Each wash programme solves a problem in all applications. Several wash programmes can be run in one wash cycle. After each wash programme, the sources can be returned directly to production.
The clean-up of your applications is performed in stages, fully automated and therefore absolutely audit-proof. This is the very best preparation for your modernisation projects.
The projects we have accomplished for large companies have shown: it pays off to eliminate technical debt: A (regular) clean-up increases software quality, reduces costs (TCO) and ensures that applications are future-proof. It also significantly reduces costs and risks for modernisation projects.
"AMELIO CleanUp allows us to make our applications future-proof in small steps and without any freeze time."
Roland Römer, Product Owner, RDW ICT
AMELIO - The Tool Family for Your Successful Software Modernisation
Our tools help you to analyse COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications in a targeted manner, to adapt them quickly and securely to new requirements and technical infrastructures, and to reliably assess risks.
Our tailor-made Assessment, AMELIO Logic Discovery and AMELIO CleanUp offer you a reliable basis for your application modernisation, for the elimination of technical debt, for decisions on the next development steps, for new development with modern languages and for many other tasks.
This (and more) is what we can do for you!
If you want to reduce the risks and costs for your modernisation projects, reduce technical debt and reliably free your applications from unnecessary ballast, then find out now about the possibilities of our agile, automated software washing machine AMELIO CleanUp.
You can find an initial overview in our flyer ‘AMELIO CleanUp: Eliminate your technical debt’
Download Language: Englisch - Version: MT21102-02
Software also accumulates dust over the years. Because of the effort and risk, a removal of the dust is often avoided. On the other hand, the maintenance is becoming increasingly difficult. If the proven code should be used continuously, either in maintenance or as a basis for rewriting, it is worth cleaning up the applications. To save the time-consuming manual work and to minimize the risks, we have developed a washing machine for software for this task.
Read moreYou can also find more information about AMELIO CleanUp on our website: AMELIO CleanUp aka. Washing Machine for Software
Every project is different and our flyers only give you an initial overview. To get the best solution for you, you should discuss the requirements and details of your project with us directly.
Step 4: Automated Transformation
Step 4
Fully Automated Transformation
Coming soon
What's next
In the next newsletters you will receive further information on important steps for sustainable software modernisation and we will explain the criteria for security and flexibility in software modernisation.
We help you to make good decisions for your modernisation projects through customised assessments, to recover the necessary application knowledge through automated application analysis, to retain only what is really necessary through agile clean-up and to modernise your applications in an absolutely audit-proof manner through fully automated transformation.
We help you to accomplish your modernisation projects successfully - guaranteed!
Let us discuss your projects now!
Send us an e-mail to
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IT for Insurances Trade Fair Congress - We were there
From 28 to 29 November 2023, the IT for Insurances Trade Fair Congress took place in Leipzig.
Delta Software Technology GmbH was represented at the trade fair with a stand together with its partner EasiRun Europa GmbH. EasiRun and Delta have been working together successfully on various projects for many years.
Here you can find a short review of the IT Congress:
IT for Insurances Trade Fair Congress - We were there
IT for Insurances Trade Fair Congress - We were there
'IT for Insurances Trade Fair Congress' in Leipzig - We were there
The IT for Insurance Trade Fair Congress took place in Leipzig from 28 to 29 November 2023.
As the leading industry gathering, the trade fair congress brings together IT managers from insurance companies and IT service providers. This is a good opportunity to meet important market players in line with current topics, exchange experiences and make new, exciting business contacts.
Delta Software Technology GmbH was represented at the trade fair with a stand together with EasiRun Europa GmbH. Large companies use Delta's tailor-made solutions for automated analysis, clean-up, development and modernisation to develop their proven individual backend applications securely and sustainably and make them fit for the future. EasiRun and Delta have been working together successfully on various Projects for many years.
Here you can find the review of the IT Congress:
https://www.versicherungsforen.net/messekongress-it-fuer-versicherungen
You couldn't come to Leipzig, but would like to talk to us?
Then we would be delighted to visit you and present our solutions directly at your premises.
Send us an e-mail to
New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
Anyone using tools to automate software development needs in-depth knowledge of the methods, modes of operation, and capabilities of the tools. And not just "in principle", but in relation to the concrete environment and task.
Our training courses and workshops help you to use Delta tools efficiently and to optimise the development of your applications: Practice-oriented and taking into account your main areas of interest.
ADS Basics - ADS for Administrators - ADS Refresher - ADS on Eclipse - ADS What's new
Or contact us to discuss your requirements for a customised training.
Learn more about our trainings and workshops ...
New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
Anyone using tools to automate software development needs in-depth knowledge of the methods, modes of operation, and capabilities of the tools. And not just "in principle", but in relation to the concrete environment and task.
Our training courses and workshops help you to use Delta tools efficiently and to optimise the development of your applications: Practice-oriented and taking into account your main areas of interest.
ADS Basics - ADS for Administrators - ADS Refresher - ADS on Eclipse - ADS What's new
Here you will find the new dates:
- 05.03.-07.03.2025 and 17.09.-19.09.2025 - ADS Basics
- 12.03.-14.03.2025 and 25.09.-26.09.2025 - ADS for Administrators
- 20.03.-21.03.2025 and 09.10.-10.10.2025 - ADS Refresher
- 03.04.-04.04.2025 and 29.10.-30.10.2025 - ADS on Eclipse
- 08.04.2025 and 06.11.2025 - ADS What’s new
- 29.04.2025 and 13.11.2025 - Delta DETAB
Learn more about our trainings and workshops ...
Contact us to discuss your requirements for a customised training.
Season's Greetings from Delta Software Technology
We wish you and your family a harmonious holiday season and
a healthy, peaceful and successful New Year 2024!
Dr. Daniela Schilling
and the Team of
Delta Software Technology
Season's Greetings from Delta Software Technology
Season's Greetings from Delta Software Technology
At the end of the Year, we wish you and your loved ones a harmonious Holiday Season.
Hours of Peace and Reflection and a happy and healthy New Year!
Dr. Daniela Schilling
and the team of
Delta Software Technology
Download Newsletter
Download Language: Englisch - Version: nl21023-04
Content
- Review: Webinar 'Replacing IBM IMS/DB' and exchange of experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
- 4 Important Steps for the Sustainable Software Modernisation
- IT for Insurances Trade Fair Congress - We were there
- New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
- Season's Greetings from Delta Software Technology
Existing IT applications are often a company's most valuable software assets, setting it apart from its competitors. One of today's greatest challenges is therefore to expand a company's technology base without having to give up decades of valuable development work.
So how do you bring your COBOL applications generated with Delta ADS into the modern world quickly and securely? It's simple! To make it easier for you to integrate your Delta ADS applications into your Java environment, Delta Software Technology made the Delta ADS development system available for the EasiRun P3/COBOL compiler.
Delta ADS for COBOL
Delta ADS for COBOL is one of the most successful development systems for operational backend applications in COBOL. The sophisticated and comprehensive generator technology enables the automated creation of platform-independent online and batch applications in COBOL. This automated generation of standardised, optimised and correct code
- speeds up development by providing tools for recurring standard sequences in the program logic and for function types/groups,
- ensures quality and drastically reduces the testing effort,
- ensures vendor independence on the one hand by dispensing with interpretative runtime components and on the other hand by separating application logic and platform-specific implementation for operating systems, data storage systems and TP monitors.
Our customers have realised extremely large applications with Delta ADS: With hundreds of thousands of programs and billions of lines of code (LoC) generated. Development with Delta ADS is characterised by a high degree of abstraction and automation. It is stable, reliable and extraordinarily efficient.
EasiRun P3/COBOL
P3/COBOL was developed for the transition from COBOL to Java. P3/COBOL is a system that is completely based on Java and compiles the COBOL applications into Java source code. No native C or C++ add-ons are required. P3/COBOL relies on pure Java functions for performance optimisation, so you don't have to leave the current JVM.
P3/COBOL is a proven technology that generates 100% Java code.
Delta ADS for P3/COBOL
We developed Delta ADS for the new target system P3/COBOL in close cooperation with our partner EasiRun. This enables special optimisations of the code generation that take into account the specific features of the P3/COBOL compiler.
Delta ADS for P3/COBOL enables you to integrate your Delta ADS applications comfortably and securely into your Java runtime environment. These are the advantages for you:
- You keep your efficient application development with Delta ADS while compiling the generated COBOL code to a Java source with P3/COBOL.
- You quickly and safely bring your proven Delta ADS applications into your Java runtime environment.
- You have the possibility to embed native Java code directly into the Delta ADS sources.
- You benefit from a proven technology that creates 100% Java code.
Delta ADS for P3/COBOL offers you the highest level of security on your way to Java and supports you in quickly placing your applications in a modern world.
Integrate your Delta ADS applications easily into your Java environment
Do you also want to integrate your Delta ADS applications seamlessly and securely into your Java environment? We would be happy to take your requirements and wishes into account in our new solution. Please contact us directly!
E-mail
EasiRun + Delta = A Successful Partnership
"The companies EasiRun and Delta have maintained a successful and project-proven partnership for many years and we are pleased to continue this partnership with the new project," says Dr. Daniela Schilling, CEO Delta Software Technology. Don Fitzgerald, CEO EasiRun Europe, confirms: "Delta convinces with the experience of more than 45 years and a multitude of successfully implemented modernisation projects."
EasiRun is both a provider of tools and consulting services with a focus on application modernisation and transformation, as well as a solution provider in the areas of mainframe, Java, .NET and COBOL (Linux, UNIX, Windows) and cloud. The portfolio offers, among other things, Eclipse IDEs, COBOL transpilers, data storage and web browser solutions, analysis services as well as automation and integration for the individual needs of the customers.
Delta Software Technology offers tools and custom-fit solutions for
- automated application generation for all platforms (OS, DBMS, TP monitor, compiler)
- automated application analysis and knowledge discovery
- automated clean-up to get rid of technical debts
- automated application migration, transformation and modernisation
Large companies use Delta solutions to develop their proven individual IT applications securely and sustainably and make them fit for the future. They thereby reduce the costs and risks for the maintenance, modernisation and re-implementation of their applications and gain flexibility, freedom of decision and security.
Dear Reader,
Today we have put together a bunch of news for you:
First of all, we would like to invite you to our free webinar on the successful and secure replacement of IBM IMS DB. You can ask your questions directly to the experts of two large companies.
Furthermore, we facilitate the smooth integration of your Delta ADS applications into your Java runtime environment with the help of the generation for the Java target system P3/COBOL provided by EasiRun Europe.
To learn how you can seamlessly integrate your Delta ADS development into a modern development environment, read the field report from YOUPLUS, one of the fastest growing insurance companies.
We also have some product updates for you.
Last but not least, we would like to invite you to participate and to submit your topics for the workshop "Software Reengineering and Evolution".
Register now for our webinar and feel free to forward this invitation and this newsletter to interested colleagues!
We look forward to a lively exchange with you!
Your Delta Software Technology Team
Webinar IBM IMS/DB Replacement: Exchanging Experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
Join us: We invite you for this short Webinar 25 October 2023 11:00 AM CET.
Probably you know all the good reasons to replace your IMS databases: cost reduction, impact of maintaining multiple database technologies in parallel, lack of flexibility, diminishing know-how and specialists, difficult connection with new technologies like Mobile Cloud etc.
The hurdles for replacing IMS-databases is huge and the applications are running smoothly. These, often mission critical, applications are big, complex and the documentation is in most cases not sufficient for the task ahead.
Delta Software Technology presents, a reliable solution:
- "Automated and secure from IBM IMS/DB to Db2 with AMELIO Modernization Platform"
Dr. Daniela Schilling (CEO, Delta Software Technology GmbH) - Followed by a Discussion and and sharing of experiences of two reference customers Gothaer Solutions GmbH and Provinzial Versicherung AG that will share with you their successful IMS/DB replacement.
Take the opportunity and ask your questions directly at companies that have successfully replaced IMS/DB already.
Register directly here:
Webinar IBM IMS/DB Replacement: Exchanging Experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
Webinar IBM IMS/DB Replacement: Exchanging Experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
You probably know all the good reasons to replace your IMS databases:
- Reduction of cost and maintaining multiple database technologies
- Lack of flexibility of IMS databases
- Diminishing know-how and specialists
- No successors available
- Difficult connection with new technologies like Mobile Cloud etc.
The hurdles for replacing IMS-databases are huge and the applications are running smoothly. These, often mission critical, applications are big, complex and the documentation is in most cases not sufficient for the task ahead.
From hierarchical to relational - 100% automated
The aim is to convert the application to clean SQL, i.e. not to "translate" the IMS accesses to SQL at runtime using a proprietary intermediate layer. The customised, fully automated transformation with AMELIO Modernization Platform guarantees the consistent and audit-proof migration of your COBOL and PL/I applications.
How can you replace your IMS system safely and efficiently?
Delta Software Technology presented a reliable solution that gives you the following advantages:
- You are supported in defining the new relational data model.
- The transformation is carried out securely and completely automatically - with automatic integration of the changes from the parallel ongoing development.
- The testing effort is drastically reduced thanks to the complete automation of all changes.
- There is no footprint and no vendor lock-in.
Review of the Webinar
We were able to win Gothaer Solutions GmbH and Provinzial Versicherung AG for this webinar. The participants took the opportunity to ask their questions directly to the companies' experts who have already successfully replaced their IMS databases.
Dr. Daniela Schilling (CEO, Delta Software Technology GmbH) presented the Delta solution AMELIO:
"Automated and Secure Migration from IBM IMS/DB to Db2 with AMELIO Modernisation Platform"
In the subsequent discussion, experts from Gothaer and Provinzial were on hand to answer questions from the audience. They reported that production and development continued undisturbed and that the migration project ensures the maintainability and future viability of the systems. Processes have been standardised and, thanks to targeted and, of course, automatically implemented optimisation of the access logic, individual applications now run even more efficiently than with the hierarchical database system.
When asked what they would do differently next time, both customers agreed: less testing and no more manual migration! This would save them even more time, money and nerves, because Delta's automated solution simply works.
Slides and Recording of the Webinar
You couldn't attend?
No problem: you can request the presentation slides and recording here.
(it will be in german - If you would like the presentation in english, please contact us by
We would be happy to show you the possibilities that AMELIO Modernisation Platform offers you for your projects. We look forward to hearing from you.
Are you looking for further information?
Then you will find the relevant reports here:
Gothaer migrates its IBM IMS Databases to IBM Db2 together with Delta Software Technology
Gothaer Systems migriert zusammen mit Delta mehr als 400 IMS-Datenbanken zu Db2. Durch den Aufbau einer passgenauen Factory konnten notwendige Schritte zur Transformation automatisiert, gut kalkuliert und risikoarm durchgeführt werden.
„By migrating from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 together with Delta, we have successfully mastered the next big step in the ‘Smarter Mainframe’ project.“
Burkhard Oppenberg, CIO, Gothaer
Read here the success story:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=0314
From IBM IMS/DB to Db2 - Provinzial realizes complete Migration
With the tools and services from Delta Software Technology, Provinzial Rheinland finished the complete application and data migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2, automated and securely, of over 75 IBM IMS databases and over 36,000 artefacts.
"The guaranteed operational “smoothness” in the project, despite the complex modernization, is certainly a unique feature of the solution.“
Stephan Kaiser, Program ‘sponsor’ Provinzial
Read here the success story:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=0329
Coming Soon: Delta ADS Generation for the Java Target System P3/COBOL
Existing IT applications are often a company's most valuable software assets, setting it apart from its competitors. One of today's greatest challenges is therefore to expand a company's technology base without having to give up decades of valuable development work.
So how do you bring your COBOL applications generated with Delta ADS into the modern world quickly and securely? It's simple! To make it easier for you to integrate your Delta ADS applications into your Java environment, Delta Software Technology will make the Delta ADS development system available for the EasiRun P3/COBOL compiler.
Integrate your Delta ADS applications easily into your Java environment:
Coming Soon: Delta ADS Generation for the Java Target System P3/COBOL
Coming Soon: Delta ADS Generation for the Java Target System P3/COBOL
Existing IT applications are often a company's most valuable software assets, setting it apart from its competitors. One of today's greatest challenges is therefore to expand a company's technology base without having to give up decades of valuable development work.
So how do you bring your COBOL applications generated with Delta ADS into the modern world quickly and securely? It's simple! To make it easier for you to integrate your Delta ADS applications into your Java environment, Delta Software Technology made the Delta ADS development system available for the EasiRun P3/COBOL compiler.
Delta ADS for COBOL
Delta ADS for COBOL is one of the most successful development systems for operational backend applications in COBOL. The sophisticated and comprehensive generator technology enables the automated creation of platform-independent online and batch applications in COBOL. This automated generation of standardised, optimised and correct code
- speeds up development by providing tools for recurring standard sequences in the program logic and for function types/groups,
- ensures quality and drastically reduces the testing effort,
- ensures vendor independence on the one hand by dispensing with interpretative runtime components and on the other hand by separating application logic and platform-specific implementation for operating systems, data storage systems and TP monitors.
Our customers have realised extremely large applications with Delta ADS: With hundreds of thousands of programs and billions of lines of code (LoC) generated. Development with Delta ADS is characterised by a high degree of abstraction and automation. It is stable, reliable and extraordinarily efficient.
EasiRun P3/COBOL
P3/COBOL was developed for the transition from COBOL to Java. P3/COBOL is a system that is completely based on Java and compiles the COBOL applications into Java source code. No native C or C++ add-ons are required. P3/COBOL relies on pure Java functions for performance optimisation, so you don't have to leave the current JVM.
P3/COBOL is a proven technology that generates 100% Java code.
Delta ADS for P3/COBOL
We developed Delta ADS for the new target system P3/COBOL in close cooperation with our partner EasiRun. This enables special optimisations of the code generation that take into account the specific features of the P3/COBOL compiler.
Delta ADS for P3/COBOL enables you to integrate your Delta ADS applications comfortably and securely into your Java runtime environment. These are the advantages for you:
- You keep your efficient application development with Delta ADS while compiling the generated COBOL code to a Java source with P3/COBOL.
- You quickly and safely bring your proven Delta ADS applications into your Java runtime environment.
- You have the possibility to embed native Java code directly into the Delta ADS sources.
- You benefit from a proven technology that creates 100% Java code.
Delta ADS for P3/COBOL offers you the highest level of security on your way to Java and supports you in quickly placing your applications in a modern world.
Integrate your Delta ADS applications easily into your Java environment
Do you also want to integrate your Delta ADS applications seamlessly and securely into your Java environment? We would be happy to take your requirements and wishes into account in our new solution. Please contact us directly!
E-mail
EasiRun + Delta = A Successful Partnership
"The companies EasiRun and Delta have maintained a successful and project-proven partnership for many years and we are pleased to continue this partnership with the new project," says Dr. Daniela Schilling, CEO Delta Software Technology. Don Fitzgerald, CEO EasiRun Europe, confirms: "Delta convinces with the experience of more than 45 years and a multitude of successfully implemented modernisation projects."
EasiRun is both a provider of tools and consulting services with a focus on application modernisation and transformation, as well as a solution provider in the areas of mainframe, Java, .NET and COBOL (Linux, UNIX, Windows) and cloud. The portfolio offers, among other things, Eclipse IDEs, COBOL transpilers, data storage and web browser solutions, analysis services as well as automation and integration for the individual needs of the customers.
Delta Software Technology offers tools and custom-fit solutions for
- automated application generation for all platforms (OS, DBMS, TP monitor, compiler)
- automated application analysis and knowledge discovery
- automated clean-up to get rid of technical debts
- automated application migration, transformation and modernisation
Large companies use Delta solutions to develop their proven individual IT applications securely and sustainably and make them fit for the future. They thereby reduce the costs and risks for the maintenance, modernisation and re-implementation of their applications and gain flexibility, freedom of decision and security.
YOUPLUS Unifies its Development Environment and Updates Delta ADS
A modern development environment was the goal for the software developers of YOUPLUS Assurance Schweiz AG. Together with Delta Software Technology, the previous development environment was replaced by ADS on Eclipse and at the same time the generator system Delta ADS for COBOL was updated.
The insurance company YOUPLUS (Lugano, Switzerland), one of the fastest growing insurance companies, successfully uses the generator system Delta ADS for COBOL & PL/I from Delta Software Technology for more than 30 years. At YOUPLUS, the ADS programs are developed and maintained on the PC and then generated exactly fitting in COBOL. The programs are then executed on IBM z/VSE.
In the first step, ADS was updated from an outdated version to the latest version. The development and generation processes of ADS programs were seamlessly integrated, with the help of ADS on Eclipse, into the customer s development environment (OpenText / Micro Focus). Thus, YOUPLUS could be provided with a uniform and integrated solution.
Read now how easy the change to a modern developement environment can be:
YOUPLUS Unifies its Development Environment and Updates Delta ADS
YOUPLUS Unifies its Development Environment and Updates Delta ADS
A modern development environment was the goal for the software developers of YOUPLUS Assurance Schweiz AG. Together with Delta Software Technology, the previous development environment was replaced by ADS on Eclipse and at the same time the generator system Delta ADS for COBOL was updated.
In 2020, YOUPLUS Assurance Schweiz (YOUPLUS) acquired an insurance portfolio from AIG Life Insurance Switzerland Ltd., Breganzona and at the same time another part of AIG - American Security Life Insurance Company Ltd in Vaduz, Switzerland.
In 2023, YOUPLUS has started its operation in a new company providing solutions for the tied pension 3a and the cost-free pension 3b, which combines unique investment logic with client's personal pension objectives.
YOUPLUS Group is now active in eight European countries. It specialises in Life & Pension solutions and is considered as one of the fastest growing insurance companies in Europe.
The insurance company YOUPLUS Lugano, Switzerland, insurance company successfully uses the generator system Delta ADS for COBOL & PL/I (ADS) from Delta Software Technology (Delta) for more than 30 years. At YOUPLUS, the ADS programs are developed and maintained on the PC and then generated exactly fitting in COBOL. The programs are then executed on IBM z/VSE.
Update to the Latest ADS Release
In the first step, ADS was updated from an outdated version to the latest version (6.6.2). For this, only the individual generators had to be updated and standard macros hat to be checked and adapted if necessary. Delta is skilled at this task and brings the appropriate know-how for the secure modernisation.
In order to provide the developers with a modern and uniform development environment, the Delta development system SCOUT² was replaced by ADS on Eclipse (Delta IDS). The use of Delta ADS on Eclipse has the advantage that it can be directly integrated in all Eclipse-based environments. In this case, the plugin was integrated into the OpenText (Micro Focus) development environment.
More Effective Maintenance and Development
With the help of ADS on Eclipse, the working method for developing and maintaining ADS programs is simplified and modernised so that developers are optimally supported. The use of the Post-generation Debugger makes maintenance much easier, simpler and faster. With it, the generation process can be followed step by step. This makes it much easier for the developers and also the application inheritors to get a handle on the ADS programs.
The development and generation processes of ADS programs were seamlessly integrated into the customer’s development environment. Thus, YOUPLUS could be provided with a uniform and integrated solution.
You Too Can Follow This Way
Do you also want to provide your developers with a modern and integrated development environment? Then contact us! Our modern and integrated development solution Delta IDS is available for many environments, e.g. ADS on Eclipse Eclipse-based development environments, as ADS on Visual Studio for Microsoft Visual Studio or Visual Studio Code. In addition, active Delta customers receive the upgrade to the latest Delta ADS version free of charge.
You can also go this way and simplify the maintenance and development of your Delta ADS applications - your developers and their application heirs will be grateful.
More about ADS and Delta IDS
You would also like to upgrade your ADS installation and know how you can easily integrate your application development with ADS into your PC-based environments? Then get in touch with us.
Download Language: Englisch - Version: MT21104.01
A modern development environment was the goal for the software developers of YOUPLUS Assurance Schweiz AG. Together with Delta Software Technology, the previous development environment was replaced by ADS on Eclipse and at the same time the generator system Delta ADS for COBOL was updated.
Read more
Support Information: New Product Updates Available
We have implemented your suggestions and further improved our products. The following product releases are now available for you:
- Delta ADS (6.6.3)
In the new release Delta ADS, we have implemented a number of corrections and, above all, improvements in the Post-Generation Debugger. With the Post-Generation Debugger, you can significantly accelerate the maintenance of your Delta ADS applications by quickly and accurately following the generation process. We have also implemented further improvements in the area of generating Data Access Servers for the object-based database integration (Delta DBI). - AMELIO Logic Discovery (2.4.1)
In the new release of AMELIO Logic Discovery we have, besides some corrections, further optimised the navigation. With our innovative analysis tool for COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications, you can now find the relevant knowledge and the corresponding locations in the code even faster.
Benefit from the Improvements Now.
Simply request the new product releases now directly on our website.
Support Information: New Product Updates Available
Support Information: New Product Updates Available
We have implemented your suggestions and further improved our products. The following product releases are now available for you:
Delta ADS 6 for COBOL (6.6.3)
In the new release Delta ADS 6.6.3, we have implemented a number of corrections and, above all, improvements in the Post-Generation Debugger. With the Post-Generation Debugger, you can significantly accelerate the maintenance of your Delta ADS applications by quickly and accurately following the generation process.
We have also implemented further improvements in the area of generating Data Access Servers for the object-based database integration (Delta DBI).
Delta ADS 6.6.3 is now available for all platforms.
AMELIO Logic Discovery (2.4.1)
In the new release of AMELIO Logic Discovery 2.4.1 we have, besides some corrections, further optimised the navigation. With our innovative analysis tool for COBOL, PL/I and Delta ADS applications, you can now find the relevant knowledge and the corresponding locations in the code even faster.
Benefit from the Improvements Now
Simply request the new product releases now directly here.
Curious? Get to Know our AMELIO Product Family!
You don't know AMELIO yet? We would be happy to introduce you to our innovative tools for the automated software evolution:
- AMELIO Logic Discovery for easy (re-)understanding.
- AMELIO CleanUp - our Washing Machine for agile cleanup
- AMELIO Modernization Platform for fully automated modernisation
See for yourself how you can make your backend applications fit for the future securely, perfectly fitting and in parallel with ongoing development.
Please send us a message via our website or call us at +49 (0) 2972 97 19-0.
Software Reengineering & Evolution: Benefit from the Direct Exchange between Practice and Research
"Software Reengineering and Evolution" is an evergreen in software development. However, new technologies and possibilities in the area of development lead to ever new challenges in dealing with the existing software.
The expert group Software Reengineering and Evolution (SRE) within the "Gesellschaft f r Informatik" (GI) the German-speaking professional society for computer science offers compelling lectures and discussions on challenges and solutions, tool demos and much more.
Take advantage of the opportunity for direct professional exchange and networking. Participation is open to all. All details about the workshop "Software Reengineering and Evolution" (WSRE) can be found here:
Software Reengineering & Evolution: Benefit from the Direct Exchange between Practice and Research
Software Reengineering & Evolution: Benefit from the Direct Exchange between Practice and Research
“Software Reengineering and Evolution” is an evergreen in software development. However, new technologies and possibilities in the area of development lead to ever new challenges in dealing with the existing software.
The expert group Software Reengineering and Evolution (SRE) within the Gesellschaft für Informatik (GI) - the German-speaking professional society for computer science - deals with all aspects of software reengineering, software maintenance and software evolution. In principle, this includes all activities whose goal is analysis, visualisation, evaluation, improvement, migration and further development.
Workshop Software Reengineering & Evolution (WSRE)
With the conference series Workshop "Software Reengineering and Evolution" (WSRE), the SRE expert group aims to bring together practice and research and to promote professional exchange with a variety of current topics.
Practitioners and researchers are cordially invited to report on experiences, projects, research results, methods, tools and “war stories” in this field at the WSRE, to present their current work and to discuss it constructively in an open environment.
WSRE 2025 from 09.-11.04.2025
27. WSRE 2025 took place from 09.-11.04.2025 in Bad Honnef!
Delta was there with a presentation on April 9, 2025 at 2 p.m.:
Analysing a Big Ball of Mud
The original design of an application often gets lost over the decades, creating a “big ball of mud” instead. Such applications are difficult to maintain and even more difficult to modernize. With AMELIO Logic Discovery you can analyse applications and prepare for clean-up and modernization projects.
How? We presented and summarized this for you at the Software Reengineering and Evolution (WSRE) workshop of the GI Software Reengineering (SRE) specialist group.
Download Language: Englisch - Version: mt21106-01
The clean design of an application often gets lost over decades. Applications arise where design specifications are not met. Such applications are difficult to maintain and even more difficult to modernize. AMELIO Logic Discovery helps identify design violations in an iterative process.
Read moreYou would like to present your challenges or solutions and tools on the topic and exchange ideas with other interested parties? Anyone can take part - even if you are not a member of the GI.
Take the opportunity for direct exchange and networking. Participation is open to everyone. All information about the workshop and how to submit contributions can be found here.
WSRE 2024
The 26th Software Reengineering & Evolution Workshop of the GI Software Reengineering (SRE) specialist group took place on 29 and 30 April in Bad Honnef.
How to Quickly (Re-)Gain the Knowledge about Your COBOL Applications
At this year's tool session, Dr. Daniela Schilling, CEO of Delta Software Technology, presented:
‘When the English Dictionary is Not Enough - Understanding COBOL Applications with AMELIO Logic Discovery’
In order to (re)understand large, complex COBOL applications that have grown over decades, it is not enough to be able to read the code. Instead, it is necessary to abstract from technical details and gain knowledge at a glance. Appropriate views of the application are also required for various tasks. We present AMELIO Logic Discovery, a tool for automated knowledge (re)gain.
You couldn’t attend? No problem!
Contact us directly and find out how AMELIO Logic Discovery can help you to re-understand your COBOL applications.
Download Newsletter
Download Language: Englisch - Version: nl21023.03
Content
- Webinar IBM IMS/DB Replacement: Exchanging Experiences with Gothaer and Provinzial
- Coming Soon: Delta ADS - Generation for the Java Target System P3/COBOL
- YOUPLUS Unifies its Development Environment and Updates Delta ADS
- Support Information: New Product Updates Available
- Software Reengineering & Evolution: Benefit from the Direct Exchange between Practice and Research
Dear Reader,
Full of energy, we are starting this new year! Finally, we can meet you again in person: at events and at your company. We very much hope to see you at SVA Mainframe Dayz and at the GSE Technical University. Look forward to the presentation of our washing machine for software.
In the text series "Iceberg ahead", our colleague Hans Nickessen describes his experiences in dealing with legacy applications. Read in the current episode how the modernisation of legacy applications helps to reduce costs and risks.
We also have some product updates, new training dates and, of course, the highlights from 2022 for you.
We hope you enjoy reading and we are looking forward to a lively exchange.
Your Delta Software Technology Team
Support Information: New Product Versions available
We have released new versions for the following products:
- ADS 6 for COBOL (6.6.0)
- PostgreSQL - New Target for ADS 6 for COBOL
- ADS on Eclipse (8.1.1)
- ADS on Micro Focus (8.1.1)
For more information about the new features and improvements, please see the respective release notes and reference books in the support area of our website:
Support Information: New Product Versions available
Support Information: New Product Versions available
We have released new versions for the following products:
- Delta ADS for COBOL (6.6.1)
- PostgreSQL - New Target for ADS 6 for COBOL
- ADS on Eclipse (8.1.1)
- ADS on Micro Focus (8.1.1)
Delta ADS 6 for COBOL (6.6.1)
In this new release, we have implemented new functions and some changes. The generation has been further optimised.
PostgreSQL - New Target for ADS 6 for COBOL
Do you rely on PostgreSQL?
With Delta ADS release 6.6.0 we now offer you for this database system a new target for the generation of data services.
ADS on Eclipse (8.1.1)
With this new release you can now also define your own targets. The storage of the generation artefacts becomes more flexible. More information can be displayed in the console window and the navigation to the generator messages has been simplified. Furthermore, analysis data can now be created in MALIST format in addition to HTML format.
ADS on Micro Focus Enterprise Developer / Connect (8.1.1)
With this new release we support Micro Focus Enterprise Developer for Eclipse version 8. The installation of the basic components has been completely revised and simplified.
With this release you can now also define your own targets. The storage of the generation artefacts becomes more flexible. More information can be displayed in the console window and the navigation to the generator messages has been simplified. Furthermore, analysis data can now be created in MALIST format in addition to HTML format.
For more information about the new features and improvements, please see the respective release notes and reference books in the support area of our website.
Get information and updates right now. You’ll find the list of our current product versions here.
Let's meet Delta
COBOL and PL/I applications perform their service reliably every day. But the longer the applications live, the more dirt and technical debts accumulate in the applications, making maintenance and further development increasingly difficult and error-prone. Also, in the run-up to modernisation projects, it is advisable to clean-up applications in order to avoid errors and to reduce costs.
At the following events, we will report on how you can clean-up your applications in an agile way using a software washing machine:
- SVA Mainframe Dayz 2023 | 07.-08.03.2023, Wiesbaden (Germany)
- GSE Technical University - Mainframe Modernization | 20.-21.03.2023, Kassel (Germany)
By the way, the presented approach and technology is also perfectly suited for a safe, step-by-step modernisation of applications.
You cannot attend the events? We would be happy to present the AMELIO Software Washing Machine to you in a personal meeting. Simply get in touch with us.
Let's meet Delta
Let's meet Delta
COBOL and PL/I applications perform their service reliably every day. But the longer the applications live, the more dirt and technical debts accumulate in the applications, making maintenance and further development increasingly difficult and error-prone. Also, in the run-up to modernisation projects, it is advisable to clean-up applications in order to avoid errors and to reduce costs.
At the following events, we will report on how you can clean-up your applications in an agile way using a software washing machine:
- SVA Mainframe Dayz 2023 | 07.-08.03.2023, Wiesbaden (Germany)
- GSE Technical University - Mainframe Modernization | 20.-21.03.2023, Kassel (Germany)
By the way, the presented approach and technology is also perfectly suited for a safe, step-by-step modernisation of applications.
You cannot attend the events?
We would be happy to present the AMELIO Software Washing Machine to you in a personal meeting. Simply get in touch with us.
Iceberg Ahead: Hard to Port or Risk Minimization
Changing large, productive IT applications is associated with high costs, risks and an enormous amount of time. The race in the areas of agility, adaptability, and the adoption of new requirements is becoming increasingly difficult. The costs for the maintenance and further development of the application are increasing. The productive lifetime of business functions is often measured in decades. Technologies, on the other hand, have a much shorter lifespan. For such transformation projects, you therefore need flexible tools that change your applications in a targeted manner - without endangering functionality and thus the important day-to-day business.
Our colleague Hans Nickessen reports in his text "Hard to Port or Risk Minimization" about how modernization contributes to cost reduction.
Iceberg Ahead: Hard to Port or Risk Minimization
Iceberg Ahead: Hard to Port or Risk Minimization
Modernization of COBOL or PL/I applications
Changing large, productive IT applications is associated with high costs, risks and an enormous amount of time. The race in the areas of agility, adaptability, and the adoption of new requirements is becoming increasingly difficult. The costs for the maintenance and further development of the application are increasing. The productive lifetime of business functions is often measured in decades. Technologies, on the other hand, have a much shorter lifespan. For such transformation projects, you therefore need flexible tools that change your applications in a targeted manner - without endangering functionality and thus the important day-to-day business.
Our colleague Hans Nickessen reports in his text "Hard to Port or Risk Minimization" about how modernization contributes to cost reduction.
"Iceberg Ahead!" Here is the 4th part of the series:
Hard to Port or Risk Minimization - Reducing costs through modernization
Download Iceberg Ahead: Hard to Port or Risk Minimization - Reducing costs through modernization
Here you will find the first parts of the text series "Iceberg Ahead!":
- "Iceberg ahead: Assessment or how to assess and minimize the Risk of a Change" - (part 3):
https://delta-software.com/link.php?de=6339 - "How you can successfully bring your COBOL or PL/I Applications into the Future without hitting an Iceberg" - (part 1) &
"Knowledge Transfer - Securing, Re-understanding, Optimizing and Passing on the Foundation" - (part 2):
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=6335
New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
Anyone using tools to automate software development needs in-depth knowledge of the methods, modes of operation, and capabilities of the tools. And not just "in principle", but in relation to the concrete environment and task.
Our training courses and workshops help you to use Delta tools efficiently and to optimise the development of your applications: Practice-oriented and taking into account your main areas of interest.
ADS Basics - ADS for Administrators - ADS Refresher - ADS on Eclipse - ADS What's new
Contact us to discuss your requirements for a customised training.
Further information on training courses and workshops you will find here:
New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
Anyone using tools to automate software development needs in-depth knowledge of the methods, modes of operation, and capabilities of the tools. And not just "in principle", but in relation to the concrete environment and task.
Our training courses and workshops help you to use Delta tools efficiently and to optimise the development of your applications: Practice-oriented and taking into account your main areas of interest.
ADS Basics - ADS for Administrators - ADS Refresher - ADS on Eclipse - ADS What's new
Here you will find the new dates:
- 05.03.-07.03.2025 and 17.09.-19.09.2025 - ADS Basics
- 12.03.-14.03.2025 and 25.09.-26.09.2025 - ADS for Administrators
- 20.03.-21.03.2025 and 09.10.-10.10.2025 - ADS Refresher
- 03.04.-04.04.2025 and 29.10.-30.10.2025 - ADS on Eclipse
- 08.04.2025 and 06.11.2025 - ADS What’s new
- 29.04.2025 and 13.11.2025 - Delta DETAB
Learn more about our trainings and workshops ...
Contact us to discuss your requirements for a customised training.
Our Highlights in 2022
The pressure to reduce costs and at the same time increase flexibility is a permanent companion of IT departments. For our customers, especially for banks and insurance companies, this has brought the consolidation of database systems into focus. Our reports on the successful replacement of old database systems such as IBM IMS therefore met great interest.
Click here to get directly to the project reports:
- IMS Replacement at Gothaer: In Time – In Budget – In Scope
- Provinzial achieves complete migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 with Delta
Our Highlights in 2022
Our Highlights in 2022
The pressure to reduce costs and at the same time increase flexibility is a permanent companion of IT departments. For our customers, especially for banks and insurance companies, this has brought the consolidation of database systems into focus. Our reports on the successful replacement of old database systems such as IBM IMS therefore met great interest:
IMS Replacement at Gothaer: In Time – In Budget – In Scope
Automatically migrating from IBM IMS DB to IBM Db2 was Gothaer Systems' task. Delta offered a solution consisting of know-how, suitable tools and services for this task. The entire migration project (45,000 sources, 447 IMS databases) ran smoothly and without downtime. Above all, Gothaer was able to further develop the applications in parallel.
At Gothaer, the replacement of old technologies is another step in its 'Smarter Mainframe' strategy to modernise its IT landscape. The full integration of today's operational systems on the host - in the context of new projects - is immensely facilitated and contributes decisively to the digitalisation and the accelerated implementation of new functional requirements.
Click here to read the complete project report.
Provinzial achieves complete migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 with Delta
With the tools and services from Delta Software Technology, Provinzial Rheinland managed the complete application and data migration from IBM IMS DB to IBM Db2 for more than 75 IBM IMS databases and over 36,000 artefacts in an automated and secure manner.
The migration from the extremely fast IMS databases, whose application programs are often precisely aligned with the storage structures, to the more flexible Db2 databases, which are suitable for ad-hoc queries, often leads to a loss of performance. Provinzial also feared this. However, due to the automated migration and the possibility to individually adapt the transformation rules, there were no performance losses. The specifications for the performance of the migrated applications were met to Provinzial's complete satisfaction.
Click here to read the complete project report.
Further Information
Old database technology causes high costs and makes it difficult to use new technologies for central and critical IT applications. Moreover, there are fewer and fewer developers and system engineers for the old technology. This is true for hierarchical databases like IBM IMS DB as well as for other non-relational databases.
We present ways to preserve the functionality of your applications and migrate to SQL databases without risk.
- Automatically replacing IBM IMS/DB
- Successfully Replace IMS Databases
- IBM IMS/DB? Modernization Now!
- Modernization Project at BSQ Bauspar AG
Let's talk about how to safely replace old database technology in your organisation.
Download Newsletter
Download Language: Englisch - Version: NL21023.01
Content
- Support Information: New Product Versions available
- Let's meet Delta
- Iceberg Ahead: Hard to Port or Risk Minimization
- New Delta Training Courses: Register Now
- Our Highlights in 2022
The pressure to reduce costs and at the same time increase flexibility is a permanent companion of IT departments. For our customers, especially for banks and insurance companies, this has brought the consolidation of database systems into focus. Our reports on the successful replacement of old database systems such as IBM IMS therefore met great interest:
IMS Replacement at Gothaer: In Time – In Budget – In Scope
Automatically migrating from IBM IMS DB to IBM Db2 was Gothaer Systems' task. Delta offered a solution consisting of know-how, suitable tools and services for this task. The entire migration project (45,000 sources, 447 IMS databases) ran smoothly and without downtime. Above all, Gothaer was able to further develop the applications in parallel.
At Gothaer, the replacement of old technologies is another step in its 'Smarter Mainframe' strategy to modernise its IT landscape. The full integration of today's operational systems on the host - in the context of new projects - is immensely facilitated and contributes decisively to the digitalisation and the accelerated implementation of new functional requirements.
Click here to read the complete project report.
Provinzial achieves complete migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 with Delta
With the tools and services from Delta Software Technology, Provinzial Rheinland managed the complete application and data migration from IBM IMS DB to IBM Db2 for more than 75 IBM IMS databases and over 36,000 artefacts in an automated and secure manner.
The migration from the extremely fast IMS databases, whose application programs are often precisely aligned with the storage structures, to the more flexible Db2 databases, which are suitable for ad-hoc queries, often leads to a loss of performance. Provinzial also feared this. However, due to the automated migration and the possibility to individually adapt the transformation rules, there were no performance losses. The specifications for the performance of the migrated applications were met to Provinzial's complete satisfaction.
Click here to read the complete project report.
Further Information
Old database technology causes high costs and makes it difficult to use new technologies for central and critical IT applications. Moreover, there are fewer and fewer developers and system engineers for the old technology. This is true for hierarchical databases like IBM IMS DB as well as for other non-relational databases.
We present ways to preserve the functionality of your applications and migrate to SQL databases without risk.
- Automatically replacing IBM IMS/DB
- Successfully Replace IMS Databases
- IBM IMS/DB? Modernization Now!
- Modernization Project at BSQ Bauspar AG
Let's talk about how to safely replace old database technology in your organisation.
Dear Reader,
Do you have proven applications that you have nurtured for decades and are planning to modernize? With AMELIO you can prepare your modernization project and implement it successfully and automatically.
Learn today how
- AMELIO Logic Discovery helps you to understand your applications again and prepare them for refactoring.
- you can reduce costs and risks of your modernization and migration project with the AMELIO Modernization Platform.
- we used the AMELIO Modernization Platform at Provinzial to successfully migrate the application from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2.
In the text series “Iceberg ahead”, our colleague Hans Nickessen describes his experiences in handling legacy applications. Read in the current episode how a tailormade assessement will contribute to the success of your modernisation project.
We hope you enjoy reading,
Your Delta Software Technology Team
IMS Guide - GSE AK IMS System Administration
"Provinzial realizes complete migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 with Delta"
Migration from IMS/DB to Db2? Completely? Automated?
Provinzial has mastered this step together with Delta.
How? We presented this in our lecture at the IMS Guide on 20th September, which finally was a live meeting again.
Would you like to know how Provinzial made this step together with Delta, but you couldn't be there? Then get in touch with us. We would be happy to present the proposed approach to you in a personal meeting.
The slides presented and the accompanying SuccessStory can be found here:
IMS Guide - GSE AK IMS System Administration
IMS Guide - GSE AK IMS System Administration
97th IMS Guide - GSE AK IMS System Administration (Autumn Conference)
- Date: September 20-21, 2022
- Location: Munster, Germany
Daniela Schilling (CEO, Delta Software Technology) presented:
"DINO: From IBM IMS/DB to Db2 - Provinzial realizes complete Migration"
IBM IMS/DB to Db2 Migration? Completely? Automated?
Provinzial made the move along with Delta.
In our lecture we have shown you how "DINO: From IBM IMS/DB to Db2 - Provinzial realizes complete Migration" on September 20th on the IMS Guide in Munster.
More about the GSE working group: BSMSD - IMS System Administration
You can find more information about the success story here.
Update: You couldn't attend? Here are the presented slides:
Download Language: Englisch - Version: 01
Set of slides for '97th IMS Guide - GSE AK IMS System Administration':
IBM IMS/DB to Db2 Migration? Completely? Automated?
Provinzial made the move along with Delta.
AMELIO Logic Discovery - Procedures and Functions in COBOL
COBOL does not have procedures and functions.
Nevertheless, AMELIO Logic Discovery identifies logical procedures and functions in COBOL applications and thus helps to re-understand the application and to prepare a refactoring.
You can find more information here:
AMELIO Logic Discovery - Procedures and Functions in COBOL
AMELIO Logic Discovery - Procedures and Functions in COBOL
COBOL does not have procedures and functions.
Nevertheless, AMELIO Logic Discovery identifies logical procedures and functions in COBOL applications and thus helps to re-understand the application and to prepare a refactoring.
You can find more information here:
Download Language: Englisch - Version: MT21080.02
The various analysis of AMELIO Logic Discovery detect implicit information and relationships and present the results in a clear and understandable way.
Read more
AMELIO Modernization Platform slashes Risks and Costs for Modernization and Migration
Changes across all existing applications belong to the permanent tasks of the IT departments in large enterprises. If thousands of modules of the productive application systems have to be changed, the answers to the following questions are essential:
- How can you ensure the consistency and quality of the changes?
- How do you avoid blocking other projects by the changes?
- How do you integrate the changes from other projects into the mass changes?
- How do you guarantee the security and stability of the productive systems?
- How do you get the expenditure under control as well as the costs and the temporal organisation for testing?
For the modernization of your legacy applications you should know the possibilities of AMELIO:
AMELIO Modernization Platform slashes Risks and Costs for Modernization and Migration
AMELIO Modernization Platform slashes Risks and Costs for Modernization and Migration
Changes across all existing applications belong to the permanent tasks of the IT departments in large enterprises. They are initiated by new IT strategies, changed business processes, legal regulations which must be met by given deadlines, and the like. If thousands of modules of the productive application systems have to be changed, the answers to the following questions are essential:
- How can you ensure the consistency and quality of the changes?
- How do you avoid blocking other projects by the changes?
- How do you integrate the changes from other projects into the mass changes?
- How do you guarantee the security and stability of the productive systems?
- How do you get the expenditure under control as well as the costs and the temporal organisation for testing?
AMELIO Modernization Platform drastically reduces the risks and costs of platform changes, application modernisations and database migrations because AMELIO completely automates the changes.
100% Automation with AMELIO Modernization Platform
AMELIO Modernization Platform is a perfectly tailored factory that completely automates extensive and complex changes of large applications – 100%.
- AMELIO changes the code consistently, reproducibly and absolutely error-free.
- AMELIO documents all decisions and changes audit proven.
- AMELIO supplies easily maintainable code for the further development.
- AMELIO enormously reduces the test expenditure.
The capabilities and the efficiency of AMELIO open up absolutely new possibilities for planning and conducting large projects.
- Project strategies can be verified with the entire volume.
- Other projects are not blocked.
- Transformation schedules can be selected at will, freeze periods are extremely short.
These are only a few of the advantages that AMELIO offers.
You can learn more about the AMELIO Modernization Platform on our Web site.
Latest Projects with AMELIO
IMS Replacement at Gothaer: In Time – In Budget – In Scope
Gothaer Systems migrates its IBM IMS Databases to IBM Db2 together with Delta Software Technology.
Automatically migrating from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 was Gothaer Systems' task. The goal of operating only one database system on the mainframe brought Gothaer Systems and Delta Software Technology together. Delta offered the solution of know-how, suitable tools and services for this task. By building a tailor-made factory with the AMELIO Modernization Platform, the necessary steps for the transformation could be implemented automated, well calculated and at low risk.
“By migrating from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 together with Delta, we have successfully mastered the next big step in the ‘Smarter Mainframe’ project.”
Burkhard Oppenberg, CIO, Gothaer Systems
Read here the Success-Story:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=6314
Provinzial realizes complete migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2 with Delta
With the tools and services from Delta Software Technology, Provinzial Rheinland finished the complete application and data migration from IBM IMS/DB to IBM Db2, automated and securely, of over 75 IBM IMS databases and over 36,000 artefacts.
Due to the volume of the Provinzial application systems, the amount and complexity of the required changes, the tight schedule as well as their experiences with the manual conversion of some programs and databases, Provinzial decided on a tailor-made and fully automated solution with the tools from Delta Software Technology.
Read here the Success-Story:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=6329
RDW Removes Technical Debts using Delta’s Automated Solution
Existing applications have accumulated a lot of technical debt over the years. Removing it could speed up maintenance significantly. In reality the task of improve the software by removing the obsolete parts is seldom performed. The risk of introducing errors and the cost of testing is the biggest reason for not doing anything.
RDW has been able to take up the task of removing technical debt in a secure manner. Delta’s AMELIO Modernization Platform plays a key role in this endeavour.
You can find out more about the project here:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=6319
Large Financial Service Provider Succeeds in Secure Platform Change with AMELIO
Away from the Mainframe at the Push of a Button: Delta’s AMELIO Modernization Platform Enables Large Building Society to Replace Platforms Securely
A leading building society consolidates its platforms and has therefore replaced their IBM mainframe with Red Hat Linux. The migration of the central, strongly interconnected applications, however, involved particular risks, e.g., due to parallel changes and further development. Also, the performance in the new environment was a major concern. With the AMELIO tools from Delta Software Technology, this company successfully migrated its highly critical core application.
The project management particularly praised the good cooperation with the manufacturer. Delta offered the project at a fixed price and was nevertheless very flexible in responding to special requests. Due to the good cooperation with Delta, the transformed application exactly meets the company's requirements.
You can find out more about the project here:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=6320
You Would Like to Know More?
Please get in touch if you would like to know more about how the AMELIO Modernization Platform can help you to conduct changes to your applications securely, reliably, error-free and 100% automated. If you have large legacy applications in your organisation you certainly show know about the possibilities with AMELIO.
Iceberg Ahead ...
Your COBOL or PL/I applications contain enormous investments, a lot of company-specific know-how and decades of experience. If such an application must be cleaned-up, refactored, modernized or transformed, extensive knowledge of the application is absolutely mandatory. A tailor-made assessment helps you to reliably evaluate the measures, procedures and risks of your modernisation project.
In the text series "Iceberg ahead", our colleague Hans Nickessen describes his experiences in handling legacy applications.
Read in the current episode how a tailor-made assessment contributes to the success of your modernisation project.
Iceberg Ahead ...
Iceberg Ahead ...
Your COBOL or PL/I applications contain enormous investments, a lot of company-specific know-how and decades of experience. Extensive knowledge about the application is necessary, if such an application should be be refurbished, refactored, modernized, transformed. A tailor-made assessment helps you to reliably evaluate the measures, procedures and risks of your modernisation project.
In the text series "Iceberg ahead", our colleague Hans Nickessen describes his experiences in handling legacy applications.
Read in the current episode how a tailor-made assessment contributes to the success of your modernisation project.
"Iceberg Ahead!" Here is the 3rd part of the series:
Iceberg ahead: Assessment or how to assess and minimize the Risk of a Change
A tailor-made assessment of your application offers the possibility of reliably determining the critical points and evaluating them precisely. This avoids the risk of your modernization projects getting out of hand in terms of budget and target date.
Download Iceberg Ahead: Assessment or how to assess and minimize the Risk of a Change
"Iceberg ahead!" here is part 1 & 2 of the series:
https://delta-software.com/link.php?en=6335
Download Newsletter
Download Language: Englisch - Version: NL21022.04
Content
- IMS Guide - GSE AK IMS System Administration
- AMELIO Logic Discovery - Procedures and Functions in COBOL
- AMELIO Modernization Platform slashes Risks and Costs for Modernization and Migration
- Iceberg Ahead ...