Stream: Magny-Cours
Time: 10:00 - 10:45
From Edge to Enterprise: Designing Hybrid Mainframe Solutions with IBM Z and zCX Session Overview As enterprises accelerate their digital transformation, business applications increasingly span edge devices, distributed systems, cloud platforms, and IBM Z. Designing architectures that seamlessly integrate these environments while preserving the reliability, security, and transactional integrity of the mainframe has become a critical challenge. This session explores a practical hybrid architecture that connects edge systems with enterprise IBM Z environments using modern integration techniques and IBM z/OS Container Extensions (zCX). Using the SEZ-38 reference architecture as a real-world case study, the presentation demonstrates how organisations can extend traditional mainframe capabilities while continuing to leverage the strengths of IBM Z. Topics Covered The session explores key architectural concepts including: The evolution of hybrid enterprise computing Edge-to-enterprise integration patterns IBM zCX as an enabler for modern workloads on IBM Z API-driven communication between distributed and mainframe applications Containerised services running alongside traditional z/OS workloads Architectural considerations for scalability, resilience, and operational simplicity Design principles for future-ready enterprise solutions Technologies Discussed Attendees will gain practical insights into technologies including: IBM z/OS IBM zCX (z/OS Container Extensions) COBOL applications CICS Db2 for z/OS REST APIs Container technologies Hybrid Cloud integration Event-driven architecture concepts Enterprise systems integration Architecture Walkthrough and Demonstration The presentation includes a detailed architectural walkthrough illustrating how modern edge applications can securely communicate with enterprise IBM Z systems. Using the SEZ-38 reference architecture as a practical example, attendees will see: Interaction between edge services and enterprise workloads Deployment of containerised services within zCX API integration patterns Secure transaction flow across distributed and IBM Z environments High-level considerations for scalability, resiliency, and operational governance The emphasis will be on architectural design decisions and lessons learned rather than product implementation. Lessons Learned Drawing on the development of the SEZ-38 architecture, the session discusses: Common integration challenges faced by modern enterprises Balancing innovation with operational stability Extending existing IBM Z investments without replacing proven business applications Practical design decisions that improve maintainability and flexibility Architectural principles applicable to a wide range of enterprise modernisation initiatives Who Should Attend This session is intended for: Enterprise Architects Solution Architects IBM Z System Programmers Application Developers Hybrid Cloud Architects Technical Managers Infrastructure Leaders Professionals interested in modern IBM Z architecture Key Takeaways After attending this session, participants will be able to: Understand the architectural principles behind edge-to-enterprise integration Explore how IBM zCX can support modern containerised workloads on IBM Z Apply hybrid architecture patterns to their own enterprise environments Evaluate practical approaches to extending existing mainframe applications Gain insights from a real-world reference architecture that demonstrates how traditional enterprise systems can evolve without sacrificing the strengths of IBM Z Conclusion Hybrid enterprise computing is not about replacing the mainframe—it is about extending its capabilities to participate more effectively in a connected, distributed, and API-driven world. Through the SEZ-38 reference architecture, this session demonstrates how IBM Z, zCX, and modern integration patterns can work together to create resilient, scalable, and future-ready enterprise solutions.
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With over 35 years of professional experience in enterprise computing, I have dedicated more than three decades to IBM Z mainframe technologies, specializing in application development on z/OS using COBOL and related enterprise technologies. Throughout my career, I have developed extensive expertise in designing, developing, and delivering enterprise applications, while also mentoring and training the next generation of mainframe professionals. My teaching experience spans a comprehensive range of IBM Z technologies, including z/OS, TSO/ISPF, JCL, COBOL, VSAM, Db2, CICS, DFSORT, and File Manager, with a strong emphasis on practical, industry-oriented learning. Having witnessed the evolution of enterprise computing over four decades, I am passionate about addressing the growing mainframe skills gap by making quality education accessible, affordable, and aligned with industry needs. I believe that one of the most meaningful ways to contribute to our profession is to give back to the community by sharing the knowledge, experience, and lessons that others have generously shared with me throughout my career.
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