Rocket Software at GSE UK 2024: Powering the Future of Mainframe Technology

The 2024 GSE UK Region Conference proved to be an exceptional gathering, bringing together industry leaders, partners, and innovators to discuss the future of mainframe technology. Rocket Software played a pivotal role, presenting insights and solutions that highlight the continued importance of mainframes in today’s fast-evolving tech landscape.

With compelling discussions led by Rocket Software experts, as well as partners like IBM and Kyndryl, the event focused on key themes such as modernization, operational resilience, hybrid cloud, AI, and automation. These topics underscored the critical role mainframes play in supporting global businesses and adapting to emerging challenges.

Exploring the future of mainframe modernization

One of the conference’s standout moments was the keynote session featuring Rocket Software’s Scot Nielsen, VP of Product Management COBOL and Enterprise Solutions, and Edward Marootian, VP of Product Management, and Colin Mower, Director of Mainframe Growth at Kyndryl. The session, titled "Exploring the Future of Mainframe Modernization," marked the 60th anniversary of the mainframe by addressing its enduring relevance and the imperative for modernization.

The discussion provided a roadmap for organizations to future-proof their mainframe environments without disrupting critical operations.

Insights included:

• Leveraging hybrid cloud to unlock agility and scalability.
• Harnessing AI and automation for enhanced efficiency.
• Incremental modernization strategies that balance innovation with legacy system preservation.

Real-world case studies illustrated how businesses can maximize the value of their mainframes while positioning themselves for long-term success in the digital era.

Scaling risk management for 2025 and beyond

Rocket Software’s Lunch & Learn session, led by by John Crossno, Director of Product Management and Michael McKay, EMEA Sales Engineer, at Rocket Software tackled the pressing issue of regulatory compliance, with a focus on the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and other upcoming 2025 regulation deadlines.

In "Scaling Your Risk Management Strategy Ahead of DORA and Other 2025 Regulation Deadlines," attendees explored strategies to navigate the increasingly complex compliance landscape while ensuring operational resilience.

Key takeaways included:

• The latest updates to DORA and other regulations.
• Practical steps to develop scalable risk management programs.
• Techniques for reducing regulatory complexity and costs, especially for financial entities operating across borders.
• A roadmap for achieving digital resilience in an era of heightened regulatory scrutiny.

A bright future for mainframes

This year’s GSE UK conference reaffirmed the mainframe’s role as the backbone of critical business operations and a launchpad for modernization and innovation. Rocket Software’s presence underscored its commitment to empowering organizations with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in a dynamic digital landscape.

As we look to the future, the insights shared at GSE UK 2024 remind us that the mainframe is not just surviving—it’s thriving, driving progress, and enabling organizations to meet the demands of tomorrow with confidence.