Executive Summary

In an industry driven by innovation, legacy systems often become bottlenecks for efficiency and growth. Our client, a small but established insurance company, faced the dual challenge of maintaining its critical COBOL and CICS-based systems while preparing for a major upgrade of its Micro Focus Enterprise Server. DevObsessed stepped in as a trusted partner, leveraging its expertise to stabilize operations, ensure seamless knowledge transfer, and modernize the technology stack. The result? A revitalized IT infrastructure and a future-proof operational framework.

Background

The client had relied on its legacy systems for over three decades, with one retiring engineer acting as the sole custodian of institutional knowledge. This system managed core operations but was burdened by outdated technology and limited scalability. Recognizing the risks, the client sought DevObsessed to:

1. Facilitate a smooth knowledge transition from the retiring engineer.
2. Perform on-the-job system enhancements to address existing inefficiencies.
3. Upgrade the Micro Focus Enterprise Server from version 4 to 10, ensuring alignment with modern operational demands.

Challenges

1. Knowledge Attrition: Over 20 years of undocumented expertise resided with a single resource.
2. Technological Debt: The legacy systems, though functional, were plagued by inefficiencies and bugs requiring immediate attention.
3. System Upgrade Complexity: Upgrading from Micro Focus Enterprise Server 4 to 10 necessitated spool file conversion, batch application compatibility testing, and seamless integration with .NET applications.

Solutions Implemented

1. Comprehensive Knowledge Transfer
DevObsessed implemented a structured knowledge capture framework:

• Conducted interviews and shadowed the retiring engineer.
• Created detailed documentation and operational playbooks for ongoing reference.
• Trained the client’s in-house staff to ensure operational continuity.

2. Immediate Bug Fixes and Enhancements
Our team immersed itself in the COBOL and CICS systems, tackling long-standing issues:

• Resolved recurring system bugs, reducing downtime for end-users.
• Introduced enhancements to streamline batch processing and improve user experiences.

3. Micro Focus Enterprise Server Upgrade
DevObsessed orchestrated a seamless upgrade of the Micro Focus environment:

• Migrated spool files and validated compatibility with upgraded server protocols.
• Enhanced integration with a .NET application to improve data flow between legacy and modern systems.
• Conducted rigorous testing to mitigate risks of operational disruption during the transition.

Results

1. Operational Stability: Immediate bug fixes improved system performance and reduced disruptions for users.

2. Future-Ready Platform: The upgraded Micro Focus Enterprise Server provided our client with modern features, better scalability, and enhanced security.

3. Preserved Knowledge Base: DevObsessed's structured approach ensured that institutional knowledge transitioned effectively, enabling our client to maintain its critical systems.

4. Streamlined Processes: Optimizations in COBOL and CICS workflows increased efficiency, allowing employees to focus on strategic tasks rather than firefighting.

Key Takeaways

The collaboration between our client and DevObsessed exemplifies the value of bridging legacy systems with modern capabilities. Key lessons include:

• Prioritize Knowledge Transfer: Institutional expertise must be systematically captured to avoid operational risks.
• Leverage Incremental Modernization: Address immediate system needs while building toward long-term upgrades.
• Partner with Experts: Engaging specialists accelerates modernization efforts and reduces risks.

Why DevObsessed?

At DevObsessed, we specialize in breathing new life into legacy systems. With a track record of transforming COBOL, CICS, and other legacy architectures into modernized, scalable solutions, we bring:

• A team of senior software engineers skilled in legacy and modern systems alike.
• Proven methodologies for knowledge transfer and technical mentorship.
• Expertise in complex system upgrades and integrations that ensure seamless transitions.

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